Timber Trader UK Issue 22 (Autumn 2023)

22

AUTUMN 2023 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2517–26X (PRINT)

TRADER UK

COMBILIFT  20 Container loading and using the Combi-CSS to move your timber products quickly, efficiently and safely National Buying Group  18

Timber Recycling  36

Helping independent merchants develop wider building industry purchasing power

How material efficiency can lead to sustainability gains and deliver wider environmental projects

TIMBER TRADER UK  ISSUE 22 CONTENTS 04  News A range of news and views from across the timber industry.

04

16

18

20

22

24

28

34

16  Combined Forces With a new cross-association agreement in place to boost collaboration, TDUK Chief Executive David Hopkins, explains how this will help to benefit the whole timber supply chain.

18  Routes to Wider Markets We spoke to Nick Oates, managing director for the National Buying Group, about aims to be the UK’s most professional, progressive and reputable buying group in the building industry.

20  Cover Story: Premium Container Loading Combilift is helping transform the loading of timber into containers quickly and more efficiently with the innovative Combi-CSS, with one international customer finding it invaluable.

22  Learning Through Timber The new ‘living lab’ at NMITE will act as a home for Centre of Advanced Timber Technology students to learn more about timber and a net zero approach to building materials.

24  UKCW 2023 This year’s UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham, saw attendance up 8% year on year, attracting 24,377 visitors to the three-day show that also included Timber Expo.

26  Redefining & Optimising Packaging A new breakthrough report offers innovative strategies for optimising packaging practices in the built environment, highlighting barriers to change and policy challenges.

28  Specify Correctly for Protection New research for the BWF Fire Door Alliance has shown that uptake of third-party certification lags despite legislation and intention to specify certified fire doors.

34  Solar Success Investing in solar panels to power warehouse and manufacturing facilities, is being widely considered an important way to lower carbon footprints but critically to reduce energy bills.

Consultant Editor: Gary Ramsay

Registered address:

 hannah.jones@timbermedia.co.uk

Structural Timber Media Ltd,



36  Make it Circular Scott Wolters, EGGER UK’s building product sales manager, explains how timber recycling is at the centre of material efficiency and sustainability gains.

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

£10m acquisition for Bradford timber merchant

(L to R): Chris Powell of Savoy Timber Holdings, (back) Gavin Lamb of Azets, and (front) Hitesh Tailor and Luke Mansfield of Clarion

After more than 70 years of trading, Savoy Timber Ltd, a Lancashire-

The vendor was advised by Ormrods Solicitors. Banking was provided by

headquartered family business, has been acquired by Savoy Timber

NatWest with legal advice from Schofield Sweeney.

Holdings Ltd, a new company set up by Chris Powell of Estate

Chris Powell said: “After acquiring Estate Sawmills in 2020, we

Sawmills Ltd, a fast-growing Bradford-based timber merchant.

have seen rapid expansion, and the acquisition of Savoy will enable

Established in 1952, Savoy Holdings, which trades as Savoy Timber,

us to continue our growth journey in this dynamic sector. Savoy is a

has grown into a £15million turnover timber merchant group with

long-established and well-known business that not only broadens our

superstores in Preston, Blackpool and Wigan as well as an online store.

presence across the North, but its strong e-commerce platform also

With customers across the UK, the business supplies a wide range of

increases our market share throughout the UK as well as expanding our

timber products including doors, decking and worktops. It employs 82

product offering.

people.

“While Estate Sawmills has focused on external timber products,

The acquisition complements the operations of Estate Sawmills,

Savoy offers an extensive range covering all timber products, both

another family-run business based in Heaton, Bradford. Headed up by

inside and outside the house. This expanded product line will now

Chris Powell, it supplies timber, fencing, decking, agricultural products

also be available via Estate Sawmills. We have an ambitious vision

and gates to trade and DIY customers nationwide. The deal follows the

and this latest acquisition marks another important milestone as we

retirement of George Cornwell, managing director of Savoy Holdings.

seek to press on with our expansion, having capitalised on the garden

The business will continue to trade as Savoy Timber.

improvement boom post-Covid. We are now actively looking for a

The transaction was in the region of £10million. Hitesh Tailor,

complementary timber business in the South to strengthen our national

Nicola Cooper and Jonathan Simms of Clarion provided legal advice to

coverage.”

the buyer, supported by colleague Julie Evans who provided property More at  www.savoytimber.com

advice and Gavin Lamb of Azets provided financial advice.

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

King Charles III visits James Jones & Sons Aboyne site His Majesty King Charles III visited James Jones & Sons Ltd Aboyne sawmill on 3 October. His Majesty first visited the sawmill in 1999 when he was Prince of Wales, and many employees are still with the company today to witness his second visit to the site. The visit commemorated the completion of the sawmill’s extensive £15million redevelopment programme that has taken place over the last five years.

His Majesty was given a tour of the site, including the mill’s flood defence system, timber processing plant and the kilns before being introduced to a number of long-standing employees, apprentices and student placements. His Majesty then signed the company’s visitor book and unveiled a plaque that marked the occasion before being presented with an engraved wooden bowl.

Tom Bruce-Jones, chairman of James Jones & Sons Ltd, said: “We were honoured to welcome His

James Jones & Sons has also announced that from October 2023,

Majesty to our Aboyne site to demonstrate the extent of our recent

all timber and co-products supplied by the company will be dual

sawmill investments and technology upgrades. We discussed the

certified as FSC and PEFC. This includes all timber delivered from that

significant benefits of productive forestry acting as carbon sinks and the

date, regardless of what date it was produced.

merits of continuing to meet and exceed annual planting targets across

Graham Blyth, sales director at James Jones & Sons, said: “The

the UK. We were able to showcase the environmental advantages of

dual certification offers our customers a greater choice when buying

UK grown structural timber products to support our collective views on

sustainable timber. The Soil Association, as our certification body, fully

building future houses sustainably.”

approved our ability to offer all our timber and co-products as dual FSC

The King thanked “marvellous” workers for processing timber from

and PEFC certified. Our customers can continue to sell their timber as

Balmoral and said: “Well done everybody thank you very much for all

FSC certified but will now also have the choice to stock and sell as PEFC

the efforts you made. I hadn’t realised what an area you cover around

certified should their customers require this.”

the world, it depends on all the marvellous people who put so much More at  www.jamesjones.co.uk

into it.”

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Timber Trader UK Magazine

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Koppers moves to new Marlow home Koppers, the leading global producer of timber treatment products, has moved from its historic headquarters to a new home in Marlow, Buckinghamshire. The move comes as part of wider investment and efficiency-maximising plans by the business.

With deep roots in the town, Koppers’ UK headquarters has been in Marlow since 1953. The move to the 2000sq ft premises in Jubilee House has allowed Koppers to maintain its link with Marlow while also ensuring the company is best positioned to service its customers and undertake a period of significant investment and growth. The modern office facilities in Marlow are focused solely on the company’s sales and administration functions. All laboratory, testing and manufacturing facilities that were previously part of Koppers’ operations in the town have moved to the company’s

The decision follows careful planning and consultation with staff,

Darlington site.

enabling the business to ensure job security across every department.

Sales director, Paul Cave, explains: “Koppers has a proud and

Koppers is investing in its Darlington site to significantly increase its

longstanding history in Marlow. We were the first business on what is

manufacturing capacity, improve efficiency and enhance its laboratory

now the Globe Business Park in Marlow, moving onto the site over 75

capabilities, to deal with increased market demand for support services

years ago, and have operated from there ever since. As we continue to

on testing and quality control in line with the new best practice

grow and invest in our operational efficiency and market offering, now

guidelines issued by the WPA & TDUK.

was the time to review our locations and facilities to ensure that they

Koppers has also invested in its R&D facilities in Nyborg Denmark.

met our business needs today, and in the future.

The upgrade will provide enhanced R&D facilities for Koppers new

“It was important for us to maintain our legacy as part of the

product development programmes as well as traditional development

Marlow community, but we also wanted to ensure that our testing

work examining the impregnation process of its customers specific

and production facilities are as efficient and cutting-edge as possible.

wood types to determine whether the timber will look and perform to

That has led to the decision to maintain our presence in Marlow, while

the necessary standards.

integrating all laboratory and manufacturing facilities in one state-ofMore at  www.kopperspc.eu

the-art location in Darlington.”

