Domestic revenue was also affected due to import price deflation – and half the products sold by the Swiss timber trade are imported, mostly from the EU.
“In 2014, 100% of imported particleboard and OSB originated from the EU, 98% of imported plywood and 93% of imported sawnwood,” said Mr Reimer. “And Swiss traders had to reduce selling prices, not only because of customer pressure, but also growing direct supply from competitors in bordering countries.”
Price cuts also hit traders’ stock values and sector turnover in the 1Q fell 5%. The market has since calmed, but lower sales prices are still forecast to impact on annual results.
