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WINTER 2022-2023 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2517–26X (PRINT)
TRADER UK
TIMBERMARK 18 Handheld thermal inkjet printers that provide economic and flexible stamping options for all timber types SAM MOULDINGS 20
RACKING & STORAGE 30
How investment into product improvement for 2023 will boost business across the UK
SEMA’s health and safety training can help stop warehouse accidents before they happen
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TIMBER TRADER UK ISSUE 19 CONTENTS
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02 News The latest news and views from across the industry.
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12 Timber & UKCA Delays The UK government has delayed the date when businesses must have switched from CE marking to UKCA marking on their products. What does this mean for the timber supply chain?
14 Intelligent Forestry Metsä Group and CollectiveCrunch are jointly developing an artificial intelligence application to identify forest storm and insect damage.
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17 Alternatives to Plywood The shortage of birch plywood is a cause of concern in the timber industry, with many suppliers and contractors looking for alternative places to source from.
18 Cover Story: Timbermark Timbermark ID Systems and its range of handheld thermal inkjet printers are ideal for all types of wood including pallets and packaging.
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20 Creating a New Mould SAM is the UK’s leading manufacturer of interior and exterior MDF mouldings and is ready for a busy 2023. Gerard Wilson, sales director at SAM told us more.
29 Driving Efficiency & Specialist ERP Chris Fisher from ECI Software Solutions explains how timber merchants can streamline their operations through the deployment of a specialist ERP system.
Managing Editor: Terry Hanlon
Registered address:
terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk
9 Viaduct Street, Newton-le-Willows,
30 The Importance of Training
01925 872371
Merseyside WA12 9PL
Artwork: Pete Awad
Have you considered the consequences if a bad accident happened at your workplace? The Storage Equipment Manufacturer’s Association can help stop a problem before it happens.
artwork@timbermedia.co.uk Follow Timber Media:
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Wales. Company Number 10839173.
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Pallet LOOP Ramps Up for 2023 Bradfords Building Supplies has taken its first delivery of Tarmac bagged cement loaded on green Pallet LOOP pallets kicking off the first end-to-end trial of a new circular economy pallet reuse scheme for the UK construction sector. After individually confirming the quality and durability of LOOP’s distinctive green pallets, Bradfords and Tarmac are now trialling their use to move goods between their businesses and out to a select number of Bradfords customers across Somerset. Founded on the principles of recover, repair, reuse, The Pallet Loop is designed to help the construction industry meet its target of net zero emissions by 2050 and eliminate avoidable packaging waste from the building material supply chain. Reinventing how pallets are used, The Pallet LOOP offers a range of 100% FSC pallets that have been purposely designed to carry various weights and types of material and engineered to be used multiple times. Easy to identify, the pallets all follow the same design standards, making them safer to move, manage and stack, while helping to maximise lorry distribution capacity. The Pallet LOOP operates using a returnable pallet charge (RPC) that incentivises reuse. By attaching a value to the pallet, which is refunded at the point of return, The Pallet LOOP provides a financial motivation for individuals and companies to put pallets back into the LOOP, rather than skipping or scrapping them after just one use. This positive shift in behaviour will greatly reduce the burden that pallet production currently places on the environment and our forests. Switching to The Pallet LOOP also has the potential to save the sector significant amounts of money on waste costs. Giles Bradford, head of sustainability at Bradfords Building Supplies, said: “We see examples of both unsafe pallets and
to sustainability and have clearly recognised the value that a circular
pallet waste every day across our sector. They’re a crucial enabler for
economy pallet reuse scheme will have not just for their businesses
the construction industry, but the evidence of stacks of pallets clogging
– but also their customers, the wider industry, and the environment.
merchant branches or being skipped on-site is only too apparent. It’s
We’ve spent the last year speaking to key players throughout the
important for us to assess environmental sustainability at every stage of
construction sector, explaining the simplicity of our model and how
the supply chain. Trialling The Pallet LOOP is the latest step in our efforts
easily it can be integrated into the sector. Tarmac and Bradfords are
to reduce our own environmental impact but looks to support a much
now proving that in practice – putting the LOOP to the test.”
wider benefit across the sector. We are delighted to be supporting the
To service its circular economy pallet reuse scheme, The Pallet
initiative and looking forward to seeing how the trial progresses.
LOOP operates a network of collection sites and repair hubs
Garry Gregory, packed products director at Tarmac, said: “Pallets
nationwide. Pallets are taken back to the nearest site where they re-
are a staple within the industry and are heavily relied upon to store and
enter the pallet pool – after being checked for damage.
distribute construction goods and materials. The Pallet LOOP reuse
Once The Pallet LOOP is fully operational in early 2023, the pallet
scheme is key to reducing waste and the demand for natural resources,
collection process will work the same way as in this trial. Smaller
ensuring we use and supply pallets in a greener, more sustainable way
developers and trades will be able to return pallets to the merchant
- this aligns closely with our 2030 circular economy goals in Act – our
branch that delivered them or call them to discuss the possibility of
sustainability strategy. We are looking forward to seeing how the trial
backhauling when additional deliveries are made to site or vehicles are
progresses and hope to see a successful roll out of the scheme in the
in proximity. Larger developers and principal contractors will be able to
months ahead.”
book a collection slot for multiple pallets to be picked up directly by The
Paul Lewis, founder of The Pallet LOOP, said: “We are delighted
Pallet LOOP.
that Tarmac and Bradfords have initiated the first end-to-end trial of More at www.thepalletloop.com
our pallets. Both companies are forward-thinking in their approach Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Economic value of the UK’s individual trees revealed The economic value of individual trees planted outside of our forests and woodlands has been revealed for the first time at £3.8 billion. The figures are revealed in a new ground-breaking study published by Forest Research and Defra as part of National Tree Week. Trees outside woodlands are defined as single trees in urban and rural areas and are some of the most iconic trees in our landscape, ranging from the classic, spreading hedgerow to the single trees lining our streets, making up almost a quarter of trees in Great Britain. The valuation is based on the important role they play in sequestering and storing carbon, regulating temperatures, strengthening flood resilience and reducing noise and air pollution. Together, these help to mitigate against climate change, reducing damage to infrastructure and people from the impact of flooding, cooling our cities in summer and improving health and wellbeing.
and increased values as more of the benefits are included. Our report
By quantifying their significant value, the report will help to incentivise
shows that trees are valuable infrastructure assets across multiple land
councils, land managers and local communities to plant more trees outside
uses, much as one might think about lampposts or drains. Moreover, it
of woodlands for the varied and numerous benefits they provide. This will
highlights the much greater role of mature trees in delivering benefit to
contribute to wider Government efforts to treble planting rates in England
society - in comparison to their younger counterparts.”
by the end of this Parliament and achieve net zero by 2050.
Richard Stanford, Chief Executive, Forestry Commission, added:
Forestry Minister Trudy Harrison said: “Today’s groundbreaking
“This first-of-its-kind research demonstrates the dynamism of trees
research reaffirms the unique value of non-woodland trees which exist
outside woodlands – from tackling many of the prevailing issues of our
all around us - from the trees lining our streets to those dotted around
time, like air quality and climate change, to damping down noise and
our beautiful countryside. It makes clear the immense environmental
helping people to get a better night’s sleep. This landmark report will
and economic value and benefits trees bring to society which cannot
inform the continued rollout of our England Trees Action Plan and be
be underestimated. As set out in our England Trees Action Plan, we
instrumental to future policymaking.”
have committed to trebling tree planting rates in England by 2024 and
The report estimates the Natural Capital Value of non-woodland
by quantifying the significant value of trees, this research will help to
trees to be between £68.5 billion and £151.5 billion, in 2020 prices.
incentivise planting in our communities across our country.”
This represents the value of the trees over the course of a century and
Kieron Doick, head of the Urban Forest Research Group, Forest
provides a useful means of comparison to other natural assets.
Research said: “While our valuation of non-woodland trees is substantial, we recognise that our research valued just a handful of the many benefits
The report can be downloaded free of charge at:
that trees provide. Future research will allow greater understanding
www.forestresearch.gov.uk/research/valuing-non-woodland-trees
Handheld printers for all your timber marking needs
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Timbeter nominated for Future Unicorn Award 2023 Running for the sixth year in a row, the Future Unicorn Award celebrates scale-ups from across Europe that have the potential to become the bloc’s future tech giants. The shortlist is compiled in collaboration with DIGITALEUROPE’s national trade associations, representing the digital and technology sector in 29 European countries. The winner will be announced on 8 March at Masters of Digital, DIGITALEUROPE’s annual flagship conference, by Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth. Timbeter’s digital solution is changing the forestry sector by enabling sustainable forest management, increasing the safety of employees, maximizing the value of each log, helping to optimize logistics and guaranteeing fair trades. Also, it helps with monitoring and controlling the timber supply chain, supporting governments and law enforcement agencies to prevent illegal logging and keep a better overview on the volumes harvested.
transformation and harnessing innovative technology in the forestry
Anna-Greta Tsahkna, CEO of Timbeter, stated: “Being one of the
industry is 100% required for a more sustainable future.”