WPA appoints new fire expert as Gordon Ewbank announces retirement The Wood Protection Association (WPA) has

regulations and any other matters that could

announced that Dr Matthew Powell (pictured)

affect the market for FR treated wood,

has been appointed to take responsibility for

products, and processes. He will also act as

the Flame Retardant (FR) related activities

the spokesperson on FR treated wood and

conducted by the organisation.

wood-based materials in internal and external

Matthew will be taking the reins from

communications and at WPA events.

Gordon Ewbank – who gave notice at the

Matthew’s expertise lies in getting

July WPA board meeting, of his intention to

products to market – which involves intensive

retire at the end of 2023. Gordon has served

research and data collection - particularly fire

the WPA and the timber treatment industry

test data, which stands him in good stead

for many years. Over the next few weeks

for his roles at the WPA. The WPA is the UK

Gordon and Matthew will be working together

lead body on all matters concerning wood

for a smooth transition. Matthew is highly

protection and has a respected voice with

experienced in wood protection technology

many British and European Standards setters.

and his WPA management team colleagues

In addition, we have strategic partnerships in

are looking forward to working with him.

place with other major trade associations, so

Matthew’s role will include acting as chair

that we speak with one voice on such issues.

of the WPA FR Committee, keeping Members of the WPA up to date with standards, Timber Trader UK Magazine

More at  www.thewpa.org.uk

Autumn 2023

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

MKM continues to expand branch network MKM have been busy with a series of new branch openings with Newcastle, London Colney and Thame being its 123rd and most recent branch in the UK opening on 2 October.

All new branches have created dozens of new jobs.

MKM allows each site to operate independently under its Branch Directors, giving them full autonomy to stock the products and set the prices that are right for their local community.

Each branch has continuous support of a Central Support office based in Hull. MKM Thame Branch Directors Aaron Campbell and Jake Sherwin have extensive ties to the Thame community, bringing expertise in the merchanting industry and a deep understanding of local needs to the new branch.

Aaron said: “I’ve seen first-hand MKM’s commitment to creating exceptional workplaces that support the local

With a 30,000sq ft warehouse, all MKM Thame timber is dry

community, and we’re determined to bring the same blueprint to our

stored, and the branch will stock a full selection of building, timber,

Thame branch. We’re looking forward to supporting local businesses,

and plumbing and heating supplies. Other benefits include a specialist

community projects and providing local sponsorship support.

professional kitchen and bathroom team and a 2,000sq ft kitchen

Tradespeople want fair consistent pricing, knowledgeable staff, and

and bathroom showroom showcasing products from market leading

the best service, oh, and free coffee. We’re going to give them that and

suppliers.

more. I’m proud that Thame will now have a local merchant for local More at  www.mkm.com

people, something it has needed for years.”

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Climate-activist millionaires back Makar Timber Engineering

Solar entrepreneurs and climate campaigners Dr Jeremy Leggett and

in the middle of a climate crisis. Continuing to build these concrete and

Paddy Padmanathan have backed MAKAR Timber Engineering (MTE),

steel structures is an act of unnecessary suicide. The places we construct

a new company that seeks to usher in a new era of fit for purpose

are both pragmatic and symbolic of our lives and relationship to the

net zero built environments.

world. MTE’s focus is on net zero buildings will lead to an acceleration in

At a time when some short-lived carbon intensive concrete and

the delivery of a built environment that is far more appropriate for the

steel buildings are literally crumbling around us, MTE’s timber-based

challenges and opportunities of the twenty first century.”

net zero, and even carbon negative, commercial buildings – made

Dr Jeremy Leggett said: “It’s time for timber. We are now

from locally sourced natural materials – are the radical shift that is

seeing how cutting corners and taking a short-term view of our built

needed, away from the short-sighted steel, plastic and concrete built

environment can cause our buildings to fail us. Using the UK’s natural

environment. It is now widely recognised that the only plausible way

timber resource, MTE can deliver equally fit for purpose if not better

to deliver a net-zero carbon built environment is through using more

net zero and even carbon negative buildings with long life spans, all

timber-based systems.

while stimulating the rural economy through short supply chains. It’s a

Having presided over the meteoric rise of the solar renewable

win-win.”

energy industry, both Leggett and Padmanathan hope that their

Paddy Padmanathan added: “In the four years since the Scottish

investments are a clear signal to other companies, councils and the

Government declared a Climate and Biodiversity Emergency, we have

government that a huge step change is required within the construction

all moved far too slowly towards a ‘just transition’. While we are shifting

industry also, if the UK is to deliver on its net zero promises and design

towards renewable energy this is only half the picture. We must reduce

healthy built environments that are fit for the future.

both our operational carbon requirements and the embodied carbon

Neil Sutherland, founder and director of MTE, said: “It is deeply

within our built environment. It is the only sane choice we have.”

frustrating to watch organisations, both public and private, continue More at  www.makartimberengineering.co.uk

to mindlessly commission such unnecessarily carbon intensive builds, Timber Trader UK Magazine

Autumn 2023

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

MGM Timber wins People in Retail awards Scotland’s largest independent specialist timber merchant, MGM Timber has won the Ecommerce & Tech Engagement of the Year award at this year’s People in Retail Awards. Following the repositioning of MGM Timber’s 14 physical branches into omnichannel retailers, the award celebrates the success of the business’ online trading since May 2020, followed by 87% and 63% year-on-year growth.

As MGM Timber continues to invest in the customer experience, its innovative ecommerce platform offers personalised pricing and comprehensive business account management for its trade customers while its retail customers benefit from receiving online orders via both delivery and click-and-collect services.

As a result of its successful ecommerce and tech

Graham Johnston, CEO of Retail and Distribution (Donaldson Group) and Steve Galbraith, managing director (MGM Timber)

engagement strategy, MGM Timber has increased footfall across its retail branches and kitchen

showrooms as well as maintaining positive customer feedback.

both trade and retail customers. Graham Johnston, CEO of Retail and

A spokesperson on behalf of the judges added: “The judges were

Distribution at the Donaldson Group, said: “At MGM Timber, we believe

impressed with the transition from a traditional bricks and mortar store

that a better experience for our staff translates into an enhanced

to a significant online presence. The approach of putting customers

experience for our customers. We have always kept our customers at

first and using online to support and not replace their existing offering

the forefront of our operations, ensuring their feedback shapes our

has contributed to the incredible year-on-year growth.”

website development and product roadmap.”

MGM Timber (Scotland) Ltd was established in 1991 and has grown More at  www.mgmtimber.co.uk

to become Scotland’s local independent timber merchant of choice for

TimberX launches new supply business TimberX, a new timber supply business based in the outskirts of Hull and part of the Kybotech Ltd group – the company behind Garden Buildings Direct and BillyOh garden furniture – has launched its new, familyowned timber supply business. Timber X provides high-quality, sustainable timber production and has quickly become one of the largest suppliers in the UK. TimberX offers a comprehensive range of products from rough-sawn timber to highquality manufactured timber products. All this is delivered from their 106,000sq ft state-ofthe-art facility, which includes three high-speed moulding lines, automated cross-cut facilities and a fully automatic pressure treatment tank – one of the largest of its kind in the UK. Placing great importance on sustainable timber production, TimberX recognises the significance of preserving forests and

site’s bespoke tool room means cutters and

needs of TimberX customers first-hand. This

maximising carbon capture. The company has

blocks can be made to request and maintained

is an important milestone for us, and we will

implemented stringent sourcing practices to

in-house.

continue to grow and strengthen TimberX’s

ensure the timber they supply comes only

“We are delighted to welcome TimberX

from FSC and PEFC sources. Their dedicated

to the Kybotech family,” says Charles Walton,

and highly experienced team naturally

Kybotech CEO. “Having worked with timber

facilitate customer requirements, while the

suppliers for my entire career I understand the

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Autumn 2023

10

position as a leading supplier of sustainable timber in the UK.” More at  timberx.co.uk

www.timbermedia.co.uk

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Moelven strengthens UK market presence for timber products

L-R Kim Cooper, Julie Shotton, Russ Fletcher, Jessica Wigren, Colin Little, Pehr Eriksson and Katherine Wheeler.

Moelven is set to challenge the largest timber suppliers in the

“We see that our customers want more planed products. From April

UK with a strengthened sales team offering more expertise in

next year, we will also have our own planer connected to the sawmill, so

construction planed wood products and more customer service

that we can ensure that customers can order both sawn wood products

staff. The sales team will consist of Russ Fletcher, who has worked at

and C24 from Moelven Valåsen.

