More than 300 people from 27 countries attended the third European Wood-Based Panel Symposium in Hannover.
The conference, organised by the European Panel Federation and the Wilhelm-Klauditz-Institute between September 12-14, heard EPF secretary-general Dr Guy Van Steertegem speak of prospects remaining bright in the sector despite tough competition.
He said companies had to develop new applications and convince customers of the high quality and positive environmental profile of wood-based panel products.
James Hogg of Jaakko Pöyry Consulting said enhanced performance panels accounted for 17% of European panel consumption in 2000, while surface products made up 53%.
For about 75% of panel products, including value added, the market is setting the price.
