The machine is not the first to change. The person is.

An exceptionally valuable book about Lean — clear, practical and inspiring. It does more than present Lean principles; it shows how they can become a way of thinking and a culture of continuous improvement. A book that is definitely worth reading.

Congratulations on a wonderful book. I could not wait to start it and read it in one sitting — an exceptionally engaging and compelling experience. Recognizing part of yourself in the story makes it even more powerful. I am truly grateful to be part of something so meaningful. Your message resonates strongly: change really does not begin with the machine, but with a person’s mindset and actions. Keep creating with the same passion and courage. I am already looking forward to what comes next.

I could not wait to hold the book in my hands, and I am happy to have the first ordered copy, with an inspiring personal message. The book is personal and moving; it shows Stoyan's journey and the lessons he has learned. People come before and after technology. No system can function as an end in itself while leaving people out of the equation. Sometimes we become fixed in our everyday roles. It is good to think of them not as ‘people and roles’, but as ‘people with roles’.

The book does not actually examine the various Lean techniques and tools in depth, nor does it explain how the different participants in Lean Champions 2025 applied them technically, through processes, or organizationally. It does not need to.

We have to acknowledge that, here in Bulgaria, we are still struggling with many prejudices and negative attitudes such as ‘that could never work here’, or the mistaken view that Lean is a mechanical collection of techniques and tools. The author clearly demonstrates how untenable this thinking is. That is why, for me at least, the more valuable part is the reflections, impressions, and conclusions shared about the human side of introducing and using Lean in a Bulgarian context.

The book emphasizes that Lean is part of a culture based not so much on rules as on participation—participation by everyone. It is a culture reached through change that starts with a person's behavior. A person who does not want to stand still, who takes responsibility for acting, even if they do not succeed the first time. A person who needs support, as well as a platform where their efforts can be seen, shared, and explained—acting without a finish line, in small steps but with persistence. In this way, like-minded people can join them, forming small communities and changing their environment. First within the company, and then beyond it. This is also the mission of Lean Champions!

Congratulations on an inspiring book, and best wishes for the initiative!

Exceptionally practical and inspiring. I am glad I had the good fortune to read it. Thank you!

LEAN Champions is a book that shows Lean beyond tools and theory. What I value most is that its ideas are connected to real people, real manufacturing projects, and real results. The book reminds us that sustainable improvement starts not with machines or procedures, but with the way people think, take responsibility, and work together. The content accessible via QR codes complements the book very well, allowing you not only to read about the projects but also to see what has actually been achieved. I recommend it to anyone who wants Lean to be part of their organization's culture, rather than just another initiative.