Timber Trader UK Magazine Issue 8 Spring 2020

08

SPRING 2020 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2517–26X (PRINT)

TIMBERMARK Pioneering high-resolution timber marking and developing products, applications and engineering solutions for the entire timber industry / 20 APPS & DIGITAL DATA

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Making forestry more profitable, efficient and transparent with tech-based solutions / 24

Grown in Britain and making homegrown timber the natural choice / 26

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CONTENTS 02

02 News

24

The latest news and views from across the industry

12 Sharing Timber Market Expertise

TDCA and TTF team up to promote the best future for their members plus developments from James Latham and WJ Group.

17 Cladding and Decking Substructures

17

As the specification requirements for pressure treated softwood deck substructures are set to change, Janet Sycamore at the Timber Decking and Cladding Association (TDCA), explains how this will improve performance for timber decking.

19 Racking Safety

26

Unveiled at IMHX last year, a new version of RackEye builds upon many features that made the first version an indispensable part of warehouse and logistics safety.

20 Cover Story: Timbermark

Timbermark is pioneering high-resolution inkjet printers for the timber sector, allowing for sharper detailed images on endstamps, planed timber and pallet blocks.

19

22 ERP & Customer Care

The introduction of ECI’s ERP software at Coomers Timber & Building Supplies, gave the team the functionality to be more efficient and deliver improved customer service.

32

24 Forestry & Merchant Technology

In an effort to make the forestry sector more profitable, efficient and transparent, an innovative mobile-device-based solution is providing accurate measurement of timber in a variety of settings.

26 Improving UK Timber Supply

Charlie Law, Director, Sustainable Construction Solutions, explains why the UK timber supply chain needs to change.

22

34

32 Machinery & Industry 4.0

Alex Dalton, Director at Daltons Wadkin explores technology trends which can be adopted and implemented within factories and what can be expected for the future of the industry.

34 Industry Diversity

Preconceptions of women in construction are changing with building sites and factory workshops no longer considered female-free zones. Stewart Milne Timber Systems and its inhouse training is enabling change across the factory floor.

Managing Editor: Terry Hanlon

Artwork: Pete Awad

Follow Timber Media:

 terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk  01925 270093

 artwork@timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media Timber Media Limited. Registered address: 73 Cross Lane, Newton-Le-Willows, Merseyside WA12 9QA Company registered in England and Wales.

Company Number 10839173.

VAT registration number 271 5498 81.

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Spring 2020

01 www.timbermedia.co.uk

combilift.com

NEWS

Online Builders’ Merchant to Make Significant Investment in AI in 2020 Fast-growing online construction materials supplier, CMOStores.com has announced major investment in web developments including cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technology into its six digital superstores. This will further improve the customer experience of visitors to the websites and drive business efficiencies.

Joining forces with Peak, the pioneer of the AI System, the online builders’ merchant will utilise the latest AI technology to provide a hyper-personalised experience for customers on the website. Peak’s Customer AI solution will provide predictive recommendations by learning from customers’ interactions with the website. This personalised experience helps connect customers with the products they are most likely to need, making the search of navigating the catalogue of products much easier.

With one of the largest online catalogues in the sector,

L-R Andy Dunkley, CEO of CMOStores.com, Marketing Director Ben Hodson

this will go a long way to improving the customer experience online.

Ben Hodson, marketing director of CMOStores.com comments:

Andy Dunkley, CEO of CMOStores.com added: “We are proud to be

“We are known as a positive disruptor in what has been a traditional

the only builders’ merchant adopting AI in this way. Partnering with an

sector, and this latest investment marks our continued commitment to

AI leader like Peak is ground-breaking for the construction materials

keeping customers at the heart of our business and using exciting new

sector and will deliver clear benefits both to our customers and to our

technology to deliver real benefits to them.

business.”

Richard Potter, CEO of Peak, said: “Online traders have a huge

“With over 75,000 products across our six superstores, many that are used in conjunction with others in tasks or projects, the introduction

opportunity to build stronger relationships with their customers.

of tailored recommendations for all users, based on their usage of the

The use of data and AI is a key enabler for them in delivering a hyper-

site, will further enhance the customer’s experience on our websites.

personalised service that ensures customers always find the right

The developments will enable customers to find exactly what they need

product at the right time for them. CMOStores.com is taking an

more swiftly as well as reminding them of any associated products they

industry-leading approach to drive forward innovative new marketing

may have forgotten.”

methods to engage with customers in the optimal way. Peak is thrilled

Over the next 12 months, CMOStores plans to further invest in

to play such a key part in CMOStores.com’s AI journey as the business

developing and continuing to improve the customer experience for its

looks to positively disrupt its market and lead the next generation of AI-

Trade Superstore, Door Superstore, Drainage Superstore, Insulation

driven online traders. We can’t wait to see the results that our AI System

Superstore, Roofing Superstore and Tiles and Floor Superstore

brings to both the business and its customers alike.”

platforms.

