In this paper, a max-plus-linear model predictive con- trol strategy is proposed for High-Variety, Low-Volume (HVLV) systems. Firstly, using the (max,+) algebra, a di- rect generation of event-timing equations for determinis- tic and decision-free HVLV manufacturing systems is ob- tained. Then, a linear optimization method is presented. It is based on canonical forms for Max-Min-Plus-Scaling (MMPS) functions with linear constraints on the inputs. The approach aims at solving several linear programming problems and its validity is illustrated by a simulation ex- ample. Finally, a discussion of results, conclusions and perspectives are given.