Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace Defence Security Space

UK connector orders up 10% in Q1

The Interconnect Technology Suppliers Association (ITSA) has released its first quarter report for 2024, which reveals ITSA members have seen overall growth of 10% in connector orders, with some segments outperforming expectations, such as military and commercial which are up by 30%.

Image courtesy ITSA

Although 2024 has seen a good start for ITSA members, ITSA estimates that the UK connector market will likely only see low single-figure growth over the full year.

Nevertheless, ITSA members remain incredibly positive about the longer-term future.

Key Stats:

  • Book-to-Bill is flat at 1:1
  • Distribution share was flat in Q1, but still strong year-on-year
  • Some key markets showing significant growth, with Broadcast +70%, Data Centre +31% and Mass Transport +11%
  • The UK connector market continues to perform well and this is supported by both the Manufacturing PMI and Make UK data

The Interconnect Technology Suppliers Association (ITSA) is the only dedicated trade-industry body for interconnect technology companies operating in the UK. It originated in the early 1980s, as a specific interest group within the Electronic Components Industry Federation (ECIF), becoming the Connector Manufacturers Association (CMA), which ultimately stopped functioning around 2005.

Advertisement
ODU RT

In 2008, it reformed as the British Connector Manufacturers Association (BCMA) and was relaunched in 2017 as the Interconnect Technology Suppliers Association (ITSA) to more accurately reflect the changing supply chain activities of its members. ITSA has a presence on several standards bodies, including BSI committees and RoHS compliance & exemption groups, like the Öko-Institut.

ITSA Membership
ITSA recently welcomed Rayfast to its ranks as its latest associate member. Swindon-based Rayfast is a distributor of harness components. Companies active in the UK interconnect supply-chain that are not as yet ITSA members, can find out more here: https://itsa.org.uk

Advertisement
ODU RT

To download the full ITSA Q1 report for 2024, click here:
https://itsa.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ITSA-Report-Q1-2024-2.pdf

Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner
ADS appoints Matthew Reynolds as CIO

Aerospace Defence Security Space Events

ADS appoints Matthew Reynolds as CIO

19 June 2026

ADS Group - parent organisation of trade association ADS and Farnborough International - has appointed Matthew Reynolds as its Chief Information Officer (CIO).

Chapman Freeborn launches aerospace time-critical supply chain support

Aerospace

Chapman Freeborn launches aerospace time-critical supply chain support

19 June 2026

Chapman Freeborn has launched a dedicated aerospace product, bringing together its specialist air charter, time-critical and aerospace logistics expertise into one structured offering for freight forwarders and logistics providers.

Consultation launched on Heathrow expansion framework

Aerospace

Consultation launched on Heathrow expansion framework

19 June 2026

The UK government has launched a public consultation on the framework for future decisions on Heathrow’s third runway.

EasyJet takes delivery of 100th A320neo

Aerospace

EasyJet takes delivery of 100th A320neo

18 June 2026

EasyJet has taken delivery of its 100th A320neo Family aircraft, underscoring the airline’s commitment to modernising its fleet and improving operational efficiency.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Britten-Norman and AAI activate Global Aircraft Recovery service

Aerospace

Britten-Norman and AAI activate Global Aircraft Recovery service

17 June 2026

British aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman has launched the Global Aircraft Recovery (GAR) service, delivered in collaboration with specialist partners, including Avitrius Air International.

Wall Colmonoy launches advanced VPIC facility in South Wales

Aerospace Defence

Wall Colmonoy launches advanced VPIC facility in South Wales

17 June 2026

Wall Colmonoy Ltd has officially launched a £2.5 million Vacuum Precision Investment Casting (VPIC) facility in South Wales, contributing to the advancement of the UK’s aerospace and defence manufacturing capability.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
General Atomics LB