In 2021, the company comparison of the German Timber Trade Association (GD Holz) revealed an increase in sales of almost 16%. Sales in the product groups of sawn timber, planed goods and wood-based materials have risen particularly sharply, each with an increase of more than 20%. The increases are mainly price-related and only a small part of higher sales. Other ranges that were not affected to the same extent by the price effects are around the same as the previous year or slightly below, such as flooring with -2%. Wood in the garden achieved sales growth of 2.4%.

There are also clear differences between the distribution channels. The turnover in the timber wholesale trade has increased very strongly by 18%. In retail there was a minus of 7%. Sales in the timber retail trade rose sharply by 20% in 2020, so that there is a considerable base effect here.

The expectations of the participants in the company comparison with regard to sales development in the first quarter of 2022 are cautiously optimistic in wholesale, with the majority expecting sales to be at the previous year's level. A similar picture emerges for the timber retail sector, although 20% of those surveyed expect lower sales than in the first quarter of 2021.

The sales situation for products from the wood trade is also viewed very optimistically in 2022. Procurement issues will remain an important topic for the industry this year, as will the political framework. The GD Holz continues to see great opportunities for timber construction and the trend towards refurbishment and renovation with timber products.