Future Unicorn Award 2023 nominees is great recognition to our team.
Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl, Director-General of DIGITALEUROPE, said:
Working with organizations across all the continents proves that our
“Today, only 12% of the world’s unicorns are European. This is far from
solution solves universal challenges related to transparency, traceability,
enough, at a time when Europe seeks to assert its global competitive
efficiency and accountability in the forestry sector. The one thing we owe
edge. This year’s impressive shortlist of the most brilliant scale-ups
our success to is dedication on R&D and trust of our investors for seeing
represent critical sectors from energy and green tech to cyber security.
a long-term perspective. It is fascinating to witness how the regulators
They clearly reflect Europe’s most burning challenges and the power of
and very traditional forest industry is slowly indicating interest for
European innovators to deliver solutions.”
more transparent, traceable and accurate forest information. Climate More at www.timbeter.com
policy being an important driver here. We strongly believe that digital
Alloway Timber announces company rebrand Alloway Timber, a family-owned timber merchant, has announced that it has completed a major rebranding. This involves merging with its sister company, Putney Builders Merchants (PBM). The new company, Alloway Timber & Builders Merchants, will allow them to simplify their offering to their customers by ensuring all products are available under one roof. Alloway Timber was founded in 1971 by Joe Alloway (senior) and continued under the stewardship of his two sons, Joe & Peter Alloway, supplying anything timber related from skirtings and architraves to roof truss rafters and beyond. After listening to their customers’ needs in
share our colleagues’ knowledge across the two businesses. Also, by
helping to support their projects from start to finish, they opened PBM
making this change we will be able to utilise our transport fleet better
in 2003. Alloway Timber & Builders Merchants is the latest development
to enable a greener environment.”
in the history of this company.
Alloway Timber & Builders Merchants will continue to trade from
Jez Avens, managing director, says: “This change will further
their five locations – Cheam, Mitcham, Byfleet, Putney and Kingston.
enhance our position as leaders in customer service. Our customers will
The new logo will be introduced to the branch signs.
have only one account to manage and most importantly our level of More at www.allowaytimber.com
service and their experience in dealing with us will only improve as we Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
BSW acquires Scott Group BSW Timber Ltd, the largest integrated timber and forestry business in the UK, and a member of Binderholz, has acquired Scott Group, a leading supplier of timber pallets and bespoke timber packaging solutions. Based near Dunfermline in Scotland, with an annual turnover in excess of £250m and 1,300 employees, Scott Group is an awardwinning, sustainable manufacturer of new, bespoke, and reconditioned timber pallets, producing over 30 million pallets per year. The Scott Group was founded in 1987 and operates across 32 sites, from Shetland to Devon, working with customers to promote the circular economy, which is emphasised by its pallet recovery, repair and reuse service, while it also operates a timber sourcing arm in Latvia. Tony Hackney, CEO of BSW Group, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have acquired Scott Group. It’s a move which further strengthens our product and service offering. It ties into our vision of not only making use of the full value of
industry, helping us to cement our status as the UK’s most innovative
timber, but also of achieving the best uses for timber across the BSW Group,
manufacturer and supplier of timber pallets. It also helps us to ensure
whilst fully utilising the logistical firepower of the combined businesses.
that we can work even closer with customers to provide solutions that
“This strategic acquisition means that we are poised ready to serve
fit their requirements and deliver value.”
our customers when we see the economic recovery and upturn. Much
With the acquisition of Scott Group, BSW Group now employs 3,000
like us, Scott Group has grown organically and through acquisition
people across the sector, and has an annual turnover of approximately
over the last decade, and we’re confident that with the expertise and
£900m, with Binderholz Group turnover reaching almost €2.8bn.
experience of BSW and Scott together we can continue to build on this
BSW CEO Tony Hackney and CFO Alan Milne will join the existing
both in the UK and further afield.”
Scott Group Board of Directors, who will continue in their current roles.
Norman Scott, owner and group operations director at Scott Group, More at www.thebswgroup.co.uk www.scottgroupltd.com
added: “This is a huge move for both Scott Group and the wider timber
Timber Trader UK Magazine
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Yorkshire Family Timber Business Marks 50th Anniversary Ramsey Timber Group, the Bradford-based timber component manufacturer to the UK bed industry, is marking its 50th anniversary with the appointment of third generation family members into the business. The milestone year sees Josh and Jake Ramsey, sons of managing director Mike Ramsey, join the family-owned and run business as they look to bring valuable skills and fresh perspective, ensuring the continuity and future success of the highly respected business. Josh brings with him a background in technology consulting from a Big 4 firm. He is leading an IT transformation programme to modernise systems and improve operational efficiencies. While Jake brings his background in sales with him to focus on building relationships with existing and new customers, as well as driving growth in new product ranges, including the Ramsey Bedstead – one of the few bedstead options on the market that is manufactured in the UK and offers short and consistent lead times versus imported alternatives.
L-R Jake Ramsey, Mike Ramsey, Elaine Ramsey, Peter Ramsey, Nick Ramsey and Josh Ramsey
Established by Peter Ramsey in 1972 and joined soon after by his sons, Mike and Nick, Ramsey Timber began trading imported timber from a portacabin in Denholme, Bradford, to builders’ merchants and the
and to reach the milestone of 50 years trading. It’s a humbling moment
DIY market. Over the last 50 years, Peter’s sons have grown and shaped
for me personally and I’m excited to see the positive change that Josh
the business to be a leading supplier of timber components to the UK
and Jake will undoubtedly bring to the business. Our future priorities,
bedding sector, generating £24m of turnover in its last financial year.
as ever, are centred around delivering great service to our customers.
As the firm looks ahead, the focus will be on continuing to deliver the
We are building our in-house manufacturing capabilities, as well as
best Divan and Ottoman bed frames in the UK. Strong relationships with
developing existing and new supply partnerships.”
Scandinavian sawmills and board product suppliers have enabled the firm
2023 will see further improvements planned around its machinery
to provide continuity of supply to its customers during the tumultuous
and in-house fleet in an effort to retain its place as the leading supplier
last two years, so reinforcing these relationships further will be key for
of Divan and Ottoman bed components in the UK continue to deliver
the business, as the market faces continued uncertainty into 2023.
cost effective solutions to its customers.
Mike Ramsey, managing director, commented: “We’re extremely More at www.ramsey-uk.com
proud to be a highly respected third generation family-owned business
EPD investment for Tanalith® E To help timber manufacturers provide transparency on the environmental performance of their products, Arxada has invested in updating the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for Tanalith® E. The EPD for Tanalith® E, a high-pressure water-based wood preservative, provides a cradle-to-gate assessment covering raw materials, emissions in the manufacturing, shipping and distribution
More importantly, as a company committed to sustainability, we think they are
processes, and packaging. Carried out by Dutch consultants, SHR, the
simply the right and responsible thing to do going forward. We are investing in
EPD has been updated to help Arxada’s customers create a full cradle-
EPDs and Life Cycle Analysis across the portfolio of our products.”
to-grave assessment, looking at the environmental impact of timber
“As an industry we do have pushback on the environmental credentials of
treated with Tanalith® E throughout its full life cycle.
pressure treated timber. We are looking forward to working with customers across Europe to build the EPD into their own environmental systems,
Within the UK, EPDs are voluntary, but their use is rapidly becoming more common in line with growing environmental awareness. Andrew
helping to show how treated timber performs against more carbon-intensive
Hodge, marketing director for Arxada EIMEA Wood Protection division,
materials, and untreated timber, across its entire life cycle.”
speaks of the recently published Tanalith® E EPD: More at www.arxada.com/en/wood-protection/eu
“Both public and private stakeholders are increasingly demanding EPDs. Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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Through the heat of the summer into cold winter chill, still a half century later MEDITE makes it real.
Designers and artists with broad imaginations, architects and specifiers across all of the nations, from wardrobes to beds our quality can’t be denied, one of our innovative products can even be used outside. Outdoor kitchens and games, a summerhouse withstands all kinds of weather all the year round.
Join the MEDITE MDF community online to receive the latest updates. Sign up to receive a free gift.