More at: www.cmostores.com

Marking systems for SAWMILLS and PALLET MANUFACTURERS

Spring 2020

Tel: 0870 803 1877

02 www.timbermedia.co.uk

www.timbermark.co.uk

Spring 2020

03 www.timbermedia.co.uk

NEWS

Government Lays Out UK Freeports Plans to Boost Economy New hubs of business and enterprise will be opened across the

environments, before being adopted more widely in relevant sectors of the

UK creating thousands of jobs, regenerating communities and

economy. The Government will work in close partnership with the Devolved

‘turbocharging’ Britain’s post-Brexit growth, the Government has

Administrations so that all nations of the UK are able to share in the benefits of

announced. Up to ten new innovative Freeports will be opened across

Freeports. Benefits of the 2020 Freeports model could include:

the UK as the Government seeks to level up the country and seize on the opportunities leaving the EU has presented.

•

A consultation has been launched setting out the Government’s

Goods brought into a Freeport do not attract tariffs until they leave the Freeport and enter the domestic market

vision for Freeports, with the aim of announcing the location of the

•

No duty is payable if they are re-exported

new zones at the end of this year so they can be open for business in

•

When raw materials are imported and processed into a final good,

2021. Prior to his appointment as Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Rishi Sunak, said: “Freeports will unleash

duties are only paid on the final good •

Freeports could be located inland as well as adjacent to ports. This

the potential in our proud historic ports, boosting and regenerating

can reduce relocation or investment costs for existing manufacturing

communities across the UK as we level up. They will attract new

sites near ports

businesses, spreading jobs, investment and opportunity to towns and

•

cities up and down the country. This is all part of our mission as an open, outward-looking country, championing global free trade with vibrant

A full customs declaration would not be required to move goods into a Freeport. This saves businesses time and makes it easier to import goods

•

Freeports that work for all of the UK.”

Planning reforms to help seaports develop within their boundaries and empower local councils to greenlight much-needed local

Secretary of State for International Trade, Liz Truss, added: “We are

construction projects

taking back control of our trade policy, and opening every corner of the

•

A regeneration agenda to level up the local areas around Freeports

UK to opportunities across the world. Freeports will unleash the potential

•

Innovative environments to trial new technologies

of our historic ports, creating jobs and regenerating communities across

•

Challenge-based initiatives to build collaborative partnerships

the UK. These hubs will also deepen partnerships around the world as we

between ports, businesses and innovators.

restore our economic and political independence. Freeports represent a fantastic opportunity for our businesses to increase their trade with

In addition, the Government is considering tax measures that aim

companies from all over the world. Not only will they help create jobs and

to increase investment in infrastructure, construction and machinery

level up the UK, but they underscore our commitment to championing

in Freeports to raise productivity, incentivise research to stimulate

global free trade – unleashing our country’s potential.”

innovation, cut costs associated with processing goods through a port

According to the Government, Freeports will boost trade, jobs and

and reduce the costs of hiring workers working in Freeport sites. Once

investment with a view to building innovative business clusters that benefit

the 10-week consultation is completed, the Government will invite sea, air

the local area as part of the Government’s commitment to level up every

and rail ports to bid for Freeport status on a competitive basis.

nation and region. Freeports will also offer an exciting opportunity for cuttingedge customs, transport and green technologies to be trialled in controlled

Autumn 2019

More on the Government Freeport consultation can be found at: ttp://bit.ly/2wOF3SM

04 www.timbermedia.co.uk

NEWS

UK Softwood Conference Hears Positive Merchant Messages L-R Noble Francis CPA, Chris Hayward NMBS, Neil Woods Covers, Fortis

The tight balance between supply and demand for softwood in the

“There’s a possibility that 2020’s market may be similar to that of 2018,

UK is set to continue throughout 2020, delegates at the Timber

with a slower start and a busy Q2. The rush to complete works in 2018

Trade Federation’s UK Softwood Conference were told in London on

may be mirrored in 2020’s spend pattern. There is a lot of pent-up

Wednesday 4 March 2020. Yet speakers from the timber and builders

demand: householders still need to get work done on their properties.

merchant sector felt more ‘bullish’ about prospects for 2020, citing pent-up demand.

