At a recent gathering in Mayfair, UK channel partners expressed concerns that the current components shortage may persist until 2030, with allocation becoming a more pressing issue than pricing. The event, held in conjunction with Nebula Global Services, featured top executives from leading companies such as Softcat, Computacenter, and CDW. Discussions highlighted significant price hikes, with a 64GB DIMM’s cost rising from $47 to $3,000 in one year. The looming challenge, however, lies in allocation, as sectors like defense and public services may be prioritized. Concerns were also raised about the predictability of delivery, deemed more critical than price stability. Executives shared experiences of adapting to these challenges, including extending asset life and exploring refurbishment options. While some businesses find opportunities amidst the shortages, OEMs appear to have insulated themselves from the financial impacts. The meeting concluded with a consensus that while vendors might profit, the broader industry faces significant hurdles.

