Tuesday, January 20, 2026
In December 2025, the French Union of Timber Industries and Builders (UICB) and the French Timber Trade Association (LCB) officially merged to form the Union of Construction and Timber Trade Industries (UICCB). This merger marks a significant development for the French timber and construction sectors, paving the way for stronger collaboration and progress in these industries.
This newly-formed organisation promises to provide greater visibility and influence for its members, enabling them to seize emerging opportunities within the growing forestry and timber sector. The merger follows a year of extensive discussions and collaboration among the business leaders at the heads of the UICB and LCB. The formation of the UICCB is expected to play a key role in driving the decarbonisation of the construction process while fostering a more sustainable approach to timber use in the building industry.
Strengthened Sector with Collective Vision
The UICCB is set to be a unifying force within the French forestry and timber industry. The new group brings together manufacturers of wood products, wood construction companies, suppliers of French, Nordic, and exotic wood, and professionals in trade and distribution. This collective organisation spans the entire value chain, from the raw resource to the finished product, making it a critical player in France’s construction and timber sectors.
The vision behind the UICCB is to support the growth of the timber sector, which is strategically positioned at the heart of France’s environmental transition. As part of this, the organisation will focus on promoting the adoption of sustainable building solutions, helping companies reduce their carbon footprints and align with France’s wider green building goals.
A Stronger Position for Member Companies
The merger enhances the position of UICCB members within the market, providing them with access to valuable resources that will help them grow. The newly-formed organisation offers a platform for members to collaborate and share knowledge, making it easier for them to navigate the complexities of the timber trade and construction industries.
The decision to create a unified body with pooled resources is expected to generate numerous benefits for the sector. By consolidating efforts, the UICCB is empowering its members to take advantage of new business opportunities that align with sustainable practices and market trends. This cooperative approach increases the strength of the timber sector as a whole, making it more competitive and resilient.
Business Services to Support the Timber Industry
As part of its comprehensive support package, the UICCB will extend business services previously offered by the LCB to the wider group. These services include privileged access to training modules, including e-learning, which will help members stay up-to-date with industry trends and regulatory changes. Moreover, UICCB members will be able to benefit from the collective due diligence procedure, ensuring they meet compliance requirements related to the European Union Timber Regulation (EUTR) and its amendments.
This collective effort will streamline processes for companies, making it easier to maintain compliance with the EUTR. The regulation, which aims to combat illegal timber trade, is critical for companies in the forestry and timber sectors across Europe, and UICCB’s support will make compliance smoother and more accessible.
Commitment to Sustainability and Decarbonisation
Frédéric Carteret, president of the UICCB, shared his enthusiasm about the merger, stating, “The creation of UICCB marks a turning point for the French forestry and timber sector. It consolidates existing synergies between companies and strengthens our collective commitment to supporting environmental transition efforts.”
He continued, “Together, we are growing the timber of tomorrow,” underscoring the importance of sustainability in shaping the future of timber use within construction.
François Laresche, vice-president of the UICCB, echoed Carteret’s sentiments, saying, “At a time when aligning priorities has become essential to supporting the development of timber in France, UICCB strengthens collective efficiency in service of companies in the timber industry.”
Looking Ahead: UICCB’s Role in the Industry
The creation of UICCB presents a significant opportunity for companies operating in the timber and construction industries to tap into a unified platform for growth, networking, and collaboration. With the increased focus on sustainability and decarbonisation, the timber sector’s role in modern construction is more important than ever.
By uniting manufacturers, suppliers, and construction companies, the UICCB is positioning itself to drive forward a sustainable future for the French timber and construction industries. This merger brings together key players in the sector, allowing for a more coordinated response to the challenges and opportunities presented by France’s environmental goals.
The formation of the UICCB is a crucial step forward for France’s timber and construction sectors. By bringing together a diverse range of companies and professionals within the industry, the UICCB strengthens the collective voice and influence of the sector, ensuring its continued growth and sustainability. With a focus on decarbonisation, compliance with EU regulations, and business development, UICCB is set to be a key player in shaping the future of timber use in construction across France.
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Tags: France construction industry, French forestry sector, French timber industry, sustainable building, timber, timber construction, timber sector growth, woodworking and processing
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