“We have learned a lot since the Brexit referendum. Yes, we are living with ‘unknowns’ in the marketplace, but at the same time we must

A packed conference of over 200 delegates representing softwood

choose to be optimistic. Pricing is always a factor in the current tight

traders and merchants from across the UK, Europe and Canada

market, but later in the year we hope that customers will be asking:

heard a range of data-driven forecasts, starting with Professor Noble

‘Do you have it? Can you get it to me by a certain date?’ Then the price

Francis, Economics Director of the Construction Products Association,

question will drop lower down the list.”

highlighting factors likely to impact demand, including the shortage of

Presentations were given by Olle Berg, Marketing Director of

skilled wood trades. Going forward he estimated that some 500,000

Swedish suppliers Setra Group, on the global and European supply

UK construction workers were due for retirement over the next decade,

situation. ‘Ten minute timber’ slots then followed, given by Keith Ainslie,

continuing the deficit in skills so vital to the RMI market supplied by

Sales Manager at UK producers James Jones Group: by Patrick Towner,

timber and builders’ merchants.

Sales Director of the Metsä Group, on Finland, and by Kevin Hayes,

In the shorter term, Professor Francis also looked at the potential consequences of a ‘no deal’ Brexit at the end of this year, such as a further depreciation in Sterling of 15-20%. This would adversely impact

Managing Director of AKZ Timber UK on the healthy supply situation in Latvia.

After a warm winter in Northern Europe slowing the log supply into

prices on imported goods, increasing warehousing needs and costs, and

sawmills, a combination of global influences meant that supply would

resulting in sharp falls in UK GDP, which is known to be closely related to

remain tight for some time to come, possibly inducing softwood price

softwood demand, in the first two quarters of 2021.

rises. Factors included the Finnish sawmill strike which had removed

Builders merchants, especially the independent sector, were much

a million cubic metres of volume from the supply chain, a possibly-

more bullish about softwood business prospects for 2020. From the

permanent reduction in supply from Canada, rising housing starts and

conference’s first-ever merchant panel, Chris Hayward, Managing

a strong market in the USA, a return to albeit slowed growth in China,

Director of the NMBS, commented: “Independents are better-positioned

the effects of the Spruce Bark Beetle on supply and processing and

for growth as they are able to hold a greater breadth and depth of

continuing good demand in Europe.

stock to service customers quickly and efficiently. We still see the

“Timber traders and builders merchants are facing an accumulation

softwood market in 2020 as bullish and anticipate potential growth in

of economic, climate and environmental factors which will challenge the

independents’ wood business of around 2.5%. Sustainability issues are

supply of softwoods and softwood-related products such as plywoods

also making themselves felt for the first time so merchants need to know

into the UK market in 2020,” explained TTF Managing Director David

from suppliers what they are doing about, for example, plastic wrap on

Hopkins. “This may add to uncertainties in the construction sector for

products.”

some time to come, with the market remaining in tight balance between

Neil Woods, Timber Director at Covers Timber & Builders Merchants and Fortis Timber Category Director, also on the panel, commented:

Spring 2020

available supply and demand.”

More at: www.ttf.co.uk

05 www.timbermedia.co.uk

NEWS

Building the UK’s Largest Independent Builders’ Merchant 2020 marks the 25th Anniversary of MKM Building Supplies Ltd, the UK’s largest independent builders’ merchant. MKM was built on the concept that skilled, local people who understand the needs of local customers should serve the local trade. MKM is differentiated through its unique business model, centered on branch directors owning an equity stake in their branch with opportunity to share in profits.

David believes empowering people and supporting their entrepreneurial spirit has been a key driver of growth.

Executive Chairman, David Kilburn says: “Since day one, our company culture has always been very people focused, how we treat people has remained exactly the same. Every single person is important no matter what their role … our people are our biggest asset. Technology and the digital age have of course altered things, but our teams still do the majority of business either over the trade counter or on the phone. That may change in years to come, but essentially people buy from people.

Relationships are key, our customers trust us to deliver quality

Looking forward, MKM has an ambitious growth programme to

products with great service as their own businesses rely on it – our teams

open a further 30 branches in the next two years. David adds: “Today,

appreciate that and make customers the priority. More so than any other

we still face challenges. We have an expansive growth programme but

industry, this is a people business and good relationships are the absolute

finding good properties in good locations can be a challenge and planning

bedrock of that business.”

applications can be very slow, which frustrates progress. Our own recipe

Today, MKM Building Supplies employs over 1650 people and last year

for success, now fine-tuned over 25 years has been giving customers what

recorded sales of over £460 million. Already this year MKM has opened its

they want, employing and retaining the best staff, engaging people in

70th branch and has ambitious growth plans to be operating 100 branches

profit generation activities and of course having fun at work.”

More at: www.mkmbs.co.uk

by 2021/2022.

