The 7th biennial Carrefour International du Bois show in Nantes attracted 20% more exhibitors and visitors than two years ago.

The show, co-organised by the Port Autonome of Nantes, Saint Nazaire and Atlanbois on May 29-31, had 8,700 visitors and 418 exhibitors, 80% of which also exhibited in 2000.

Belgium was the biggest foreign (non-French) contingent with 23 exhibitors, while the UK had six.

Sawmillers represented 24% of exhibitors; timber traders 16%; panels manufacturers 8%; and building products manufacturers 10%.

A congress entitled Technological Innovations and New Markets for the Timber Industry was organised by the Ecole Supérieure du Bois (the Timber Engineers School) and included the themes of eco-certification and timber in construction.