The sawmilling and planing of wood industry in the EU28 has shown fluctuating yet generally positive growth over the past decade. The industry turnover increased from €35.5 billion in 2013 to €43.41 billion in 2023. Notable spikes occurred in 2014 and 2018, with year-on-year increases of 5.92% and 11.54%, respectively. However, there were minor declines in 2016 (-2.31%) and 2019 (-1.79%). From 2020 to 2023, the industry experienced steady but modest growth, with annual increases hovering around 1%. The CAGR for 2023 was modest at 0.48% over the last five years.
Looking ahead, the industry turnover is forecasted to continue its gradual growth trajectory, reaching €45.45 billion by 2028. The forecasted 5-year CAGR from 2024 to 2028 is projected at 0.73%, with an overall growth rate of 3.68% during this period. This indicates a stable yet slow upward trend for the sector.
Future trends to watch for include advances in sustainable forestry practices, increasing demand for eco-friendly materials, and potential market disruptions from global economic conditions or supply chain issues. Adapting to these trends will be crucial for maintaining the industry’s growth momentum.