Supply Chain Insights: Rapid Evolution of E-Cigarette Displays as a New Competitive Frontier

On August 29th, at the fifth Aerosol Industry Chain Exhibition, 2Firsts conducted in-depth interviews with several e-cigarette supply chain companies, revealing new trends in the industry. Currently, the e-cigarette industry's technological competition and supply chain dynamics have become a focus, particularly in the area of screen display technology. 2Firsts engaged in discussions with various screen suppliers on site regarding this phenomenon.

Currently, in the American market, the new disposable e-cigarette models are commonly equipped with a screen display function, sparking intense competition within the industry. At the trade show, multiple companies showcased their innovations in curved display screen technology, including flexible curved LED screens, laying the foundation for the success of their products in the American market.

A representative from a flexible curved LED manufacturer pointed out that the strong sales of the GeekBar Pulse product in the American market have prompted other manufacturers to follow suit and develop similar products, further driving the demand for flexible screens. Many manufacturers who had not previously been involved in the e-cigarette industry have now partnered with related factories in response to market demand.

Despite the existence of profit margins, the complexity of supply chains continues to increase, especially in the production of 3D curved screens, where the yield rate has become a major challenge. According to him, the use of flexible curved materials, similar to those used in GeekBar Pulse, is not difficult in principle, but meeting the manufacturers' required standards is not easy. Currently, only 50%-60% of products are able to pass quality control.

Furthermore, a company specializing in digital lenses indicated that they provide display screen decorations for several well-known e-cigarette manufacturers such as Geekvape and Vaporesso. They revealed that the order volume for some products has reached 500,000 pieces, and the demand is still growing, reflecting the increasing market demand for e-cigarette products with screens.

Another company specializing in display screen integrated circuit design has stated that they have started designing and producing circuit boards specifically for applications such as disposable e-cigarettes this year, focusing mainly on TFT color screens. The booth manager explained that they only provide circuit design solutions and customers are free to choose their own screens and batteries. He also pointed out that the screens for e-cigarettes are updated rapidly, and more expensive and better-performing LCD screens may become a popular choice for first-generation products. The technological reserves in the industry chain can meet the current product demand.

Although the e-cigarette supply chain is facing challenges such as profit compression, companies in the screen technology industry remain optimistic. Disposable e-cigarettes with screens are still in development, and demand for them has not decreased. There is still room for innovation in the market for these products.