GERMANY- In the 3Q-2023, the German furniture industry saw a turnover decrease of 8.6%, reaching 4.2 billion euros.

September sales plummeted by over 14% to 1.5 billion euros. Weak consumer sentiment, driven by inflation and global uncertainties, affected the industry, with order quantities down by 12% through September.

Both domestic and international markets faced declines, impacting all segments, notably upholstered and kitchen furniture.

For the first nine months, overall sales dropped nearly 3% to 13.7 billion euros, with exports constituting 33.5%. Among the top 10 export markets, only Switzerland and Italy showed growth.

Imports to Germany decreased by 20%, with a significant dip in supplies from China.

The industry anticipates more challenges ahead, with a sluggish housing market and subdued consumer confidence.

Urgent measures are needed to stimulate construction demand and support postponed projects.