Europlacer has been developing machines for electronic assembly from its Rocheserviere, France, base since the 1970’s. The company invented the intelligent feeder concept in the 1980’s before being acquired in 1991 by the late Pat Kellard and integrated into Blakell Systems (now Blakell Europlacer). The mid-range placement machines have a very loyal following in Europe and are now expanding overseas, while at the same time developing a unique strategy to develop the home market. Trevor Galbraith caught up with Group Managing Director Derek Gaston to find out more.

This interview originally appeared in Global SMT & Packaging magazine 6.8 - September 2006.

Download the full interview (free) in PDF format.