Spotlight On
A spotlight on Charcroft
A
s many independent, country- specific distributors have been acquired by major global
distribution networks, one UK-based distributor has remained privately-owned and independent. The other difference is that Charcroft Electronics has also focussed on passive components and other high- reliability parts for harsh and high-end applications while broadline networks typically prioritise semiconductors and other high-value components. The global broadline distribution networks are structured to work with OEMs and CEMs operating in high-volume commodity markets. In comparison, sectors such as the aerospace and defence markets need a combination of low volumes with high reliability and service. For these customers, the design and procurement of specialist components is critical for meeting the extended product lifetime and design goals. Charcroft’s consistent focus for the past 45 years has been to supply specialist rather than commodity components. As customer demand for specialist distribution has grown, the linecard has expanded to include interconnect, power, magnetics, optoelectronics, specialist semiconductors & electromechanical products. The customer base has also grown to cover OEMs and CEMs in the space, specialist automotive, oil and gas, rail, industrial,
audio and instrumentation markets in addition to aerospace and defence.
A consistent approach to specialist distribution
The level of support provided to customers is a key differentiator in Charcroft’s business model. By offering a flexible and customer-specific approach, custom packages are designed to address the needs of specific customers. A key part of this is to recognise the partnership with each customer and to understand that a customer is more than an account number. Charcroft’s mission is to respond with a positive approach of ‘Challenge Accepted’ when a customer is looking for a commercial or technical solution. The concept enables the in-house and field-based teams to be problem solvers and solution finders, rather than simple order takers. As an independent distributor, fast adaptation to emerging market conditions can include identifying alternatives and providing buffer stocks which maintained an On-Time Delivery (OTD) of 98% throughout the recent period of extended leadtimes and allocation. “The Sales team are encouraged to take
a proactive approach and to actively engage with customers to ensure that their requirements are being met continuously,” explains Debbie Rowland, Director. “In addition to the Sales team, the team of
Charcroft offices in Dol-y-Coed
Product Specialists is fully qualified to take an intelligence-led approach to assisting customers with technical support and procurement. The Product Specialists and Business Development Managers provide a physical presence on the road and provide advice to customers throughout the UK.” Charcroft has maintained the same continuity with its staff as it has with its specialist business model. Many employees, across all departments, have been with the company for more than 20 years which has enabled them to develop industry expertise and in-depth knowledge of each customer. This consistency demonstrates security and solidity compared to the wider industry which is often uncertain and shifting.
Supporting growth in the Space sector
UK-based manufacturing for prototypes and low-volume runs 26 December/January 2020 Components in Electronics
OEMs and CEMs from the UK Space industry have developed long-term partnerships with Charcroft. Established companies working on a number of ESA programmes have used the specialist distribution model for sourcing high- reliability and mission-critical components. These programmes range from the Galileo constellation to start-up businesses working
on novel technologies in the New Space sector. End-applications include earth observation, scientific experimentation, positioning, navigation & timing services for GNSS, telecommunication and interplanetary exploration. Typically, New Space applications have
programmes with short mission lengths. Cost-effective solutions for these programmes demand a combination of specialist knowledge during component selection and a flexible approach to screening which is based on specific customer requirements.
Space manufacturing in the UK saw a
growth of 27% per annum in fiscal year 2016/2017, according to a report published in 2018. The forecast is for continued grow in subsequent years and Space will remain a focus market for Charcroft.
Adding custom manufacturing to distribution
The move into manufacturing was prompted by Charcroft’s acquisition of Ashcroft in 2003. This was followed by approval as a VPG Precision Centre and by the subsequent acquisition of TAB Components. The growth of the manufacturing facility has been
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