Higher log prices and increased availability
Spruce/fir sawlog prices, which the sales indicator does not take into account, however, continued their upward trend over the turn of the year. Price increases range from +€1/m³ in Northern Germany and +€2.5/m³ in Bavaria to +€5/m³ in Austria and as many as +€5.5/m³ in Baden-Württemberg. It is worth noting that log availability improved noticeably both in Germany and Austria. The weather facilitated work in forests. The high price level and appeals from forest owners’ organizations led to brisk harvesting activity. In Austria, prices for sawmill by-products were raised slightly in January. These increases can partly be attributed to longer shutdowns around the turn of the year (see article Prices for sawdust and wood chips keep rising).
Waning impact of Scandinavian presence
In January, the price gap between inexpensive Scandinavian goods and Central European products narrowed slightly in Germany, Austria and Italy for several product ranges. However, the market presence of Scandinavian goods continued to limit producers’ flexibility when it comes to pricing. Furthermore, unfavorable weather led to reduced construction activity and, as a result, to lower demand. Demand from the construction sector remains weak, and timber trading companies are only cautiously replenishing their stocks. The widespread immediate availability of almost all product ranges is also having a limiting effect on prices.
Main grade lumber with a single-digit price increase
Against this backdrop, prices for glulam lamellas in Germany were raised by €6/m³ and now range from €326 to €335/m³. CE roof slats became more expensive by €3/m³ and cost between €380 and €390/m³. In Italy, the price of machined sideboards (17 mm, fresh) rose by €4/m³ compared to December 2025, as the Holzkurier’s survey shows.
In the US, the price of 2-by-4 lumber recovered significantly over the turn of the year. In January, it rose by €18/m³ compared to December. However, at an average of €352/m³ (delivered to the US East Coast), the level remains €9/m³ below that of the previous year. Market outlook remains uncertain, as US tariffs continue to be imposed on short notice and are difficult to predict.
Pellets recorded the strongest relative increases within a year. In Austria, prices are currently at €377.8/t and thus 25% higher than last year. In Germany, prices rose by 32% to €405.3/t, exceeding the €400/t-mark at the turn of the year.
