Interzum is a must for U.S. softwood traders interested in doing business in Europe and beyond, which is why 10 American Softwoods (AMSO) representatives, including five Southern Forest Products Association members, traveled to Cologne, Germany, for Interzum 2025 from May 20-23.
Interzum is the world’s leading trade show for furniture production and interior design. The biennial event serves as a pivotal platform for industry professionals to explore the latest innovations and trends in the furniture and interior construction sectors.
Interzum 2025 Experience
The diversity of visitors to the AMSO proved Interzum 2025 is not just a German or even a European show.
Traffic at this year’s booth, however, was slow and likely related to the tariff issues and slower global demand for new housing and consumer goods. While AMSO booth representatives collected 47 leads, they felt the quality of inquiries received made up for the relatively low quantity.
Interzum is frequented by lumber wholesalers and importers from Europe, the Middle East-Northern Africa region, India, and Pakistan.
The leading exhibitor sectors include:
- Materials and Nature: Focused on sustainable materials, decorative surfaces, and innovative wood-based products.
- Function and Components: Showcasing fittings, lighting systems, and semi-finished furniture products.
- Textile and Machinery: Featuring machinery for upholstery and mattress production, along with related materials and accessories.
Interzum 2025 saw 1,616 exhibitors from 57 countries exhibiting over 1.9 million square feet. Estimates indicate about 60,000 visitors from 148 countries attended, with about 77% visiting from outside Europe. While it’s held in Germany, 86% of exhibitors were from outside the host country.
Economic Conditions Surrounding Interzum 2025
European softwood production continued its downward trajectory in 2024, with forecasts indicating a 12% decrease over the past three years.This decline is attributed to weakened demand, particularly in the construction sector, which has been impacted by high interest rates and inflation.
Germany’s sawmill industry reported a 5% drop in sales, totaling $5.8 billion, with domestic sales falling by 6% to $3.4 billion.
In parallel, 2024 exports of American softwoods to Europe by volume were almost on par with 2023 exports, yet down 37% from 2021-22 when global demand for home improvement projects and home goods surged.
Exports of softwood lumber from the U.S. to the EU totaled $13.1 million in 2024, down from $14.1 million the previous year. There were 10.6 MMBF of Southern Pine lumber (treated and untreated) exports to the EU in 2024 valued at $8.7 million.
Importers report uncertainty related to tariffs is affecting interest in U.S. lumber. Additional uncertainty about how the final version of the EUDR is resulting in a lag in purchasing decisions among specifiers and importers.
While Interzum 2025 attendance was a little disappointing, the U.S. softwood lumber industry is projected to continue expanding its presence in international markets.
Analysts forecast the U.S. will become a net exporter of softwood lumber by 2027, driven by increased production capacity, particularly in the Southern states. This anticipated growth underscores the potential for further strengthening of U.S.-Europe lumber trade relations in the coming years.
SFPA members: Don’t forget to check out the contacts secured during the show and their corresponding contact information in the SFPA member portal.
