French timber firm Rougier recorded a 2.7% decline in its revenue during the first quarter, as the global market shifted towards processed products over logs and sawn timber.
Logs accounted for only 28.8% of the €43.5m revenue generated during the quarter, down from 32% in the first quarter of 2007, with sawn timber sales remaining stable at 46.7%.
However, revenues from panels and plywood grew by more than 6.6% to almost a quarter of the company’s revenue.
“In light of the uncertain macroeconomic climate over the start of 2008, short-term visibility is still limited in terms of business growth,” Rougier said.
“The group is firmly pursuing its strategy focused on developing the value of its forest concessions and industrial productions, while further extending its sales network.”
At a regional level, Europe grew its share of the company’s business by 7% to 70%, with France leading the way with a 16.7% increase in import and distribution business to €14.1m.
However, Africa and the rest of the international market saw an overall decline, with Asia’s share of the business down by 5% and America declining 3% to 2%.
