Absorption vs. panic buying

Marketing incentives have little impact on a mature market.

May 29, 2025

Jon Peddie

Analyst firms predict a surge in PC sales due to companies panic buying to avoid upcoming tariffs, similar to toilet paper shortages during COVID. However, this could lead to a sales slump in the next few quarters, as the PC market has a fixed absorption rate. Overstocking is risky due to the perishable nature of inventory. Consumers and enterprises delaying purchases due to tariff-induced price hikes may not be strong demand customers. OEMs should remain calm and stick to original inventory plans, as the PC industry is a replacement, not growth, market.By now you’ve read, or read about, the forecasts

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Absorption vs. panic buying

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