From the viewpoint of Riga Wood Holland and Brover Bedrijfswageninrichting: Light commercial vehicle industry thrives amidst changing circumstances
The light commercial vehicle (LCV) industry shows growth and sustainable development. The pandemic-induced shift in consumer behaviour, coupled with the rising demand for sustainable solutions, has played a significant role in reshaping the trajectory of this industry. Birch plywood, a versatile, renewable and sustainable material, has emerged as a cornerstone in LCV production.
In the LCV industry, birch plywood is primarily used for the vehicle's cargo area, providing solutions for interior side walls, floors and doors. Popular products like Riga Tex, Riga Heksa Plus for flooring and Riga Ply BB/WG and Riga Form for wall and door linings highlight the versatility and utility of Riga Wood birch plywood in the LCV industry. As a renewable resource, birch plywood addresses the call for greener practices, reducing the overall carbon footprint of the industry.
Urban dynamics are shaping the industry, and the market share is expected to grow
Jeroen Swanink, director of Riga Wood Holland, highlights the pivotal role of the LCV industry in the context of evolving urban dynamics: "The market share of light commercial vehicles is expected to continue to rise in the coming years. The increasing importance of e-commerce is one of the most important reasons. As cities impose bans on larger trucks, LCVs become crucial in navigating narrow city centres, contributing to reduced congestion and environmental impact. Therefore, well-equipped vehicles for transporting goods and assuring deliveries will be in high demand.”
However, the industry is not without its challenges. “The pressure to find lighter alternatives intensifies as the demand for weight solutions grows, therefore, we have to focus on developing solutions that meet the requirements of our customers without losing the unique technical properties of the birch plywood,” emphasises Mr Swanink.
Consumers are demanding sustainable and efficient solutions
Brover, one of the biggest players in the industry in the Netherlands, is a long-time partner of Riga Wood Holland and Latvijas Finieris. With a vast product offer for multiple businesses where highly equipped transport plays an essential part in running the business, Brover Bedrijfswageninrichting’s experience turns into effective solutions that can meet the requirements of its customers and follow demands in sustainable solutions. “The significance of birch plywood in the LCV industry is high. The material's strength, durability, and consistent quality make it a favoured choice for various applications. Birch plywood's ability to withstand heavy loads and maintain structural integrity underscores its versatility and adaptability to the needs of the LCV industry,” comments Brover.
Regarding consumer preferences, reliability, driving range, safety and comfort are paramount. “End-users seek vehicles that cater to various business needs, ranging from cargo transportation to passenger services. The usable space within the cargo area plays a pivotal role in their decision-making process, and sustainability factor is essential,” comments Brover .
In conclusion, the light commercial vehicle industry is experiencing robust growth driven by shifting consumer behaviour and an increased focus on sustainability. Birch plywood, as an eco-friendly material with exceptional technical performance and versatility, contributes significantly to the industry's success. However, challenges and evolving market dynamics compel the industry to seek innovative solutions that balance performance, sustainability and cost-effectiveness. As the industry embraces change, it's poised to continue its upward trajectory while adapting to new tendencies.