Introduction
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) form the foundation of all electronic products we use today. From home appliances and smartphones to automobiles, PCBs provide the interconnect platform to mount and connect electronic components. Europe has a long history and solid expertise in PCB fabrication and assembly. This article explores the leading PCB manufacturing companies based in Europe.
We will examine the top 18 PCB manufacturers in Europe, look at the major countries, technologies, capacities and discuss what makes European companies competitive globally.
Top PCB Manufacturers in Europe
Here are the 18 largest PCB manufacturers in Europe based on annual revenues:
1. AT&S (Austria)
- One of the world’s largest PCB makers, specializing in high-density interconnect (HDI) PCBs.
- Capabilities in multi-layer, high-frequency, flexible, rigid-flex, HDI and IC substrates.
- Major markets include consumer electronics, automotive, medical, industrial and communication sectors.
- Revenue: €1.5 billion, Employees: 10,000+
2. TTM Technologies (UK)
- Leading global PCB manufacturer providing time-to-market and engineered solutions.
- Broad technology portfolio including HDI, rigid, flex, rigid-flex and specialty PCBs.
- Specializes in quick-turn prototypes, small-medium volume production.
- Revenue: $2.5 billion, Employees: 25,000+
3. Schweizer Electronic (Germany)
- Develops and manufactures high-end PCBs for automotive, solar, industrial electronics sectors.
- Core competencies in rigid, flex-rigid and high current PCB technologies.
- Strategic focus on energy management and embedded power electronics.
- Revenue: €155 million, Employees: 2,100
4. AT&P (Austria)
- Provider of high-quality PCB prototypes, small series and mass production.
- Capabilities in single, double, multi-layer, HDI, flex and rigid-flex boards.
- Serving sectors like industrial, railway, aviation, telecom and medical technology.
- Revenue: €80 million, Employees: 480
5. Mektec Europe (Austria)
- Leading prototype and quick-turn PCB producer in Europe for 25 years.
- Services include 24-hour rapid prototypes, conventional PCBs and assembled PCBs.
- Specialized in rigid, flex, flex-rigid and HDI boards.
- Revenue: €50+ million, Employees: 500+
6. Eurocircuits (Belgium)
- End-to-end PCB and electronic assembly solutions provider in Europe.
- Manufactures prototype through high-volume production of rigid, rigid-flex, HDI and speciality PCBs.
- Additional services like DFM/DFT checks, testing, box-build and supply chain management.
- Revenue: €50 million, Employees: 250+
7. Polar Instruments (UK)
- Develops tools for analyzing PCB fabrication data to optimize manufacturing processes.
- Offers solutions for signal integrity, fabricator data analysis and drill optimization.
- Works closely with leading European PCB makers to improve quality and yields.
- Revenue: €7 million, Employees: 50+
8. Mellacor Technology (Slovenia)
- An innovative PCB producer focusing on quick-turn prototype and ramp-to-volume production.
- Specialized in HDI microvia, rigid-flex, flex, aluminum-based and high thermal PCBs.
- Possesses advanced technological know-how of PCB manufacturing.
- Revenue: €15+ million, Employees: 130+
9. Dynamic Electronics (Sweden)
- Leading Nordic producer of prototype and quick-turn small series PCB production.
- Capabilities in rigid, flex, flex-rigid, HDI and special material PCBs.
- Caters to automotive, telecom, industrial, medical and tech companies.
- Revenue: €20 million, Employees: 140
10. Elmatica (Norway)
- PCB sourcing partner helping companies find optimal manufacturer based on requirements.
- Provides PCB design for manufacturing services to ensure manufacturability.
- Network of 30+ partner PCB factories in Europe for qualified production.
- Revenue: €12 million, Employees: 60+
11. NCAB Group (Sweden)
- Outsourced manufacturing partner for PCBs, assembled PCBs and box build products.
- Manages production at certified partner factories across Europe.
- Expertise in procurement, logistics, quality assurance and supply chain.
- Revenue: €400 million, Employees: 950+
12. Amphenol Invotec (UK)
- PCB manufacturer providing quick-turn prototypes through medium-high volume production.
- Specialized in rigid, flex, flex-rigid and metal core PCBs.
- Serves aerospace, industrial, medical, instrumentation and defense sectors.
- Revenue: €25+ million, Employees: 200+
13. Epectec (Netherlands)
- Specialized manufacturer of high-mix, low-medium volume PCBs.
- Production capabilities for rigid, flex, rigid-flex and HDI boards.
- Additional services like assembly, testing, DFM/DFT, box-build and order fulfillment.