Moelven for 16 years, Colin Little and Moelven UK managing director

“From our 15 sawmills and planing mills, we get access to wood

Pehr Eriksson, with Colin being Moelven’s new sales manager for

products from trees that grows slowly. This means that the wood

construction planed wood products.

is strong and suitable for everything from construction timber to

“Colin’s expertise from the industry is essential and we are

furniture production. Our colleagues at our sawmills know wood and

delighted to have him on board to help us develop this product area for

know how to achieve the best possible product quality through sawing,

Moelven UK,” says Pehr Eriksson. “Colin will also promote our group’s

drying and planing. With the investment of 300million SEK for the new

plywood and laminated goods in the UK market. I’m a third-generation

saw line at Moelven Valåsen and associated planer, Moelven can offer a

woodworker. My father started a sawmill that is still in operation in

wider range of construction planed timber to the UK market.”

Vesterbotten. Now I sell Swedish and Norwegian wood products in

To meet increased sales and new logistics, the back-office team

England.” The knowledge Pehr has brought with him from his childhood

at Moelven UK has also been strengthened. “Our aim is to work

is useful when he works to find the perfect match between raw

proactively with our customers who order wood products from

materials from Moelven’s sawmills and customers’ production needs.

Moelven,” says office manager Katherine Wheeler. “We will follow up

“It’s important for me to visit our customers’ production facilities

with our customers faster and with improved after sales and logistics.”

to find out how we can match their needs with the fantastic raw

The back-office team also includes Kim Cooper, who has worked in

materials we produce,” adds Pehr. Now even more Moelven products

the timber industry for 35 years and Julie Shotton, backed by trainee

will be available on the UK market from Sweden. With the new saw

Jessica Wigren whom has joined the team to learn about the UK timber

line at Moelven Valåsen, we will increase production from 350,000m3

industry and contribute with increased digitalisation at the office.

to 515,000m3 of sawn timber products per year. This is equivalent to More at  www.moelven.com/uk

10,000 lorry loads.

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Mon Timber celebrates new appointments Leading timber supplier Mon Timber has appointed a series of new branch managers

and encourage more footfall to the site.”

Rhys Wilkins has joined the Newport Mon

across its Newport, Cardiff and Crumlin

Timber site as branch manager, moving from

sites. Mon Timber is a successful and well-

the Cardiff branch where he has worked in

respected supplier of timber products,

the company for 19 years. He aims to push

joinery and roof trusses, operating from

the site’s joinery capabilities whilst continuing

four sites between Newport and Cardiff.

to develop his relationships with customers

Steve Evans has joined the newly

and suppliers. Rhys said: “This is a great

rebranded Crumlin branch from Robert Price

opportunity for me and I’m looking forward

Builders Merchants, entering the timber

to working closely with existing customers

industry through his new managerial role. The

as well as expanding our customer base. I’m

site has recently joined the Mon Timber brand,

excited for the new challenges ahead.”

which is part of Premier Forest Products,

In Cardiff, Steve Thomas has joined as

enabling the branch to expand the product

branch manager from his previous role in sales

range available to customers.

with Premier Forest, saying: “Mon Timber has

I love to mentor newer staff members, to continue the welcoming environment I have experienced.”

Mon Timber is part of Premier Forest

Steve said: “I’m very excited to have

an excellent reputation for both service and

Products, a vertically integrated timber

joined Mon Timber and look forward to the

expertise, so it’s been a great opportunity to

operation engaged in the importation,

challenge of entering a new industry and

join the Cardiff branch. In addition, our prime

sawmilling, processing, merchanting, and

learning on the job. Mon Timber has a great

location on Hadfield Road opens up our new

wholesale distribution of timber and timber

reputation in the south Wales area which has

click and collect, and delivery services to

products from multiple sites in the UK.

only been reinforced through the rebrand of

customers in Cardiff and the local area. I’ve

the Crumlin branch, so I hope to continue this

been in the trade for over 20 years now and

More at  www.montimber.co.uk

Aptus secures UKTA for structural timber screw Aptus, the specialist supplier of fixings and

struct® screws employ a number of innovative

fastenings to the construction industry, has

features. Specifically, they are manufactured

secured UK Technical Assessment (UKTA)

from a specialised grade of steel which is

certification for its pro-struct® structural

combined with an advanced heat treatment

timber screws. The approval follows an in-

process. This enables pro-struct® screws to

depth assessment conducted by the British

accommodate the natural movements of

Board of Agrement (BBA). It certifies that the

the timber without shearing. The screws also

in the UK compared to 8mm diameter screws

entire pro-struct® range complies with the

benefit from cutting-edge thread geometry

which are typically designed for the larger

requirements set out for screws by European

for a quicker drive and better pull-out

joists used across continental Europe.

Assessment Document (EAD) 130118-01-060.

resistance, as well as a larger diameter head,

These parameters assess a product’s performance against no less than 14 different criteria – including tensile strength, bending

Commenting on the UKTA certification,

which improves resistance to head pull-

Winston Kilburn, commercial sales manager at

through.

Aptus, said: “The specialist challenges involved

In addition, they have a zinc plated coating

in structural timber fixing applications often

angle, insertion movement, head pull-through,

which has been salt spray tested to 500hrs

warrants an equally specialist solution. Despite

yield strength, reaction to fire and durability

ensuring compliance with service class 2 of

this, many screws and fasteners are marketed

against corrosion. EAD 130118-01-060, which

Eurocode 5. The pro-struct® structural timber

as being designed for this purpose with little

has been developed using the latest technical

screws are currently available in a variety of

to no substance behind those claims. As a

and scientific knowledge, ultimately aims to

lengths up to 300mm with a 400mm option

business that’s committed to being a trusted

provide independent verification that specific

due to be launched imminently. These longer

fastener partner, Aptus wanted to give our

screws and are suitable for use in timber

sizes make pro-struct® screws ideally suited

customers verifiable proof that our pro-struct

construction where static and quasi-static

to the growing challenge of fixing through

products are structural timber screws in name

loads are present.

increasingly thicker insulation as demanded by

- and in nature. UKTA does precisely that and

continually evolving Building Regulations.

we’re delighted to have received this widely

To ensure they can offer a working life of 50 years when used in timber construction

Reflecting this, the gauges available

applications such as forming connections or

include 6mm. This gauge of screw is more

securing insulation to rafters, Aptus pro-

suited to the narrower joist sizes employed

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Autumn 2023

14

recognised and respected certification.”

More at  www.aptusfastener.co.uk

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FEATURE  TDUK

Combined Forces With a new cross-association agreement in place to boost collaboration, TDUK chief executive David Hopkins, explains how this will help to benefit the whole timber supply chain.

T

imber Development UK

year to help bring different parts of the supply

of technical specification and design

(TDUK) and the Structural

chain together. This MoU takes us one step

guidance for our members

Timber Association (STA)

closer to achieving that.

have signed a Memorandum

•

Accelerate a low-carbon future: by creating the tools, training and guidance to support

Both parties will also be working together

of Understanding (MoU) to help grow and

to promote the use of timber as a housing

the design and construction sectors to

develop the timber construction market.

construction solution during 2024. TDUK was

utilise timber in their net-zero solutions.

Under the terms of the agreement, the two

formed in 2022 from the merger of Timber

parties have agreed to form a partnership

Trade Federation and TRADA – the two

and collaborate on technical projects to

oldest trade bodies in the timber sector. The

the UK’s leading organisation representing the

further the development of timber design

formation of TDUK creates the largest, most

structural timber sector and associated supply

and construction as well as on policy related

comprehensive supply chain body for timber

chain companies. The Association exists to

communication matters.

in the UK with more than 1,200 members.

represent the collective interest of its members

TDUK formed with three key aims:

by providing confidence in the use of structural

Both parties already produce technical

The STA has more than 850 members and is

timber across the construction industry.

and design guidance for architects, engineers Connect the supply chain: to improve

Working to influence legislation and

will help ensure that both parties avoid

dialogue, understanding and market

regulation, the STA supports the objectives

duplication in their work and that the market

opportunity between and for all points of

of the structural timber sector as a whole.

is better served with agreed, authoritative

the chain from sawmill to specifier

By connecting construction professionals,

Lead best practice: by building the

the STA supports and collaborates with

largest, most comprehensive online library

members to showcase the many benefits

and manufacturers. This new collaboration

sources of technical information.

