Electronics in the East Midlands Engineering Corridor
Erewash lies between Derby and Nottingham, two cities with a long tradition of high-value engineering. Derby is home to world-class aerospace and rail manufacturing, while Nottingham has strengths in technology, education and life sciences. Electronics underpin all of these sectors, from engine control systems and railway signalling to consumer devices and educational kits.
For manufacturers and technology businesses in Ilkeston, Long Eaton and Sandiacre, access to capable electronics manufacturing partners is vital. Whether a company needs printed circuit board assembly, cable harnesses, embedded systems or components, working with the right supplier affects product quality, cost and time to market.
Key Electronics Services Businesses Need
- PCB assembly: Surface-mount and through-hole assembly of circuit boards.
- Box build: Complete product assembly, testing and packaging.
- Design support: Help with design for manufacture and component selection.
- Components supply: Reliable access to semiconductors, connectors and passive components.
- Testing and certification: Ensuring products meet safety and regulatory standards.
The Top 10 Electronics Manufacturers Serving Erewash
1. Pektron Group
Pektron Group, based in Derby, is a specialist designer and manufacturer of electronic and electromechanical products. It serves automotive, industrial and consumer markets, offering end-to-end services from design through to high-volume production.
2. Kitronik
Kitronik is a Nottingham-based company that designs and manufactures electronics kits and accessories for education. Its products help schools across the country teach coding, electronics and engineering, supporting the next generation of East Midlands engineers.
3. Rolls-Royce
Rolls-Royce's Derby operations include advanced engine control and monitoring electronics. The company's work on aerospace systems and data-driven engine health monitoring represents some of the most sophisticated electronics engineering in the UK.
4. Alstom
Alstom operates the historic Litchurch Lane train factory in Derby, one of the largest rolling stock manufacturing sites in the country. Its trains incorporate complex electronic control, traction and passenger information systems.
5. Siemens
Siemens is a global leader in industrial automation, electrification and digital technologies. Its UK operations support manufacturers with control systems, drives and factory digitalisation solutions widely used across the Midlands.
6. TT Electronics
TT Electronics is a UK-headquartered manufacturer of sensors, power electronics and connectivity solutions. It serves healthcare, aerospace, defence and industrial markets with high-reliability components.
7. Oxley Group
Oxley Group designs and manufactures high-reliability electronic components and LED lighting for aerospace, defence and rail. Its specialist products are trusted in demanding environments where failure is not an option.
8. RS Group
RS Group, known to engineers as RS Components, is one of the world's largest distributors of electronic and industrial components. Its fast delivery and extensive catalogue make it a vital supply partner for engineers and maintenance teams in Erewash.
9. Plexus
Plexus is an international electronics manufacturing services provider with UK facilities. It supports complex products in healthcare, industrial and aerospace sectors, from design and prototyping to full production and aftermarket services.
10. Sanmina
Sanmina is a global electronics manufacturing services company with operations in the UK. It supports customers with high-complexity PCB assembly, systems integration and supply chain management.
Electronics Manufacturing Trends in 2026
Supply chain resilience has become a top priority following recent global component shortages. Many UK businesses are diversifying suppliers, holding strategic inventory and reshoring some production to reduce risk. This creates opportunities for regional electronics manufacturers with flexible capacity.
Electrification is driving demand across automotive, rail and energy sectors, with power electronics, battery management systems and charging infrastructure growing rapidly. The Internet of Things and Industry 4.0 are also increasing demand for connected sensors and smart factory equipment.
Skills remain a challenge. Partnerships between manufacturers, colleges and universities in Derby and Nottingham are helping to build a pipeline of electronics engineers and technicians, supported by education-focused companies that inspire young people early.
How to Choose an Electronics Manufacturing Partner
Assess each partner's quality certifications, industry experience and capacity. Ask about design for manufacture support, testing capabilities and component sourcing strategies. For regulated sectors such as aerospace and medical, ensure the manufacturer holds the relevant approvals. Proximity also matters, as local partners can make collaboration and quality visits easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an electronics manufacturer and an EMS provider?
An original equipment manufacturer designs and sells its own branded products, while an electronics manufacturing services provider builds products on behalf of other companies. Many Erewash businesses use EMS partners to avoid investing in their own production lines.
Can small businesses order low-volume PCB assembly?
Yes. Many manufacturers offer prototyping and low-volume runs, which allow start-ups and small engineering firms to test designs before committing to larger production.
Why is reshoring electronics production growing?
Recent component shortages and shipping disruptions showed the risks of long supply chains. Producing closer to home can improve control over quality, lead times and intellectual property.
Conclusion
Erewash businesses benefit from being at the heart of one of the UK's strongest engineering regions. From specialist designers in Derby to global manufacturing services providers, the companies above offer the electronics expertise needed to build innovative, reliable products for today's markets.
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