Visit meditemakesitreal.com for more information. Dreamers welcome! Timber Trader UK Magazine
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Travis Perkins Certified as Top Employer Travis Perkins plc, a leading partner to the construction industry and the UK’s largest distributor of building materials, has been certified as a 2023 Top Employer. This year’s rigorous review looked at the people practises the Group has in place for its 20,000 colleagues in a range of areas, including strategy and leadership, organisation and change, digital HR and work environment, employer branding, and talent acquisition and onboarding. The Group was recognised for its strong purpose-led decision making, integration of wellbeing and the use of colleague champions to successfully enable business change. Employee listening, the recruitment of new talent and the way we measure candidate experience were also identified as key strengths. Group chief HR officer, Emma Rose, said: “We have made significant investments in making colleague learning and development more
many of our people are facing, and 400+ colleagues helped shape our
accessible, engaging and fun through a new system and app and a
new values, which have become part of the Group’s everyday language
virtual reality onboarding platform. We’re also enabling colleagues
and ways of working in a short space of time.
to share their voice and opinions more easily through our new survey
“Our progress has been considerable, but we’re ambitious and want
tool. Authenticity and equal opportunity were two of our top scoring
to lead the way in building a culture of belonging where everyone has
questions in the latest survey, which demonstrates the progress we’re
the skills, confidence and ambition to be their best. That means our
making on diversity and inclusion.
work to build on all the positive impact our people strategy has made
“Our apprenticeship programme has continued to go from strength
for our colleagues, the business and our sector very much continues.”
to strength. During 2022 we even opened our apprenticeships up to
This marks the 14th year the Group, which operates market leading
the wider industry to help build the next generation of talent across our
businesses including Travis Perkins Builders’ Merchants, Toolstation and
sector, so we unlock sustainable growth within our own business and
a number of trade specialists, such as Keyline, BSS, CCF and many more
construction more widely.
has been accredited as a Top Employer.
“Wagestream has been an important and timely addition to the More at www.travisperkins.co.uk
Group’s financial wellbeing offering, given the cost-of-living pressures
BMF appoints digital specialist as board advisor As the building materials industry advances
therefore, important that its members bring
towards digitalisation, the Builders
a diverse range of experience and skills to the
Merchants Federation (BMF) has appointed
overall Board. James’ appointment reflects
James Mitchell, managing director of
the increasing importance of digitalisation in
Kerridge Commercial Systems as a specialist
our members’ business, and I am delighted to
advisor to the BMF Board.
welcome him to the Board.”
James’ appointment brings a new skill
On his appointment James Mitchell
set to the BMF Board. He has 28 years’
added: “I am delighted to be joining the BMF
experience of IT and software solutions,
board as an advisor. The use of digital tools
and his current company provides digital
for business operations and processes is a
solutions to many in the building materials
subject I am very passionate about; the right
sector. He has a BSc (Hons) in Business and
digital tools generate efficiencies and improve
Computer Science, an Executive MBA from
services and importantly help merchants grow
Cranfield University Business School and he
their business and profits sustainably. I am
is a member of the Institution of Engineering
very much looking forward to working with
and Technology and a Fellow of the Chartered
the BMF board and its members to discuss,
who together have combined sales of over
Management Institute.
advise and provide insights on the future of
£42bn and employ over 230,000 people in
Commenting on the appointment, BMF
digitalisation for the merchant industry.”
the building materials industry. BMF’s 443
Chairman, Richard Hill said: “The BMF Board
The BMF represents merchants and
is responsible for the general control and
suppliers in the UK and Ireland and had
management of the Federation, developing
a total membership on 1 January 2023
strategy and scrutinising performance. It is,
of 870 merchant and supplier companies
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
08
merchant members operate from over 5,600 branches across the UK and Ireland. More at www.bmf.org.uk
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Donaldson Timber Systems provide offsite timber frame training Donaldson Timber Systems (DTS), is providing offsite timber frame training workshops after being awarded Continuing Professional Development (CPD) accreditation. As the only timber frame company to secure CPD accreditation, DTS enables current and potential clients to expand their skillset and keep up to date with industry developments. Online workshops include a range of topics, from construction and technical aspects to commercial skills and client sales. Upon completion, participants achieve a certificate which can be logged towards CPD study or used to build career progression. Rod Allan, managing director of DTS, said: “We are proud to have achieved CPD accreditation for our offsite timber frame training, which has already received overwhelmingly positive feedback and referrals. This marks a huge step for the timber industry and construction sector. Businesses have the opportunity to share their expertise to upskill staff,
particularly with those driven by whole life costs and fabric performance,
improve retention, and advance professional growth. By committing to
contributing positively to fuel poverty challenges.
lifelong learning and development, the industry as a whole can benefit.”
DTS is the UK’s market leading offsite timber systems manufacturer.
DTS prides itself on being highly sustainable, innovative and efficient.
For nearly 50 years, the business has been working with its partners in the
With unrivalled experience and knowledge in offsite construction, DTS
UK housebuilding market, supplying them with state of the art open and
has an established history of bringing new commercial and operational
closed panel timber frames. DTS was formerly known as Stewart Milne
innovations to the market. One example is the Sigma II closed panel
Timber Systems prior to its acquisition by the Donaldson Group in 2021.
system, offering near-Passivhaus standards of performance and More at www.donaldsontimbersystems.com
sustainability. The system is being widely used with housing developers,
Winners revealed at BWF Awards 2022 the winner of the award in recognition of its multifaceted renovation of a heritage property in Suffolk. The BWF Award judges recognised the project as an example of great capability and skill, which used modern joinery techniques to sympathetically blend structures into the existing fabric of the building. Scott Grimwood, director at Precision Made Joinery, said: “The whole team is incredibly proud of the end result of this project, and we’re delighted that our hard work has been recognised by the BWF Awards.” Commenting on all this years’ winners and the Awards ceremony, Helen Hewitt, chief executive of the BWF, said: “The BWF Awards allow us to come together and take pride
Precision Made Joinery won the Woodworking Project of the Year Award
in all that has been achieved over the past year. Our sector has overcome a great deal this year, with supply chain
The winners of the prestigious British Woodworking Federation
interruption as well as the increase in energy costs and the continued
(BWF) Awards 2022 were revealed at an evening of celebration
skills shortage. The Awards are a welcome opportunity to celebrate
held at the Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel late last year. This year
the hard-earned achievements of the past year and showcase the skill
marks the 14th anniversary of the annual Awards which celebrate
and technical expertise in the sector. Every year I’m amazed at the hard
outstanding achievement, skills and talent from across the
work, innovation and incredible skill of all of our finalists, and I want to
woodworking and joinery manufacturing sector.
congratulate all our winners on their achievements. It was fantastic to bring the industry together once again and celebrate the successes our
Amongst the winners was Precision Made Joinery, based in Suffolk,
ever-evolving profession.”
that won the Woodworking Project of the Year Award. Sponsored by National Timber Group, the Woodworking Project of the Year Award champions innovation and the very best in design, application and
To read about all the 2022 winners in more detail go to
ability in joinery manufacture. Precision Made Joinery was chosen as
www.bwf.org.uk
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Accoya® shows resilience on River Thames Following a successful trial the Environment Agency’s TEAM 2100 has chosen to commission and install a further nine Accoya fenders along the banks of the Thames. TEAM2100 is the Environment Agency’s 10-year programme to refurbish and replace tidal flood defences in London and the Thames Estuary. In 2020, the Environment Agency agreed to trial and test an Accoya fender at Duke Shore Wharf, with wood being donated by Accsys via International Timber. The Agency was looking for a resilient, stable and durable alternative to hardwood that could offer improved sustainability credentials whilst continuing to promote a healthy and diverse marine habitat. The fenders are an essential part of flood risk management assets in the Thames Estuary. After two years of positive performance at Duke Shore Wharf the Environment Agency has commissioned nine further fenders at Deptford Walls, Greenwich. These fenders were installed in September 2022. To provide biodiversity benefits, the innovative design for the nine new fenders, loop(see diagram). “Choosing materials that are sustainable and that consider the effects of their production on the environment is a key goal of our flood risk management programme. Certification processes, such as the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Products Program, help achieve this and permit identification of materials that consider the effects of their production on the environment, minimise energy and water use and aid social fairness. Finding a viable, sustainable substitute for
Regenerative design consultancy, 540World worked with Accsys,
hardwood has been an important goal of ours,” said Dr Jo Guy, of the
Jacobs, Balfour Beatty and TEAM2100 to implement this important
Environment Agency’s TEAM2100, environment and sustainability
sustainability initiative, with a view to more widespread substitution of
manager.
slow-growing hardwood with fast-growing, rapidly carbon-sequestering
John Alexander, group director of sales, Accsys commented: “The
and very durable Accoya. The lack of toxic or plastic-based additives to
Thames water is a tough environment with cold water, strong tidal
Accoya is vital to its use in these environments, eliminating the risk of
currents and lots of surface activity. It’s a real endurance test for a
potential leaching into the water and environmental or ecological harm
wood product and we’re proud to see how well Accoya has performed.