It will also ensure that the downstream,

•

•

manufacturing and design sectors of the timber supply chain are speaking with ‘one voice’ to policy makers. This will be conducted according to a common advocacy plan under the umbrella of the Confederation of Timber Industries (CTI). I’m delighted to sign this with the STA. In many ways it formalises what we have already been doing – working together to help grow the market – but gives a fresh

“If timber is going to take centre stage in the construction sector, then we need to ensure that we work with all parts of the supply chain. This partnership will allow us to maximise the strengths of both organisations for the common good.”

Andrew Carpenter, chief cxecutive, STA

impetus to us doing so. We formed TDUK last Timber Trader UK Magazine

Autumn 2023

16

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 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  TDUK

of structural timber. The STA also provides member benefits including the STA Assure Quality Assurance Scheme, research and testing, networking opportunities, and direct engagement with government and industry bodies.

A roadmap for timber construction The STA and TDUK have been working closely together over the past 18 months, with Confor and others, to help inform the Government’s ‘Timber in Construction Roadmap’ – a policy initiative spanning several departments to help grow the market for timber construction.

The roadmap will be a policy document that outlines how the government plans to promote the safe expansion of timber

David Hopkins, chief executive, TDUK

construction. This document will be a

Andrew Carpenter, chief executive, STA

culmination of working group discussions examining the actions government and

•

industry must take to address key barriers to timber expansion. These barriers have been

•

identified by industry subgroups as: • •

Demand – how do we make timber the material of choice for builders?

•

•

Insurance – how do we address insurance

Through the CTI, both TDUK and STA have

fears with timber?

been working to shape these discussions,

Building safety – how can we expand

alongside industry partners such as the

timber construction safely?

Confederation of Forest Industries and Built

Carbon – how can we reduce carbon in

By Nature. You can read a lot more about out

the built environment?

plans later this year with roadmap due to be

Labour and skills – how do we ensure

published in November.

Supply – how do we ensure supply is

the labour supply is adequate for future

adequate to meet future demand?

demand?

More at  www.timberdevelopment.uk

 New TDUK figures suggest market stability Timber import figures in H1 2023 highlight growing market stability following three volatile years, according to the latest TDUK statistics.

In the softwood sector, year-on-year volatility has slowed, with the difference in H1 totals between 2023/2022 just -5% compared to -17% in 2022/2021 and +49% in 2021/2020. Softwood imports from January to June 2023 stood at 3,217,000m3, closely resembling pre-covid levels seen in H1 2019.

Following record totals in 2022, hardwood imports have seen limited variation in 2023, with volumes sitting between 37,000m3 and 45,000m3 month on month. This stability has been echoed in the panel sector, where there has been monthly volume consistency in plywood, MDF and OSB categories.

Overall volumes in H1 2023 were 7% lower than H1 2022, however June totals were 2% higher than the previous year.

TDUK head of technical and trade, Nick Boulton, said: “The first six months of 2023 closely resemble the patterns seen pre-2020, suggesting stability has finally returned to the market. Brexit, COVID-19, and the Russia-Ukraine war created a perfect storm for our industry, with huge import fluctuations seen in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Barring another major market shock, we are unlikely to see these dramatic peaks and troughs return anytime soon.

“Though import stability has returned, the market situation in the UK remains tricky, with both inflation and interest rates remaining high. For this reason, the CPA have predicted a slowdown in crucial private housing and RMI sectors, which is likely to impact timber imports in Q3 and Q4. We must also be aware that the loss of Russian wood to the European market and the effects of climate change will significantly tighten wood supply in the coming years, making the efficient and effective use of wood resources an increasing priority. TDUK will be shedding more light on the market situation and supply forecasts at our upcoming Global Market Conference on 8 November.”

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  MERCHANT FOCUS

Routes to Wider Markets

National Buying Group (NBG) is the premier buying group for independent merchants, with an aim to be the UK’s most professional, progressive, and reputable buying group in the building industry. We spoke to managing director, Nick Oates about making this all happen.

F

ormed in 2003, NBG has over 80 Partner merchants

doesn’t just rely on pricing agreements, however. Deeply rooted within

who collectively operate through more than 300

the Group is a supportive culture that includes discussion forums,

outlets across the whole UK, from the Channel Islands

business advice, and social gatherings. When a new merchant Partner

to the north of Scotland. This coverage translates into

joins NBG, they always find strong support right from the start and see

a robust regional structure, ensuring that every Partner has an equal

immediate benefits to their business.”

voice within the NBG community.

A recent NBG report identified a disconnect between merchants and suppliers – why was that? “The survey ran as the sector was

“NBG was started as a way to provide independent merchants with

regaining a sense of normality post-COVID,” says Nick. “With some

the sort of buying power capable of competing with the major national merchants,” says Nick. “Over the last 20 years, our Group has grown to the point where we now comprise of 85 independent merchant Partners with a total of 310 branches. This collective gives us a buying power equivalent to £1billion per annum, while we also have 370 Supplier agreements in place across all product categories.

“What makes NBG unique, and what I believe is at the heart of our success, are our democratic values that inform every part of how we operate, resulting a strong community. NBG is a partnership, and our Partners set the priorities and direction with all decisions that will impact the Group are discussed and voted upon.”

Democracy is key – all Partners have an opportunity to be heard and have an influence on the decisions of the Group. By maintaining this commitment, it fosters ‘fairness and openness’ rather than a centralised approach that dictates rather than manages by consensus.

Driving aims “Our aim is to support independent merchants to buy better, primarily through our Category Management Teams which are committed to securing the best deals for our Partners,” says Nick.

“Ultimately, we strive to ensure our network is stronger than the sum of its parts, which is why our Partners are so committed to supporting

Nick Oates, managing director, NBG

these Supplier agreements. Buying better and driving business success Timber Trader UK Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  MERCHANT FOCUS

suppliers still working from home resulting in meaningful conversations

NBG’s eight Category Management Teams comprise Partner representatives with specialist knowledge and significant spend in their product areas.

between merchants and Suppliers simply weren’t happening frequently enough. This led to a skewed perception from

plastic packaging. Every one of our Partners and Suppliers has since

Suppliers that they were delivering a strong level of service despite our

been issued with guidance documents on how to navigate the financial

Partners feeling quite strongly that their experience was nowhere near

obligations around plastic packaging and we’re continuing to take

as positive. The reality is, both parties need to be conversing frequently

every possible step to help both to navigate emerging sustainability

to ensure relationships remain productive.

challenges.”

“We understand why there may have been a disconnect – as our

Commoditised products

survey confirmed, the high sales volumes, stock shortages, increased cost of raw materials and energy meant many Suppliers were likely

Timber is a very important category within NBG, and it has a

to have focused internally to mitigate potential negative impacts.

strategy of ‘Building Strong Brands’ as they see themselves as a

However, given the economic challenges that followed and continue

conduit to get the manufacturers’ products efficiently to market, whilst

to challenge the sector, more joined-up thinking and communication is

supporting their brand values. Nick says: “With commoditised products,

required. This is especially the case for independent merchants, where

this can be more challenging but one of our guiding principles is that

sales are reliant on support in the form of training, product information

we work with our Suppliers to sell their products.”

and competitive pricing from Suppliers.”

“A number of our merchants specialising in timber drive the agreement negotiations with our Suppliers on a monthly or annual basis

Reducing plastic packaging

depending on the product areas. Due to the nature of NBG being a national organisation with merchants

Sustainable packaging is key concern within the merchant sector – as is reducing and recycling waste

who order in different ways, we need a range of

generally – and the NBG is driving these important

Supplier solutions to meet the requirements of the

messages throughout the sector via its membership.

whole Group.

“The solutions will be a combination of factors

NBG strongly supports the requirement for sustainable solutions that are economically viable

to ensure we get the best prices, quality, service and

and have been active in several projects.

ranges to meet the individual merchant’s needs. When

“Ahead of the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT)

the deal is done, we then aim to work proactively with

and the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

our Suppliers to drive volume through an agreed sales

introductions, we commissioned a recycling expert

plan which is regularly reviewed.

