Computers and Peripherals in Western Europe

Delivery

This report comes in PPT.

Key Findings

Sales in decline in Western Europe

The Western European computers and peripherals market was in decline throughout the earlier years of the historic period. Computers and peripherals have high penetration and replacement rates in a number of countries in the region, with some (eg tablets) increasingly being superseded by replacement products (smartphones).

Pandemic results in a one-off sales spike in 2020

With people in lockdown and needing to work and study from home due to the presence of COVID-19 in the region, many people needed to buy computers and peripherals for use at home. This resulted in dynamic growth in 2020, with all areas of the market recording better performances year on year. Although many people had already sorted out their needs for home working/learning, as well as for gaming, during 2020, with COVID-19 restrictions still present going into the new year, 2021 will also see a better-than-average performance.

E-commerce now the biggest channel

E-commerce sales – already on an upward curve – recorded very strong growth in 2020, with consumers locked down at home and non-essential retail outlets unable to open for extended periods. E-commerce is expected to keep its year-earlier gains in 2021, continuing to be the biggest distribution channel in the region, with shares of upwards of 60% in some countries (Netherlands, Norway).

Return to declining annual sales from 2022

With so many consumers having bought computers and peripherals during 2020 and, to a lesser extent, 2021, there will be fewer replacement purchases during the forecast period. The relaxation of travel restrictions and the resumption of previous leisure and work routines are also likely to see consumers spending less money on products like computers and peripherals – with the market returning to recording annual sales declines from 2022.