Each cubic metre of Accoya contains nearly one tonne of CO2
With a 25 year warranty in fresh water it has excellent potential to
absorbed by certified sustainable forests, which keeps that carbon
replace hardwoods.”
safely stored for decades. This installation in the Thames Estuary
The fenders are being used by the Environment Agency’s
will provide further data on long-term performance, adding to the
TEAM2100 programme as proof of concept that it can replace
consensus of positive data that Accsys has collected from sites in the
hardwood, provide habitat and contribute to achieving the
Mediterranean and North Seas.
organisation’s circular economy, net zero, environmental net gain, and More at www.accsysplc.com
social value sustainability ambitions. Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
11
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@Timber_Media
FEATURE TDUK
Timber & UKCA Delays The UK government has delayed the date when businesses must have switched from CE marking to UKCA marking on their products. What does this mean for the timber supply chain? According to the Construction Products Association: “There are only two types of harmonised technical specification to allow CE marking, which have been mirrored to permit UKCA marking. These are a harmonised standard or ETA for CE marking, and therefore a designated standard or a UKTA for UKCA marking. If neither of these exist a manufacturer cannot apply the CE or UKCA mark, however if these do exist for a product, then a manufacturer has to apply the relevant mark.” For many wood products the UKCA situation is very clear, as market requirements are based on Harmonised European Standards which are published as the list of UK Designated standards. These can be found online at:
I
n December 2022, the UK Government announced
www.gov.uk/government/publications/designated-standards-
the delaying of the full implementation of the UK
construction-products
Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking scheme for
Most wood products are at AVCP Level 2+ or AVCP Level 4, which
products sold in England, Scotland and Wales until 30
means that either no input is required from a UK Approved Body (Level
June 2025.
4), or just oversight of the Factory Production Control (Level 2+). In either case, manufacturers can already move ahead to UKCA marking. In contrast,
Originally, businesses had been told they would need to have the
Level CE 2+ Manufacturers can move to UKCA marking once they:
UKCA mark on all their relevant products from 1 January 2023, but this latest delay now applies to all products, including structural timber, plywood and other wood-based panels including OSB and MDF. This
• Have registered with a UK Approved Body
means businesses will have an additional two years to apply the UKCA
• Have adjusted their quality manual
mark to their products. Until then, they may use either the existing CE
• Have received their UKCA certificate reference.
mark, or the UKCA mark, if they have already made the transition. This UKCA mark may be on its own or could be alongside a CE mark
To help timber businesses navigate the confusion, TDUK has issued a Technical Note to outline the changes and explain how businesses can
if the manufacturer chooses to retain their registration with an EU
make sure they remain compliant during this transitionary period.
Notified Body. A good example of this is structural timber, which uses
Nick Boulton, head of Technical and Trade at TDUK, explains:
the harmonised standard BS EN 14081, or structural plywood that uses BS EN 13986.
“Manufacturers in the wood sector have already invested considerable resources to meet the original deadline for requirement of this new UK
At Level 4 there is no Notified Body or Approved Body input, so
mark. It is important to note that, like the original deadline, this new
manufacturers can move to UKCA marking whenever they choose by
date of 30 June 2025 is currently a UK government stated intention but
simply adjusting the relevant section of their quality manual. This UKCA
is not yet supported by UK legislation.”
mark may be on its own or alongside a CE mark.
Which products must have a UKCA/CE mark?
performance on products which are normally Level 4, such as for
Where manufacturers want to make a specific claim for fire Across the European Union, a CE mark is used by manufacturers
cladding, flooring, or post-treated wood-based panels, then a Fire Test
to declare that their products comply with, and conform to, relevant
Certificate is required from a Notified Test Laboratory which raises the
EU health, safety and environmental protection legislation and
product to CE Level 3 status. If the Notified Testing Laboratory is in the
requirements. CE marking is mandatory for products that fall under
UK, manufacturers can proceed to UKCA marking. If not, manufacturers
the scope of a European Commission product directive, such as the
should seek further legal advice. For structural wood products that hold
Construction Products Regulation (CPR), which lays down harmonised
European Technical Assessments (ETAs) the UKCA situation is less clear,
rules for the marketing of construction products in the EU.
and more information is available on TDUK’s Technical Note.
Post-Brexit, the UK government introduced the UKCA mark to replace the existing CE mark, and all products that previously required a
You can download the full Technical Note, and keep up to date with
CE mark will eventually need a UKCA mark to be placed on the market in
the latest information around UKCA and CE marking at
England, Scotland and Wales.
www.timberdevelopment.uk
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
12
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@Timber_Media
TIMBER STORAGE DESIGN | MANUFACTURE | INSTALLATION | SUPPORT
PERFECT FOR TIMBER STORAGE,
Get in touch today for a site visit and a bespoke racking quotation:
WICKENS RACKING CAN HELP YOU WITH… • • • •
Increasing storage capacity on site. Allowing access to selec�ve stock and enabling stock rota�on. Reducing product damage from storage on the floor. Decreasing material handling �me and improving site efficiency.
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
WWW.WICKENS.CO.UK sales@wickens.co.uk 01905 456780
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FEATURE FOREST POLICY
Intelligent Forestry
Metsä Group and CollectiveCrunch, a leading company in the application of artificial intelligence for forestry enterprises, are jointly developing an AI application to identify storm and insect damage. The map data on bark beetle damage will be available in the digital map applications used by Metsä Group’s wood supply personnel and the Metsäverkko online service used by Metsä Group’s owner-members. Photo © Metsä Group
I
n this joint project, the companies are developing an
threatens spruce forests, in particular. It has caused significant damage
application that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and
in Central Europe in past years and now threatening Northern forests in
machine learning to interpret remote surveying data
Europe and North America. Bark beetle and storm damages are expected
and observe any damage caused by the European spruce
to increase in Finland and Nordic regions as the climate becomes warmer.
bark beetle and storms. The goal is for the application to identify bark
Currently the most common damages to trees are those caused by snow
beetle damage in spruce forests before it is visible to the human eye.
loads and wind.
“Metsä Group and CollectiveCrunch aim to provide an application Quick detection, prompt actions
that will add to the digital material Metsä Group uses in forest operations, for example in maps that indicate storm and insect
“By updating the maps indicating damage caused by the European
damage,” says Olli Leino, director, digitalisation, from Metsä Group’s
spruce bark beetle several times over the summer, we can detect damage in
Wood Supply and Forest Services.
time, see how it progresses, and contact the forest owner to jointly prevent the spread of damage,” says Olli Leino. “The new application also improves
Helping forests remain healthy
our ability to quickly identify the scope of storm damage and the areas
Metsä Group’s parent company is Metsäliitto Cooperative which has
that have suffered the most. This enables us to quickly move harvesting
nearly 100,000 forest owners as members. Metsä Group procures most
equipment to where they are needed to harvest the damaged trees.”
of the roundwood from its owners-members in Finland and offers them
In 2022, Metsä Group introduced an application that makes extensive
comprehensive services for forest management and for increasing their
use of open data available in Finland as well as data gathered by Metsä
forest assets. “It is important to Metsä Group and our owner-members
Group, and machine learning to estimate growing stock data. Combined with
that forests remain healthy and vibrant,” adds Leino. “We’re now using
the AI application for damage detection, the number of storm-damaged
digitalisation to keep forests healthy and provide our owner-members
trees can be safely estimated without surveying the entire damaged area.
with an entirely new service.”
The map data on bark beetle damage will be available in the digital
Jarkko Lipponen, CEO of CollectiveCrunch said: “Advanced
map applications used by Metsä Group’s wood supply personnel and in
technology such as AI and machine
the Metsäverkko online service used
learning help us offer deeper insight
by Metsä Group’s owner-members.
into the wellbeing of forests, and
Metsäverkko is a free online service
especially into forest change, faster
offered by Metsä Group to help forest
than ever. The impacts of climate
owners manage their forest assets and
change can already be seen in our
make and timber trade, for example.
forests, and we’re excited with this
Some of the services in Metsäverkko,
opportunity to develop a completely
such as the future map data indicating
new service for improving the
storm and bark beetle damage, are
wellbeing of our forests with a forest-
only available to Metsä Group’s owner-
sector forerunner like Metsä Group.” The European spruce bark beetle is about half a centimetre long and Timber Trader UK Magazine
members. Bark beetle and storm damages are expected to increase in Finland and Nordic regions as the climate becomes warmer. Photo © Metsä Group
Winter 2022-2023
14
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More at www.metsagroup.com
@Timber_Media
FEATURE SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY
CHARGED AND IN CONTROL.
Introducing the new cutting-edge in control systems. With its user-friendly interface, ease-of installation, live information and accurate plant mirroring, ProTreat delivers a new level of efficiency in timber treatment.
