May 2026, Vol. 2

MONTHLY POS REPORTS

March 2026 was the highest POS month in the past two years, with POS activity being 13 percent higher than March 2025. The first quarter of 2026 was also 13 percent ahead of 2025Q1. March is always a good reporting month and it certainly did not disappoint this year. We have seen an excellent start for the year and expect solid growth for the remainder of the year. April numbers usually far short of March’s, but we don’t anticipate much of a difference based on 1st quarter performance.

See the full chart and report. 

INDUSTRY NEWS

> The reported preliminary agreement between Apple and Intel for Intel to manufacture some Apple-designed chips could reshape U.S. chip manufacturing. Read more.

> American invented the printed circuit board — now we only make 4 percent of them. Why? Listen to more on this The Manufacturing Report podcast.

> The class of 2026 are your new hires and need help building an internal compass for resilience, adaptability and flexibility. How can you help them do this? Read more.

> ERA is thrilled to officially introduce ERA’s new MentorUP program! MentorUP is a strategic initiative designed to support professional development, strengthen connections and foster collaboration across the electronics components industry. By pairing ERA members together, this program will drive learning, build confidence and spark career momentum. Thank you to Master Electronics for sponsoring this incredible initiative!

Who is MentorUP for? ERA Member Mentees: Early-career talent, rising leaders or anyone taking on new roles who is hungry for guidance, clarity and career growth. ERA Member Mentors: Experienced industry professionals who want to give back, share insights and sharpen their own leadership and coaching skills.

Mark your calendars:

• Enrollment opens: Mid-June (Stay tuned for the sign-up link!)
• First cohort runs: July 1 – Dec 31, 2026
• Encourage your high-potential employees to apply to be a mentee or…Consider being a mentor in this program!

Stay tuned for more details!

> The Spring 2026 Issue of The Representor is LIVE! The latest edition of The Representor magazine — featuring the EDS Showcase section — is officially here, and it is packed with the insights, recaps and industry expertise you need to stay ahead in the electronics world.

Don’t miss: the cover story: “Why manufacturers’ representatives still win: access, influence and the myth of control”, the EDS Showcase, a 2026 ERA Conference Recap, Executive Commentary, Q&A Spotlights… plus our legal and tax columns, chapter news and more! Read the issue online.

CHAPTER EVENTS & NEWS

Northern California ERA — 3rd Annual Golf Event Benefiting Special Olympics — Wed., June 10

Minnesota ERA — Networking Event feat. Speakers Dave Doherty & Eddie Smith — Wed., June 17

Metro NY ERA — Steve Alford Memorial Golf Outing – Mon., June 22

Chesapeake ERA — TopGolf Networking Event — Tues., June 23

Chicagoland-Wisconsin ERA — Summerfest Outing — Thurs., June 25

Southern California ERA — Mix & Mingle Social— Monday, July 13

Pacific-Northwest ERA — Save the Date: Golf Tournament – Fri., Aug. 21

Southern California ERA — Annual Golf Tournament — Mon., Aug. 31