European timber floor production and consumption rose slightly in 2002 despite tough market conditions.
The European Federation of the Parquet Industry (FEP), which met in Prague recently for its 47th general assembly, said production in traditional FEP countries went up by 0.7% to 62.5 million m2, a swing back from the 1.3% drop experienced in 2001. Consumption went up by 0.9% to 80.4 million m2.
Sweden remains the most important FEP producer with a 22.3% market share during 2002, followed by Germany (16.24%), France (11.49%) and Spain (10.56%).
Multi-layer was the most popular production type with 73.46% of the market, followed by solid (15.42%), lamparquet (7.1%) and mosiac (4.02%). White oak was used in 47.3% of parquet; beech (19.2%); tropical (16%); and maple (6.5%).
FEP described the outlook for 2003 as “not so positive” with no upswing yet reported in the European construction market and the latest currency developments between the euro and US dollar making it more difficult for European manufacturers to compete on the dollar markets.
Members of FEP also reiterated their support for open consultations with representatives from the main forest certification schemes with the aim of providing a workable and transparent position for all stakeholders.
