This Amish company embraced robots—then made an even bolder bet.

The article focuses on the transformation of Flextur, an Amish-owned contract manufacturing company in Ohio, which shifted from producing horse-drawn farm equipment to high-tech manufacturing for diverse industries. The company, formerly known as Pioneer Equipment, adapted to changing market conditions by embracing lean manufacturing principles and investing in modern technology, including robotic welding. This strategic pivot has allowed Flextur to sustain its workforce and expand its customer base beyond the traditional Amish agricultural market, with approximately 60% of its business now coming from contract manufacturing. The article highlights the importance of innovation and employee input in navigating business challenges and ensuring future growth. [Extracted from the article]