“There’s been a lot of volatility in the timber

to explore what these changes will mean for merchants of building supplies,” adds Nick. “This

market over the past three years or so. No doubt this

resulted in the formation of a working group and

will continue as the market demand softens.

an in-depth audit of one of our Partners’ operations

We still have inflation to contend with and are

which projected a staggering potential increase

always trying to make progress on sustainability,

in costs for both merchants and Suppliers alike,

so there are still challenges to be overcome. As we

although subsequently many of these costs were

look at the remainder of this year and beyond, our

removed from merchants as the legislation was

plans will remain centred around negotiating the

developed and finalised.

best possible deals and Supplier-led support for our Partners, while asking them to support those deals

“As well as leading us to accelerate talks with

wherever possible.”

Suppliers around the subject, it also enabled us to educate our Partner and Supplier network on the

More at  www.nationalbuyinggroup.com

steps they could take to reduce their reliance on Timber Trader UK Magazine

Autumn 2023

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 @Timber_Media

COVER STORY  COMBILIFT

Premium Container Loading

Material handling specialists Combilift is helping transform the loading of timber into containers quickly and more efficiently with the innovative Combi-CSS, with one international customer finding it invaluable.

L

ocated in the Appalachian

of this device was far superior in terms of time

foothills of Virginia, Meherrin

and use of manpower and resources.”

River Forest Products produces over 40 million board feet of

green and kiln dried timber each year for its

The Combi-CSS is a low-level free-standing

and has a capacity of 30,000kg/66,000lbs.

This has many advantages over the traditional ‘push-pull’ method using forklifts,

platform with a dual-directional motor-driven

as Don has discovered since his Combi-CSS

pulling mechanism, on which a steel sheet

has been in operation, saying: “What used to

global customer base.

Business is growing month by month across the five sites in Virginia and North Carolina and the company aims to double its exports within the next five years. The streamlined journey of products from sawmill to container and finally to ship is therefore a key issue for President Don Bright, who

The Combi-CSS is a low-level free-standing platform with a dual-directional motor-driven pulling mechanism, on which a steel sheet rests. This enables a full load of product to be prepared behind the container before the four hydraulic cylinders pull the sheet forward into the container.

has found a piece of equipment that has dramatically increased efficiency when loading rests. This enables a full load of product to

take a good half an hour per container and

Don came across the Combi-CSS Slip-Sheet

be prepared behind the container before

involve two forklifts and two operators can

during an event at the Virginia Forest Product

the four hydraulic cylinders pull the sheet

now be done in less than half the time, with

Association when Combilift Product Manager

forward into the container. Once fully loaded,

half the resources – freeing up personnel and

Patrick Keenan introduced him to this

a hydraulic rear barrier gate swings across

equipment for use elsewhere on-site.”

automated and very fast method of stuffing

the container opening and holds the load

A further major advantage is the much lower

containers. “I had been planning to get some

in place while the sheet is slipped out from

risk of damage to the product as well as the

new forklifts in for this task,” says Don. “But

underneath. The machine can load containers

container during loading. “This improves

realised the concept, design and performance

in lengths between 6.1m/20ft and 12.2m/40ft

quality and therefore enhances customer

a consignment into a freight container.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

COVER STORY  COMBILIFT

to keep it running smoothly. It’s cheaper to maintain than the second forklift I was originally thinking of getting too.” He is also full of praise for the people at Combilift who he believes are as good a team as he has ever come across. “They are passionate, capable and totally committed to getting things 100% right for the customer. Combilift’s drive for innovation is also incredible. I visited the global HQ and factory in Ireland a few weeks ago as part of a trip to Europe for a trade fair, and from the CEO down, everyone is focused on not just building trucks but on getting a better understanding of the challenges facing customers and the solutions they really need. At Meherrin we believe we are a great company built around good people and the same can be said of Combilift.”

By the end of the year the plan is to be loading 75% of containers within the on-port location and to offer this service to other service and is also a major advantage when

and gives the company a competitive edge as

exporters in the region. The first Combi-CSS

you are dealing with very valuable lumber,”

half of the current weekly tally of around 20

has been an integral part of the company’s

adds Don.

containers is loaded with timber transported

growth plan and Don is hoping that business

Meherrin River is unique in that it is the

from other Meherrin sites. All personnel here

will continue to expand to justify getting a

only North American forest products company

are trained to use the Combi-CSS and they find

second unit for Richmond so that 100% of

to have an on-port facility, and having the

it very easy and straightforward to operate.

Meherrin’s products can be conveniently and cost effectively loaded port-side.

Combi-CSS based within the Richmond Marine

Don has been impressed with the build

Terminal means that drayage charges are not

quality, saying: “It’s a tough and heavy-duty

applicable on each container that is loaded

machine built for an industrial environment

More at  www.combilift.com

there. This represents substantial cost savings

and what’s more it takes minimal service

 www.meherrinriver.com

 Combi-CSS

A low, free-standing platform with a dual-directional motor-

The Combi-CSS was developed to significantly speed up loading containers while increasing safety to operators and minimising damage

driven pulling mechanism moves a Hardox 500 steel sheet.

to the product. Loads weighing up to 30,000kg, are assembled on the

The sheet is guided into the container by the mechanism

platform outside the container. An entire load cycle can be performed

underneath, ensuring safe loading without any risk of product

by a single operator. A 40-foot container can be fully loaded in as little

damage. When the goods are fully loaded within the container,

as 6 minutes. The Combi-CSS is a simple to operate cost effective

a hydraulic rear barrier gate, fixed to the end of the platform,

container loading solution that is faster and safer whether handling

holds the material within the container while the metal sheet is

rough sawn timber flat packed furniture or panel products.

slipped out from underneath it – hence the name.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

CASE STUDY  LIVING LAB CATT

Learning Through Timber The new ‘living lab’ at NMITE will act as a home for Centre of Advanced Timber Technology students to learn more about timber and a net zero approach to building materials.

A

new purpose built 2,500sqm ‘living lab’ for the New

over two phases – a 53Lm run and another spanning 33Lm. This was

Model Institute for Technology and Engineering

particularly challenging as Paul Harris, contracts director for Taylor

(NMITE) is designed for Centre of Advanced Timber

Lane Timber Frame explains. “The glulam structure including the roof

Technology (CATT) students to learn more about a net

element, and cross laminated timber (CLT) frame were already in

zero approach to building materials.

position which meant that we had to crane the panels in and around an

Taylor Lane was selected by NMITE for the new site on Skylon

already constructed structural frame. This was tricky and took careful

Park in Hereford. The building itself demonstrates advanced timber

consideration in devising a suitable method of work and appropriate

technologies and is acting as an exemplar in a region aspiring to net

access equipment.”

zero carbon targets.

Cross timber construction

NMITE is home to CATT with a strategic mission set by industry to: “stimulate collaboration across the industry together with showing

The panels sit on a glulam soleplate. Taylor Lane used 240mm

a wider audience how rewarding a career in timber can be.” The

I-joists rather than solid timber floor joists to avoid cold bridging and

first intake of CATT students was in September 2022 on the Timber

maximise thermal performance. Each panel is fully filled with 240mm

Technology Engineering and Design short CPD courses. These courses are blended courses composed of online distance learning and on-campus challenge sprints.

When the learners are at NMITE they are hosted in the purpose built 2,500sqm ‘living lab’ building which consists of studio and breakout spaces, as well as two 700sqm workshop areas.

As the appointed timber frame supplier Taylor Lane was tasked with providing timber frame insulated wall panels and used a selection of nonstandard materials specified by NMITE to construct 20 panels. These range from 250 to 2400mm wide, and 4100mm high.

The insulated panels were installed Timber Trader UK Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

CASE STUDY  LIVING LAB CATT

Knauf Insulation OmniFit 35 slab, a glass mineral wool slab that provides excellent fire, thermal and acoustic performance. The 9mm OSB is fixed to the front face of all 20 panels. For educational purposes, 11mm OSB is used on the inside face of the panels fitted in phase one, and 11mm flame retardant (FR) OSB for the remaining panels installed in phase two.

Some panels are attached to the CLT frame and others to steel which enables Taylor Lane to showcase a variety of fixing methods.

“We were mindful of the fixing positions as some of the construction components are left visible for the CATT students to observe,” says Paul. “We also concentrated on the panel’s aesthetics, such as ensuring the breather membrane – the A. Proctor Facadeshield UV – wasn’t damaged during construction, for example.”

