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MARKET BEATS 7
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86.4 million cubic metres, suggesting increased domestic better than others, but overall demand remains poor up
production will fill the gap. and down the country as call-offs from house builders and
construction companies lag expectations.
Softwood market in the UK continues to be sluggish Softwood prices have remained on a weakening trend since

With Q4 underway, sluggish demand has been creating problems August which has not gone down well with those businesses
for UK softwood traders as they struggle to find enough sales holding stock. Once again, they are facing a devaluation in
to carry through to the year end, reported by TTJ. their inventories and subsequent a drop in profit margins. In
This has led to fierce competition which has forced selling many cases the situation is beginning to compound losses
prices into a downward spiral as shippers and importers fight for each cubic metre sold.
for any volume, they can attract to keep stocks turning over. The most widely held opinion across the trade is that the
Against this background, UK merchants have been maintaining chancellor’s decision to defer the budget until 26 November,
a cautious approach to buying in an attempt to keep their has left people sitting on their hands. Until a clearer picture
inventories under tight control, while at the same time trying emerges of the direction the economy is likely to take, and

to ensure they can supply customers’ needs. how the fallout will affect them, they are holding back from
Merchant business has been patchy. Some regions faring making commitments.

ROOTED IN EXCELLENCE. DRIVEN TO SERVE.

ENQUIRY NO. 802