COVID-19: Spotlight on the North American Distribution Center - Edgerton, KS

Kubota’s supply chain business has been instrumental to ensure whole goods and parts continue flowing to the divisions, dealers and customers who rely heavily on Kubota equipment to conduct their necessary business.  At an uncertain time, one thing remains clear and that is Kubota employees are “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers for Food Production and Infrastructure” and are proud and grateful for that designation.

The NADC employs approximately 300 parts and whole goods associates. In the supply chain business, remote work and technology cannot replace the necessary job tasks of picking, packing, order and inventory control and shipping and receiving of Kubota parts and equipment.  

At the onset of the COVID-19 crisis in the U.S., the NADC leadership committed to their staff members to 1) communicate to team members regularly and transparently; and, 2) to keep them safe and healthy to the best of their abilities.  Breaks and lunches were staggered, additional wipes and sanitizer towers were installed and education on proper hygiene and social distancing ensued among other preventative measures.  

Pre-shift meetings continue daily to ensure the message is consistent and updates are provided.  Though it’s important that Kubota’s business continues, they never lose sight of meeting the team member’s needs at home.  Never has it been more important to reassure staff that their health and safety is priority while providing flexibility with their personal needs there.  Emotions are mixed from being grateful for employment to provide for family, with needing to stay safe and healthy for the family. No doubt, it’s a challenging time with childcare needs, digital learning, spouses working from home, spouses on furlough and quarantine, but NADC associates carry on and work with agility.

On top of the challenges that this crisis has presented, the NADC has been faced with several unrelated trials.  NADC associates are still learning the new warehouse management system that was implemented in the latter part of 2019.  While still within the learning curve, naturally some delays in productivity have resulted and continue into our industry’s peak season, which begins in March each year.  Lastly, since the move into the new NADC building began in 2019, the shift of inventory from the Divisions back to NADC continues.

All in all, spirits are high and pride ensues.  More than ever, the NADC associates appreciate being able to contribute to their local economy and remain optimistic of brighter days ahead.

 FOR KUBOTA INTERNAL USE ONLY