The electronics industry is accelerating fast, and the biggest changes in 2025 revolve around automation, U.S. reshoring, component miniaturization, and supply chain resilience. Here’s how SMT facilities are adapting – and where opportunities lie.
Trend 1: The Shift Back to U.S. Manufacturing
Driven by:
- Tariffs
- Global supply chain volatility
- Quality inconsistency in imported materials
- The need for reliable splicing & consumables
Sierra Electronics is now the only U.S. manufacturer of SMT splice products and SMT reels, giving domestic factories supply stability.
Trend 2: Component Miniaturization
4mm carrier tape is exploding in demand due to:
- Wearables
- IoT devices
- Automotive sensors
- Medical electronics
Two-ply splicing solutions and precision extenders are essential to handle these ultra-small pitch components.
Trend 3: Automation & Smart Splicing
Auto-splicing machines with vision inspection are becoming standard.
Engineers want:
- Zero-defect alignment
- Consistent force application
- High-speed changeovers
TapeSplice.com offers “error-free splicing” technology compatible with all major feeders.
Trend 4: Supply Chain Risk Mitigation
Companies are reducing reliance on China for:
- ZSplice tapes
- Reels
- Leader extenders
- Carrier tapes
Domestic suppliers now offer better performance, faster delivery, and stable QC.
Trend 5: Increased Focus on Cost per Placement
Everything revolves around uptime:
- Faster changeovers
- Stronger adhesives
- More durable reels
- Better operator training
- High QC consumables
Downtime reduction is the new profit center.