Timber companies will have to “ride the storm” this year but the possibility remains that markets will pick up by 2010, Timber Trade Federation (TTF) president Kevin Hayes has said in his New Year message.
Speaking in the TTF’s newsletter, Mr Hayes said the output of timber for the construction industry is forecast to dip by more than 10% this year. And evidence suggests consumers will be reluctant to spend without a major signal that the economy is strong enough.
“Due to the inter-linking nature of the timber industry, knock-on effects in the application of fencing and outdoor use markets, from landscaping to decking and outdoor fencing products, will continue to take place,” said Mr Hayes.
“It is expected that main panel products volumes will also continue to decline in 2009.”
However, he flagged up bright spots, such as the Code for Sustainable Homes, as giving the industry a chance to prove its green credentials.
Mr Hayes also highlighted the mayor of London Boris Johnson’s plan for 50,000 new homes in the capital by 2011. The government’s bringing forward of £3bn of capital spending and the London 2012 Olympic Games were other reasons fot optimisim, he said.
