Global Sourcing Spotlight: Finding the Balance Between Cost and Quality
Knocking Down the Bone Pile: Best Practices for Electronic Component Salvaging
Global Citizenship: Together for a Perfect PCB Solution
Direct Metallization: A Sustainable Shift in PCB Fabrication
July 31, 2025 | Jim Watkowski, Harry Yang, and Mark Edwards, MacDermid Alpha Electronics SolutionsEstimated reading time: 1 minute
The global electronics industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the need for more resilient supply chains and environmentally sustainable manufacturing practices. Printed circuit boards, the backbone of interconnection for electronic devices, are at the center of this shift.
Traditionally, PCB fabrication has relied heavily on electroless copper, a process that, while effective, is resource-intensive and environmentally hazardous. In response, many manufacturers are turning to direct metallization technologies as a cleaner, more efficient alternative.
Supply Chain Pressures and the Need for Diversification
According to Evergreen Analytics, tech giants are actively transitioning their supply chains to new locations across Asia1, adopting multi-country strategies to better balance cost, risk, and operational efficiency. Additionally, the Global Electronics Association2 reports that 59% of companies plan to increase their sustainability efforts in 2025, with printed circuit board and contract manufacturers leading the charge3.
These shifts, while strategically necessary, introduce significant challenges, particularly in terms of cost, lead time, and accurately measuring environmental impact. One of the most pressing concerns for supply chain managers is how to relocate production without compromising efficiency or sustainability. For instance, the traditional electroless copper process, reliant on multiple chemical baths and high water and energy consumption, is increasingly at odds with the industry's push toward more sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices4.
To continue reading the entire article, which originally appeared in the July 2025 issue of PCB007 Magazine, click here.
Share on:
Testimonial
"Advertising in PCB007 Magazine has been a great way to showcase our bare board testers to the right audience. The I-Connect007 team makes the process smooth and professional. We’re proud to be featured in such a trusted publication."
Klaus Koziol - atgSuggested Items
Federal Electronics Successfully Completes AS9100 and ISO 9001 Surveillance Audit at Cranston Headquarters
09/30/2025 | Federal ElectronicsFederal Electronics, a leader in providing advanced electronic manufacturing services, announced the successful completion of its annual AS9100 and ISO 9001 surveillance audit at its headquarters in Cranston, Rhode Island.
Indium Commemorates 30th Anniversary of Asia-Pacific Hub in Singapore
09/30/2025 | Indium CorporationIndium Corporation, a leading materials manufacturer and supplier for global electronics markets, celebrates 30 years of service at its Asia-Pacific Operations (APO) facility.
Incap Slovakia Integrates ERP and MES Systems to Accelerate Operations
09/30/2025 | IncapIncap Slovakia, part of the global EMS provider Incap Corporation, has implemented SAP Business One (SAP B1) to strengthen operational control, improve traceability, and support faster, more flexible manufacturing.
Industry Leaders Shape a Sustainable Future at 2025 IPC CEMAC Electronics Manufacturing Annual Conference
09/30/2025 | Global Electronics AssociationThe 2025 IPC CEMAC Electronics Manufacturing Annual Conference, co-hosted by the Global Electronics Association and the Shanghai Pudong Association for Quality and Technology, successfully concluded on September 26 in Shanghai.
Highlights from the IMAPS Onshoring Advanced Packaging Workshop in Washington, D.C.
09/30/2025 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007IMAPS and the Global Electronics Association co-hosted the Onshoring Advanced Packaging and Assembly Workshop in Washington, D.C., in early September. Government leaders, including those from the Department of Defense, attended and were directly involved in organizing the content of the sessions. Jim Will, director of the U.S. Partnership for Assured Electronics, speaks about his role in the event.