European sawmilling giant Pfeifer Group has optimised its manufacturing processes in response to a difficult construction products market in Europe. The Austrian based company says its Chanovice sawmill in the Czech Republic and cross-laminated timber (CLT) facility in Schlitz, Germany have undergone optimizing internal processes. The company said automation measures at Chanovice have reduced energy consumption and replaced heavy physical labour activities. It is also planning to use AI to process data and achieve further energy efficiency improvements. …Meanwhile, Pfeifer is facing rising roundwood prices and difficult procurement situation. In the face of this, rail transport is proving to be a logistics advantage and in the future sawn timber will also be transported by rail. …Pfeifer’s cross-laminated timber manufacturer in Schlitz, Germany is currently bridging the low market demand due by reducing production.