- Revenue: €30+ million, Employees: 250+
14. Midas Circuit Boards (UK)
- High quality PCB producer with 40+ years of experience and expertise.
- Manufactures prototypes to mid-volume production of all common PCB types.
- Fast turnaround time of 5-7 working days.
- Revenue: €6 million, Employees: 60+
15. Elta Group (Slovenia)
- R&D partner and PCB producer for high-reliability technology sectors.
- Design and manufacturing services for rigid, flex, HDI and special material PCBs.
- Focus on defense, space, aviation, industrial, telecom segments.
- Revenue: €35 million, Employees: 400+
16. Enics (Switzerland)
- Full-service manufacturing partner for the complete product life cycle.
- Design and production of PCBs, electromechanical assemblies and testing.
- Global footprint with factories across Europe and Asia.
- Revenue: €430 million, Employees: 5,300+
17. Neways Technologies (Netherlands)
- Provides innovative electronic components, modules and assembled PCB solutions.
- Design and manufacturing services for high-mix, low-medium volume products.
- Specializes in miniaturization and high-precision technologies.
- Revenue: €190 million, Employees: 1,300+
18. Scanfil EMS (Finland)
- Contract manufacturer of electronics, modules and integrated products.
- Services encompass PCB fabrication, component sourcing, assembly, testing and supply chain.
- Key industries served include communications, medical, industrial equipment, transportation.
- Revenue: €500 million, Employees: 3,800+
Leading European Countries for PCB Production
Germany, Austria, France, UK, Italy, Belgium and the Nordic countries have the highest concentration of PCB manufacturing in Europe:
- Germany – AT&S, Schweizer, Zollner, Ruwel, Würth Elektronik
- Austria – AT&S, AT&P, Mektec Europe
- France – Cistelaier, Circuipac, Somacis
- UK – TTM Technologies, Polar Instruments, Midas
- Italy – DE.TEC.TOR, Fametech
- Belgium – Eurocircuits, Multitronics
- Nordic – Scanfil, Dynamic Electronics, Elmatica
These countries possess advanced technological infrastructure, engineering talent, and proximity to leading electronic product companies and supply chain networks in Europe.
Manufacturing Capabilities of European Companies
Here are some of the key PCB technologies offered by leading manufacturers in Europe:
- Rigid PCBs – Single, double and multilayer boards from entry-level to advanced HDI
- Flex PCBs – Discrete flexible circuits and multilayer flex boards
- Rigid-Flex – Boards integrating both rigid and flex materials
- HDI PCBs – High density interconnects, micro-vias, thin cores
- Metal Core – Insulated metal substrate PCBs, thermal management
- PCB Prototypes – 24 – 48 hour quick-turn prototype services
- Small to Medium Volumes – Optimized for small-medium production runs
- Testing/Certification – Extensive testing as per aviation, defense, automotive standards
In addition to these manufacturing capabilities, many European companies also offer value-added services:
- Design Services – PCB and electronic design services
- Assembly – Component sourcing, SMT assembly, through-hole assembly
- Box Build – Enclosure design, cable assembly, final product integration
- Supply Chain – Kitting, logistics, order fulfillment and life cycle management
Competitive Advantages of European PCB Manufacturers
Some of the key strengths of European PCB production companies include:
Specialization – Many firms focus on certain technologies like HDI, rigid-flex, quick-turn prototypes etc.
Quality – Stringent process and quality control for highly reliable products.
Regulation – Strong compliance with environmental, security and regulatory needs.
Customization – Ability to provide customized solutions tailored to customer requirements.
Low Volumes – Optimized for fast ramp up of new products in small-medium volumes.
Customer Support – Strong engineering support and account management.
Logistics – Smooth supply chain and product delivery across Europe.
Innovation – Continued investment in new technologies and manufacturing capabilities.
Trends Driving Europe’s PCB Industry
Some current trends shaping the PCB landscape in Europe:
- Miniaturization – Higher densities, smaller components, micro-vias in HDI PCBs.
- Flex/Rigid-Flex – Growing use of flex and flex-rigid PCB technologies.
- Heterogenous Integration – Integration of components, sensors and other technologies into PCBs.
- Smart Manufacturing – Data analysis, automation and artificial intelligence to improve processes.
- Sustainability – Adoption of cleaner manufacturing technologies and materials.
- Functional Testing – More rigorous testing for signal/power integrity, EMI, thermal performance.
- Supply Chain Reshoring – Bringing more manufacturing back to Europe for security.
