The electronic components industry is seeing a welcome shift in sentiment as the latest Electronic Component Sales Trend (ECST) survey reveals a return to positive territory for the first time in 21 months. This marks a significant turnaround after a prolonged period of stagnation, with February’s index score reaching 100.8, reports the ECIA.
The uptick is fueled by strong sales figures for interconnect, passive, and electromechanical (IP&E) components, a trend that began in January 2024. “The index languished at an average of 85.2 for the prior year, unable to sustain any meaningful improvement until a positive surge to begin 2024 started in January,” explains ECIA Chief Analyst, Dale Ford.
This upward momentum is expected to continue throughout March, with projections showing a further 9-point increase, approaching a score of 110. The longer-term outlook for the industry is also positive, with Q1 2024 showing a 1% net positive index and Q2 projections indicating a healthy 33% net positive score.
The ECST survey offers valuable insights into the electronics components supply chain, providing both short-term and long-term perspectives. Alongside the industry’s optimism, the continued development of innovative technologies bodes well for increasing corporate and consumer demand for cutting-edge products.
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