To allow for the right components to be visible in the right locations, Taylor Lane had to work within very tight tolerances. “The panels sit in front of the glulam, clipped to brackets. Obviously, this required precision spacing, slightly out and it would impact the whole run, hindering the observation panels and exterior cedar wood cladding.”

Main contractor, Speller Metcalfe has worked with Taylor Lane on many newbuild projects across the region and were pleased to do so once again, saying: “Although Taylor Lane were only on-site with us for a short period of time, they were a good company to work with through the design process with their specialist timber knowledge.

It was also great for us to work with such a local company on the Skylon Campus scheme in Hereford!” Working to the client’s tight timescale, Taylor Lane completed a phased installation, erecting the panels in around six days in total.

More at  www.taylor-lane.co.uk

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FEATURE  TIMBER EXPO 2023

UKCW Celebrates Successful Show

The UK’s largest event for the built environment – UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham – saw attendance up 8% year on year, attracting 24,377 visitors to the three-day show.

O

pened by Channel 4 presenter George Clarke, UKCW

•

Birmingham attracted visitors and exhibitors from

Hanson Plywood Ltd – specialists in the import, storage and distribution of wood-based panel products throughout the UK

across the globe, including China, Czech Republic,

•

India, Latvia and Turkey. The multi award-winning show

Swiss Krono Tec AG – one of the world’s leading manufacturers of wood-based materials.

featured over 6,000 products and services, and over 150 CPD hours during sessions led by 400 thought leaders and keynote speakers.

Jamie Govier, managing director of Easy Trim commented: “Absolutely

This year’s high-profile speakers and seminar agenda featured industry

outstanding. We’ve exhibited at UK Construction Week since it began, and

leaders including Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Borough Council and Lead

this is the best footfall I’ve seen in five years. It’s a credit to the organisers.”

Member of Business and the Economy for Solihull, and Marsha Ramroop,

The winning exhibitors of this year’s Stand Awards included:

Executive Director - Equity, Diversity & Inclusion - Building People. Topics

Sustainability Initiative - Munro EV, Best Shell Scheme Stand – KBI, Most

discussed included culture change, sustainability, mental health and HS2.

Interactive Stand – Easy Trim; Construction Start-Up of the Year - Cavity

Across a range of dedicated sectors, visitors were able to discover the

Tray Cleaner, Best Marketing Campaign – NEBOSH, Best Space Only

latest innovations and technologies in robotics, digital construction, net

– Biffa. Barbara Akinkunmi, founder of Girls Under Construction, was

zero, offsite construction and infrastructure. Alongside UKCW Birmingham,

named UKCW Role Model 2023: as a young black woman in construction,

the co-located event Timber Expo, brought together award-winning

Barbara strives to be a visible leader who actively helps other young

architects, clients and contractors to show all that timber has to offer.

women to navigate their career journeys in the construction industry.

Styling itself the UK’s largest showcase event for wood and timber in

Fiona Macdonald, Impact Manager, BE-ST, also said: “We attended

construction, Timber Expo looks to showcase, structural timber frames,

Birmingham with The National Robotarium to demonstrate to the wider

sawmills, merchants, glulam, SIPs, CLT, fixings and fastenings, timber

construction industry the benefits of robotics and AI – we chose UKCW

cladding, doors and windows, mouldings, skirtings, and flooring products.

because of its scale, and its reputation to attract people who have a

Many visitors were drawn to this year’s exhibitors that included:

curiosity about what the future might look like.”

•

Aagaard A/S (UK) – Aagaard A/S develops, produces, markets and

added: “It’s been another fantastic year for us here in Birmingham. With so

mounts turnkey systems for wood-working and furniture industry

much going on within the industry at the moment, it’s great that we can

all over the world

offer the opportunity for visitors of the show to get ahead of the game and

Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP) – a non-profit,

we feel privileged that our visitors see the show as the place to do that.”

Commenting after the show, Sam Patel, UKCW incoming event director,

•

mission driven organisation, of forward-thinking companies and •

institutions from across the built environment sector.

Dates for next year’s shows have been announced: UKCW London

Element – a leading global provider of testing, inspection, and

will take place 7-9 May 2024 at ExCeL and UKCW Birmingham will

certification (TIC) services on a wide range of products, materials,

run 1-3 October 2024 at the NEC.

processes and services and products

More at  www.ukconstructionweek.com

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  PACKAGING & PALLETS

Redefining & Optimising Packaging A new breakthrough report by the Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS) offers innovative strategies for optimising packaging practices in the built environment, highlighting real-world examples, barriers to change and policy challenges.

P

ackaging waste has emerged as a significant challenge within the built environment industry, contributing to economic and

environmental concerns. The new report – ‘Packaging Optimisation in the Housebuilding Sector – addresses these critical challenges and whilst focusing on the housebuilding sector, its insights extend beyond and are relevant for wider construction, facilities management and infrastructure. many expert stakeholders within the School

knowledge and collaboration. We have worked

built environment – packaging waste – and

partnership could not be missed. This project

closely alongside four of the UK’s largest

provides practical solutions for reducing its

report contains content applicable not just for

housebuilders and in total over 30 leading

impact on both cost and carbon. Ten SCSS

housebuilding, but for anyone interested in

organisations within the built environment

Partners have collaborated to co-fund the

optimising and reducing the endless flow of

to produce this report. Insights from the

project, with a total of over 30 organisations

packaging arriving at project sites every day. I

housebuilders, their suppliers, product

joining forces to make this report possible. It

cannot recommend it enough.”

manufacturers, along with waste management

The report addresses a critical issue in the

encompasses real-world, actionable examples

Mark Turner, waste and resource

and policy experts have provided a window into

of packaging optimisation, including source

management lead for the SCSS, highlighted

the opportunities for packaging optimisation.

elimination, reuse strategies, and optimal

the collaborative effort behind the report

Most crucially, all these organisations have

recycling conditions. It covers various packaging

adds: “This has been a brilliant opportunity

entered into the spirit of open collaboration,

types, offering a comprehensive guide to

to help deliver our School mission to enable

providing solutions and practical examples for

implementing effective change. Importantly,

a sustainable built environment through

others to follow. We can only thank them.”

the report sheds light on the policy challenges that organisations dealing with significant

You can access the full report and contribute to sustainable packaging practices in the

packaging volumes are likely to encounter.

housebuilding sector and the broader built environment at  www.supplychainschool.co.uk

It addresses key concerns such as the Plastic Packaging Tax and Extended Producer Responsibility, providing essential insights for

 Scotts Secures Certification

navigating regulatory landscapes.

Packaging remains a substantial cost and

Scotts Pallets announced that 10 of its

have been improved, and as a result, our

environmental burden for businesses. The UK

new manufacturing sites across the UK

people have better access to centralised

construction industry alone generates around

have secured ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO

resources and management tools. By

55,000 tonnes of plastic waste annually,

45001 and Forest Stewardship Council®

ensuring consistent compliance with these

with an estimated 35,000 tonnes originating

(FSC) Chain of Custody certification.

standards at all locations, we’re aligning with

from packaging. Less than half of this plastic

These internationally recognised ISO

customer requirements to ensure a smooth

packaging is recycled, reinforcing the urgency

standards are designed to continually

on-boarding process, on-going efficiency,

of effective solutions.

monitor and manage quality and identify

and a better, safer, and sustainable working

“Packaging and the waste created by its

areas for improvement, provide safe and

environment for our team.”

treatment remains a major contributor to cost

healthy workplaces, and improve overall

and carbon across the entire built environment,”

health and safety performance.

says Matt Nichols, regional director at Reconomy

Rikky Clark, Quality Systems &

recycling of wooden pallets verifies that FSC®

and chair of the School’s Waste and Resource

Compliance Manager at Scott Pallets,

certified material has been sourced, controlled,

Use Leadership Group. “Our housebuilding sector

said: “We have developed our business

and traceable as it makes its way along the

is not alone in experiencing major challenges

management system to incorporate the

supply chain from the forest to the market.

to address this problem, so this opportunity to

certification requirements at all sites, fully

work with some of the biggest names in the

aligned across the company. Our processes

More at  www.scottgroupltd.com

26

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The multi-site FSC® Chain of Custody Certification for the manufacturing and

industry whilst drawing upon insights from so Timber Trader UK Magazine

Autumn 2023

www.timbermedia.co.uk

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01623 446 800 | www.sr-timber.co.uk Timber Trader UK Magazine

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FEATURE  FIRE DOOR SAFETY

Specify Correctly for Protection

New research for the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Fire Door Alliance has shown that uptake of third-party certification lags despite legislation boosting awareness and intention to specify certified fire doors.

