Led by the ECSN’s semiconductors, passives and electromech reporting sectors, the consolidated bookings and billings performance in August 2016 was better than expected. While UK manufacturing generally weakens in August each year, bookings showed what the organisation called an ‘encouraging’ increase of 6% compared to the same month in 2015. However, the book-to-bill ratio in August 2016 declined by 16 points to 0.93:1.
Adam Fletcher, ECSN chairman, said: “Whilst there are occasional monthly dips, the polynomial trend line suggests a positive B2B ratio is likely to continue.” Authorised distributors are said to have good inventory levels to support increased customer demand and the three month moving average for sales of all electronic components suggests slightly increasing growth into September.
Fletcher said ECSN members remain positive about their prospects. “Our forecast is for a slight improvement in billings quarter on quarter towards the end of the year. This appears challenging, but I’m optimistic that it will be achieved.”