Why Datalink Remains a Core Partner in Blatchford’s Supply Chain

Trusted, Proven, Essential: Why Datalink Remains a Core Partner in Blatchford’s Supply Chain

When building advanced prosthetic and orthotic technology, the partnerships behind the product matter just as much as the product itself. That’s why Datalink Electronics has long played a crucial role in helping Blatchford bring innovation to life.

From early design support to long-term reliability, Datalink has been by our side every step of the way, evolving as our needs have developed and helping us meet the highest performance and patient care standards. 

We spoke to Trevor Heath, Purchasing Manager, and Stephen Robinson, Head of Supply Chain, about how this trusted partnership began, shaped our approach to innovation, and why Datalink is vital for Blatchford’s future.

Aran Sharma, Business Development Director at Datalink, adds:
“Blatchford is a company that exemplifies innovation with purpose, and we’re proud to support them with the same mindset. This partnership has always been about working closely, listening carefully, and responding quickly, whether that’s at the design table or across the supply chain."

A Longstanding Partnership Built on the Right Fit

Blatchford’s relationship with Datalink dates back over a decade. They were the right size supplier for our needs, technically capable, responsive, and flexible enough to grow with us.

“They were a great match at the time,” says Trevor. “Not too big, not too small, just the right fit for our production volumes, and highly experienced in the medical device space."

That balance has proved invaluable over the years. As Blatchford’s PCB requirements expanded, driven by product ranges like Orion and Linx Datalink, we could scale alongside them, without compromising on quality or delivery.

“It’s a relationship that’s evolved naturally,” Stephen adds. “Their business is similar to ours in nature, and that shared mindset helps everything click, whether in operations, development, or supply chain."

Seamless Supply, Solid Support

What makes Datalink stand out isn’t just its technical know-how and consistency. Over the years, it has helped maintain product continuity across legacy devices while stepping up when improvements or cost-efficiencies were needed.

“They’ve been solid,” says Trevor. “They’ve supported optimisation exercises, resolved reliability issues, and even taken on managing long lead-time components like overmolded cables, which are things we used to handle ourselves."

This vertical integration approach has streamlined Blatchford’s supply chain, reducing internal workload and enabling greater focus on core innovation.

“They manage sub-tier suppliers extremely well,” Stephen explains. “We buy at the assembly level, and they handle the complexity. It makes our inventory planning and cost control much more effective."

Collaboration at the Core

Datalink isn’t just a supplier; they’re embedded in how Blatchford operates.

“We don’t go outside for PCBs,” Trevor notes. “They’re integrated into our product design lifecycle. Going to them first is an automatic choice because we trust them."

That trust is built on open communication and years of experience. From early conversations about product concepts to technical feedback during prototyping, the Datalink team is part of the journey from day one.

“They’re not just quoting from a distance,” says Stephen. “They’re asking the right questions about design, scalability, and future production needs. They make sure what’s being built today can scale tomorrow."

Quarterly reviews, including face-to-face meetings with senior leaders, help both organisations stay aligned on future direction and capacity needs.

Mariam Smith, Managing Director at Datalink, comments:
“It’s incredibly rewarding to be considered part of Blatchford’s innovation process—not just a vendor but a trusted extension of their own team. That level of collaboration is rare and something we deeply value and work hard to uphold."

Playing a Quiet But Crucial Role in Innovation

While they may not have taken the stage at April’s company conference, Datalink’s presence was felt. Their behind-the-scenes product development and supply support were acknowledged as part of our broader innovation and transformation story.

“They weren’t physically at the event,” Stephen explains. “But they were mentioned in our marketing and PR materials. That reflects how important they are to the wider Blatchford picture."

Their involvement in developing and rolling out our latest products, including support for early testing, prototyping, and production, has been key to bringing solutions like Avior to market.

“They were instrumental in the PCB assemblies for Avior,” Stephen says. “From prototype to production, they’ve helped us launch that product and supported the ramp-up phase. We wouldn’t be where we are without them."

Looking Ahead: A Role in the Future

As Blatchford continues to develop new platforms, like the upcoming Elan common platform, Datalink remains part of the conversation. While formal contracts are still being finalised, they’ve already begun supporting the early development phases, offering input and expertise to help shape what’s next.

“They’re a strategic partner,” says Stephen. “We’re aligning our plans with their capacity, and they’ve shown us repeatedly that they’re ready to support where we’re going."

Final Thoughts

In an industry where reliability, trust, and agility are essential, Datalink has consistently delivered. Their ability to adapt, support, and enhance Blatchford’s operations has made them much more than a supplier; they’re a valued part of our extended team.

“It’s a relationship built on experience,” says Trevor. “You don’t change that just to save a few pounds. What they bring to the table is deeper than that, and it makes a real difference to the quality of our products."

Aran Sharma concludes:
“The success of our partners measures our success. Supporting Blatchford’s growth and mission to improve patient lives is something we take immense pride in. We’re excited about what the future holds, and we’re ready to keep delivering."