I

n the year after the Building Safety Act became law,

to 89% in 2022. These attitudes could indicate that new legislation

awareness of the benefits of fire door third-party

aimed at increasing accountability is starting to take effect. Despite the

certification is growing, but the proportion of in use

growing awareness of third-party certification, and greater intention

has dropped slightly. The survey of 1,000 people

to specify third-party certified fire doors evidenced by these figures,

with responsibility for fire door specification, installation, and

this hasn’t yet translated to higher uptake. In fact, whereas in 2022

maintenance across the UK found that over half (52%) now look for

respondents said that 56% of the total number of fire doors they are

third party certification – as opposed to other means – to provide

responsible for are third-party certified, this figure, concerningly, was

proof of performance for a fire door. This was higher than the 46% in

lower at 54% in 2023’s survey.

2022 when the same audience was surveyed..

Fieldwork was undertaken in March 2023. This has been compared with data obtained in 2022 (before the Fire Safety Act was passed as law) from the same audience, to provide a comparison over attitudes and intent one year on from legislation passing. The Fire Door Alliance is operated and managed by the BWF, and its vision is that every fire door/fire doorset sold in the UK meets required standards through its service life.

Higher uptake required Two thirds (66%) said they’re more likely to seek certification as a consequence of the Building Safety Act, and 92% now said that the



traceability of a complete fire door assembly is important, compared Timber Trader UK Magazine

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FEATURE  FIRE DOOR SAFETY

“It’s clear that new legislation is having an effect on attitudes

respondents were unsure or did not understand their responsibility with

towards traceability and accountability in fire safety, which is hugely

regards to the new legislation and pointed to the need for more support.

positive to see,” says Helen Hewitt, chief executive of the BWF Fire

Despite 78% having read new fire safety documents published by the

Door Alliance. “For fire doors specifically, we’re seeing a greater

Home Office to assist the Responsible Person in fulfilling their obligations,

understanding of the benefits that third-party certification can deliver

a third (33%) said more information from the Government would improve

in aligning with the intention of new legislation.

their understanding of their responsibilities. However, not all guidance is

“However, the findings highlighted a disconnect between greater

expected to come from the government – 39% wanted more input from

awareness and intent, and the number of third-party certified fire doors

employers and 55% said they needed better training support.

“When Fire Door Safety Week started out, its intention was simple: to raise awareness of the vital role that fire doors play in saving lives. What’s evolved since is a phenomenal network of organisations and individuals who support the campaign each year, in greater numbers, and help communicate its important message.”

Helen Hewitt, chief executive, BWF Fire Door Alliance

being specified. This is concerning and highlights that more guidance

“The Building Safety Act is still in its relative infancy and it’s natural

and training support is needed to increase uptake. We do anticipate

that there’s an adjustment period in meeting requirements,” adds

that as legislation leads to more robust systems over traceability, we

Helen. “The onus isn’t just on organisations or individuals themselves to

will see increased demand for third-party certification. Certification

comply, but it also requires the government, employers and the fire and

provides robust proof of performance and traceability of a fire door’s

building safety industry to continue to provide education and support

components, its manufacture and journey through the supply chain. As

in navigating these major changes. Only by doing this can we make our

such, it is a ready-made solution for complying with new regulations.”

buildings safer for all.

Know your responsibilities

The theme for Fire Door Safety Week 2023 was ‘Recognise it, Report it’ and aims to help people spot problems with faulty doors

While the impact of legislation over attitudes and intent appears to be significant, the research also highlighted areas where further education

so they can be reported, then repaired or replaced.

and guidance is needed over implementing the new laws. Some 30% of

More at  firedoors.bwf.org.uk

 Certified fire-retardant treated wood essential After this year’s Fire Door Safety Week, International Timber is stressing the importance of correctly specifying fire retardant wood and panel products, backed by independent certification. Specification errors, installation issues and poor maintenance of fire safety products can have devastating consequences.

To facilitate change within the building industry and to help meet building codes, fire safety awareness initiatives like Fire Door Safety Week are vitally important. With awareness comes education when it comes to specifying the correct products to help reduce insurance costs and save lives in case of a fire. This is why we are seeing more and more contractors are increasing their use of fire-retardant wood for projects.

Euroclass performance rating. Untreated wood-based materials

Timber treated with flame retardant chemical treatments work

typically have Euroclass ratings of D or E, where flame retardant

by reducing its ignitability, slowing down the surface spread of flame

treatment can improve that to Euroclass B or C as required by the

and reducing the heat released, which allows more time for escape.

particular specification and end use. Where fire retardant wood-based

Many fire-retardant wood products are also tested for durability in

panel products are used in a building, it is vital that they provide long-

high moisture and heat, as well as corrosivity and toxicity.

term, predictable fire protection backed by independent certification.

A great source of information and advice is ‘Flame Retardant

A checklist summarising all the essential factors of an effective and

Treatments for Timber – An Overview’, issued by the Wood Protection

accurate specification is available from the WPA.

Association (WPA) earlier this year. This document explains how wood More at  www.internationaltimber.com

products have a ‘reaction to fire’ classification, with an associated

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Autumn 2023

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ADVERTORIAL  STAKAPAL

Cantilever Racking: who’s responsible for yours?

Having supplied the timber industry with cantilever racking solutions for over 55 years, Stakapal are committed to raising awareness of safety on-site.

T

he timber industry

Typical components that need

is accustomed to

checking by a PRRS on one of Stakapal’s

holding a very

Cantilever systems include:

broad range of

products in order to be able to

1. Arms

meet the changing demands of

2. Arm connection

its customer base. Purchasing

3. Cross Bracing

trends have changed quite

4. Column

dramatically in recent years,

5. Base

with end users only placing

6. Column to base connection

orders for the timber that is

7. Floor fixing bolts

required for immediate use.

This is why cantilever racking

A PRRS is only expected to visually

is the preferred storage option as

check for obvious and clear signs of

it enables you to store products

damage. They also need to be aware of

more safely than when they are

relevant loading capacities to ensure

bulk stacked. The system offers

your racks do not become overloaded

100% selectivity for the storage

and in danger of collapse. Other less

and selection of a multitude

obvious and more subtle damage will

of long and awkward products speeding up the picking process and

be identified at your annual inspection which should be undertaken

improving service levels.

by an expert as per current HSG76 guidance. An Environmental Health

If you already have cantilever racking in place on-site, it is extremely

Officer (EHO) from the local council, or a Health and Safety Executive

important that you invest in the upkeep and maintenance of your

Inspector will demand that a company obtains a racking inspection of its

systems. Cantilever racking can be subjected to a lot of wear and tear

cantilever racking by a ‘technically competent person’.

from mechanical handling equipment on a daily basis and must be

Following the installation of their racking systems, Stakapal’s in-

checked regularly by a designated Person Responsible for Racking

house SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors (SARI’s) offer all customers

Safety (PRRS).

the opportunity to book an annual inspection as part of their ongoing

To meet the HSE’s requirements for competency this person

support package. A SARI satisfies the Health & Safety Executive’s criteria

should ideally have attended a training course such as the cantilever

for a technically competent person to carry out an annual inspection as

racking awareness courses run by Storage Equipment Manufacturers

per the HSE’s current document HSG76 Warehousing and Storage – a

Association (SEMA). This type of course gives your PRRS an

guide to Health & Safety.

understanding of the key components of your systems enabling them More at  www.stakapal.co.uk

to identify all serious damage and implement any necessary actions.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Autumn 2023

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16.04.2024

THINK TANK, BIRMINGHAM

SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON THE

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 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  WAREHOUSING

Solar Success Investing in solar panels to power warehouse and manufacturing facilities is being widely considered an important way to lower carbon footprints but critically to reduce energy bills.

