ESD Ltd

Essential Services and Distribution Ltd. (the organisation) was first established in 1999, and became a limited company in 2002, trading from its� premises in Brierley Hill. The name ESD is generally used.

The organisation was first established to source and supply electronic components to clients, and would undertake stockholding of parts for clients. This business was expanded in 2002 to include sub-contract assembly of electronic circuit boards, as a result of client requests for such a service. This gave ESD two parts to their operation, the stocking and supply of components, and assembly of circuit boards to client requirements. Further to this the business was further expanded by the addition of ESD Power Solutions Ltd. This is a joint venture the nature of which is the design and manufacturer of power supplies.

The organisation supplies components and assemblies to a wide range of clients, including clients who manufacture weighing equipment, burglar alarms, studio mixing desks, CCTV applications and other similar organisations. The power supply element compliments these two as it requires both component sourcing and sub-assembly.

To ensure a standard of service, the organisation has invested in a comprehensive computer system to track the stocks of components, which includes the ability to set minimum stock levels to trigger repeat orders. Traceability is maintained on components whenever possible, the only exceptions being broker products, such as obsolete parts which may have to be sourced from across the world.

The assembly operations take place at the works in Brierley Hill, with some outworkers who can operate from their homes also used when demand is high. Testing of the assemblies is undertaken in accordance with the client�s requirements during the assembly operation.

The staff are highly skilled and experienced, all having worked in the trade for many years. The company recognises the importance of the skill of the staff in what is largely a hand operated process at present. However automation is increasingly being used.

To ensure that the client receives the best possible service the organisation operates a Quality Management System (QMS) to the requirements of ISO 9001:2000. The operation of this QMS is audited by an independent Quality Assurance Registration Body to ensure compliance to the International Standard. This Quality Manual gives details of how the organisation structures its� Quality Management System to satisfy the requirements of this standard.