Ballyragget recently hosted the largest ever Lean Training Camp of the Year

On Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th September, Ballyragget became the vibrant hub of Tirlán’s continuous improvement journey, as we proudly hosted our third Lean Training Camp of the year – and our biggest yet, with 15 passionate participants from across the business.

Representing a diverse mix of functions including Procurement, IT, Food Science, Veterinary, Milk Field Supply, Quality, Engineering and Operations Training Coordination, this two-day academy was more than just a training session – it was a powerful demonstration of what happens when curiosity, collaboration and commitment to excellence come together.

Supported by ATU Sligo, the camp blended Lean fundamentals with hands-on learning, engaging exercises and real-world application. From exploring the 3M tiered meeting structure and Tirlán’s Problem-Solving model, to conducting live Process Mapping and visiting the GEMBA, every moment was designed to bring theory to life in a meaningful and memorable way.

One of the highlights was the ever-popular Plug Game – a deceptively simple yet thought-provoking exercise that sparked lively discussion and deep reflection on how we approach systems and solutions.

Special recognition goes to Mikey Egan (Maintenance Engineer) for leading the GEMBA walk with exceptional passion and pride. His energy and insight brought the experience to life and helped connect the dots between Lean principles and day-to-day operations. We also extend our thanks to Eoin Byrne (Process Manager, Butter Plant) for walking the group through a recent Root Cause Analysis investigation while at the GEMBA – a real-world example that added depth and relevance to the session.

This camp marks a significant milestone not only for Ballyragget, but for our wider Lean Maturity journey. It’s a testament to the growing appetite across Tirlan to embrace Lean Thinking as a way of working – not just a toolkit, but a mindset.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the energy and success of the camp. Special thanks to our catering team for keeping us fuelled and focused throughout – your support never goes unnoticed.

As we continue to build momentum, we invite others across Tirlán to consider joining future camps. Whether you’re new to Lean or looking to deepen your understanding, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to learn, connect and grow.

Together, we’re not just improving processes – we’re shaping a culture of excellence.