Construction Materials, Equipment & Supplies Wholesaling in France - Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2025-2029)

Construction Materials, Equipment & Supplies Wholesaling in France industry analysis

As a cornerstone of the broader construction sector, this industry encompasses a wide range of products essential for building and infrastructure projects, including aggregates and cement, timber, glass, paint and tools and equipment. The industry has experienced a fairly stable growth trajectory, albeit with some volatility due to economic uncertainties and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The emphasis on infrastructure development and urbanisation in France has spurred demand for construction materials, while supply chain disruptions and labour shortages have tested the industry's adaptability. In 2022, the energy crisis in Europe caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and inflation driven by high energy prices brought to an end the phase of low key interest rates in France, leading to an all-time high of 4.5% in 2023.. As a result, new construction activity fell slightly, particularly in residential construction, the most important construction sector. Nevertheless, wholesalers have maintained strong sales by shifting their focus to the retail and manufacturing sectors. Therefore, revenue is expected to increase at a compound annual rate of 5.2% over the five years through 2025, including an estimated rise of 0.6% in 2025. Revenue for 2025 is estimated at €73.8 billion.

Trends and Insights

• The COVID-19 outbreak triggered a sharp downturn in construction activity. Lockdown restrictions imposed by governments across Europe halted construction activity, leading to a significant dip in revenue.
• Wholesalers contend with fierce price volatility. Supply chain disruptions since the COVID-19 outbreak resulted in timber prices skyrocketing as shortages spread across Europe.
• Larger wholesalers have a solid foothold in the industry. The Construction Materials, Equipment & Supplies Wholesaling industry consists of many larger players like Saint-Gobain A/S and Robert Bosch GmbH.