The Rise of Hard-to-Find Components and How to Manage Demand
In recent years, the global component & supply chain has faced unprecedented pressure. As demand surges and disruptions multiply, hard-to-find components have become one of the most critical challenges for manufacturers and OEMs worldwide. Whether it’s semiconductors, analog ICs, passive components, or microcontrollers—shortages have shaken production lines and pushed procurement teams into firefighting mode.
At Kruse, we specialize in helping businesses navigate this complex landscape. In this blog, we explore the factors fueling the scarcity of electronic components and share actionable strategies to manage demand more effectively.
What’s Driving the Shortage of Components?
The rise of hard-to-find components is a result of multiple, often overlapping factors:
1. Explosive Market Demand
The proliferation of IoT, electric vehicles, smart devices, and industrial automation has driven massive demand for electronic components. Supply hasn’t kept up, especially in high-growth sectors like automotive and medical technology.
2. Supply Chain Disruptions
Events like the COVID-19 pandemic, factory shutdowns, labor shortages, and geopolitical tensions have disrupted manufacturing and logistics globally. The semiconductor industry, in particular, has seen ripple effects lasting years.
3. End-of-Life (EOL) Announcements
Many components become obsolete faster due to rapid product innovation. Manufacturers that fail to plan for EOL components face sourcing bottlenecks and increased procurement risk.
4. Limited Manufacturing Capacity
Foundries and fabs operate with long lead times and constrained capacity. Niche components with low volume but critical functionality are especially vulnerable to shortages.
5. Over-Reliance on Just-in-Time (JIT)
Lean inventory models left little room for error. In today’s environment, just-in-time has shifted toward just-in-case, forcing procurement teams to rethink inventory strategies.
The Impact on Component & Supply Chain Strategy
The lack of availability affects every part of the component & supply chain, including:
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Production delays and downtimes
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Skyrocketing procurement costs
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Design changes due to unavailable parts
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Reputational risk from delayed deliveries
For electronics companies, the stakes have never been higher. To maintain business continuity and customer satisfaction, a strategic demand management approach is critical.
Strategies to Manage Demand for Hard-to-Find Components
Kruse empowers customers to take control of their supply chains through forward-thinking, data-driven solutions. Here’s how you can effectively manage demand and reduce risks:
1. Improve Supply Chain Visibility
You can’t manage what you can’t see. Use real-time data and supplier analytics to:
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Monitor availability
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Forecast demand
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Track lead times and disruptions
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Identify at-risk components
Kruse offers advanced supply chain intelligence tools that help procurement teams make informed decisions with up-to-date market insights.
2. Partner with a Strategic Sourcing Expert
Working with a sourcing expert like Kruse provides access to:
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A global network of vetted suppliers
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Inventory from authorized and independent sources
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Special procurement of obsolete and EOL parts
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Alternative and cross-reference matching services
This expands your sourcing options and reduces dependency on limited suppliers.
3. Implement Cross-Reference and Substitution Strategies
When original parts are unavailable, having validated alternatives is essential. Our engineers help identify:
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Drop-in replacements
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Equivalent components from other manufacturers
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Performance-compatible substitutes
We ensure all recommendations meet technical specifications and compliance standards.
4. Plan for End-of-Life Components Early
Lifecycle planning is key to avoiding last-minute sourcing scrambles. Kruse offers:
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EOL monitoring and alerts
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Last-time buy (LTB) strategies
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Stockpiling critical components
We help you transition to new parts smoothly while securing availability for legacy products.
5. Adopt a Hybrid Inventory Model
Move beyond traditional just-in-time models by adopting a hybrid strategy, including:
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Buffer stock programs
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Vendor-managed inventory (VMI)
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Safety stock for critical components
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Flexible storage solutions via centralized warehousing
Kruse supports you with scalable inventory management designed for volatile markets.
6. Strengthen Supplier Relationships
Building trust and collaboration with suppliers can offer:
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Better access to limited inventory
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Priority allocation during shortages
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Early visibility into disruptions
At Kruse, our long-standing partnerships across the global component ecosystem ensure preferential access to hard-to-find parts.
The Kruse Advantage in Component & Supply Chain Resilience
When managing demand for scarce components, speed, agility, and experience matter. At Kruse, we bring:
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Decades of sourcing expertise
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Global logistics and fulfillment capabilities
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Quality assurance for every component
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Support for technical, commercial, and supply chain needs
From small-batch sourcing to large-scale supply chain solutions, we tailor our services to your business goals.
Looking Ahead: Smart Planning for the Future
The landscape for electronic components will remain dynamic. Companies that embrace proactive sourcing strategies, diversify their supply chain, and invest in inventory intelligence will be better equipped to:
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Stay ahead of disruptions
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Launch products on time
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Maintain customer confidence
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Control long-term costs
With Kruse as your strategic procurement partner, you gain a competitive edge in a market where hard-to-find components are the new normal.
Need help managing your demand for critical components?
Contact Kruse today to explore our smart sourcing and supply chain optimization services.