**London**: Celebrating over 60 years in electrical component distribution, Aerco aligns its milestone with Electronics Sourcing’s 20th anniversary. The firm is set to enhance its defence capabilities through a new partnership with Amphenol, focusing on quality and customer adaptability amid evolving market challenges.
Aerco, a prominent player in the electrical component distribution industry, is reflecting on its substantial journey of over 60 years as it aligns with the 20th anniversary celebrations of Electronics Sourcing. Founded in 1956 by Bill Laughton, the company originally targeted the niche market for aircraft radio components and has since evolved into a vital supplier across multiple industries.
Initially set up to meet the needs of businesses requiring small quantities of connectors, switches, and lighting components, Aerco was established during a period when UK manufacturers aimed to retain direct customer control. However, as manufacturing scaled up throughout the 1960s, it became challenging for these suppliers to fulfil smaller orders, leading to a significant market opportunity for Aerco. It secured its first distribution agreement with Plessey, allowing Aerco to begin stocking and distributing electrical connectors, thereby carving its place in the industry.
Over the decades, Aerco has expanded its component offerings and formed formal franchise agreements with over 30 suppliers. The company now caters to both national and international manufacturers across various sectors, including defence, aerospace, rail and transportation, medical, and industrial markets. The shifts in customer requirements—from mere availability of products to rigorous quality standards and traceability—have prompted Aerco to continually enhance its operations.
The notion of traceability and product authenticity is not new to Aerco; these elements have been intrinsically woven into the company’s operations. Aerco’s origins in civil aviation have instilled a longstanding commitment to product verification and certification. Notably, it was one of the first UK distributors to receive UL approval for respooling cable while maintaining its accreditation, highlighting its adherence to quality and compliance standards.
In the current landscape where supply chain disruptions, price volatility, and varying lead times pose significant challenges to manufacturers, Aerco has introduced its Call-Off order service. This offering allows customers to secure stock with fixed pricing structures, thus providing the certainty that manufacturers require for operational efficiency.
In response to the technological shifts towards Industry 4.0, Aerco is venturing into the realms of industrial IoT (Internet of Things) and computing solutions, catering to the ongoing digital transformation within manufacturing environments. As automation and intelligent manufacturing become ever more prevalent, the demand for robust connectivity, data integration, and innovative components continues to rise. Aerco has forged collaborations with leading manufacturers, including Belden and Cisco, to deliver solutions aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, minimising downtime, and future-proofing production processes.
Further solidifying its position, Aerco has been appointed as a European distributor for military and aerospace connectors by Amphenol effective from March 2025. This strategic agreement is expected to enhance Aerco’s service capabilities within the defence sector, one of its primary markets.
As the industry landscapes continue to morph, Aerco remains dedicated to adapting its offerings to ensure that customers receive not just the components but also the requisite expertise and stability to navigate an increasingly complex market environment. With strategic alliances such as that with Amphenol, Aerco is poised to lead in innovation and customer support well into the future.
Source: Noah Wire Services
