2025 Review – 2026 Ambitions & Outlook of the Ducerf Group
Adapting, investing and enhancing expertise
A historic player in the timber industry since 1885, the Ducerf Group presents its 2026 outlook within an economic and sector environment still marked by persistent tensions. Faced with market volatility, a slowdown in construction and sustained cost increases, the Group confirms a strategic direction grounded in prudence: targeted investments in its industrial facilities, development of higher value-added products, and continued concrete commitments in sustainability, quality and working conditions.
Last year, the Group’s turnover stabilized at around €36 million in 2025. The year was marked by an unfavourable economic and sector context, limiting room for manoeuvre. Nevertheless, it enabled the consolidation of the organisation, adjustments to certain industrial and commercial processes, and preparation for the necessary developments in the years ahead, within a logic of continuity.
A demanding environment with mixed prospects
Following the strong post-pandemic momentum, the timber market is now experiencing a clear slowdown. In France, reduced construction activity, declining household consumption and political and economic uncertainties are weighing on demand. This situation requires industry players to continuously adapt and carefully manage production volumes and costs.
In this context, the Ducerf Group relies on the diversity of its customer base and its geographical reach to maintain its level of activity. The breakdown of turnover — 55% in France and 45% export — helps limit exposure to a single market and better cushion economic fluctuations. Internationally, French oak continues to find outlets, although markets remain selective and sensitive to economic developments.
In France, demand is increasingly focused on processed products rather than sawn timber, with growth markets such as heritage restoration and joinery continuing to promote French expertise. This trend is reinforced by the RE2020 regulation, which encourages the use of bio-based and environmentally efficient materials, positioning wood at the heart of sustainable construction and responsible renovation.
“Today, our strategy is clearly long-term: we prioritise the development of more processed and higher value-added products rather than seeking additional volumes, as illustrated by the ramp-up of laminated squares and door components for industrial joinery manufacturers, or construction-dedicated products such as CLT Batichêne.”
Edouard Ducerf
Measured investments to secure industrial assets and improve employees’ quality of working life
In 2025, the Group pursued a deliberately selective investment policy, primarily focused on safety, reducing physical strain for employees and enhancing the reliability of industrial equipment. At the sawmill, actions undertaken modernised equipment, strengthened fire safety and optimised production processes, notably through the installation of a new debarking line. Secondary processing activities benefited from investments in handling and production equipment, as well as the modernisation of staff facilities.
For 2026, the Group will maintain a measured approach to investment across all its sites in the current economic climate, including a structuring project: the installation of a compressed wood log production line at the Bois Profilés site in Charolles (approximately €750k), similar to the line installed in 2022 at the Bourgogne Bois Industrie site. This new line aims to produce 1,300 tonnes in the first year, rising to 1,600 tonnes at full capacity.
This investment reflects the Group’s commitment to optimising the valorisation of its wood by-products in response to growing domestic demand.
Trade fairs: maintaining close ties with markets
In a more challenging market environment, the Group’s presence at trade fairs in France and internationally remains an important lever for maintaining relationships with long-standing customers, identifying new projects and engaging with industry stakeholders.
Participation this year in leading events such as Fensterbau in Germany in March and the Carrefour International du Bois in June 2026 fully illustrates the Group’s strategy: combining visibility with customer proximity.
A structured and progressive CSR approach
Since its founding in 1885, the Ducerf Group has embraced a long-term vision based on responsible forest resource management and the transmission of expertise. This approach translates into concrete commitments progressively integrated into the Group’s industrial and social practices.
In 2025, Ducerf obtained EcoVadis certification, which assesses companies’ CSR performance. This recognition formalises existing practices while identifying areas for improvement. It complements the certifications already held by the Group (PEFC, FSC, Bois de France, CTB-LCA, etc.) and provides an additional framework to structure the CSR approach, strengthen transparency and meet the growing expectations of customers and partners.
“The EcoVadis certification reinforces a long-standing commitment. It also provides benchmarks to help us pragmatically and responsibly continue improving our practices. Our CSR commitment is also reflected in our HR policy, aimed at supporting employees, developing their skills and securing career paths.” Édouard Ducerf, CEO
2026 Outlook: clear priorities in an uncertain environment
Despite economic and climate uncertainties, the Group approaches 2026 with prudence and pragmatism. Its strategy is based on targeted and structuring investments to modernise equipment and optimise processes. The Group also relies on a diversified and high-quality product range capable of meeting customer needs while creating added value.
At the same time, the Group’s commitment to CSR and employer branding continues to strengthen, supported by responsible practices and recognised certifications ensuring product quality and traceability. Finally, a strategy of close customer relationships, both nationally and internationally, ensures the maintenance of strong and lasting partnerships and enables the Group to seize new development opportunities.
“In an uncertain context, remaining attentive to the forest and acting responsibly is, in our view, the best way to build the Group’s future.”
Édouard Ducerf
It is on these foundations — adaptation, measured investment and responsibility — that the Ducerf Group builds its outlook for 2026 and beyond, in a spirit of continuity and long-term sustainability for the timber industry.
