The MISUMI Voice in Action

Here's an example of how Misumi seeks out the insights and opinions of its customers. Hiroaki Toda, machine designer at an electronic component manufacturer in Japan, explains a recent visit by Misumi product manager Etsuo Nakasai.

What kind of manufacturing facility do you manage?

"We develop and manufacture the latest TAB (Tape Automated Bonding) tapes which are used to create ultra-high density IC packages. The TAB tapes enable our customers, who are mainly manufacturers of notebook computers, mobile phones and car navigation systems, to make their products smaller and thinner. My responsibility is to design the manufacturing facilities for the TAB tape products."

How long have you been using the MISUMI Catalog?

"The Misumi catalog is the Number 1 catalog that offers the most extensive line of parts for the factory automation industry. We have been buying from Misumi for the last 10 years. Not only do we purchase from the catalog, it is our reference book during the design phase. We refer to the specs and pricing, and in most cases, almost all the parts in the design can be sourced from the Misumi catalog."

What is the most attractive aspect about MISUMI?

"I like the fact that there is no minimum order quantity, and I can always trust the lead time information in the catalog. This is especially important in my industry where we often have emergencies, or when the lead time is extremely short."

It seems that you use many unique components in small quantities. Did you have any new ideas for the product manager?

"I think that the Misumi product manager visiting us is a great opportunity to explain the unique needs that we have. I hope that the product manager can go back and develop this new product for the next catalog. This would help us even further."