The German kitchen furniture industry recorded a 3.1% rise in foreign sales in February 2025, even as total revenues declined. According to data from the Association of the German Kitchen Furniture Industry (VDIK) and the Federal Statistical Office, the 46 companies with more than 50 employees generated over €471 million in revenue for the month, marking a 3.02% drop year-on-year.
Domestic sales fell sharply by 7.85%, while the increase in exports raised the export share to 46.92%, underlining the growing importance of international markets for the sector.
Cumulatively, in the first two months of 2025, the industry posted over €862 million in total sales, a decrease of 7.26% compared to the same period in the previous year.
Despite continued pressure from subdued consumer demand and a weak housing construction market, the industry remains cautiously optimistic. An improved order situation in early 2025 has provided some encouragement following a challenging 2024, during which the sector experienced a 6.5% drop in total sales to €5.6 billion.
The industry has previously called on policymakers to address the housing construction slowdown, which continues to impact demand. External factors such as inflation, political uncertainty, and war in Europe have also contributed to ongoing instability in consumer sentiment.
Nevertheless, the positive export performance suggests that foreign markets are offering some relief and potential for growth amid domestic challenges.
Source: www.moebelmarkt.de