Neville Reyner CBE, chairman of Anglia Components and president of the Business Chambers of Commerce talks to EW about the continuing importance of the electronics manufacturing sector to the local economy.
Have you seen evidence of increasing demand rather than inventory replenishment in the supply chain?
Neville Reyner: We believe that the increase in demand is mainly driven by inventory replenishment and lengthening lead times. In saying this we are aware that confidence in UK manufacturing is increasing
Which are the most active end markets at present?
Neville Reyner: One of the most active markets we see in the UK is the solid state lighting industry and we understand that automotive remains the major growth area in Europe. The various government lead initiatives such as the car replacement scheme has undoubtedly assisted this industry through the recession
Has the last 18 months changed the way you run the business or your approach to market in anyway?
Neville Reyner: Yes, we are more confident about the future and have started to recruit more staff and have heavily invested in inventory along with a timeline purchasing strategy that’s in position. We have and are regularly reviewing our pricing strategy to match the dynamics of the market.
What is the biggest challenge of 2010?
Neville Reyner: Of course maintaining the momentum of a very successful performance this year so far but we have seen an election and we will have to adjust to the new government’s policies that might affect our company and the industry.
There should continue to be investment in the high technology industries and jobs that are crucial along with a new export driven culture from the top of Government with business at the heart.
Are you concerned about the future of the UK manufacturing community?
Neville Reyner: No, I am quite excited about the future because there is mounting evidence that some off- shoring is returning to the UK for example.
It’s not just exchange rate advantages, which is extremely helpful right now but you can’t build a strategy around that alone.
It’s about the overall transaction costs along the supply chain, quality, shorter lead times to suppliers and end customers are being demanded and of course environmental issues. I think also the new government will invest more in this important sector of our industry policy something I have advocated for many, many years