German timber trade in double-digit decline – no improvement in sight

The timber trade in Germany shrank by 15% in 2023. The weak construction economy, high building interest rates, inflation and a low number of building permits will pose a significant problem for the German timber trade in 2023. By the end of September, sales had fallen by 15% compared to the same period last year, according to the GD Holz business comparison. Participants cite both price declines and, to a greater extent, lower demand as causes. Up to 20% drop in sales “The year 2023 is a real challenge for the wood trade because weak demand is ...