•
Remote monitoring
•
Fully backed, developed and supported by Koppers
•
Can help with treatment efficiencies
•
Detailed reporting for industry compliance
•
On-site system training and support available
•
Customisable alarms and reporting
www.kopperspc.eu | kpc.uk.sales@koppers.eu | +44 (0)1628 486644 ™ Protim Solignum Limited trading as Koppers Performance Chemicals. Koppers is a registered Trademark of Koppers Delaware, Inc. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in this document, Protim Solignum Limited gives no undertaking to that effect and no responsibility can be accepted for reliance on this information. Information will be updated when the need arises. Please ensure you have an up to date copy. All products are produced by independently owned and operated wood processing facilities. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Koppers Performance Chemicals, Protim Solignum Limited, Jubilee House, Third Avenue, Globe Park, Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 1EY. Visit: www.kopperspc.eu, Email: kpc@koppers.eu, Call: +44 (0)1628 486644. Registered in England 3037845. © Copyright 2023
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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FEATURE MARKET GROWTH
BSW Ready for 2023 Binderholz GmbH, which acquired BSW Group in 2021, has reaffirmed its commitment to its UK operations after supporting several major investments into the company over the course of 2022.
T
he investments have strengthened the positioning of BSW Group, helping to place the company in a strong position for when the forestry and timber industry is able to bounce back from the current challenges. Within its stable of
timber and forestry companies, BSW Group has invested £4 million into a new 25,000m2 miniplug production facility at Maelor Forest Nurseries. Designed especially for growing forestry species, the investment will help to secure the future supply of high-quality trees for the industry. The facility allows seeds to be sown directly into trays, with germination in a controlled environment helping to improve growth, efficiency and resilience in seedlings. As part of BSW Group’s ongoing commitment to investment into sustainability and development of trees species suitable for the UK’s changing climate, plans are also in place to use the facility to cultivate
The sawmill at Fort William, meanwhile, received a £1.4 million investment
alternative tree species that will be available to customers.
in in the form of VK Debarker. The new VK Debarker features a 680mm ring,
Another member of BSW Group, Dick Brothers finished the year in a
allowing for a significantly increased output of 140m3 per hour. The site, based
very strong position after winning several new high value contracts with
in Corpach. was also completely resurfaced, with an area of approximately
Forestry and Land Scotland. To better service these contracts, BSW Group is
31,000m2 being filled in. BSW Group also acquired Scott Group in December
investing over £5 million in several new machines to strengthen their fleet of
2022. Based near Dunfermline in Scotland, with an annual turnover in excess
harvesters and forwarders.
of £250 million and 1,300 employees, Scott Group is an award-winning,
BSW Group’s manufacturing sites have also received significant
sustainable manufacturer of new, bespoke, and reconditioned timber pallets,
investment, with Bayram Timber acquiring a £300,000 Hundegger machine.
producing over 30 million pallets per year.
The new machine will help meet the demand of the industrial markets as it
Tony Hackney, CEO at BSW Group, said: “The forestry and timber
provides the ability to process timber in several ways, all in one operation. It
industries faced many challenges in 2022, and further challenges will no
has also allowed the company to streamline its caravan kit supply to improve
doubt present themselves as we move into 2023. These challenges came in
customer quality and service. It is an exciting time for Bayram as they look
the form of the pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, increasing energy costs
to venture into new markets and make sizeable improvements to the
and a 40-year high in cost-of-living expenses. The result of this was a global
automation around their site.
downturn across the timber industry, which unfortunately led to the closure
BSW Timber Solutions in Melton, Hull, has also had a new £400,000
of our Boat of Garten sawmill.
H23 Planer installed to strengthen the existing stock of planers. The new
“However, the BSW Group and Binderholz GmbH board’s strategic
machine brings an extra capacity in excess of 10,000m3 per year, as well
review of the business has presented opportunities where investment would
as greater flexibility across existing workloads. Extra features include
strengthen our offering. The decision to make these investments in 2022,
automated packaging stations for wood bundling and to be able to produce
with more planned throughout 2023, will allow us to drive efficiencies across
mini packs for customers moving forward. There was also further investment
all sites and place us in a great position to serve customers with an even
at its Stoke site, which has had a state-of-the-art showroom built to better
stronger offering going forward.”
showcase the full range of products produced by all BSW Group members, More at www.thebswgroup.co.uk
covering both internal and external timber products. Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
16
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FEATURE SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY
Alternatives to Plywood
The shortage of birch plywood is a cause of concern in the timber industry, with many suppliers and contractors looking for alternative places to source from. MEDITE SMARTPLY may offer the perfect solution.
A
s the invasion of Ukraine continues, international sanctions on Russia remain in place. One of the most significant sanctions in the construction industry, is the Russian timber import ban, which prohibits the import,
acquisition, supply, and delivery of revenue on all wood products coming from Russia. In particular Birch Plywood, which was exported to the UK and Europe in significant volumes prior to the invasion. Manufacturers in need of wood products are looking to other places to specify products such as Birch Plywood. As Birch forests are found in Russia and Eurasia, the Birch Plywood offered from countries outside of these regions could be of unknown origin – making it illegal The innovative MEDITE SMARTPLY range
to import into the UK or the EU. If these products enter the UK or EU market, importers and anyone who has purchased these products will
Those working on renovations, fit-out or kitchen and bathroom
be subject to legal action, fines and reputational damage.
projects can find the ideal product for the job in the MEDITE MDF
This also contributes to a wider environmental issue. If wood is
range. MEDITE MDF panels are suitable for use in non-structural
being imported from areas outside of the EU, it increases a company’s
applications.
carbon footprint – more distance equals more energy used and more
Cabinetry and furniture makers for kitchens and bathrooms
energy wasted.
will find MEDITE MR and EXTERIOR suitable products thanks to its
Another significant issue is that the FSC has agreed to suspend all
moisture resistance properties. EXTERIOR was originally developed
trading certificates in Russia and Belarus and will block all controlled
for outdoor applications, but contractors have recently specified
wood sourcing from both countries – this means any wood imported
the panel as a substitute for birch plywood for interior bathroom
from either country is not FSC certified which affect the sustainability
and shower panelling. Those working on laminating projects, could
credentials on any build. However, suppliers in the UK and Ireland can
consider using MEDITE PREMIER, a multi-purpose MDF suitable for the
find alternatives in the MEDITE SMARTPLY MDF and OSB ranges, which
thinnest laminates and surface coatings. For interior fit out applications,
is not only fully FSC certified, but also locally sourced.
there is MEDITE CLEAR, an MDF panel manufactured with no added formaldehyde, developed specifically for use in environmentally
A sustainable choice
sensitive interior applications, where formaldehyde emissions need to
SMARTPLY OSB and MEDITE MDF are made from sustainable wood
be kept to the minimum.
products. Our OSB is made from newly grown pine and spruce. Our MDF
There are also two grades of SMARTPLY: OSB/3 and OSB/4.
consists of 40% wood chip and 60% by-product. Each range boasts some
SMARTPLY MAX is an OSB/3 panel that is suitable for use in, walls,
of the most environmentally efficient building materials on the market,
floors and roofing systems. For applications where increased strength
with a product-specific Type 3 Environmental Product Declaration
and moisture resistance is needed, we would recommend SMARTPLY
to support this. With manufacturing sites in Clonmel (MEDITE) and
ULTIMA – which is a high strength OSB/4 panel.
Waterford (SMARTPLY), Ireland, it offers a dependable, local supply and More at https://mdfosb.com/en/the-alternative-to-plywood
reduces the carbon footprint for timber merchants and suppliers. Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
17
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COVER STORY TIMBERMARK
Thinking Big with Timbermark
B3 model
B35 model
B85 model
Timbermark ID Systems has launched a new range of handheld thermal inkjet (TIJ) printers from Chinese manufacturer Zhuhai Bentsai Printing Technology Co. Ltd. These are ideal for both pallets and packaging.
W
ith the new larger print capability, designs have far
drawback. The fact that the B35 can double this print size and print a
greater impact, and visibility from a greater distance.
high-resolution mark onto timber or even composite blocks means we
Additionally, the 1” cartridges are available in aqueous
can now offer the right tool for the job.”
and solvent variants, so the printer can work on porous
Packing case manufacturers can use the B80 model, which has a
substrates such as paper and timber, and non-porous substrates such
market-leading, 100mm high print effect. This is achieved by stacking
as metal, plastic or glass.
four of the 1” heads and synchronising the printing through a contact
Timbermark sees great potential for these new products across
encoder wheel to keep the print heads in registration. A guide rail for
many industries and anticipates keen interest, particularly from pallet
this printer is available in a customisable length, up to 1.8m long, to
and case making businesses. Pallet manufacturers can use the 1”, B35
suit a variety of applications. The rails are inexpensive and are available
model to print stacks of assembled pallets, using the hand printer and
separately, so that a series of rails can be used to produce a jig suitable
guide rail. The ISPM HT mark is produced particularly effectively using
for each printing job.
