The story of magnetic design and distribution in Europe is layered. For example, Prodin, headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, has been at the forefront of magnetic distribution in Europe since its inception. Founded by Josep Llano, Prodin has weathered storms, adapted to changing market dynamics, and emerged as a leader in the field of magnetics.

Prodin’s journey began in 1990, a time when European manufacturers were grappling with the complexities of sourcing magnetic materials. The company started by attending manufacturing conferences, forging relationships, and identifying its first customers across diverse markets. Back then, suppliers flooded the European market with massive quantities of ferrites, catering to the growing demand for transformer cores, which numbered over a million units monthly.

 

As the years progressed, Prodin diversified its product offerings, evolving into a comprehensive one-stop-shop for all things magnetics. From electrical steel to coil formers, and from powder to nanocrystalline cores, Prodin expanded its catalog to meet the evolving needs of its clientele. This strategic expansion not only solidified Prodin's position in the market but also transformed suppliers into indispensable partners for manufacturers across Europe.

Migration of Major Players to Asia

However, the European manufacturing landscape faced seismic shifts with the migration of major industry players to countries like China and India. This exodus created uncertainty and posed significant challenges for smaller manufacturers, who found themselves grappling with increased minimum order quantities imposed by Asian suppliers. Josep Llano recalls how clients, accustomed to ordering around 1,000 transformers per year, were suddenly confronted with minimum order requirements of 50,000 units, leaving many in a precarious situation.

Leaning into Low Volume Production

In Spain, where Prodin is headquartered, the manufacturing sector witnessed a wave of closures as companies struggled to adapt to the changing dynamics of global trade. Yet, amidst the turmoil, there were glimmers of hope. Smaller companies pivoted towards low-volume production, catering to niche markets and leveraging national clientele from regions like Basque, Catalan, and Madrid. While many succumbed to the economic pressures, some persevered, finding opportunities in specialized sectors such as solar and space.

 

For Prodin, the tumultuous period marked a turning point in its trajectory. While witnessing the closure of numerous clients' factories, Josep Llano remained steadfast in his commitment to innovation and adaptation. In some instances, he even acquired machinery from defunct factories, repurposing it to serve the needs of the industry. Through resilience and resourcefulness, Prodin not only survived but thrived, emerging as a trusted partner for small and mid-level companies seeking solutions to magnetic challenges.

Apex Magnets

The evolution of magnetic design and distribution across industries is fascinating, especially with the primary source for manufacturing remaining in China. If you are a company looking for a distributor of permanent magnets in the US, consider exploring our catalog online and communicating with our incredible team of magnetic specialists. Call today at 1-304-257-1193!