BANNOCKBURN, IL — Total North American PCB shipments in January were down 5.2% year-over-year, according to IPC. Sequentially, January shipments decreased 12.7%.

PCB orders for the month increased 3.2% year-over-year and decreased 10.9% sequentially.

The book-to-bill ratio stands at 1.05. A ratio of more than one suggests current demand is ahead of supply, which is a positive indicator for sales growth over the next three to twelve months.

“North American PCB shipments fell in January on a year-over-year basis for the first time since July 2019. At the same time, growth in new orders slowed,” said Shawn DuBravac, IPC’s chief economist. “While January results were not likely impacted by the spread of coronavirus, subsequent months could show negative impact. We'll be watching the results closely in the coming months to determine the full impact of this fast-moving situation.”