The Timber Packaging and Pallet Federation (Timcon) has reported a dramatic decline in demand for timber packaging and pallets.

Speaking at the organisation's general meeting in Derby, president John Dye said: "The difficult economic climate has caused huge implications for supply chains throughout the world, and we have seen a dramatic drop in demand for timber packaging and pallets.

Timcon is continuing to monitor and advise its members on the situation. We are also working with The Confederation of Forest Industries to lobby politicians in Scotland, England and Wales, specifically to highlight for them the value of timber and timber packaging to Britain as an employer and generator of income.

The organisation added that businesses in the sector should speak with a common voice to tackle the challenges it faces.