Fresh PCB Concepts: Assembly Challenges with Micro Components and Standard Solder Mask Practices
Elementary Mr. Watson: Retro Routers vs. Modern Boards—The Silent Struggle on Your Screen
Beyond Design: The Metamorphosis of the PCB Router
Ensuring a Strong and Reliable Supply Chain
April 30, 2025 | Marcy LaRont, PCB007 MagazineEstimated reading time: 1 minute
Kelly Davidson, vice president of NCAB Group USA, discusses the company's stable performance in 2024 and positive outlook for 2025. She highlights NCAB's strategy of organic growth and strategic acquisitions amidst tariff concerns and global political uncertainty. Kelly emphasizes the importance of supply chain diversification, strong supplier relationships, and customer education, and notes NCAB's focus on defense production and maintaining a reliable supply chain.
Marcy LaRont: As we begin Q2 2025, what is the “state of the state” at NCAB?
Kelly Davidson: NCAB’s 2024 North American business was more stable than 2023. While Q4 revenue fell just short of our expectations, order income for the quarter exceeded them. Overall, 2024 was solid, and we achieved our goals. I would say we were slightly ahead of the market, but there was still a cautious position from our customers—not knowing what would happen coming out of an election year, concerns about tariffs, and broader global political uncertainty.
For 2025, we are continuing to see a positive trend along with our customers. NCAB USA is gaining market share, consistently winning new customers, with a strong focus on quality and global supply chain diversification initiatives.
LaRont: How do you see the PCB market evolving in the coming years, and what is NCAB’s strategy for growth?
Davidson: Looking ahead, we expect moderate organic growth, but the opportunity for increased investment in acquisitions will present itself this year. With supply chain shifts and tariff concerns, many smaller businesses will struggle to compete. In 2026, we predict stronger growth, possibly double what we anticipate for 2025.
However, the PCB market is dynamic, with increasing demands for advanced technology, supply chain resilience, and cost efficiencies. Our strategy is centered on both organic growth and strategic acquisitions. We are actively looking for strongly aligned, PCB-focused businesses with a quality-first approach to bring into NCAB Group, allowing us to expand our capabilities and strengthen our position in the U.S. market.
To continue reading this interview, which originally appeared in the April 2025 issue of PCB007 Magazine, click here.
Share on:
Suggested Items
Global Electronics Association Debuts; New Name Elevates IPC’s 70-Year Legacy as Voice of $6 Trillion Electronics Industry
06/25/2025 | Global Electronics AssociationToday begins a new chapter for IPC as it officially becomes the Global Electronics Association, reflecting its role as the voice of the electronics industry. Guided by the vision of “Better electronics for a better world,” the Global Electronics Association (electronics.org) is dedicated to enhancing supply chain resilience and promoting accelerated growth through engagement with more than 3,000 member companies, thousands of partners, and dozens of governments across the globe.
Flex CEO Sees US Manufacturing Resurgence
06/18/2025 | I-Connect007In a June 16 interview on Bloomberg Open Interest, Flex CEO Revathi Advaithi said the supply chain is already shifting, with more goods now being manufactured in the U.S.
The Government Circuit: From Tax Policy to Tariffs, Denver to Delhi, Speaking Up for Electronics
06/18/2025 | Chris Mitchell -- Column: The Government CircuitI had the privilege of attending the June 3 opening ceremony of AT&S’s HTB3 facility in Leoben, Austria—a milestone moment for Europe’s electronics ecosystem. HTB3 is now the first and only facility in Europe capable of both developing and producing high-performance IC substrates—the advanced platforms that allow powerful chips to connect, process, and function. As demand for AI, 5G, and other cutting-edge technologies grows, so too does the need for sophisticated substrates like those HTB3 will produce.
Global Sourcing Spotlight: Evaluating a Supplier’s Capabilities
06/18/2025 | Bob Duke -- Column: Global Sourcing SpotlightGlobal sourcing is essential for companies looking to improve cost efficiency, access innovation, and optimize supply chains. Successfully identifying and collaborating with the right suppliers on a global scale requires rigorous evaluation processes. Businesses must ensure suppliers meet industry standards, are financially stable, and can scale alongside their growth.
Ventec Strengthens Commitment to Halogen-Free PCB Manufacturing in Europe
06/11/2025 | Ventec International GroupVentec International Group, the PCB materials innovator, manufacturer, supplier and one-stop shop for copper clad laminates, prepregs, as well as process consumables and PCB manufacturing equipment has established volume inventory of halogen-free FR4.1 and FR15.1 PCB materials at its European hub in Germany.