Electrocomponents,owner of RS Components,has issued its interim management statement saying distribution sales in the first quarter ended 30 June were at a similar level to last year.
UK sales benefited from the launch of Raspberry Pi,which accounted for a 2%growth in sales.
"Sales are at a similar level to last year despite strong comparators and a challenging economic environment,"said Ian Mason,group chief executive.
Total UK sales in the quarter were up 5%.
Markets outside the UK saw slower growth.Continental Europe grew by 1%,North America declined by 4%and Asia Pacific declined by 3%.
"We are mindful of the macroeconomic environment and,as we have demonstrated in previous years,we are able to respond quickly to changing conditions,"said Mason.
During the quarter maintenance,which represents almost 60%of Group sales,grew with automation and control performing well,whilst electronics declined slightly.
Mason said that online was now customers'preferred channel."Around 54%of our revenues were transacted online during the quarter,"said Mason.
