Founded in 1974 by Robert W. Clapp in Burlington, Massachusetts, Heilind Electronics is one of the leading distributors of interconnects, and electromechanical, fastener, and sensor products worldwide. Commencing operations in Asia in December 2012, the company now has 25 locations throughout the region.

With the motto “Distribution as it should be,” Heilind was built on the ideals of deep inventory, flexible policies, responsive systems, knowledgeable support, and unsurpassed customer service.

“We provide value-added services by offering a complete menu of part assembly, part modification, and packing services to shorten lead times, consolidate SKUs, reduce manufacturing and handling costs, and improve inventory performance and response to manufacturing,” says Wilson Thoo, Marketing Director of Heilind Asia.

Navigating a challenging year

The semiconductor industry downcycle that began in the second half of last year, exacerbated by geopolitical and weak demand amid a slow post-COVID-19 recovery, has created a difficult year for the semiconductor and electronics supply chain.

“The year 2023 would be one of the toughest years Heilind Asia encountered, the only year without growth,” says Wilson. “With the impact of geopolitical and inflationary challenges, as well as post COVID-19, we faced many headwinds. Adapting, quick decision-making, close communications, and reacting quickly to the situation are some of the key points that helped us navigate through this year.” He adds that they are communicating and working very closely internally (globally) as well as externally—with its suppliers as well as customers.

“Some strategies have been planned out for the next three to five years such as expansion, new segmentation, new customer penetration, and excellent operation, where we are very optimistic that we will excel,” adds Wilson.

And despite all the difficulties facing the electronics manufacturing industry, the company has maintained stable supply of components to support its customers. “We do not shrink our investment,” Wilson explains. “We continue to invest at the right products and people because service to customer is our top priority.”

Which is why the company has landed the Most Promising Company award at this year’s EE Awards Asia. Now on its third year, EE Awards Asia puts the spotlight on Asia’s engineering community and celebrates their innovations, creativity, contributions, and services that have made a difference in the way we work, live, and communicate over the past year.

Heilind receives high marks from customers for support and service performance. “We follow up and provide feedback closely to projects, regardless of upstream or downstream, as ‘One’ Heilind, a truly global company,” explains Wilson. “We have a broad line card of interconnect and electromechanical products, as well as hardware, together with our value-added service. A one-stop solution for the customers.”

Outlook

In line with the current market trend, Wilson expects a slow start to 2024, especially during the first half.

“But we are expecting a strong rebound in the second half of the year,” he says. “Electric vehicles, new energy, semiconductor equipment, and AI-related segments would be some of the optimistic markets.”

Regarding strategies on building resilient supply chains to avoid disruptions caused by such global events as the recent pandemic, Wilson says diversification of channels or markets will help reduce risk and provide a more stable and flexible supply chain.

“Not putting all eggs in a single basket,” he adds. “In customer contexts, more selection and, most importantly, a stable supply chain for them.”

By: DocMemory
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