this technique, and results in a mark that is supersharp, sized 25mm high by 50-60mm long, and can be applied in around one second. Additionally, there is a ‘group print’ feature, which allows the user to select multiple designs. The job is configured by the operator from the touch screen, and the printer cycles through the designs in the order selected. In this way, a pallet with a different stamp on each block can be marked without changing the printer setup, making the job as quick and as easy as stencilling, but with the quality of a desktop printer. Oxfordshire-based Timbermark has been supplying printer products and systems to the timber industry for 16 years. Managing director, Colin Stewart, says this handheld printer is just what many of his pallet manufacturing customers have been waiting for: “Customers like the precision and quality of mark offered by the TIJ printers,” says Colin. “But until now the height of the mark at just half an inch has been a big Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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COVER STORY TIMBERMARK
Economy and flexibility Thermal inkjet has hitherto had a bit of an image problem with perceived high running costs, and this, too, is an issue that is addressed by this new product range. Firstly, the controller has a ‘greyscale’ setting, meaning that users can change the dot size, which affects the ink use. Customers might use this feature to adjust for bleed into the material grain, to optimise the contrast with the background substrate colour, or simply to manage the cost per print. Secondly, there is a standard cartridge refill system, meaning that users can increase the life of the 1” cartridge with an easy-to-use ink supply and injector. The refill kits are available uniquely via e-commerce, and for now are limited to aqueous inks. Thirdly, the equipment is value-engineered by an innovative Chinese producer, with the result that the equipment costs as little 25% of the price of some European manufacturers of similar products. The equipment and solution is design-led, with functionality and cost criteria factored in. The B3 printer in this new range is an example of this approach to value-engineered product design. Using a standard 12.7mm (1/2 inch) printhead, this handheld printer’s main advantage is its price competitiveness – it is available for under £600.
“Customers like the precision and quality of mark offered by the TIJ printers. But until now the height of the mark at just half an inch has been a big drawback. The fact that the B35 can double this print size and print a high-resolution mark onto timber or even composite blocks means we can now offer the right tool for the job.” The B80 can print perfect shipping logos onto plywood and OSB. Customer logos can be printed to exact specifications, often for designs that would be impossible to achieve with a stencil or rubber stamp. The system is so precise that, on most substrates, it can print a machine-readable bar code or matrix code. This opens new possibilities for accessing online documentation such as data sheets or hazardous goods info, by scanning a QR code from a smartphone. A USB database feature can be used for printing variable data, such as writing customer addresses on the panel. The data is saved on USB as a .csv file and loaded to the device. The user can then select the starting point and assign a column of data to each variable field in the design.
Free Demonstrations For a limited period, Timbermark is offering free demos on this product range, administered through a Sale or Return agreement on their e-commerce website www.t-mark.co.uk For further information please contact the Timbermark sales team on sales@timbermark.co.uk
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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FEATURE THE BIG INTERVIEW
Creating a New Mould
SAM is the UK’s leading manufacturer of interior and exterior MDF mouldings and is ready for a busy 2023. Gerard Wilson, sales director at SAM told us more.
F
ounded by Sam and Julienne McCrea in 1990, the
board, door framing and stair accessories.
Antrim-based company remains a family-owned
“The SAM Mouldings range is our ‘bread
business, producing skirting and architrave, door
and butter,” says Gerard. “We also manufacture
linings, window board, stair accessories, kitchen
products that add value for our customers: SAM Zero is a high-quality
mouldings, picture frame mouldings, cladding, fascia and soffit, and
range of fully finished MDF mouldings offering a time saving alternative
window components. These products come in a variety of finishes
to primed products and is hugely popular in the offsite construction
including primed and unprimed, fully finished or wrapped in paper,
and DIY markets.
PVC or real wood veneer. SAM is the UK’s leading manufacturer of
“SAM Wrap is a range of MDF mouldings wrapped in real wood
MDF mouldings servicing the construction and home improvement
veneer providing a high quality, cost-effective alternative to solid
industries by selling its products through leading builders’
timber. SAM PVC wrapped mouldings offer a robust and time saving
merchants and distribution outlets.
solution over primed or softwood options. Finally, SAM Extreme is
“Aside from ensuring our customers are receiving the best quality products,” says Gerard. “SAM is trusted by the industry to consistently deliver on its promises. Our customers say they work with SAM because we are reliable and personal – attributes we are especially proud of. Our recent £1 million
SAM recycles all MDF waste through a wood waste steam boiler and turbine, which provides electricity, heat and paint drying power to our factory. We generate additional electricity through photovoltaic solar panels installed on our factory roofs. With our FSC certification, customers can be sure that we are working to preserve the world’s forests.
investment into our primed paint finish enhances our stock range so our exterior fibreboard range manufactured using MEDITE TRICOYA
customers can have fast delivery on a wider selection of profiles.”
EXTREME (MTX) and is mainly used for fascia, soffit and decorative
With over 6,000 different profiles in its product library, SAM has an
cladding and panelling.”
unrivalled range of primed MDF mouldings in the marketplace to suit all styles and budgets including: skirting, architrave, plinth and architrave
The timber material supply chain has been volatile since the Covid
blocks, dado rail, picture rail, ceiling cornice, interior cladding, window
pandemic and after settling back into some kind of normality has been
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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DECKING
SOFTWOOD MOULDINGS
DOOR LININGS AND CASINGS
MDF
PSE
SHEET MATERIAL/PANELS
WHY USE METSÄ WOOD UK • We offer twice-weekly deliveries directly from mill to branch • We supply high-quality, slow-grown machined timber, ranging from skirting and architraves to decking, claddings, PSE and panels. • We are one of the biggest softwood producers in the UK and all our products are machined in the UK to British sizes and standards • We provide support and engagement to ensure your customers have a great experience within your branch • Metsä Wood Academy, a free online training course, so your staff can further their knowledge in all things timber. • Our northern wood is perfect for building the future. Sustainable, reliable, renewable
FROM BUILDERS OF TOMORROW. FOR BUILDERS OF TOMORROW. metsawood.com Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
21
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FEATURE THE BIG INTERVIEW
affected by the Ukraine war, inflation and the ongoing energy/cost-
reverted to more traditional methods of selling, including engaging
of-living crisis. “Compared to Covid times, post-pandemic, the market
with customers, and discussing their projects, which works better as the
has become a lot more dynamic with different products experiencing
construction industry is all about relationships and people. There is a
different supply and demand pressures,” says Gerard. “As a natural
level of uncertainty in the market as people are trying to read the next
consequence, this has led to deviations in pricing. During the pandemic,
6-18 months and work out what the new norm is post-Covid. It was 2019
the industry as a whole saw orders coming in thick and fast, which was a
when we had our last normal trading year, because the last three years
pleasant surprise given we couldn’t visit our customers.
have been impacted by Covid and various other more recent external
“The key factor at that stage was availability and making sure we
influences. The market will be very fluid, and it will be a mixed bag of
had product, so that is what we focused on. We worked hard to ensure
supply and demand. We will see changes as each quarter goes by.”
we didn’t let customers down and provided them with enough product More at www.samonline.co.uk
to keep up with the demand from their own customers. We have now
SAM invests £1 million into product improvement for 2023
As a commitment to bringing the best in market products and
the confidence that they will achieve the best possible standard
setting the bar on quality and standard, and as part of an overall
and finish on their MDF mouldings, and this new primed finish does
project to improve its service package, SAM has invested over £1
exactly that.”
million in developing its latest primed mouldings solution.
The product launch is already exciting merchant customers, with Paul Broomhead, national account manager at Jewson,
The investment has enabled the delivery of an improved primed product, ensuring the profiles have a superior and robust finish.
commenting: “It is fantastic to see SAM continuing to invest and
Trade professionals, contractors and housebuilders can now expect
deliver a new and improved product. It’ll really enhance our offering
a better standard and higher quality on level with a semi-finished
as a result, as the brighter and whiter product will without doubt
product. The new primed finish also brings a trio of benefits for the
capture our customers’ attention and help us to stand out from
merchant network and their customers:
the competition. The smoother finish will achieve a more superior final result, saving our customers time on site. The substantial
Cat McCrea, commercial director at SAM said: “We pride ourselves on quality and service and want to ensure we are always
financial investment that SAM has made to improve their products
bringing the best products to our customers. This initial £1 million
is impressive and it’s great to be able to offer our customers a
investment is the first of many improvements we will be making in
broader product range into 2023. We are excited about the future
2023 to strengthen our stock range and lead times. Through our
partnership and to see how SAM’s investment continues to improve
customer network, we want to give contractors and house builders
the products we sell.”
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2023
Record Returns at UKCW
The UK’s largest event for the built environment, UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham, made a welcome return to the NEC in October last year, with visitor numbers up 19% from 2021.
T
he show drew over 23,900 visitors from as far afield
Gary Scott, managing director at Hanson Plywood, commented:
as Turkey, Brazil, Australia and Canada, and included
“We were at the show because it’s the hub of the UK construction
a host of high-profile names including West Midlands
industry. We get a lot out of it; we don’t do many shows, but UKCW
Mayor Andy Street, Channel 4 presenter George Clarke,
Birmingham does work.”
and BBC journalist and presenter Simon Jack.
