Ernest Schilliger, Geschäftsführer Schilliger Holz, Volgelsheim/FR © Schilliger
How does the new cross-laminated timber plant fit into your company’s corporate concept? What makes your production and products stand out?
Ernest Schilliger: Our production site in France has two high-performance sawing lines (one for chipping, one for large-diameter logs). As in the Swiss plants, some of the lumber will be processed into ready-to-assemble components at the French production site as well. Our focus is on standard CLT, but also on innovations.
What role does the optimized use of materials play in your new production facility?
Ernest Schilliger: A crucial role, as it significantly increases material and production efficiency both in the sawmill and in further processing.
How do you position yourself on the market and which markets will you focus on specifically?
Ernest Schilliger: As before, we will focus on niches and offer complete solutions. Our market still stretches across all of Europe, with an emphasis on visible constructions in the upper price range.
In recent years, huge capacities have been installed on the market, all of which are to be utilized. As a result, things will get pretty tight in the short term.
How do you assess the current situation on the cross-laminated timber market, how will it develop and how will you deal with it?
Ernest Schilliger: In recent years, huge capacities have been installed on the market, all of which are to be utilized. As a result, things will get pretty tight in the short term. On the other hand, the presence of many manufacturers helps build trust in the availability of products among builders and planners and ensures that the market has a certain amount of play. This should support further market growth.
Where will cross-laminated timber and the timber construction sector be heading in the coming years?
Ernest Schilliger: Cross-laminated timber has secured its place in the timber construction sector and is here to stay in certain types of constructions, especially as the product is further developed and has a better performance as a result. Other ways of building, such as material-efficient timber frame construction, will also be able to grow further – probably at the expense of other building materials.
