6 | News
Wood-based panels production output grew 1.9% in 2024
European particleboard production totalled 31.2 million m3
on 2023, while MDF also increased by 1% to 11.2 million m3
in 2024, up 1% . OSB performed
better, registering 6.9 million m3
(+4%), while softboard production grew +8% to 5.2 million m3
.
Plywood production also rose 1% to 2.6 million m3
, Above: The EPF press conference at Interzum
European wood-based panels production output increased by 1.9% in 2024, according to provisional statistics released by the European Panel Federation (EPF). EPF presented the figures at the recent Interzum exhibition in Germany, showing that wood-based panels production output in the EU27 + UK + EFTA totalled 57.4 million m3 in 2024, up from 56.4 million m3
in 2023.
EPF managing directors Matti Rantanen and Clive Pinnington, together with technical director Kris Wijnendaele addressed a press conference to share the results. “While there is evidence of
a slow recovery, we are still below pre-crisis levels,” the EPF said in a statement. “Both the construction and
furniture industries continued to decline in 2024. However, the wood panel industry was able to reverse this trend by substituting other materials and increasing its market share. “Challenges persist due to high remaining energy prices. Although these prices have declined since their peak in Q3 2022, they remain elevated. Additionally, low consumer
confidence is reflected in the sluggish recovery of the construction and furniture sectors, while saving rates are at historically high levels. “Although 2025 is expected
to be challenging, the long- term outlook for wood-based panels remains positive. This is evidenced by announced capacity investments,” the EPF stated. Provisional results show
while hardboard saw a 3% reverse to 400,000m3
.
The final consolidated 2024 results was presented at the EPF annual general meeting on June 26 in Berlin, Germany. The EPF also presented a newly published Strategic Wood Availability Policy Paper. The Policy Paper is based on two studies commissioned by the EPF and carried out by AFRY Management Consulting and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). Both studies predict a significant increase in the demand for raw materials by 2040, particularly when considering harvesting constraints, which may lead to a supply shortfall. This situation is likely to put pressure on the Cascade principle, highlighting the urgent need to rebalance resource management strategies.
Siempelkamp launches rebranding across Group
Siempelkamp has announced a new group brand structure which sees the Siempelkamp name branding extended to subsidiaries.
A modernised logo,
a completely reworked corporate design, and a unified naming completes the rebranding.
Siempelkamp said the
move represents a transition from an individual brand to an umbrella brand concept, representing a clearer
WBPI |
perception of what the “Siempelkamp” brand stands for – both internally and externally.
The name “Siempelkamp” will be incorporated into the names of all companies within the group. “Our previous names and brands that we’ve been operating under in the market for a long time have stood for magnificent work and successes, dedication and pride for more than 140
June/July 2025 |
www.wbpionline.com
years,” said Siempelkamp CEO Martin Scherrer. “Our new brand structure will help us take our past into a successful future,” he continued.
“It’s a hallmark of our
evolution. By bringing all companies together under a unified umbrella brand, we’re bundling our strengths, combining knowledge and experience and thus creating the basis for sustainable growth. “
Sunds Fibertech acquires LÜBKE GmbH
Sunds Fibertech has announced the acquisition of LÜBKE GmbH, a company involved in high-efficiency filter and environmental technologies. The acquisition
strengthens Sunds Fibertech’s environmental systems portfolio, supporting its mission to “Boost your plant” by enhancing plant operations and air quality. “LÜBKE’s market-leading
technology and high-quality solutions complement our existing offering and position us to meet the growing demand for emission control solutions across the panelboard and other process industries,” said Sunds Fibertech.
Sunds Fibertech aims to
combine its global reach with LÜBKE’s expertise to scale up internationally and accelerate innovation. “We were drawn to
LÜBKE for their high-quality solutions and market-leading technology, which perfectly complement our existing portfolio and strengthen our market position,” said Lars Eklund, CEO of Sunds Fibertech. “LÜBKE holds a strong position in central Europe, and by leveraging Sunds Fibertech’s global sales network, we aim to bring their offering to new geographical markets.”
Above: Holger Lübke, CEO of LÜBKE GmbH, and Lars Eklund, CEO of Sunds Fibertech
News
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