Sourceability’s SVP, digital and partnerships, Rob Picken, shares how AI expansion, obsolescence and shifting trade policies will influence sourcing in 2026

Heading into 2026, the electronics industry faces a shifting market cycle increasingly defined by complexity. After several years of fluctuations, the greatest uncertainty now lies in where the next disruption will emerge. Inflationary pressures are easing, but pricing remains fragile. This is due to ongoing demand for AI, combined with rising component unavailability stemming from obsolescence and supply bottlenecks.

The volatile geopolitical landscape continues to influence sourcing strategies. Trade tensions and regional conflicts seem to be accelerating. To combat single-source dependencies, companies and governments alike are investing in domestic initiatives and friend-shoring. However, as administrations change, so too does trade policy. These shifts can cause sudden, far-reaching disruptions that require time for sourcing strategies to catch up.

In this environment, we expect to see continued growth across most component categories, with pockets of allocation. Components used in or to support AI infrastructure and development will see the most constraints. We are already witnessing strain in general memory, PCBs and power components.

To protect our partners, our focus is twofold: transparency and agility. Our hybrid selling model, powered by our digital platforms and global sourcing team’s expertise, enables real-time, personalized service at scale. Organizations can then make faster, confident decisions. Our 60+ franchise and direct lines strengthen supply assurance by providing trusted, traceable components.

Beyond sourcing, our end-to-end solutions equip customers to manage every stage of the product lifecycle smarter. Proactivity is the key for 2026.

www.sourceability.com