PEFC Stakeholder Workshops Prepare for Updated Standards PEFC’s revised Chain of Custody ST 2002

of annual audit/surveillance visit. UKAS

Sheffield and London. The next ones will be

and PEFC Trademark ST 2001 have now

(United Kingdom Accreditation Service) will

held in:

been approved by the General Assembly.

need to ensure that certification bodies

Although published on 14th February 2020,

are working in line with our new standards

•

Newcastle – Tuesday 12 May

there is an 18-month transition period

before they can audit clients against them.

•

Sheffield – Tuesday 23rd June

before they have to be implemented.

To train certificate holders on the new

•

Bristol – Wednesday 16th September

Certified companies will not be expected

standards, they are hosting a series of

to work to the requirements of the revised

interactive workshops for those involved

They are free to attend. If you’d like to

standards until they have first been assessed

in administering Chain of Custody systems.

register your interest in any of these

by their certification body at the point

The first of these were held last month in

workshops email: hilary.khawam@pefc.co.uk

Spring 2020

06 www.timbermedia.co.uk

BESPOKE STORAGE SYSTEMS DESIGN | MANUFACTURE | INSTALLATION

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Spring 2020

www.timbermedia.co.uk

NEWS

Land Purchase Opens up Growth Opportunities for A&J Scott After a decade of investing in new capital equipment at its site in Northumberland, A&J Scott is pleased to start 2020 by announcing a different type of investment, though one which might in time prove to be the company’s most ambitious yet.

The company, one of the UK’s leading independent sawmills, has completed the purchase of a parcel of land adjacent to its main site near Alnwick in Northumberland. This purchase will add up to 25 acres of land to the 15 acres on the company’s existing site, opening up a wide range of possibilities for future growth at the company.

This follows a period in which the family-owned business has invested over £9 million in new capital equipment, including a major upgrade to the main sawmill, Mill 7, at Wooperton, construction of a new fully automated

Managing Director Robert Scott in the newly constructed bandmill, which specialises in cutting large diameter logs.

bandmill, installation of a new state-of-the-art processing and handling line for re-saw operations at the site and also the purchase last year of the

from a number of national contractors and has already seen A&J Scott supply

Chirnside Sawmill near Duns in the Scottish borders.

materials for a range of high profile projects across the country.

The company is now well positioned for sustained growth in its

Robert Scott, Managing Director, said: “The relationships we have with

main markets for fencing products, railway sleepers, garden product

our customers give us the confidence to plan and invest for the future. We

components and other outdoor timbers in the years ahead, building on its

are now examining the possibilities opened up to us by the addition of this

record of delivering quality sawn timber products and high standards of

land to our site, and we will use these opportunities to develop our capacity

customer service to its loyal base of customers across the UK.

and output in the most efficient ways possible. The new developments will

The range of products the company can offer has also extended in the last year, with the addition of NHSS4 highways standard fencing to its existing fencing ranges. This range was developed to meet growing demand

be designed to enhance our sawmilling output, product quality and service standards in the years to come.”

More at: www.ajscott.co.uk

New TANALITH Treatment Facility at GE Robinson Walsall GE Robinson, part of the Haldane Shiells

customers. We will also be offering a very

group and one of the largest independent

competitive treatment service for our

merchants in the UK and Ireland, has

customers’ own timbers when required. This

invested over £350K in a brand new high

service can include collection and delivery when

pressure timber treatment facility at

required throughout the Midlands region.

its Walsall site. The new 2m diameter x

“We have partnered again with Lonza that

12.5m long treatment vessel will allow G E

are market leaders in timber protection. Using

Robinson to increase and extend its stocks

the very latest TANALITH wood preservative

of green and brown preservative treated

with its unique and award winning BARamine

sawn and machined timbers for their

technologies built-in will give our customers

customers in the construction, agricultural,

the confidence of using long lasting timbers,

garden buildings, landscaping and fencing

protected against decay and insect attack,

sectors.

that will do the job they are expecting. Our

Branch manager, John Leach commented:

treatment plant operators are experienced

“It is a very exciting time for Robinson’s. Over

in providing relevant treatments to meet the

the past six months the site has undergone a major refurbishment in

eventual end use requirements of the timbers. Equally our sales team

its milling facilities creating extra capacity for machining, re-sawing and

can provide advice to our existing or potential customers about the

cross cutting work. The treatment plant is the last piece in the jigsaw and

key treatment considerations when buying treated timbers from GE

will be a game changer for the business allowing us to offer excellent

Robinson or arranging service treatments to meet their exact needs.”

quality treated timber to our customers.

This is the fourth TANALITH plant to be installed into the Haldane Shiells

“We will be ramping up our stocks of treated sleepers, fencing, purlins and shed/stable timbers to service our existing and new

Spring 2020

Group with other plants at their Salford, Garstang and Newry sites.

