In this issue of Industrial Process News, we are pleased to feature Assembly Contracts Ltd (ACL) as our Electronics Manufacturing Company of the Month.
Established in 1989, ACL has spent more than 35 years building its reputation as a trusted UK contract electronics manufacturer (CEM). Founded in response to opportunities within the growing electronics manufacturing industry, the company set out to provide specialist expertise and dependable manufacturing solutions focused on quality, reliability and value. Today, that ambition remains central to its approach and commitment to meeting customers’ evolving requirements.
The company’s history is reflected in its experienced workforce, including Operations Director Lee Williams, who has been with ACL since its early days. Alongside colleagues with more than 25 years of service, he brings valuable knowledge and continuity to the business. This experience combines established manufacturing expertise with the ability to adapt to technological developments and industry challenges.
Based in Wythenshawe, Manchester, ACL operates from a 15,000 sq. ft purpose-built facility equipped with modern production technology, including three surface-mount technology (SMT) lines. The company provides a comprehensive range of electronics manufacturing services, supporting customers throughout production.
Its capabilities include surface-mount and through-hole PCB assembly, New Product Introduction (NPI), Design for Manufacture (DfM), cable and wiring harness assembly, component procurement, quality assurance, testing and turnkey box-build assembly. ACL also supports product development and prototyping, helping customers take electronic designs through to finished products.
This breadth of expertise allows ACL to accommodate projects ranging from low-volume prototypes to higher-volume production. By combining multiple manufacturing services, the company aims to simplify processes, identify challenges early and help customers bring products to market efficiently.
ACL works with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), engineering companies, electronics design businesses and technology organisations across sectors including aerospace, defence, automotive, medical, telecommunications, industrial automation, energy, oil and gas, scientific instrumentation and consumer electronics. Its industry experience enables the team to understand differing technical requirements and provide flexible solutions tailored to individual projects.
Operating for more than 35 years in a competitive, rapidly evolving industry reflects ACL’s resilience, accumulated expertise and willingness to adapt as technology and customer expectations change. Its experienced workforce helps maintain continuity while supporting the development of new capabilities.
However, technical expertise alone does not explain the company’s continued success. ACL identifies customer service as a key differentiator. Clear communication, responsiveness and an understanding of individual requirements underpin its approach to building lasting relationships.
Choosing a manufacturing partner can significantly impact product quality, delivery schedules and business performance. ACL aims to give customers confidence that specifications will be understood, challenges addressed and production requirements handled carefully. Its objective is to become an extension of customers’ operations, offering a personal, dependable and cost-effective service.
Looking ahead, ACL intends to strengthen its position as a trusted UK manufacturing partner. Sustainable growth is a key ambition, with plans to expand its customer base, explore new markets and develop relationships with existing and prospective customers.
Investment in modern manufacturing technology, equipment and workforce development will support these objectives. By improving efficiency, enhancing production capabilities and developing team expertise, ACL aims to remain competitive as electronic products and manufacturing processes become increasingly sophisticated.
Sustainability also features in the company’s future ambitions, with a focus on improving environmental performance and reducing its impact. Maintaining the quality, reliability and customer service that have shaped its reputation will remain a priority.
As part of its commitment to supporting customers, ACL is highlighting its Switch Guarantee, designed to make changing electronics manufacturing partners more straightforward.
Moving production between suppliers can raise concerns around continuity, product quality, costs and technical knowledge transfer. ACL recognises these challenges and has developed its offer to minimise disruption and provide reassurance throughout the transition.
The Switch Guarantee includes free Design for Manufacture (DfM) and Design for Test (DfT) services, alongside upfront New Product Introduction (NPI) reviews. These assessments identify potential manufacturing and testing challenges early, allowing improvements before production begins. The offer also includes no charges for agreed in-house rework on NPI builds, helping customers manage costs during the introduction process.
Backed by more than 35 years of manufacturing experience, ACL combines technical expertise with a customer-focused approach to help businesses explore alternative manufacturing arrangements with confidence. For companies seeking greater flexibility, additional support or a new long-term manufacturing partnership, the Switch Guarantee provides a practical route to making that change.
ACL’s story is one of experience, adaptation and a consistent focus on customer needs. Since 1989, the company has developed alongside the electronics manufacturing industry, building its capabilities and customer relationships.
Its commitment to investing in technology, developing its workforce and exploring sustainable practices will shape the next stage of its journey. By balancing established expertise with forward-thinking investment, ACL aims to remain a reliable presence in the UK manufacturing sector for many years to come.
For more information, please see below:
T +44 (0)161 947 8000
webenquiry@acl.co.uk
www.acl.co.uk