Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1476200
24 PCB007 MAGAZINE I AUGUST 2022 more understanding of increases and I believe that our customers should be as well. But wow, the increases I see are much more frequent and larger than what I would consider fair. Shaughnessy: What steps can fabricators take to keep from raising their prices? Hofer: Unfortunately, there is not much a fab- ricator can do except buy larger quantities in an attempt to utilize volume discounts and attempt to hedge against future increases. Another option we are discussing is a tempo- rary "surcharge" that can be removed if the market stabilizes. Shaughnessy: You work with a lot of newer, cutting-edge technologies. Do you think that this helps your company absorb costs? Hofer: Absolutely. ACE is a quick-turn shop, and that is an extremely sought-aer pre- mium right now. Our margin is most definitely reduced due to the current situation, but it also most certainly helps reduce the impact of the material cost increases. Shaughnessy: Do you have any final comments on these challenges? Hofer: ese times are certainly very challeng- ing. Is the phrase, "Please, Lord, make it stop," considered a comment? Shaughnessy: at's a great stopping point, James. anks for speaking with me. Hofer: ank you, Andy. PCB007 James Hofer