Maroc - TIMBERBIZ.COM.AU - A La Une - 12/Jan 23:31

NZTIF business and wages surveys

The first New Zealand Timber Industry Federation (NZTIF) business conditions survey covering the quarter to 30 September 2024 has been completed. The results included participants’ experiences and thoughts regarding past and future timber sales, percentage movements in timber selling prices, production costs and profitability. Source: Timberbiz In general, the participating members view improving business conditions ahead with South Island members in particular feeling bullish about prospects in the next 12 months. More specifically, in the next 12 months, survey participants: Expect to increase timber sales volumes by 1-10%. The increase would be felt mainly in domestic market sales with a lower level of expectation in exports. Believe timber production costs to remain on the rise or at least at current levels. Have no general confidence that timber selling prices will in-crease. The NZTIF annual survey of timber industry wages and conditions of employment in the year to 30 April 2024 covers a wide range of terms and conditions of employment in the industry.  The full survey results were provided to members who participated in the survey. Survey highlights are: Hourly wage rates increased by an average 3.62% across all skill categories and experience levels, down from 5.36% last year. Weekly working hours as at 30 April 2024 were; 4 days at 8 to 9.5hrs 12.5% of replies 4 days at 10 or more hrs 20.8% of replies 5 days at 8 to 9.5hrs 54.2% of replies 5 days at 10 or more hrs 12.5% of replies In some cases, there were variations in hours worked per week within sites depending on work positions and tasks and there were variations week to week for depending on external factors. In 2024 68% of those surveyed reported a staff turnover of 0-20%, and 18% experienced a 21-40% turnover. In 2023 the equivalent numbers were 59% and 36%. In 2024 58% of those surveyed reported labour shortages down from 65% in 2023 and 72% in 2022. Shortages were being felt across all positions including general mill workers, table hands, machinists and truck drivers. The full survey results were sent to participants.