ATLANTA – Growth in electronic component sales have stabilized in recent months following wide swings in growth expectations over the past 20 months, according to the latest results of ECIA’s September and third quarter surveys.

The index average for growth expectations for overall components ranged between 120 and 127 between September and the October outlook. Similarly, expectations for overall end-market growth fell within a range of 111.4 and 115.4 in the same period. By comparison, the overall component index fell from 157.7 to 127 between March and August, with the end-market index following a similar profile.

“While the detailed Electronic Component Sales Trend report shows a significant difference in variability/volatility between various component sub-categories and end-markets, the overall picture of a more stable growth profile is encouraging for supply chain participants working to manage in a very challenging environment,” said Dale Ford, chief analyst, ECIA. “We continue to point out that any score above 100 indicates growth expectations. So, while the level of the index has fallen, it continues to point to ongoing growth.”