Dr. Erlfried Taurer © foto-kohlmeier.at
Taurer points out that there is little impetus in the construction industry in particular. Rather, there are sometimes sharp declines in the private sector. "The attempt to compensate for the decline in new construction with a renovation offensive seems to be only suitable to a limited extent or not at all due to the high opportunity costs and the reduced funds. Further interest rate hikes are having a strong dampening effect. The furniture industry is facing similar developments. The outlook is relatively subdued. Slight declines in demand can be observed for almost all product ranges," explains Taurer.
He observes that orders are fluctuating but passable, but are trending downwards. In addition, the markets in the vicinity of Austria are also characterized by few impulses. Taurer assesses the supply of raw materials and the stock level as generally satisfactory. "The availability of the required quantities is good, and there is still a capacity to absorb them. Additional quantities from calamity areas are available on the markets. As a result, there is currently sufficient supply in all fractions," explains Taurer.
According to Taurer, the panel industry sees the medium-term outlook up to 2024 as okay in terms of volume.
