RS Components has announced the signing of a formal global distribution franchise agreement with Epcos AG. Since October 2009 Epcos has been combined with the electronic components business of TDK in the new company TDK-EPC Corporation, which markets its products under the product brands, TDK and Epcos.

Over 1,600 Epcos products are available from RS, covering a broad range of technologies including capacitors and EMC products. The product offer is available direct-from-stock in industry-standard production packaging, at flexible quantities so customers can order the quantity they need and avoid unnecessary stock-holding costs. Customers can also achieve larger discounts when ordering higher quantities.

Commenting on the agreement, Peter Arch, Epcos global sales distribution, said: "We are delighted to have concluded this agreement with RS. Their global reach, high quality service level and focus on meeting the needs of electronic design engineers and buyers is a perfect fit with the portfolio of innovative Epcos products. Our products focus on the fast growing leading edge technology markets, and, combined with RS' service and support, give design engineers a compelling offer."

For RS, Paul Webster, head of product management, Electronics said: "RS is committed to giving our customers the broadest and latest offer from the world's leading component manufacturers. Our partnership with Epcos demonstrates this commitment in action, and we are excited to be able to implement the new distribution franchise agreement."

A wide range of Epcos products is available online from RS at rswww.com/electronics, where customers can link straight into the product range with technical documents, then select and order direct-from-stock.

Pictured at the signing ceremony, from left to right: Keith Rogers (distribution sales manager - Epcos), Chris Page (general manager, electronics - RS), Peter Arch (director, global sales distribution - Epcos), Roger Pickett (purchasing manager - RS).