Founded in 2002 by Dan Croft and his father, Vince, Vanilla Electronics is a provider of supply chain solutions for
its customers, typically being specialist, high-end technology manufacturers in a range of sectors from oil and gas
to healthcare
Based in Thetford, Norfolk, Vanilla started as a family-owned component distributor and now offers a fully outsourced
service, from conceptual design, material procurement, kitting, manufacturing, through to end-customer order
fulfilment, product returns, warranty, repair and re-supply
Vanilla has built strong partnerships with both its customers and suppliers. It ships over a million parts per day
from its 25,000 square foot distribution centre, with automated warehousing and advanced optical inspection
equipment. Vanilla helps its customers to consolidate their typically complex supply chain, leading to operational
and financial benefits and longevity in the relationships
Dan Croft will continue to lead the business in his role as CEO, supported by recently appointed CFO, Matt Negus.
This transaction has allowed Dan to de-risk his position whilst allowing Vince to realise value for his stake in the
business
We are looking forward to working with the team on the next leg of Vanilla's journey, which will include looking for
bolt-on acquisitions that will allow Vanilla to scale more quickly, leveraging its already impressive procurement
and distributions capabilities
***
In March 2021, Vanilla completed its first acquisition of Bela Electronic Designs. Founded in 1986, Bela is now
regarded as one of the market leaders in small to medium volume high complexity manufacturing and has established an
excellent reputation in the design and manufacture of printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs).
The acquisition allows Vanilla to strengthen its technical capability in providing complex electronics design and
manufacturing activities, whilst offering a stronger foothold in early product development to its global
manufacturing customer base.