The AMA Association for Sensor and Measuring Technology surveys its 450 members on economic development quarterly. According to the survey, manufacturers reported sales growth of seven percent for the first quarter; incoming orders rose by six percent at the beginning of the year, both compared to the previous quarter. Expectations for the second quarter are less optimistic, with sales growth of plus minus zero percent.
SMEs achieved higher sales increases in the first quarter than the larger manufacturers. In terms of sales, suppliers to the electronics industry and the energy sector scored particularly well in the first quarter. Overall, the sensor and measurement industry is well positioned to meet demand from user industries thanks to supply bottlenecks that are gradually coming to an end. "Our members are investing in research and development to remain competitive and bring innovative products to market," says Thomas Simmons, executive director of the AMA Association for Sensor and Measurement Technology.