More at: www.lonzawoodprotection.com/eu

08 www.timbermedia.co.uk

NEWS

Wood for Good Appoints New Campaign Manager The timber industry is taking on the climate emergency with a new campaign manager and a new focus. Wood for Good the timber industry’s campaign for the use of wood in design and construction, has welcomed Sarah Virgo as the new campaign manager. Sarah will lead the campaign, which focuses on the benefits of wood as a lowcarbon material, taking the helm from Christiane Lellig.

Sarah said: “This is an exciting time to join the campaign and instil the message of how wood contributes to low carbon in the built environment. It is a message from the timber industry that there are readily available solutions and I look forward to spreading the word.” Sarah is an experienced marketer and digital communications professional and is a member of Scotland’s 2050 Climate Group Young Leaders Programme. She will be based at Confor’s offices on George Street in Edinburgh.

Christiane Lellig was campaign manager from May 2016 and pushed the agenda for increasing the use of wood in homes, successfully reaching architects and construction professionals throughout the UK. Christiane said: “It has been an honour and a pleasure to work with colleagues across the timber industry, as well as many inspiring architects, engineers and developers. Timber offers a great opportunity to create a net zero environment and should be embraced by any built environment professional.

“It’s important to understand how this natural material can be used, how it behaves in different contexts and to develop the skills to design and build with wood. With the right installation and maintenance, timber buildings and joinery can last for centuries.” Christiane will continue championing sustainability in construction through other projects and remains on hand to offer consultancy support to Sarah.

More at: www.woodforgood.com

Spring 2020

09 www.timbermedia.co.uk

NEWS

Peel Ports Forging Ahead A major new facility for UK timber trade has opened up on the River Medway in Kent following a £27 million investment by operators Peel Ports. The site at Wellmarsh provides scope for storage, processing and handling of all timber types. The facility is based at the Port of Sheerness, which is the largest terminal of its kind in the UK, handling 1.1 million tonnes of timber and forest products a year.

The port already has 40-acres of timber storage facilities and Peel Ports’ investment takes it to a total of over 50 acres. The secure base is used to supply factories, production lines, construction projects and retailers, with rapid access to London via the M2 and M20. There is a further option for international distribution. The Port of Sheerness has 11 metres of water depth with no tidal restrictions or lock system, allowing for unrestricted 24 hour berthing.

Port Director Richard Goffin said: “This investment is a direct

“President Trump is committed to striking a broad, comprehensive

response to the interest we’ve had from throughout the construction

free trade agreement with the United Kingdom. Cutting-edge deep

sector in using the Port of Sheerness as the ideal location for serving

water ports like Liverpool2 will be the gateway for the increased

the south-east construction market. As well as supporting the local

trade, investment and jobs this agreement will bring both our

business community, we’re also proud to have created a number of

countries.”

new permanent jobs at the port, underlining the role we play as a major employer in the region.”

Mark Whitworth, Peel Ports CEO, said: “Liverpool is the UK’s foremost port and is ideally positioned for increased trade with the

Liverpool’s importance in the future of transatlantic trade also

US and indeed the rest of the Americas. It has the relevant investment

received a major endorsement in February with a visit from the US

and infrastructure to make it the UK’s most important and valuable

ambassador to the UK to discuss commercial opportunities. Robert Wood

trade link to take our commercial activities across the Atlantic to a

Johnson was making his first trip to the UK’s only west-facing deep-sea

new level. As we look ahead to a post-Brexit future, we must make

container terminal, where he was joined by several leading companies

the most of trade opportunities across the Atlantic for the sake of our

already involved in trade with North America. Ambassador Johnson said:

economy and the Liverpool area is ideally placed to support a positive

“It was an honour to visit Peel Ports Liverpool, a historic port with a very

future for the nation’s import and export activity. Attention has

bright future. This was an opportunity to tour an amazing facility and

inevitably turned west and we are ready to play our part in ensuring a

meet with representatives from important transatlantic companies such

positive future for UK plc.”

as Cargill, ADM, ACL and Jenkins.

More at: www.peelports.com

Spring 2020

10 www.timbermedia.co.uk

NEWS

Travis Perkins Recognised as a UK Top Employer Travis Perkins, the UK’s largest supplier of building materials, has been recognised as a UK Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute following a comprehensive and detailed assessment, including a robust evaluation according to a number of criteria and people practices which were independently verified.

Organisations certified as Top Employers are known to dedicate themselves to providing the very best working environment for employees through their progressive ‘people-first’ HR practices, according to Top Employers Institute CEO David Plink, who said: “To become recognised as a Top Employer, an organisation will have to prove that the implementation of their people strategies enriches the world of work of their employees. The certified participants are a shining example of a dedication to people practices as they continuously commit to empowering their employees for a better world of work.”

