European construction equipment industry withstands uncertainties – CECE Annual Economic Report 2018

The main findings of the CECE Annual Economic Report 2018 are that sales of construction equipment in Europe grew by 15% in 2017. After a very strong first quarter growth slowed down in the second quarter, before taking off again in Q3 and Q4. Current levels of sales are on par with the levels seen in 2006 and 2008, but the industry is still 20% below the 2007 peak. The troubled markets in Southern Europe and Central and Eastern Europe showed growth at above average levels. As a result, the North-South disparity is gradually becoming less pronounced.