Successful in the global timber business. For three generations
As a third-generation family business, we offer more than just one hundred years of tradition and expertise. We also have very modern values. For example: a flat hierarchy. For our customers, it means fast, unbureaucratic decision-making channels. And one hundred years in business also means trusting relationships with our wood suppliers in all parts of the world that have grown over decades. This guarantees that you can always rely on our promises. We at Ludwig & Co know what we are talking about.
Wilhelm Ludwig
Founder & Managing Director 1922–1974
Peter Ludwig
Managing Director
1965–1989
Kai-Henning Ludwig
Managing Director
Seit 1989
Environmental protection: Responsibility for future generations
As a third-generation family business, we have been trading timber for more than 100 years. A lot has changed over the years – one thing has not: wood is our material and our business.
Wood is a natural and renewable raw material. Its environmental impact depends, among other things, on origin, forest management, processing, transport and use. Timber harvesting is also an intervention in nature.
That is why we take a close look at our products and suppliers. Traceable origin, reliable supply chains and the applicable supply-chain requirements matter to us. Ludwig & Co. is FSC® (licence code FSC® C108302) and PEFC (PEFC/04-31-3682) certified. For selected products, we offer FSC®- or PEFC-certified grades.
We take advantage of all the opportunities offered by the world timber market for you
The international timber market offers countless opportunities to obtain good timber. But it also offers almost as many risks. Because not all wood is the same. The differences begin with the various species of wood, the soil, climate and growth. Ultimately, no two trees are alike. The differences continue with the transport, storage and processing of the wood. Even if many processed wood products are similar in appearance, they often differ in quality.
In short, timber trading needs to be learned. It's not just about buying and selling, - it's about knowledge: where and how to get the quality of wood you're looking for from legal sources around the world at the best price. And how this wood can best reach its buyer.
This requires real expertise and established connections. The best way is through our own local presence and direct contacts with producers. We ensure that goods are inspected before loading and that logistics chains are solid, from loading at the shipper to delivery to the customer. After more than one hundred years as successful experts as timber importers, we can promise you that you will get exactly the timber you need from us.
EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)
Speaking of legal sources: the EU now has clear rules for this. The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) requires all companies that place covered wood products on the EU market or trade in them to meet statutory due-diligence obligations in their supply chain. In short, it must be traceable where the wood comes from and that it was produced legally and deforestation-free. For all products within the scope of the EUDR, we naturally implement these legal requirements.
You know your requirements. We know how to meet you.
Our team consists of well-trained professionals who know what they are talking about. To make it easier for you to find the right contact person for you, here is a brief introduction to our team. Experts who are happy to provide you with advice and support.
We are the leading experts in the softwood lumber market.