The FBDi (Fachverband der Bauelemente Distribution e.V.) looks back on the turbulent second quarter of 2022 and ventures an optimistic forecast. Incoming orders from construction element distributors remain above a healthy level, while the turnover of its members suggests a record year.
The turnover of distributors reporting to FBDi rose by 43% to EUR 1.12 billion in the second quarter, while incoming orders increased by 21% to EUR 1.71 billion. This roughly corresponds to the first quarter. Although the order intake in the form of the book-to-bill rate has left last year's record level behind, it remains at a high level of 1.52. The first half of the year recorded sales of just under EUR 2.3 billion and new orders of EUR 3.5 billion.
While semiconductors increased by 47% to EUR 756 million, liabilities were somewhat lower at EUR 135 million, up 34.7%. Electromechanics normalized to +28.4% and sales of 139 million euros. Other products such as power supplies, sensors, displays, assemblies and systems were up between +31% (assemblies) and +75% (sensors). The differences in incoming orders were more pronounced: Semiconductors +26%, Passives -2.3% and Electromechanics +10.4%. The distribution of sales in Q2 was somewhat different: semiconductors with a share of 68%, passives and electromechanics with 12% each, power supplies just under 4%, and 4% for the remaining products (power supplies, sensors, displays, assemblies and systems).
According to FBDi CEO Georg Steinberger, component distributors are expecting a record year (Photo: FBDI)FBDi CEO Georg Steinberger states that incoming orders continue to be very high. From a book-to-bill ratio of 1.2, one speaks of shortages. However, German component distribution has remained above 1.5 since the beginning of 2021. However, normalization can be seen in product areas outside of semiconductors. Inflation, energy prices and impending shortages, the war in Ukraine and tensions with China are reducing the general growth prospects. It is to be expected that the growth opportunities offered by digitalization, e-mobility, 5G, renewable energies and investments in public and private infrastructure will not be realized as quickly due to a lack of financial resources.
In the long term, there are bright prospects for the European high-tech market. "Further growth in demand and innovation will not disappear if things slow down," concludes Steinberger. "However, the prerequisite is that we have the necessary raw materials and technical skills and, above all, that we have the necessary well-trained employees. The shortage of young talent in all technical professions, which is evident everywhere, could become the biggest brake on growth."
The FBDi was founded in 2003 and represents the majority of electronic component distribution companies in Germany, accounting for over 70% of the total market. The purpose of the association is to inform its members about economic developments in the distribution industry and to prepare suitable information material. It also represents the interests of member companies in legal measures and vis-à-vis official bodies. Its core tasks include commenting on important industry issues (including training, liability and law) as well as environmental issues and the market-oriented implementation of EC directives and regulations.
