| Electronics Sourcing

Diversification becomes a strategic imperative!

Diversification becomes a strategic imperative Smith’s CEO, Nick Bedford, emphasized: “The semiconductor industry is shifting and supply chains need to shift alongside. Geopolitics and AI infrastructure have taken on significant importance recently, creating uncertainty and unexpected disruptions for manufacturers. With lead times extending and prices rising, procurement teams need to reconsider their strategies to ensure they have the flexibility to … Read more

AI demand reshapes the role of independents

AI demand reshapes the role of independents Classic Components’ Mike Thomas observed: “The component trading (broker) business is entering a more dynamic and strategically important phase. Artificial intelligence is reshaping supply chains, driving unprecedented demand for high-performance semiconductors while also enabling better forecasting, pricing intelligence and sourcing efficiency. At the same time ‘memflation’ is emerging as memory markets tighten under AI-driven demand, with DRAM and NAND pricing cycles becoming more volatile … Read more

As markets fragment and demand intensifies, independent distributors are providing flexibility, access and speed, helping purchasing teams navigate volatility, shortages and pricing pressure

The independent supply chain for electronic components plays a crucial role in maintaining global manufacturing continuity, particularly in a volatile and demand-driven technology landscape. Independent distributors operate outside formal agreements with original component manufacturers (OCMs), giving them flexibility to source, stock and deliver parts through alternative channels. This independence lets them respond rapidly to market disruptions and fill gaps left by authorized distributors. One of … Read more

Velocity Electronics’ president and CEO, Kris Kelly, explains how independent distributors provide flexibility, continuity and responsiveness in an uncertain world

Over the next twelve months, the electronic supply chain will continue to polarize, forming two distinct environments: one aligned to AI-scale demand, while the other competes for remaining capacity. As hyperscalers command a growing share of global fabrication, micro-allocations will become a structural feature of the market, particularly affecting longer-lifecycle and cost-sensitive sectors. Success will depend … Read more

AI, geopolitics and the new constraint model!

AI, geopolitics and the new constraint model Sourceability’s SVP digital transformation, Rob Picken, explained: “We will see continued shifts toward an AI-centric, capacity-constrained model through 2026 and into 2027. High-performance components will continue to take priority amid ongoing supplier restructuring, with AI taking precedence. We are seeing sustained investment in AI infrastructure, despite concerns about the AI bubble. Suppliers warn that … Read more

How to specify rugged, lightweight plastic enclosures for harsh environments

OKW Enclosures’ VP marketing, Robert Cox, outlines key considerations for selecting durable plastic enclosures capable of delivering strength, protection and long-term reliability Smart design is helping plastic enclosures survive harsh industrial and outdoor environments. Strong and light plastic housings offer a practical alternative to diecast aluminum models in some applications. However, correct specification is crucial. Any enclosure destined for industry or the outdoors must be tough: preferably rugged enough to merit an IK impact rating. Look for either IK07 or IK08. IK07 (2 joules) is equivalent to dropping a 0.5 kg mass from a height of 400 mm; … Read more

How is the electronic supply chain going to evolve in the next 12 months and what impact will this have on purchasing departments both opportunities and threats?

Over the next 12 months, the electronic supply chain will remain uneven, driven by geopolitical tensions, shifting trade policies, and structural demand changes. “Inventory is King” as the market cycle once again turns and supply chain relationships will be challenging in some areas but as always in this Industry engineers will find new ways to … Read more

“How is the electronic supply chain going to evolve in the next 12 months and what impact will this have on purchasing departments both opportunities and threats?”

Over the past 50 years, industry cycles have become the norm in electronics. These cycles are driven by demand surges, fab capacity expansion, supply constraints, and evolving inventory practices. Today, additional uncontrollable factors such as tariffs, geopolitical conflicts, and de-globalization are adding new layers of volatility to an already dynamic market. As the industry began recovering from the last cycle around mid-2025, excess … Read more

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