Supply Chains Ahead of 2026

The continued growth of artificial intelligence is opening major opportunities for the global electronics industry as we head toward 2026. From chips and memory to data-centre equipment and power systems, rising AI demand is driving strong investment and innovation across the supply chain. While this growth is also placing new demands on hardware availability, pricing and delivery times, it highlights just how central electronics has become the next phase of digital transformation.

Memory Markets Under Sustained Pressure:

Demand for AI systems and powerful computing is using up lots of the available manufacturing capacity, especially for newer types of memory. Many suppliers are therefore focusing on higher-end products designed for AI, which means fewer components are available for everyday uses.

This is expected to continue into 2026. Memory prices are likely to stay high and could change frequently, making costs harder to predict. These conditions are expected to impact a wide range of products, including servers, storage equipment, and electronics used in industrial applications.

Component Shortages Affect the Wider Infrastructure Market

Memory is not the only area under pressure. Ongoing shortages of semiconductors and other key components are also affecting servers, networking equipment, and storage systems. These products depend on global supply chains that can be disrupted by limited production capacity, changing manufacturing plans, and wider global events.

As demand from cloud services and AI users continues to rise, competition for important components is increasing. This may make some hardware harder to secure and could extend purchasing and delivery times for certain customers.

Price Increase:

Prices for infrastructure and electronic equipment are expected to remain high into 2026. Rising component costs, higher energy use, and more complex system designs are all adding to overall expenses across the industry. Many manufacturers and system builders are already adjusting their pricing to reflect these realities. This suggests that higher costs may be a longer-term challenge, rather than a short-lived issue.

Longer Delivery Times:

Extended delivery times are another ongoing concern. Changes in where products are made, how they are sourced, and how they are shipped are all contributing to delays. For businesses planning new projects, this means ordering earlier and allowing more flexibility in schedules. Careful planning will be essential to reduce the risk of disruption.

Looking Towards 2026:

Together, these trends point to a busy and demanding year ahead. Strong growth in AI is expected to continue, while supply and capacity challenges are likely to remain part of the market in 2026. Companies that plan, secure their supply chains, and focus on efficient system design will be better placed to manage these pressures.

At EE, we will work closely with customers to help navigate these challenges. From sourcing components and managing lead times to supporting energy-efficient and future-ready designs. As the market evolves, we’re here to help turn complexity into opportunity.