Exhibitors at Timber Expo include Rokamat, Engineered Timber
Co-located within UKCW Birmingham was Timber Expo, which
Solutions Ltd, Woodolex Ltd, the Ghana Forestry Commission and
attracted over 2,000 visitors (8% of the total attendees) across
Hanson Plywood Ltd who specialise in the import, storage and
the three days, including architects, local authorities, merchants,
distribution of wood-based panel products throughout the UK.
developers, housebuilders and contractors.
Timber Expo featured a programme of industry leaders, including
Designed for people who use, specify, design and build with
architects, developers, housebuilders and merchants to name a few. They
timber, and offering the opportunity to join hundreds of other brands
debated and discussed the sector tackling post pandemic supply issues,
showcasing their latest innovation, products and services, Timber Expo
post Brexit challenges, the impact of the Ukraine conflict on timber supply
was backed by and held in collaboration with Timber Development UK,
chain and the drive to net zero as we strive to meet COP26 targets.
BM TRADA, Timber Construction and Timber Trader UK.
The exhibitor profile includes structural timber frame, sawmills,
Nathan Garnett, UKCW event director, commented after the show:
merchants, glulam, SIPs, CLT, fixings and fastenings, timber cladding,
“It is crucial that timber, as a sustainable building material, is placed
doors and windows, mouldings, skirtings and flooring products.
front and centre of the UK’s largest construction event. There is so
Andy Howe, founder and managing director of CareersForce, was
much happening in the construction industry right now that has put
named UKCW Role Model 2022; CareersForce helps UK key workers
UK Construction Week into a unique position, whereby it can inform
such as those from the armed forces, police and NHS to forge a new
and educate the sector as it moves forward. There is a real sense of
career in a range of new sectors including construction. The winning
momentum now as we plan the next one, especially on meeting our
exhibitors of this year’s Stand Awards included: Rolec (best 50m+ space
next zero targets and creating long lasting culture change. A record
stand), Harwoods (best space under 50m), Restec (best shell scheme),
number of companies have signed up for 2023 so we look forward to
Tough CAD (best use of marketing), Zero Hub (most interactive) and
really growing the UKs largest trade show for construction.”
Celsa (for innovation).
Chloe Donovan, chief executive of Natural Building Systems, said: “We’ve had an amazing time - met everyone from potential suppliers,
UKCW London will take place from 2-4 May 2023 at ExCeL
industrial partners, contractors and investors; I can’t recommend it
UKCW Birmingham will run from 3-5 October 2023 at the NEC.
highly enough.”
More at www.ukconstructionweek.com
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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Aagaard A/S is a leading manufacturer of a large range of Unique Air Filtration Systems since 1965. Efficiency using modern technology and manufacturing equipment. Our goal is always to put ourselves at the cutting edge of technology and development in dust control and process filtration. Combining Danish manufacturing with British engineering to provide customers from a large range of markets the most effective solutions. With the UK office based in the heart of the Midlands, we offer services from; small modifications, LEV testing, component only to full turn-key solutions throughout the whole of the UK & Ireland.
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2023
Boost Your Timber Business Profile
Timber Expo is the UK’s largest and only dedicated showcase event for timber in construction. Backed by trade bodies including Timber Development UK (TDUK), the Structural Timber Association (STA), the Builders Merchant Federation (BMF), it is the most comprehensive representation of the timber industry anywhere in the UK.
T
imber Expo 2023 will see 11th edition of the event and has been co-located with UK Construction Week since
“Timber Media has teamed up with Media 10 and will be playing an active part in promoting the 2023 show. We have only just started working on the show as part of UKCW but have already exceeded the number of exhibitors for the 2022 edition.”
2015. UK Construction Week won best UK Trade show in 2020 and is the UK’s leading trade event for the
industry, attracting 30,000 visitors. Timber Expo brings together award-winning architects with clients and contractors to showcase best practice in timber construction projects. It is the must-attend annual event for anyone working with timber products in the built environment. The exhibitor profile includes structural timber frame, sawmills, merchants, glulam, SIPs, CLT, fixings and fastenings, timber cladding, doors and windows, mouldings, skirtings and flooring products. Timber Expo will be supported by a heavyweight national trade
Terry Hanlon, managing director, Timber Media.
marketing campaign. The co-location with UK Construction Week ensures a guaranteed audience, and the targeted messaging through digital advertising and trade press will deliver those trade professionals
MEDIA LIMITED
who specify or buy timber products. “Timber Media has teamed up with Media 10 and will be playing an active part in promoting the 2023 show,” says Terry Hanlon, managing director, Timber Media. “We have only just started working on the show as part of UKCW but have already exceeded the number of exhibitors for the 2022 edition. As businesses start to move on past the pandemic, there is a lot more interest in meeting face-to-face to discuss plans for the future and understand how timber plays such an important part in achieving the 2050 net zero carbon targets. There has never been a better time to get together and talk timber.” Throughout the year you can follow developments on Timber Expo in all the Timber Media publications and there is a range of joint All of Timber Media’s visitor promotion activity is in addition to that
advertiser/show exhibitor options that can be discussed. “I have some exciting proposals to offer as Timber Media for the
of the show organiser, Media 10, and together we will be going flat
show,” adds Terry. “So please get in touch to find out more. We will
out to get the right numbers and the right people through the door
be sending fortnightly visitor promotion e-shots to our database of
for Timber Expo 2023. For more information and to discuss your
5,000 dedication timber professionals and I am giving some exclusive
involvement in the show in more detail get in touch now with Terry
discounts off the list price to all shell scheme exhibitors.”
Hanlon at terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk
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Winter 2022-2023
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FEATURE MATERIALS HANDLING
More Electric Expansion
Leading forklift manufacturer Combilift has added to its extensive electric range with the launch of the Combi-FSE – a four wheeled, two directional sideloader in both 5,000kg or 6,000kg lift capacity.
A
s part Combilift’s drive to help customers achieve their
by the steer angle of the front wheels to provide improved steering
aims of more sustainable operations, over 60% of the
control for the operator, better truck turning radius and reduced tyre
company’s output is now electric. Recent models such
wear. This new technology, when combined with regenerative braking
as the Combi-XLE and now the Combi-FSE
focus on heavier duty application for industry sectors including timber, steel, tubes and pipes and builders’ merchants. Thanks to Combilift’s engineering and design experience, the Combi-FSE delivers on all aspects of reliability, durability, powerful performance and ease of maintenance, combined of course with the quiet and emission free electric operation that more and more customers are demanding. The patented traction system in this new product plays a major part in ensuring the optimum performance of the Combi-FSE in all weather conditions. Sensors in the front steering axle linked to the innovative Electronic Traction Control system enable the two independent 15kW drive motors on the rear axle to be controlled
individually, with the speed of each wheel governed Timber Trader UK Magazine
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FEATURE MATERIALS HANDLING
(which recaptures the truck’s kinetic energy during deceleration and
ago after initial requests from companies in the timber sector, and
can be used to recharge the batteries to extend battery life), makes for
it has since become pretty much a standard solution for those who
Combilift’s most advanced steering system on its four wheeled trucks
run intensive schedules which clock up many operational hours. The
to date.
technological advancements in battery technology since then means
The generous glazing of the cab, particularly the roof to floor
that it was a natural progression to develop this electric model, which
windscreen, allows the operator to have an excellent field of vison of
will help customers to drastically reduce their carbon footprint.”
the load, the machine and the surroundings. Considerable engineering More at https://combilift.com/combi-fse-electric-sideloader/
development to ensure optimum visibility for the driver saw the perfection of the under-deck battery system, with the power pack strategically placed at the rear of the truck between the drive motors – giving a clear line of sight to the rear and when reversing, and guaranteeing the best operator visibility of any comparable truck. This position also enables safe and easy battery removal from the low-level rear of the truck. Maintenance time has been kept to a minimum due to key service features such as its quick interchangeable battery for shift work, centralised grease points on the front and rear of the load platform and removable panels for easy access to the motor. Combilift CEO Martin McVicar commented: “We introduced our first 4-wheel sideloader around 10 years
Visit the timber industry’s biggest and best exhibition showcasing all you need to know about the dynamic world of Timber Construction. Featuring Hanson Plywood, Akzo Nobel industrial Coatings, BM TRADA, Fujian Tropical Hardwoods, and of course Timber Construction and Timber Trader UK magazines.
For more details visit: www.ukconstructionweek.com/Timber-Expo Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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FEATURE ERP & DIGITAL SYSTEMS
Driving Efficiency & Specialist ERP Chris Fisher, vice president of EMEA, LBMH Division at ECI Software Solutions explains how timber merchants can streamline their operations through the deployment of a specialist ERP system.
