Materials lead times back to pre-pandemic levels

Abstract

Easing pressure on volumes was reported in the latest Builders Merchants Federation member returns. Volume sales were -6.8% down compared to the third quarter in prepandemic 2019. General product supply continues to improve, but pinch points are still being felt from the restricted supply of semi-conductors. Buyers can turn to legally sourced plywood from Finland and Latvia but should request full due diligence. The CLC working group has warned that any imports of birch products from China and Vietnam will be made from wood from Russia, which cannot be legally sold in the UK. There is now a plentiful supply of timber, which is in short supply. The UK is in long-term and short-term.