Revenue for Germany's PCB industry was down 8.9% in August compared to August 2008 values, according to the VdL and ZVEI. Meanwhile, cumulative revenues for the first eight months of 2009 were down 37% compared with the same period last year.

Compared with the unusually large volume of incoming orders in July, incoming orders in August were significantly down by 30%; compared last year, the figure was down 25%. Book-to-bill ratio, meanwhile, was at 0.96.

In terms of workforce, the number of employees was also down 25% compared with the number of jobs during the same period last year due to restructuring measures undertaken by the companies.

About ZVEI

ZVEI, the German Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association, represents the economic, technological and environmental policy interests of the German electrical and electronics industry at the national, European and international levels. The organization provides specific information about the economic, technical and regulatory framework conditions of the electrical industry in Germany. 

ZVEI promotes the development and use of innovative technologies by proposals concerning research, technological, environmental protection, educational and scientific policy. The organization also supports market-orientated European and international standards-making activities.

ZVEI's close contacts with political quarters and public administrations and the association's internal exchange of experience and views provide extensive information about the market and competition-related developments, which is tailored to the electrical and electronic industry's specific needs. Member companies use this lead in knowledge and experience to improve their international competitiveness. For more information, visit www.zvei.org.

About VdL 

The Association of the Printed Circuit Board Industry (VdL) is the trade organisation of the whole printed circuit boards industry. Members are manufacturers of PCBs, their suppliers, assembly companies, designers and other professional groups linked to the industry in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the rest of Europe. For more information, visit http://www.vdlev.org/.