Case | ETK and Kamstrup scale US electronics production
To understand how a local Danish collaboration evolved into a strategic transatlantic partnership, we sat down with Carsten Kusk, SVP Supply Chain at Kamstrup, and Troels Hornsved, CEO of ETK. Their shared story reveals how transparency, accountability, and a willingness to invest in each other enabled the rapid scaling of electronics production from Denmark to the United States.
How ETK and Kamstrup used collaboration and transparency to scale production to the US
“This collaboration shows what happens when you work transparently, are accountable and are willing to invest in one another.”
Troels Hornsved, CEO, ETK
How ETK and Kamstrup used collaboration and transparency to scale production to the US
“This collaboration shows what happens when you work transparently, are accountable and are willing to invest in one another.”
Troels Hornsved, CEO, ETK
“This I believe that what we have done shows what can create value in a partnership; a wiliness to commit fully and completely to it and take the risk that are necessary.”
Carsten Kusk, SVP, Supply Chain, Kamstrup
A clear and bold heading
“This I believe that what we have done shows what can create value in a partnership; a wiliness to commit fully and completely to it and take the risk that are necessary.”
Carsten Kusk, SVP, Supply Chain, Kamstrup
From close neighbors to strategic partners
The relationship between ETK and Kamstrup was no coincidence.
As neighbors in Skanderborg, Denmark, and as companies with a shared understanding of electronics manufacturing, the two organizations had known each other for years.
Kamstrup operates its own electronics production and understands the complexity of managing materials, quality, documentation, and tightly controlled processes. For that reason, the collaboration with ETK had long consisted of well-defined tasks and additional ad hoc support.
That changed in 2023.
Rising demands created the need for additional production capacity that could not be addressed through temporary adjustments. Production needed to scale quickly without compromising quality, stability, or transparency. This required a partner with deep industry expertise and the ability to act quickly.
That was when ETK became more closely integrated into the organization.
“We needed additional capacity, and ETK was able to respond immediately. Within just three months, they established a fully automated SMT and IMT line dedicated to us,” says Carsten Kusk, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain at Kamstrup.
A collaboration that changed character
The establishment of the production line became a turning point.
ETK did not simply deliver what had been agreed upon. They actively engaged in strengthening the collaboration through ongoing process dialogue, operational improvements, and a shared commitment to continuous optimization.
“ETK clearly took responsibility for more than just deliveries. They engaged in the collaboration and worked proactively to improve it over time,” says Carsten Kusk.
For ETK, this approach was intentional.
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"We aim for partnerships where we understand the customer’s business and operating conditions. That requires proximity, transparency, and a willingness to take responsibility,” says Troels Hornsved, CEO of ETK.
As trust grew, the collaboration gradually moved beyond capacity and operations. The dialogue became more strategic, and both parties gained clarity on how the partnership could support Kamstrup’s long-term ambitions.
The United States as a natural next step
When the collaboration was established in 2023, Kamstrup already had plans to manufacture electronics in the United States.
This was part of a bigger strategic decision, driven by both regulatory requirements and the importance of local production.
“We knew early on that we would need electronics production in the US to meet compliance requirements and support our strategy,” says Carsten Kusk. “We shared those plans with ETK from the beginning.”
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As the collaboration in Denmark matured and delivered strong results, discussions about a US setup progressed naturally.
When the decision was made in 2025, ETK was ready to take the next step alongside Kamstrup.
“We developed the concept through close collaboration and open dialogue. We were transparent about investments, cost structures, and how to design a setup that would create long-term value for both parties,” says Troels Hornsved.
Establishing production in the United States was a significant commitment for ETK.
The setup was built with Kamstrup as the first customer, requiring a shared understanding of risk, responsibility, and long-term viability.
“This only works with full transparency. Kamstrup needed to know we were fully committed, and we needed confidence that the investment would be sustainable over time,“ says Troels.
From decision to operation in a matter of months
The contract was signed in June 2025, and execution began immediately.
The project was carefully planned, and many processes were replicated from existing production setups. This created a strong foundation and allowed the team to move quickly.
“By November, the US production setup was operational, and we began production shortly thereafter,” says Troels Hornsved.
For Kamstrup, ETK’s physical presence in the United States has already made a measurable difference.
“We can respond much faster when challenges arise. At the same time, we have improved supply chain coordination, streamlined material flow, and achieved purchasing advantages." says Carsten Kusk.
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Consistent processes create long-term stability
A key element of the US expansion was ETK’s centralized business setup.
Many administrative and operational processes are managed through the Thailand Business Support Center. This makes it possible to transfer systems and workflows directly to the US operation without rebuilding them from scratch.
“We use the same processes and systems across all our factories,” explains Troels Hornsved. “That allows us to ensure consistency, quality, and documentation regardless of location.”
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For Kamstrup, it has been critical that production in the United States meets the same standards they know from Denmark.
“ETK takes quality very seriously. They meet our requirements, and they challenge us when they see opportunities to improve efficiency without compromising quality,” says Carsten Kusk.”
A partnership built for growth
Production in the United States is still in its early stages, but the foundation is strong.
Both parties have agreed on a step-by-step development approach, ensuring operational stability before expanding further.
For ETK, the collaboration with Kamstrup clearly illustrates how the company approaches long-term partnerships.
“This case shows what creates real value in a partnership. Transparency, accountability, and mutual respect, combined with a shared understanding that it must be a healthy business for both parties,” says Troels Hornsved.
For Kamstrup, the collaboration has delivered more than additional capacity. It has delivered a committed partner that invests in the relationship and supports long-term strategic goals.
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