A
ccording to a survey undertaken by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
(RICS), Britain’s construction sector stagnated at the end of 2022, with home-building hit the hardest. Highlighting the impact of the economic downturn, the industry’s net workloads balance dropped to -1% in the fourth quarter, from +17% and +30% in the previous two quarters. While this report focused on the construction sector as a whole, the timber industry will certainly feel the impact, with many business owners now considering new ways to drive efficiencies and maintain overall profit margins. Harnessing your data While many are well-aware of the valuable insight their data holds, some are still in the dark about what is really going on across their Simplify purchasing
organisation. There are a number of potential reasons for this, from a reliance on paper-based processes, to a lack of interaction between
From both a logistical and financial point of view, stocking the
departments leading to siloed and disintegrated data. For a timber
wrong items or too much inventory can cause big problems, and no
merchant to see a real performance uplift, all teams need full visibility
matter how confident you are in your own processes, this is a mistake
of the entire operation. Armed with this information, more informed
few merchants can afford to make. The volatility of today’s market
decisions can then be made to improve key processes and drive profits.
has highlighted how the price of certain product lines can suddenly plummet or increase, and in such a climate, merchants need to be able
The benefits of a specialist ERP system
to adapt in order to survive.
First thing’s first – what is an ERP system? More commonly known
If cash is tied up in the warehouse or in unwanted products
as business management software, an enterprise resource planning
gathering dust on the shelves, it cannot be reinvested in other parts
(ERP) system is a tool that all departments within an organisation can
of the business and may result in customers choosing a different
utilise to manage key operations, from inventory management to
supplier. ERP systems can put an end to this problem, offering a range
accounting and purchasing.
of purchasing options including automated ordering and the ability to
ERP systems are designed to centralise data and streamline ways of
order stock based on past PO’s. It’s common that timber merchants
working. Once a piece of information is uploaded to the system, it can
might need to stock very specific product lines, so the ability to
be accessed by anyone, at any time. Should your most valued customer
integrate special orders and vendor catalogues into the system, will
call to enquire about the status of their order whilst you are off site, a
also help to ensure the right items and quantities are ordered.
colleague can simply log-in and provide an update. This is vital in today’s
Overcoming the hurdles that the timber industry is currently
climate, when efficient and dedicated customer service is key.
facing is certainly no small task, and with margins increasingly tight,
Instead of wasting time searching for important, yet hard to find
prioritising efficiency saving is key. While generic, off the shelf ERP
information, an in-built document management system can retrieve
systems may bring some benefit, an ERP system that’s built by
files in just a few seconds, with staff using simple phrases or single
merchants, for merchants, can help drive performance, understanding
word search terms. Similarly, with everything saved on a central system,
the specific day-to-day challenges merchant businesses face and
teams can start to build an accurate picture of a customer’s order
offering features designed to overcome them.
history, allowing sales representatives to add a more personalised More at https://bit.ly/3ZM3JEw
touch to their service. Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2022-2023
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FEATURE RACKING & STORAGE
The Importance of Training
Have you considered the consequences if a bad accident happened at your workplace? The nightmare of sorting out the legalities, tidying up any mess and dealing with a visit from the HSE? The Storage Equipment Manufacturer’s Association (SEMA) can help stop a problem before it happens.
E
mployee and customer
When it comes to the ongoing
What happens when the equipment has
safety is hugely important
been installed? You load the racking, and
maintenance of your racking the ideal solution
and adopting correct Health
everyone starts using it. But this is when the
is to equip your employees with the tools to
& Safety processes in the
problems can start. When in use your racking
become safety advocates. They will be using
workplace is critical, but this must extend
will be subject to knocks and bumps. These
it daily, making them ideally situated to notice
through to your storage equipment – an
‘little incidents’ can develop into serious
if anything goes wrong. This can only happen
area that can be easily forgotten.
problems with the risk level usually increases if
successfully if they have been trained on how
the damage is left unchecked.
to correctly load and work with the racking.
Meet Your Racking Responsibilities
Training, training, training
Fortunately, fatal racking accidents are rare in this country but there is always the potential for them to happen. We certainly know our SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors
At SEMA we believe that training plays an
You should be aware that your racking is
have plenty of real-life stories to tell on the
classed as work equipment. Under PUWER
essential role in maximising safety levels, and it is
‘what could have happened’ and ‘what might
(Provisions and Use of Work Equipment
something we instil throughout the lifetime of a
have been’ scenarios.
Regulations 1998) you have a responsibility
racking structure. For example, we have a national
to ensure it is suitable for the intended use,
registration programme for installers of racking
safe to use, maintained in a safe condition
equipment called SEIRS. An important element
and inspected. You must ensure it is only
of the programme is to train under assessment
is safe starts at the point when you decide
used by people who have received adequate
conditions on the safe and correct installation
to buy the equipment. You need to select
information, instruction and training.
methods to meet SEMA defined standards and
Get the basics right The process of ensuring that your storage
storage equipment that has been designed and independently assessed to ensure it will live up to its intended role. The design should address the space and width of your unit, maximise your storage capability, improve efficiencies and protect employees around the warehouse. Once on site, the racking must be installed correctly to meet manufacturer and industry specifications using installers who have been correctly trained. Timber Trader UK Magazine
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FEATURE RACKING & STORAGE
also manufacturer’s specifications. This includes
The course also provides guidance on the
structural engineer has designed it to meet
very important details that guarantee the integrity
best inspection routine to implement. It will
SEMA codes and independent tests have
of your structure such as the number and type of
advise on how to conduct a risk assessment,
been conducted on the equipment to ensure
floor fixings and how they should be positioned
record an inspection and report on damage
it meets its intended role. Any unauthorised
and tightened to meet manufacturers’ tolerances.
levels and action points. Committing to a
work or repairs could dramatically impact the
structured inspection should identify any
integrity of the structure.
We also advocate training for your employees, our Rack Safety Awareness course
problems early and can significantly reduce
has been developed around the SEMA Users
costly maintenance bills.
of distributor and installation companies who are qualified to conduct work on the
Code (and other guidance) and very specific What if my racking needs repair work?
to end users sites. This recommends that
At SEMA we have a supportive structure
manufacturer’s behalf. For peace of mind
Be aware that any work on your storage
always check that the installers erecting your
a Person Responsible for Racking Safety
equipment could affect your manufacturer’s
equipment are correctly trained and qualified
(PRRS). The PRRS is responsible for ensuring
warranty. For example, when you buy a
to do the job. Ask to see their SEIRS card
the racking is correctly used, inspected and
structure manufactured by a SEMA Full
before any work starts – it’s the best way to
maintained.
Member it provides reassurance that a
maximise safety.
warehouse and management should nominate
Who are SEMA? For over 50 years, SEMA has been working hard to provide
to rigorously defined standards. SEMA Distributor Companies and
technical standards and guidance to the storage industry with
SEMA Approved Installation Companies are routinely audited to
aim of enhancing safety over the lifetime of your racking.
ensure they consistently meet industry standards, Codes of Practice
As a leading voice within the industry, our work is upheld
and legislative requirements. The circle is completed by our SEMA
by member companies who are united in raising standards and
Approved Rack Inspector and SEIRS training initiative for installers.
helping warehouse owners meet their legal obligations. SEMA manufacturing members’ products are independently tested to
You can find out more about SEMA training courses by emailing:
guarantee they have been designed, manufactured and installed
enquiry@sema.org.uk or visiting www.sema.org.uk
WE MAKE THE UK’S WIDEST RANGE OF STORAGE OPTIONS FOR TIMBER MERCHANTS
PROJECT RACKS DESIGNED AND
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HIGHLY COMPETITIVE BESPOKE
WE DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALL CANTILEVER RACKING, PALLET RACKING,VERTICAL STORAGE AND PIGEON HOLE RACKING CALL US NOW FOR YOUR FREE SITE SURVEY ON 01543 278123 OR EMAIL sales@stakapal.co.uk
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BETTY’S LANE, NORTON CANES, CANNOCK, STAFFORDSHIRE, WS11 9NZ
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Advertise online with Timber Media’s Products & Services
For more details on how to subscribe to our online Products & Services Directory visit our website: www.timbermedia.co.uk/online-products-services-advertising or email terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk Timber Trader UK Magazine
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Nature’s first choice
View and order stock on MY VDC
Prompt delivery
2025 – our aim is to trade in Certified timber only from 2025 onwards
Contact Bergstraat 25 8511 Aalbeke Belgium vandecasteele.be
genevieve@vandecasteele.be +32 56 43 33 00 dave@vandecasteele.be +44 15 94 83 43 32
Think outside the box
At Timber Connection we’re always looking for innovative ways to improve the service we provide. Our team of timber experts can assess your individual needs to provide buying solutions that are tailor-made just for you. Whether you’re buying your timber direct from origin, on water, ex quay, or ex stock, why not find out how we can make a difference. Timber Connection, we’re easy to do business with.
Better, connected. www.timberconnection.co.uk