This Top Employers recognition follows last year’s ranking by LinkedIn of Travis Perkins as the UK’s top 20 company where British workers want to land a job and shows Travis Perkins continued to improve on its previous

opportunities that ensure we retain and build on our talent so we can

performance by scoring particularly well in the areas of compensation and

continue to have the best people and the best place to work in our

benefits, workforce planning, talent strategy and culture.

industry.”

This marks Travis Perkins 11th year of recognition by the Top

The Top Employer Institute is the global authority on recognising

Employers Institute. Group HR Director, Carol Kavanagh, said: “We are

excellence in people practices and identifies organisations that

really pleased with this recognition, we know being a good employer

demonstrate excellence in HR and employee conditions. Established

means we must continue to work with colleagues to keep improving our

more than 25 years ago, the Institute has certified over 1,300

workplace. We consider everything from recruiting the best talent to

organisations in 115 countries.

well thought out benefits, working conditions and career development

More at: www.travisperkins.co.uk

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Spring 2020

11 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: CLADDING & DECKING

Sharing Timber Market Expertise Late in 2019 the Timber Decking and Cladding Association (TDCA) and The Timber Trade Federation (TTF) joined forces under a partnership agreement aimed at strengthening the market for timber cladding and decking.

T

he partnership will work similarly to the agreement currently

experts who can provide them with the resources to achieve their

in place between TDCA and the Wood Protection Association

current objectives on both cladding and decking,”

(WPA) and the three bodies will work together on projects

TDCA and TTF will work together on planned projects of mutual

of mutual interest whilst still maintaining their individual

interest that can benefit members of both organisations, wider target

identities and operating as independent trade bodies.

audiences and the general benefit of the timber industry. As well

The TTF’s membership includes timber importers, merchants,

as scheduled meetings, paths cross regularly at industry events and

agents and manufacturers and covers a large proportion of all the

trade meetings, so when the potential for working together or sharing

products and timber technologies that operate within the sector.

knowledge arise, they can make the most of the opportunity.

TDCA is a smaller, technically orientated organisation but a proportion

The partnership will initially focus on specifier and buyer education to

of members also support the TTF or do business with TTF member

raise awareness and confidence in the timber cladding and decking sectors.

companies – sharing common ground. “By aligning with TTF, TDCA

The move aligns with TTF’s plans to focus on market-facing educational

will extend its reach,” said Janet Sycamore, director of operations at

activities. A series of TTF working groups are looking in depth at cladding,

TDCA. “In turn, the TTF recognises the value of the TDCA, as industry

flooring and engineered wood products sectors. Output from these groups

Style on Show at Newmarket Barn Home James Latham supplied charred Accoya and Western Red Cedar which has been used as cladding in the part rebuilding, extension and conversion of a former agricultural building to create a barn-style home in Newmarket.

Cambridge-based NP Architects, an award-winning RIBA Chartered Practice, was commissioned to carry out the conversion and Arnold & Willis Construction was appointed as the main contractor.

The main steel-framed barn has been retained as a double height space and re-clad in corrugated steel, whilst the lower wings have been rebuilt in a courtyard arrangement and clad in charred

Justin Hayward, James Latham’s technical timber sales

Accoya. Large openings have been introduced to frame views and

development manager, added: “The reaction to Shou Sugi Ban

form a strong connection with the wider landscape from within.

from the market has been astonishing, it really does have the

Charred timber cladding is a modern application of the ancient

wow factor and enquiries and indeed orders are growing by the

Japanese art of charring timber to provide a beautiful and long-

day. Charred timber cladding is becoming increasingly popular in

lasting timber cladding and this is a technique that Shou Sugi Ban

the specification market. Traditional techniques are used to give

has perfected. Hidden from the exterior view is a centrally located

uniqueness to each individual project and there are lots of finishes

courtyard, where a change of materials offers a softer palette

and textures available for both interior and exterior projects – from

giving a more homely feel. The raw unfinished Western Red Cedar

the traditional , highly charred, heavily textured looking cladding to

creates a unique and distinctive fragrance.

the sleek and contemporary finish.

Spring 2020

12 www.timbermedia.co.uk

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Spring 2020

13 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: CLADDING & DECKING

Transforming Decking Timber treatment company WJ Group has expanded its DeckWright anti-slip range to include a full service deck board.

With a vision to be the market leader in high quality timber engineering and ethical timber treatments, they provide innovative products and services to customers in the timber and leisure homebuilding markets.

