Supply Chain Connect The People Behind the Parts: A Look at Modern Distribution
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Jul 28, 2025 
Colin Strother, Executive Vice President of Rochester Electronics, dives into the fast-evolving world of electronic component distribution. He discusses the shift from pandemic-fueled shortages to a more stable inventory landscape. Highlighting the necessity of human connections in a tech-driven era, Strother emphasizes strategies for navigating ongoing supply chain disruptions. He also explores growth in the sector driven by electric vehicles and the critical role of digital transformation and effective communication in meeting customer needs.
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Pandemic Panic Buying Impact
- The electronic component industry likely experienced self-induced shortages due to panic buying during the pandemic.
- Inventory digestion is now ending, with some specific shortages still occurring as the market normalizes.
Supply Behavior Cycles
- Despite claims, many buyers panicked and over-ordered parts during shortages, then swung to being too conservative.
- Shortages could recur sooner and possibly be worse than before due to supply chain fragility and cautious demand.
Blend Digital With Human Touch
- Meet customers where they are by offering multiple engagement methods: face-to-face, phone, digital, and in local languages.
- Use digital transformation to enhance customer engagement but never replace the human connection entirely.