Distribution sales set for second half improvement, says ECSN
Figures from the Electronic Components Supply Network (ECSN) show billings in June were 14% higher than in May, but 20% down on June 2011.
The organisation also pointed out that orders declined by 3% over May and by 23% over June 2011. Adam Fletcher, ECSN chairman, said: "Bookings slowed in June 2012, which is quite usual as we enter the summer period and the holiday season beckons, but members also reported increased inventory levels, suggesting that customers are either rescheduling or they anticipate a billings increase in July, which seems unlikely."
The figures are said to show widely differing views amongst ECSN members on current and future activity in the supply network, with opinions varying according to their customers' end market. "The consensus points towards an improvement in the second half of the year," Fletcher said, "but stronger demand may quickly deplete inventory, which in turn could reduce availability and precipitate an increase in lead time."