Conclusion
Europe has a well-developed printed circuit board industry led by global leaders like AT&S and TTM Technologies along with hundreds of small-medium specialized manufacturers. Local engineering expertise, quality, customization and supply chain advantages make European companies internationally competitive for PCB production and electronics assembly. Investments in emerging technologies ensure that they remain at the forefront as a vital link in the global electronics value chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country is best for PCB manufacturing in Europe?
Germany, Austria and the Nordic countries have the most advanced PCB manufacturing capabilities in Europe currently. They possess expertise across a wide range of PCB technologies along with a robust supply chain and electronics ecosystem.
What are the latest PCB technologies being adopted in Europe?
European manufacturers are actively investing in HDI, rigid-flex PCBs, RF/microwave boards, embedded passives/actives, additive manufacturing and testing solutions for product miniaturization and integration.
Which industry sectors are biggest PCB customers in Europe?
Automotive, industrial equipment, aerospace, defense, telecommunications and medical devices are major end-markets driving European PCB production due to high-reliability and customization requirements.
How can I find a PCB manufacturer in Europe?
Platforms like Elmatica allow you to easily search for PCB manufacturers in Europe based on capabilities, technologies and volumes. Largest companies like AT&S and TTM Technologies have sales teams to contact. Attending trade shows is another good way to meet suppliers.
What is the future outlook for the European PCB industry?
The European PCB market is projected to grow steadily at 2-5% CAGR over the next 5 years, driven by high-end technologies. Consolidation is reducing smaller players while leading firms continue expanding globally. Sustainability and reshoring will also shape strategies.
How is PCB Manufacturing in Europe now?
Europe has a long-standing history in PCB manufacturing. Today, they have cemented their presence in this field. Some of these brands joined forces with China, which has led to great investment and development in PCB manufacturing. A few others deliver semiconductor substrates for computers, phones, portable music players, and cameras. Also, some boards of these PCB Europe brands can be applied to medicine, automotive, industry, and aerospace.
Hoping to learn about PCB manufacturing? You are based in Europe, and wish to know top-rated brands involved in the manufacturing of PCB? Please continue reading, to widen your knowledge in this regard.
What is PCB?
Printed Circuit Board (PCB) is the main building block of today’s electronic devices. It serves as the framework for which other electronic parts are assembled. PCBs provide mechanical support and electrical connection to the components of electrical devices.
They are very common in electronic devices and you can identify them as the green board you see in the layout of most devices. Inductors, operational amplifiers, resistors, batteries, and capacitors are placed on the PCBs based on the form factor of the design. Form factor specifies the shape, size, and other physical features of the PCB as a whole. You need to consider aspects like board configurations, chassis, and mounting schemes to determine the form factor of any PCB design.
PCBs have electrical and mechanical features that make them a suitable option. Today’s PCBs are rigid; about 90 percent of them are rigid boards. Although some PCBs are flexible, they comprise 10% of PCBs available in the market. PCBs are appropriate for many modern electronic devices due to the benefits they offer. They are lightweight and their low cost of production makes them an ideal choice.
Background of the European PCB Industry
The fabrication industry of PCB is a major supplier to most system manufacturers, end users, and electronic assemblers based in Europe. They will all directly gain from this project because they can reliably source assemblies of circuit boards at more reasonable prices.
In the European Union, about 300,000 people work to design and assemble electronics. Recently, Europe’s electronics industry found ways to adapt due to the increasing competition from producers of low labor cost, who don’t usually work with the same environmental and employment standards employed throughout Europe. Due to this reason, the European Union has experienced a great decrease in the manufacturing of low-cost, high-volume electronic products.
Because a large fraction of the previous market migrated, this caused the supply chain to experience a knock-on effect. This includes industries involved in the fabrication and assembly of PCB, as well as supply chains associated with them.
The electronic industry’s concentration in Europe now focuses on more specialized non-consumer applications. Products here are of high value, low volume, or those made through cutting-edge technology. Usually, this may feature applications in various industries like aerospace, telecommunications, medical, automotive, and many others.
These products usually require something more different from the usual consumer electronics of high volume. Particularly, they are usually required to have great reliability in performance and a longer lifespan. These factors are well influenced at the production stage of the circuit board by the solderable finish chosen.
The existence of the capability of EU-based PCB fabrication is seen as a very important part of the supply chain for the electronics industry of high value and reliability. This relies on its ability to source PCB products of high quality consistently, and which also requires easy communication and fast dynamics in the supply chain provided by the local companies.
