The August sales figures for PCB manufacturers declined 8.9%, compared to the same period last year, stated the German Association of the PCB Industry (VdL) and the ZVEI Association (Electronic Components & Systems).

PCBThe accumulated revenue for this year so far is around 37% below of what was achieved last year during the same period. Many companies and production facilities continue with short-work, which affects achievable volumes.

Compared to the exceptionally high order intake in July, August reported a 30% decrease. Compared to August 2008, order intake this year was ¼ below that figure. Replenishing the empty warehouses still takes on a slow pace.

The book-to-bill ratio, as an indicator of the medium-term trend, reached 0.96.


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The fact that production ended in one location also affected the figures and where orders were placed. The existing orders were fulfilled and customers turned to other companies - partly abroad - to satisfy needs and demand.

Compared to last year, workforces were reduced by 25% - through restructuring and facility closures.

Image source. AT&S