SUPPLY CHAIN


Flexibility is the key to supply chain success


By Jon Wilde, KBS Corporate, senior marketing copywriter I


In the midst of a turbulent geopolitical and economic landscape, supply chains can never be taken for granted.


Therefore, what are the best practices for businesses to put in place to ensure their processes are not disrupted by the absence of vital components?


Companies we have worked with tell us the same thing consistently; to rely on one particular supplier, with no back-up alternative, is to play a dangerous game, especially if it involves importation. During the current decade, companies have had to navigate the storm of the Covid-19 pandemic, Brexit and the  impacted the provision of raw materials. Spreading your options across a range of different suppliers, even for individual parts, offers a much higher level of protection in the event of blockages, as well as providing  competitive prices and service. One business we advised during its sale uses a wide range of suppliers which includes some world-leading manufacturers of technology.


The company’s strong position within the industrial electronics sector has enabled it to build relationships with both niche and high-end manufacturers, including AMT, Tianma and Kontron, all formally contracted through franchise agreements.


The company is not reliant on any one supplier for any individual component, instead maintaining relationships with at least two suppliers operating within  protection across its supply chain. It also makes full use of networking opportunities throughout each year by engaging with not only potential clients but suppliers at leading trade shows and exhibitions such as IoT Tech Expo UK and North America, MedTech USA, Engineering Design Show UK and SID-US.


Another business we advised in its sale to a buyer which, like the target company, also operates in the electronics manufacturing  That meant the UK-based business could utilise competitively priced offshore components to complete high-volume orders. All products sourced in the Far East are subject to the company’s ISO 9001 quality check process.


Of course, there have to be proactive ways of safeguarding supply chains which lean heavily on the very technology which such companies are striving to develop. Utilising advanced data analytics can  inventory levels and identify potential supply chain bottlenecks, while automation can also  Needless to say, technology cannot envelop every single aspect of the supply operation.


 human involvement and having the right personnel in place, who can lead, organise, communicate effectively and problem-solve, is every bit as important; especially in times when it feels the next supply chain challenge is never a million miles away.


FEBRUARY 2025 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS 39


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