ECA monthly order index takes slight downturn

After bouncing back in February from the annual January dip, electronic component orders took a slight downturn in March, according to the monthly order index compiled by the Electronic Components, Assemblies & Materials Association (ECA).

The move was a bit surprising to manufacturers at ECA's recent CARTS 2005 conference.
 
"Many manufacturers believed that this year's first quarter would be a repeat of the strong growth in Q1 2004," says Bob Willis, ECA president.  "Depending on what happens with end markets, the fluctuations might continue into the second quarter."  In addition to general industry caution, Willis sites factors such as the rising price of wholesale oil, trade imbalance, and the federal deficit having a dampening effect on the market.
 
"The word is essentially the same as it has been for the last year or so - caution," says Willis.

 
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