Transforming standard deck boards into fully tested and safe non-slip surfaces, the new service from WJ removes the burden of costly haulage and minimum order quantities by delivering them directly to their customer’s doors. Uniquely created from a specially formulated combination of resin and aggregate, DeckWright Anti-Slip is a robust solution to the many hazards

by the Timber Decking and Cladding Association (TDCA). The

posed in slippery conditions.

anti-slip also secured a pendulum test value (PTV) score of 71,

As part of the new full anti-slip service, WJ machine the timber

resulting in a ‘low slip potential’ status, as awarded by Health &

to an exact customer profile, before applying anti-slip using a

Safety Executive. PTV is a measurement of how slippery a surface

controlled process in one of their dedicated treatment facilities.

is and calculates slip-resistance with 0-18 very low slip-resistance,

Deck boards can then also be impregnated with any additional

18-25 moderate slip-resistance, 25-36 good slip-resistance and 36+

preservative treatments needed ahead of being delivered directly

rated as excellent slip-resistance.

to the customer’s chosen address – and with treatment facilities in

Mark Eggleston, Managing Director at WJ Group, said: “As a

Hull and Rochester, WJ can provide the service to both the north

business that always puts its customers first, providing a full anti-

and south of the UK.

slip service seemed like a natural progression for WJ. Managing

Independently-tested and approved to health and safety

the process from start to finish takes away any unnecessary hassle

standards, DeckWright comes with a five-year warranty, and has

from our customers and enables us to give the best possible

been awarded with a ‘DeckMark Plus performance rated product’

customer service along industry leading products.”

aims to issue guidance on avoiding risks, setting

to change the way in which timber can be

greatest asset in all this is wood. Timber is a

standards and timber species and specification.

imported/exported to changing building

historical material which has stood the test

As part of this education a series of roadshows

regulations in the aftermath of Grenfell which

of time, but it has never been more relevant

are planned to engage with trade and specifiers

continue to evolve and impact timber in

than today. It has proven advantages which

and the TDCA will attend key shows, providing

construction. Not forgetting the looming climate

benefit the environment, the economy, the

knowledge, experience and resources. TDCA is also currently taking the lead in collaboration with TTF on a publication about timber cladding which will be available later in 2020.

“The partnership with TDCA, who are recognised industry experts, brings significant benefits and widening opportunities to TTF, WPA and our respective members,” said David Hopkins TTF managing director. “The knowledgeable and experienced TDCA team can provide the resources to achieve TTF’s current objectives on both cladding and decking.”

Timber is a historical material which has stood the test of time, but it has never been more relevant than today. It has proven advantages which benefit the environment, the economy, the construction industry and our health and well-being.

In addition, innovative wood protection technologies extend the service life of timber and increase its performance capabilities in many applications.”

Janet Sycamore added: “Our directors were strongly in favour of a strategic alliance with TTF, recognising the benefits of expanding the

emergency which is increasingly affecting our

construction industry and our health and well-

reach of TDCA to a wider audience. Initially

everyday choices – as individuals and businesses

being. In addition, innovative wood protection

the agreement was to help TTF implement a

– in terms of carbon footprints, sustainability

technologies extend the service life of timber

programme of education for timber cladding,

and our reliance on plastics.

and increase its performance capabilities in

but we also aim to include decking under the

“This alliance allows us to respond and

many applications.”

same arrangement. We are excited by the

act as a collective. By working together in this

opportunities that working together will bring.

manner, it gives our industry a greater voice.

advocate the use of timber for decking and

“TDCA is mindful of future threats and

TTF, WPA and TDCA sit on many trade boards

cladding applications and through strong

opportunities influenced by outside forces,

and working groups governing technical

partnerships with such trade organisations as

which may affect members and the industry as

standards and policy making, which means

TTF, extend its reach to further educate and

a whole, from Brexit, which has the potential

we are in a greater position to influence. Our

advise on best practice and quality.

Spring 2020

14 www.timbermedia.co.uk

The TDCA will continue to promote and

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Spring 2020

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15 www.timbermedia.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL: JAMES LATHAM

DRESSED FOR THE OCCASION As a company initially set up to cater for the interior fit out sector, it may seem odd that Dresser Mouldings would feature highly on the agenda of the Timber Decking and Cladding Association. However, as the newest member of the ever-innovative James Latham Group, it seems they could actually bring a much sought-after service to a far wider and more relevant spectrum of customers.

Based in a cavernous disused railway station

together, the two businesses have developed

in Rochdale, Lancashire, Dresser are probably

their own exclusive selection of claddings,

best known for their architectural mouldings,

factory finished in the innovative Sansin range

carvings, bespoke timber profiles and stair parts.

of water-borne, environmentally friendly, wood

It was products such as these that sparked the

protection finishes and treatments.

formation of the company back in the 1980s,

With the wealth of experience and

as premium quality timber components proved

knowledge gained by bringing the two

hard to find off the shelf. With many years and

companies together, the Dresser cladding

an extensive portfolio of high-profile projects

portfolio not only features great products,

under their belt, it’s safe to say that Dresser had

but industry leading pre and post installation

formed something of a niche for themselves.

support. From liaison with architects or

They even produced bespoke components for a

designers, through to working with installers

number of Hollywood films that required grand, sweeping staircases and

during erection, the Latham team ensure the chosen system meets the

elaborate wooden decors and panelling.

requirements of everyone involved in the design and build process.

