Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/934053
156 HEART OF THE COMMONWEALTH: Profiles of Excellence T he growing trend of outsourcing manufacturing makes a company that keeps jobs and work in the United States a unique and welcome change. Affordable Interior Systems, LLC is just such a company. Founded in 1989, AIS, maker of affordable, flexible commercial office furniture and seating, began operations in Massachusetts and plans to stay here. AIS represents one of the most impressive stories of growth and success in the office furniture market. Known for offering feature-rich product lines that entice designers and meet future needs of end-users at an exceptional value, the company also leads the industry in sustainable, lean manufacturing, lead-time and manufacturing flexibility. Headquartered in Hudson, AIS employs approximately 400 people and has more than 500,000 square feet of manufacturing operations at six Massachusetts locations: four Hudson sites, one in Clinton and one in Mansfield. Bruce Platzman, founder/CEO, continues to be involved in the day-to-day operations at AIS, while co-founder Arthur Maxwell serves as company chairman. e growth of the company is evidenced by its healthy bottom line -- between 2004 and 2012, revenue jumped from $30 million to $120 million. e company sells its products through a network of dealers and has approximately 70 salespeople across the country and in Latin America. AIS boasts a client list that includes the federal government, non-profit organizations, retailers, and many Fortune 500 companies. AIS remains committed to the customer, listening to suggestions and needs, setting a high standard for responsiveness and willingness to explore new products. Moreover, the company prides itself on always exceeding expectations while producing an affordable product. In keeping with that philosophy, AIS manufactures office furniture that meets strict environmental standards for indoor air quality, which has earned them GREENGUARD certification. All AIS systems contain between 40 and 55 percent recycled materials. Additionally, AIS has the honor of being named the first systems manufacturer to achieve CarbonNeutral™ certification; emissions from its manufacturing plant in its Hudson facilities are measured and offset, becoming a green power investment. roughout its history, AIS has garnered kudos from a number of industry associations. In the last four years, the company has consistently earned awards from the Office Furniture Dealers Alliance (OFDA), which is voted on by dealers and given to companies with whom they enjoy working. Most notably, AIS is the only small manufacturer to receive the Shingo Prize, which is based on the Toyota philosophy of eliminating waste across the manufacturing stream. As a low cost producer, AIS demonstrates continuous growth in an otherwise flat industry, positioning the company for ongoing success. Although AIS has a two-decade+ history, the company culture reflects that of an energetic, enthusiastic start- up. An innovator in the office furniture industry, AIS draws upon the creativity and efficiency of its staff, in combination with sustainable practices, to produce the highest quality products designed to last. AIS epitomizes the American dream of a small company that has grown into a national company selling internationally but sustaining its local manufacturing roots. n Commitment to customers, concern for the environment and dedication to excellence makes AIS a leader in the industry. Affordable Interior Systems, LLC (AIS) P h oto / C o u R t e s y