Electronic components are fundamental to industries such as automotive, telecommunications, and consumer electronics. The role of distributors is to ensure that these essential components are readily available to manufacturers and design engineers when needed.
The UK’s electronic component distribution market includes both homegrown and international companies, ensuring the flow of components to the UK market. While three of the top distributors are UK-based, other major global players also have a strong foothold in the country. Here we take a look at 10 of the top distributors serving the UK market.
Top 10 electronic component distributors
RS Components (now RS Group)
RS Components, headquartered in Corby, is one of the largest UK-based electronic components distributors. It supplies over 500,000 products, from passive components and connectors to automation equipment. RS Group is recognised for offering an extensive product range and supporting engineers with design tools and technical resources.
Anglia Components
Anglia Components, headquartered in Wisbech, is the UK’s largest privately-owned distributor. It offers a wide array of electronic components such as optoelectronics, semiconductors, and passives. Anglia is known for its customer-focused service, providing flexible inventory solutions and dedicated technical support.
Farnell
Although Farnell is now part of the US-based Avnet, it has its roots in the UK and maintains a strong local presence. Based in Leeds, Farnell offers a wide variety of components, including semiconductors, sensors, and development boards. The company continues to serve design engineers with an expansive product catalogue and technical support.
Arrow Electronics
US-based Arrow Electronics has a strong presence in the UK and supplies a broad range of components including semiconductors, passives, and industrial products. Arrow is known for offering design services, logistics support, and value-added options like custom component programming.
Future Electronics
While headquartered internationally, Future Electronics has a notable presence in the UK market. It supplies semiconductors, sensors, and power management products to various sectors, including automotive and industrial automation. The company also offers technical design support and comprehensive supply chain management.
Mouser Electronics
Mouser Electronics, although based in the US, is a popular distributor in the UK due to its wide-ranging inventory of components. Mouser is known for its focus on new product introductions (NPI) and supplies products from over 1,200 manufacturers. Engineers value Mouser’s rapid shipping and technical resources.
Digi-Key Electronics
Another US-based company with a strong UK presence, Digi-Key offers a vast selection of components including semiconductors, sensors, and connectors. It serves a diverse customer base ranging from OEMs to design engineers, providing fast shipping and a comprehensive selection for prototyping and design projects.
Rapid Electronics (now part of Conrad Electronic)
Colchester-based Rapid Electronics was acquired by German distributor Conrad Electronic in 2021. Despite the acquisition, Rapid continues to support the UK market with a range of electronic components, including resistors, connectors, and power supplies. It remains a key supplier to the education sector and small-to-medium manufacturers.
Acal BFi (now part of DiscoverIE Group)
Formerly a UK-based distributor, Acal BFi became part of the DiscoverIE Group but continues to operate within the UK. It focuses on specialist electronic components such as power supplies, RF modules, and sensors. Acal BFi is also known for its custom design services, particularly for industrial and medical applications.
Premier Farnell (acquired by Avnet)
Originally Premier Farnell, this UK-based distributor was acquired by Avnet in 2016. Despite its integration into the Avnet group, Farnell maintains a strong UK presence, continuing to offer a wide range of components while supporting engineers and designers with technical expertise and resources.
The UK electronic component distribution market is diverse, with both local and international distributors ensuring that manufacturers and design engineers have access to the essential components they need.
The top UK-based distributors like RS Components, Anglia Components, and Farnell continue to serve a broad range of industries with tailored support and extensive inventories. Meanwhile, global players such as Arrow, Future Electronics, and Digi-Key have established strong presences in the UK, bringing additional resources and expertise. Even companies that have been acquired by international groups, like Rapid Electronics and Acal BFi, remain significant players in the UK market. Together, these distributors play a key role in maintaining a steady supply of components, ensuring the UK’s industries can continue to innovate and operate efficiently.