PCB Manufacturing in Europe in the Past
The heart of any electronic device is indeed the printed circuit board. This is because it connects the different components and ensures the functioning of the electronic device. Unfortunately, it’s also known as the most expensive component and when there’s a need to conduct an ABC analysis, it is usually scrutinized first. Already, the PCB EU industry had to search early for economic ways to manufacture.
Many years back, the lowest scrap rates ever usually accompanied optimized processes. However, this wasn’t even enough for the identification and qualification of some procurement officers of “low-cost nations”.
Therefore, it doesn’t come as a surprise that there has been a drop in the number of Europe’s PCB manufacturers. This drop was from over 1,400 to just about 230. After the recent survey conducted on the PCB industry in Europe, Data4PCB concluded that the manufacturers left don’t just have the right to exist and the opportunity to survive, but are also important for Europe’s electronic industry.
Countries speaking German (Switzerland, Austria, and Germany) are responsible for 61% of the total share of Europe’s PCB production. This is followed by Italy with 11%, France with 8.5%, and the United Kingdom with 8.2%.
The different technologies made in these countries are dedicated and focused on the industrial sectors in their location. This plays a significant role in further and new developments. Asides from this, other reasons prevent transferring portions of work to low-cost nations. Some of these reasons include small volumes and know-how protection.
The survey conducted on the PCB industry of Europe is established every year. This is based on an established database that has been compiled for the last three decades. It also contains almost all manufacturers based in Europe.
How is PCB Manufacturing in Europe Now?
The PCB market in Europe has grown rapidly compared to the past, with many companies putting in much effort to develop and deliver great services. Some reliable companies specialize in producing pcb prototypes that can serve different fields. So many brands are now involved in PCB. However, here are the best five manufacturers and where you can get pcb online europe now.
AT&S
AT&S is involved in the manufacturing and designing of high-end pcb prototypes utilized in various fields like measurement technology, aviation, and medicine. Responsible for the manufacturing of IC substrates globally, it delivers semiconductor substrates for computers, phones, portable music players, and cameras.
Having over 9500 employees, this brand boasts production plants in Asia, asides from Europe. These plants focus on a particular technological portfolio. They deal with the European market, connecting with customers, and ensuring fast production.
Ruwel Group
RUWEL was founded back in 1845, with Geldern of Germany as its headquarters. Back in the 90s, PCB manufacturer Europe were about 1500, while the larger manufacturers were just about 100. This was caused as a result of China’s impact on production.
In 2009, Taiwan’s Unimicron Group, who is a well-known manufacturer of PCB in Europe, acquired Ruwel Group. After this acquisition, came more investment and development. Ruwel now offers cheap pcb prototypes for Europe and Asia.
Wurth Electronic
Wurth Electronic is a leading manufacturer of PCB in Europe that assists their customers through the process of using their PCB prototype. The brand also provides solutions to all problems associated with electronic design. The brand offers three different dimensions of the PCB board. This includes flex-rigid, flexible, and bendable PCB boards.
This manufacturer offers high-quality signal, weight reduction, and cheap PCB manufacturing. Wurth Electronic’s PCB board can be applied to medicine, automotive, industry, and aerospace.
Multek
For more than ten years now, Multek has been a strong manufacturer of PCB in Europe. They focus on multilayer PCB manufacturing. This brand offers new product introductions utilized in large production with earlier prototypes. Every year, Multek produces rigid-flex, double-sided, multilayer, and single PCBs.
They also satisfy the requirements of their customers by providing different flexible PCB boards. Using evaluation methodology, the company only utilizes qualified materials. With over 17 steps used in the evaluation, Multek makes sure that thermal and electrical characteristics follow the specifications of the IPC. After this, there’s an optimization of all qualified materials for mass production to suit every PCB manufacturer in Europe.
Fuba
Fuba was established back in 1991, and for this, has become a leader in PCB manufacturing. Fuba produces PCBs going into OHSAS and ISO standard. Also, they are majorly used in areas like medicine, telecommunication, industry, and automotive.
This PCB manufacturer works with the following strategies: improving the technology used to reach 26 layers and creating a new technology of PCB. In both strategies, Fuba cuts materials to a specific size and format using cutting devices that work automatically. This brand also drills using modern machines, which offer different options such as laser detectors to ensure high quality when drilling holes.
Final Thoughts
Unlike in the past, there are more manufacturers of PCB in Europe today. The PCB industry is developing rapidly and more brands are getting involved. These brands now focus more on high-value and reliable products. One clear message here is that working with low-cost suppliers to source PCBs from the Far East would not be the right step to take to get the desired building block for products with high value and reliability, which the electronics industry of Europe is known for.
