From its beginnings servicing aircraft radio components to becoming a key supplier to major industries, Aerco has remained committed to quality, reliability and customer support.
As Electronics Sourcing celebrates its 20th anniversary, Aerco reflects on its 60-plus years in the electrical component distribution industry. Over the decades, the business has continually evolved to meet shifting customer demands, technological advancements and market conditions. From its origins servicing radio requirements in commercial aircraft to its latest partnership with Amphenol, Aerco has remained at the forefront of component supply and customer support.
Founded in 1956 by Bill Laughton, Aerco emerged to address the needs of service businesses requiring small quantities of connectors, switches and lighting components. At the time, UK-based component manufacturers sought to retain direct control over customers but as manufacturing expanded in the 1960s, their ability to supply smaller, flexible orders diminished. Aerco filled this gap, securing its first distribution agreement with Plessey to stock and distribute electrical connectors.
Since those early days, Aerco has grown significantly, broadening its component range and establishing formal franchise agreements with over 30 suppliers. The company now supplies national and international manufacturers across industries such as defence, aerospace, rail and transportation, medical and industrial markets. The evolution of customer requirements—from simple availability to stringent quality standards and traceability—has driven Aerco’s continuous development.
Traceability and product authenticity, now fundamental across all industries, have long been embedded in Aerco’s operations. Originating from its background in civil aviation, the company has consistently prioritised product verification and certification. Aerco was one of the first UK distributors to gain UL approval for respooling cable while maintaining its UL certification, a testament to its commitment to quality and compliance.
Supply chain disruptions, price volatility and fluctuating lead times are pressing concerns for manufacturers. To counter these challenges, Aerco has developed its Call-Off order service, enabling customers to secure stock with price stability, providing manufacturers with the certainty and reliability they need to maintain efficient operations.
Recognising the shift towards Industry 4.0, Aerco is expanding into industrial IoT and computing solutions to support digital transformation. As factories become smarter and automation becomes more prevalent, the need for reliable connectivity, data integration and intelligent components is increasing. Aerco works closely with manufacturers such as Belden and Cisco to provide solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and future-proof production environments.
Looking ahead, Aerco continues to expand its portfolio with strategic supplier agreements. As of March 2025, Amphenol appointed Aerco as a European distributor for military and aerospace connectors. This deepens Aerco’s ability to service the defence sector, one if its key markets.
As the industry evolves, the company continues to adapt, ensuring customers receive not only the components they need but also the expertise and stability required to navigate an increasingly complex market. With strategic partnerships like Amphenol, Aerco is well-positioned to drive innovation and support customers well into the future.
