By David Hutchins Where did they all go? Recently I looked back at a slide I have used for years: a list of the UK and European companies where my consultancy ran Total Quality programmes in the 1980s. Brintons Carpets, Marks & Spencer, Wedgwood, Chloride, Ideal Standard, Tioxide, Heinz, ICL, Rowntree Mackintosh, Lucas, Metal Box,
In recent years, discussions about quality management on professional platforms have become dominated by references to Lean, Six Sigma and ISO standards. These methods have their place and have helped many organisations improve their processes. However, an important question remains. Are organisations truly building systems that create lasting value, or are they simply applying tools
A truly historic moment unfolded in Tokyo today as David Hutchins was honoured with the 2025 Deming Distinguished Practice Award, presented by the Japanese Union of Scientists and Engineers (JUSE). The prestigious award is one of the highest international recognitions in the field of quality management and celebrates a lifetime devoted to advancing Total Quality
David Hutchins is a pioneer of modern quality and a steadfast ally to organisations dedicated to improvement. He is Chairman and Senior Consultant at David Hutchins Innovation Limited, where his lifetime of experience in quality leadership is translated into practical help for industry, government, and education. In October 2025, David was awarded the Deming Distinguished