In April this year, flat steel sales of distributors in the European Union (EU) steel industry saw a decline as compared to March levels, states the latest report published by the association of European steel and metals distributors Eurometal
Accordingly, in April, the flat steel sales of European Steel Stockholding Distribution (DISMET) dropped by 26 percent, while flat steel sales of Flat Steel Service Centers (EASSC) fell by 24 percent, both compared to the previous month.
At the end of April, the flat steel stocks of DISMET rose steadily, sufficient for 71 days of sales, compared to 59 days of sales at the end of April 2010. Flat steel tocks held by EASSC on the same date were sufficient for 65 days of sales, compared to 61 days a year earlier.
When evaluating the above sales data, it has to be taken into account that April had only 19 working days (EU average) as compared to 23 working days in March (EU average). April and May showed signs of a slowdown in business activity following corresponding trends in the macroeconomic situation and in industrial production.
With only 19 working days in June (EU average), EU steel distribution therefore has to expect another relatively slow month in business activities and deliveries.