Two-Month Slide Slows Summer Momentum
Index Mirrors Overall Economic Outlook

ARLINGTON, Va., June 9, 2011 - Electronic component orders were down in May following the abrupt change in April, according to the monthly order index compiled by the Electronic Components Industry Association (ECIA). The 12-month average, comparing this year's results to last year's, also trended down after a flat beginning in 2011.
ECIA's monthly report consolidates order information collected in confidence from leading electronic component manufacturers. Bob Willis, ECIA executive VP/CTO, says undercurrents from the Japan natural disaster may be affecting OEM production.

"Fear of shortages and 'panic buying' by some OEMs following the crisis in Japan led to a surge in the index in the March timeframe" says Willis. "However, the minimal impact the crisis has had on passive electronic components seems to have reversed this trend and, coupled with the slowing economy, may dampen growth prospects for 2011."