O

ne example of this is at Beesley & Fildes. As part of its

TB Electrics has been in the electrical industry for over 20 years,

sustainability strategy, it has increased its investment

being NICEIC Approved Contractors and Solar PV qualified installers for

in renewable energy by installing 600 solar panels at its

over 12 years. Based in Appleton, TB Electrics has a team of in-house

Widnes depot. The family-owned independent builders’

designers and installers and specialises in bespoke solar PV designs for

is based in Huyton, with sites across Liverpool, Merseyside, Cheshire

both business and commercial applications. Louise Bennett, director

and Greater Manchester.

at TB Electrics added: “We visited the Widnes site to establish the

They turned to Warrington-based TB Electrics to design and install

most effective design considering various elements such as the roof

the solar solution. By significantly reducing Beesley & Fildes reliance

structure, electricity usage requirements, access, and existing electrical

on fossil fuels, the solar panels are expected to save 49 tonnes of CO2

connections. This saw us install the solution onto the main building as

every year.

its size, elevations and existing electrical infrastructure would maximise the amount of power generated. The figures so far are impressive

The panels are situated on every elevation of the main building at Beesley & Fildes’ depot, generating enough power to run a substantial

and demonstrate how businesses like Beesley & Fildes can quickly and

portion of the site, including the company’s timber mill. With a peak

effectively reduce their carbon footprint.”

power of 252 kilowatts, the solar array has generated 71,731 kilowatt

Beesley & Fildes solar panels investment adds to several

hours (kWh) of electricity within just seven weeks of being installed. By

sustainability initiatives deployed by the merchant in recent years.

the end of 2023, the total is expected to reach 195,420 kWh and reduce

In 2017, the company built a £500,000 biomass plant at its Widnes

the company’s CO2 emissions by 39%.

branch to recycle more timber and generate renewable energy. Staff

“As the effects of climate change intensify, we all have a

even wear branded uniforms made from recycled materials and more

responsibility to make positive changes that can help protect the

environmentally friendly trucks now form part of the fleet, reducing

environment,” says James Beesley, commercial director at Beesley

emissions and air pollution.

& Fildes. “At Beesley & Fildes, our priority is to reduce our carbon

Reducing climate impact

footprint with a focus on various factors ranging from how we source our timber through to energy use across the business.

In Northumberland, A&J Scott Ltd – the sawmill and timber

“We chose to partner with TB Electrics as they’re a local, family

products supplier – is well on the way to generating ‘sustainable power’

business that share our values and have a wealth of experience in

for its Wooperton site to equal the sustainable nature of its timber

the solar sector. The team worked in partnership with us to deliver a

products. Planning permission was recently granted by Northumberland

highly effective solution. Within just a few weeks, the impact is clear.

County Council’s strategic planning committee for a new solar array

Around 95% of the electricity generated is being used to power the

on land adjacent to its main sawmills and production facilities, that will

mill, helping us to significantly cut emissions and enhance our green

generate sufficient energy to power its main dayshift production, with

credentials.”

plans to create future battery storage to power its nightshift working.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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FEATURE  WAREHOUSING

A planning statement submitted alongside the application noted that the lower reliance on the national grid is a ‘critical driver’ of the scheme, as energy bills continue to remain at historically high levels, saying: “The urgent need for the proposed development in reducing the significant energy bill costs for the Station Sawmill business has been set out, and the importance of this in protecting the business and the c. 280 direct and indirect jobs it supports.”

All of the power generated at the site will be used by the sawmill with no electricity due to be exported or sold back to the national grid.

Managing director, Robert Scott, said, “Our

AJ Scott will be able to power its sawmill with renewable energy drawn from a solar array

excellent relationships with our customers give us the confidence to plan and invest for the future. Our main timber products are in their very nature one of the

The array will cover approximately five acres of land, with additional power provided by roof-mounted panels on the site’s sawmill buildings.

most sustainable products around, and it is exciting to match that

The initial solar panel installation, representing an investment of over

sustainability in the energy generation for our site. We are laying the

£2.5million, will generate 3.5MW of electricity and save almost 1500

foundations to continue the company’s success well into the future.”

Warehouses, manufacturing facilities and sawmills have huge

tonnes per year of carbon.

energy demands and alongside that come significant costs. The

The solar array marks the latest in a series of investments as the family-owned business plans for future growth. The company, which

installation of solar panels – and other microgeneration options – is

employs more than 180 people, supplies softwood timber for a variety

a significant investment, but the overarching, net zero aim to reduce

of uses, including in outdoor and garden products, fencing, landscaping

reliance on fossil fuels and reduce energy bills is a double win for both

and DIY. The proposed development will allow the business to generate

business and the environment.

its own electricity from a renewable source, reducing its dependency on More at  www.beesleyandfildes.co.uk  www.ajscott.co.uk

fossil fuel-based sources.

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FEATURE  RECYCLING

Material Efficiency and Sustainability Gains

Timber recycling is at the centre of the circular approach to material use. Scott Wolters, EGGER UK’s building product sales manager, explains how it can also pave the way for wider environmental projects.

W

ith sustainability a key focus

As our founder Fritz Egger Senior once said:

for the construction industry,

“Wood is far too valuable to just throw away,”

finding ways in which products

a sentiment which rings true to this day.

can be manufactured in a

more environmentally conscious way is

Improving construction habits

vital. When looking at the climate crisis we

As a leading manufacturer of timber-

currently face, reducing waste is a key part

based structural floorboards, and the largest

of reducing our impact on the environment.

user of recycled wood in the wood panel

Within this, there are three main areas to

industry, we are always looking for ways to

focus on, commonly referred to as the Three

improve the sustainability of our products,

R’s: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Recycling

in turn helping our customers to meet their

is an extremely important aspect of this

environmental goals. One of the ways we do

process and is key to ensuring a circular

this is through the use of recycled materials.

economy, as well as reducing the amount of waste material taken to landfill.

Through EGGER Timberpak, a recycling

Scott Wolters, EGGER UK’s building product sales manager

our structural flooring boards, used by

subsidiary of EGGER, we are able to source

housebuilders across the country. Due to

Timber is a perfect example of such a

our waste wood requirements. For over

recent expansions and significant investment,

recyclable material, able to be easily recycled

20 years, Timberpak has sourced waste

Timberpak has opened a brand-new recycling

and reused over and over again, all while

wood for our chipboard production site in

super site in Leeds, further increasing the

retaining its strength and value over time.

Hexham, Northumberland, which produces

recycling ability we possess.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Autumn 2023

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FEATURE  RECYCLING

EGGER has invested over £30million into our UK recycling operations in the last two years. This new six-acre site will increase the amount of recycled material processed

by Timberpak to 150,000 tonnes per year, with the potential for this to increase by a further 50%, as the demand for wood-based recycled material continues to grow. The new state-of-the-art site offers some of the best wood recycling facilities in the UK, featuring a bespoke loading pit offering safe and efficient loading. While the streamlined layout of the shredders, picking stations and stock system will further reduce handling time. A new weighbridge and loading bay have also been installed, and weight tickets and delivery documents are paperless.

A sustainable approach has been taken at every opportunity during the site’s fit-out,

to these developments, we are now even

rather than natural gas, we can save around

including over 1,200sq m of solar panels and

better placed to handle waste wood from

67,000 tonnes of CO2 every year – an incredible

a dust suppression system. Health and safety

the construction, manufacturing and waste

environmental saving.

is another top priority, with thermal cameras

industries. This means we can now create even

installed for stock heat control and a one-way

more sustainable products, which can then

manufacturers, for real change to be

traffic management system in place.

be installed and recycled at their end of life,

made all those within the construction and

closing the loop.

manufacturing industries must step up and

Future-proofing material supply

No matter the individual efforts of

EGGER has also recently commissioned a

do their bit in making a difference. In the fight

new recycling plant at our Hexham site, with the

against climate change, everyone has a joint

capacity and help future-proof the business,

aim of increasing the level of quality recycled

responsibility to review the ways in which they

but it will also further improve the high-quality

content to over 50% in our chipboard panels. Of

operate and the opportunities they have to

customer service we pride ourselves on. This

course, not all wood material will be suitable for

recycle and reduce the amount of material

investment reinforces our commitment to

recycling and reuse in production. However, that

wastage created. It is this commitment

‘make more from wood’ and is something that

doesn’t mean it has to go to a landfill site. At our

that will ensure a more stable and circular

will benefit generations to come, by continuing

Hexham factory, we burn the waste material

economy for future generations.

to store the carbon absorbed by the recycled

that we can’t recycle or reuse to fuel the energy

wood during its growth. Additionally, thanks

plant itself. By burning this unusable residue

Not only will the new site increase our

More at  www.egger.com

“Timber is a perfect example of such a recyclable material, able to be easily recycled and reused over and over again, all while retaining its strength and value over time.”

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Autumn 2023

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