ITP’s capabilities cover the entire sourcing value chain; from identifying potential suppliers through contract negotiations, securing IP rights, managing tools and moulds, production, quality control, supervision and inspections to packaging, logistics and final distribution.
Determining outsourcing potential
Transferring manufacturing to partners in Asia has become an attractive option also for small and medium-sized companies. However, the feasibility and benefits need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Sourcing from Asia can represent huge potential, but also considerable risks. ITP offers consultancy services to determine the possibilities and help develop a sourcing strategy.
Identifying the right partner
Most companies find it hard to identify and select the right partner to manufacture their components or products in Asia. The number of available vendors is boundless, while business practices and quality standards are quite different from what most European companies are used to. Based on specified needs and requirements, ITP assists in finding the optimal Asian partner.
Safeguarding
Successful sourcing from Asia is based on clearly defined requirements, a relevant legal framework and understanding of local business culture and practices. Financial and operational risks must be identified and managed, intellectual property rights must be safeguarded. ITP assists in safeguarding our customers’ rights and interests through establishing the relevant legal framework and procedures for the sourcing process.
Managing tools and moulds
Tools and moulds usually represent considerable investments for their owners and they need proper maintenance and safe storage when they are not in use. It has also proven important to monitor the use of tools and mould, in order to prevent illegal use or copying. ITP offers procedures and facilities for secure management of tools and mould.
Production
For small and medium sized companies it is always a challenge to monitor the production process in a different part of the world to ensure that all specifications are being met. ITP offers local presence by trained manufacturing specialists, ensuring that e.g. the raw materials used, the manufacturing processes, quality control, production series and delivery times are according to requirements.
Assembly
ITP provides assembly services which enable us to deliver complete products or products packages to our customers. Manufacturing of components might be done at different locations and assembly at yet another location – ITP organises and monitors the process to ensure a high quality and cost effective total solution.
Quality
ITP adheres to the strictest European quality standards and procedures. Our own manufacturing facilities in Shanghai are ISO certified. We help our customers develop and communicate quality requirements and make sure these are understood by the local vendor. We also provide ongoing quality control as well as unannounced inspections.
Ethical assurance
ITP makes sure that also ethical requirements are being met. We do not accept working conditions that are harmful to the workers or the environment. We do not accept child labour. We do not accept discrimination against individuals based on gender, ethnicity, disability or social belonging. We demand that workers are paid at least the local minimum wage. These principles are upheld through contracts, quality procedures and unannounced inspections.
Logistics
ITP ensures efficient logistics at the manufacturing site, packaging according to requirements and shipping to final destinations worldwide. ITP also handles all formal interaction with local authorities, customs, shipping agents, etc.