TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Donaldson Group acquires Stewart Milne Timber Systems The Donaldson Group, has acquired the UK’s leading timber frame
“This is an exciting move for the Donaldson Group, as we venture
manufacturer, Stewart Milne Timber Systems (SMTS), marking the
into the timber frame market at a time when interest in the material
Donaldson Group’s entry into the timber frame market.
has never been higher. The use of timber frame is anticipated to double
Established in 1975 as the timber frame arm of the Stewart
in the next five years as housebuilders turn to modern methods of
Milne Group, Aberdeen-based SMTS is a UK pioneer in timber frame
construction and renewable sources to achieve crucial net-zero carbon
technology and manufacturing, operating throughout the country from
targets. This acquisition supports the Donaldson Group’s commitment
three manufacturing plants in Aberdeen, Witney and a new facility in
to sustainability: building a sustainable business and supporting a
Falkirk.
sustainable industry.”
All staff and operations will continue unchanged. Alex Goodfellow
Alex Goodfellow, CEO, Donaldson Off-site Manufacturing, added:
(Stewart Milne Group managing director – strategic development)
“We have secured the perfect partner who is committed to our growth
will transfer with the business into the role of CEO, Donaldson Off-
strategy and who will support us to achieve our vision. The Donaldson
site Manufacturing and join Rod Allan (SMTS managing director) and
Group has a strong reputation for partnerships, reliability and integrity
the current Board of Directors in continuing to drive the business.
and we are clearly aligned both strategically and operationally which
The Donaldson Group is committed to the Board’s growth plans and
can only help strengthen our market-leading position.”
supporting SMTS achieve its ambition.
Stuart MacGregor, chief executive of Stewart Milne Group, said:
With 160 years of expertise in timber importing and distribution, as
“This deal represents an exceptional outcome for both parties. The
well as decades of experience in timber engineering and merchanting,
scale of the opportunity in the growing timber frame market and the
this acquisition strategically and operationally complements the
stellar growth of SMTS presented a highly compelling investment
Donaldson Group portfolio, allowing the Group to offer a stronger
proposition and we are pleased to have found the right buyer who
timber package for residential and commercial applications to all their
will continue to invest in the business and its people. The sale of SMTS
current and future customers.
will enable Stewart Milne Group to strengthen our investment in our
Announcing the acquisition, Andrew Donaldson, CEO of the
thriving homes business which has seen record levels of sales in the last
Donaldson Group, said: “We’re delighted and proud to have successfully
18 months and, with our differentiated approach to place-making and
acquired this terrific timber frame business. This deal secures the future
new homes range, is now superbly positioned for future growth.”
for a leading UK-based business; enabling the growth plans for it to
SMTS joins the Donaldson Group portfolio of leading independent
reach its full potential, while providing reliability and stability for its
brands: MGM Timber, Donaldson Timber Engineering, James
existing and new customers. SMTS is a natural fit for the Donaldson
Donaldson Timber, James Donaldson Insulation, Smith & Frater,
Group; it offers a similar family-owned ethos and has a strong
Rowan Manufacturing, Nu-Style Products, Kitchens International and
reputation and track record for investment and innovation. We’re
Stonecare.
pleased to welcome all 411 employees to our family business and look More at www.jamesdonaldsontimber.co.uk
forward to working closely with Alex and the full team. Timber Trader UK Magazine
Winter 2021-2022
02
www.timbermedia.co.uk
@Timber_Media
