German PCB market continued decline in December 2008

The long-term comparison, the total sales amount reaches only half of an average turnover. The order intake – which had reached 2008 peak in October – reached only 27% of that particular October figure. The general economic slowdown caused many companies to extend their New Year holidays. This caused reduced turnover and reduced order inflow for the PCB industry. Although December is traditionally a very slow month – due to the holiday season – the December figures for 2008 were the lowest since the systematic recording started. It is expected that an increasing number of complete orders will be cancelled in coming months – if no improvement in the customer segments occurs. The book-to-bill ratio reached 0.68 –the lowest figure since 1994. The number of employees continues to decline. Compared to the previous month, December 2008 recorded 4% fewer employees; and 7.1% compared to December 2007. The layoffs, which were announced in October, will have their effect now – with further job losses to be expected. Image Source: Dyconex