Re: [Leica] outsourcing components

[WILLIAM CALDWELL <sneeker@erols.com>]

SNIP --

Erwin Puts wrote:
> 
> Someone wrote at least in part that a company that does outsourcing
> is per definition an assembler, not a manufacturer. This person has a
> queer and completely outdated view of modern industrial manufacturing
> and the workings of the market for specialized products.

SNIP --

Erwin,

Following your comments.  With any company, it depends upon how the
company defines itself.  Porsche AG has always defined itself as an
"assembler" of two door sports cars (from the beginning -- 1950), and
not as a manufacturer, as Ford Motor Company.  Few quibble that Porsche
has sold and continues to sell, if not the finest, one of the finest
sports cars, with a few exceptions over the years.  Porsche, within the
automobile industry, is also known for its R&D on site for itself and
for other "manufacturers."  A goodly percentage of Porsche's revenue
comes from R&D done for other companies.

Certain vendors have an expertise and the know-how to make desired parts
and sub-assemblies.  Leica Solms would be foolish not to avail itself of
that expertise of a supplier as long as the desired quality control is
present both at the vendor's facilities and at Leica during assembly.

Best Regards,

Bill Caldwell
A Leica user and Porsche driver