Sales, quarter-on-quarter A net 6%* of merchants sold more timber fire doors in the last three months (January to March 2010) compared with the previous quarter (October to December 2009).
Sales, quarter-on-quarter
A net 6%* of merchants sold more timber fire doors in the last three months (January to March 2010) compared with the previous quarter (October to December 2009).
Large firms (net 29%) and small companies (6%) reported improved sales, whereas mid-sized merchants saw no change. Sales were higher for firms in the Midlands (20%) and South (5%) but unchanged for merchants in the North.
National companies (net 31%) and local chains (22%) sold more whereas, independent merchants (16%) sold less. More builders’ merchants (8%) experienced higher sales than timber merchants (4%). Other outlets saw no difference.
*The difference between the percentage of companies reporting an increase over those reporting a decrease is the net balance.
Mr Terry Merriman, timber buyer, AK Timms & Sons, Oxfordshire
"Sales in the first quarter of 2010 were hit by the bad weather but should now improve. We’re expecting the social housing market to be particularly active, as councils and housing associations meet their commitments to upgrade properties. In contrast, private house building will continue to be hit by the uncertain economy, although it’s a market we will be pursuing."