It was when Dresser started turning their attention to bespoke cladding profiles that things became a little more interesting to the

James Latham Group see great things for the Dresser division and it’s not hard to see why.

Latham group. Acting as in-house processors for the many timber cladding materials such as Accoya, Thermowood and Red Grandis that

For more details, email info@latham.co.uk or visit lathamtimber.co.uk

Lathams were promoting to architects, specifiers and designers, it became clear that they were capable of much more than matching historic interior timber profiles.

As well as producing unique profiles, Dresser also have a huge finishing and coating facility. This offers bespoke surface treatments and textures such as wire and nylon brushing to enhance or alter grain patterns or provide weathered and rustic appearances. From a coatings perspective, the story gets even more appealing, with the factory hosting both vacuum and spray facilities, allowing a host of colours and finishes from some of the world’s largest coating manufacturers. Taking this one step further,

Spring 2020

16 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: CLADDING & DECKING

Deck Substructures: Prepare for New Specification Levels

As the specification requirements for pressure treated softwood deck substructures are set to change, Janet Sycamore at the Timber Decking and Cladding Association (TDCA), explains how this will improve performance for timber decking.

B

S8417, the British Standard for wood preservation, when

it’s too late. For example, if vegetation and/or debris is allowed to

it is next revised later this year will mean that all softwood

accumulate beneath a deck, this restricts air movement and traps

components used for the structural sub-frame of a deck

water, increasing the exposure risk. Likewise, it is common for deck

will have to be treated to the same level as components

joists to be set directly on or very close to the ground.

in permanent contact with the ground, referred to as Use

The failure of the substructure is clearly safety critical. In Sweden,

Class 4. Pressure treated softwood is commonly used to build

Finland, France and north America, the whole deck substructure

decking substructures to support timber and composite deck boards.

system (posts, beams and joists) is categorised as Use Class 4.

Preservative treatment provides wood with added durability and

Subsequently the decision has been taken to follow this best

BS 8417 requires that the loading and penetration of preservative,

practice in order to ensure substructures are robust and perform

impregnated into the wood, is tailored to the desired end use.

better. In addition this should raise confidence in the market and help

End uses are grouped into five categories: Use Class 3 relates to

to maintain timber’s position as the most popular and cost effective

exterior above ground use whereas Use Class 4 relates to exterior

solution when building decks. Going forward this means that in the

ground contact use. Ground contact use presents a higher biological

UK the whole substructure will be categorised as Use Class 4, whereas

risk to timber and therefore, in order to work well in this situation, a

previously, only the posts were categorised as Use Class 4.

higher level of wood preservative needs to be impregnated into the

Following a full review of the issues outlined, the Wood

timber. The ‘Use Class’ system is important because it indicates the

Protection Association (WPA) Technical Committee, which includes

scale of the biological threat faced by a wood product in a specific

representatives of the BRE and TRADA adopted these changes as

end-use situation and determines the preservative loading and

WPA policy and were subsequently ratified by both the WPA and

penetration required to deliver the service life required.

TDCA Boards.

Clear information about using wood correctly for decking and

These changes have also been adopted by the BSI committee

landscaping projects has been promoted widely in the UK for many

managing BS8417 (B/515) and so will be incorporated into the full

years with organisations like the TDCA leading the way in providing

standard review (probably later in 2020). In due course the WPA,

supply chain and end-user good practice guidance.

TDCA and Timber Trade Federation (TTF) will be working to adopt

Despite this, mistakes and shortcuts are still being made in

this change in policy across the membership of all three partner

constructing timber deck substructures – which compromise both the

associations, so as to help them transition to the new requirements

performance of the finished deck and the reputation of wood. This is

in time for the publication of the revised BS8417 towards the end of

made worse as once a deck is completed the substructure is typically

2020. In fact TDCA members Hoppings Softwoods and BSW Timber

not visible with the consequences of bad practice not evident until

have already introduced products that meet the new guidance.

Spring 2020

17 www.timbermedia.co.uk



FEATURE: CLADDING & DECKING

Checklist When Buying Substructure Components For Timber Decking •

Establish if the component has been impregnated with a wood preservative in an industrial treatment plant and that it is suitable for outdoor use

•

Determine what service life is claimed – it should be similar or better than the deck boards you have chosen

•

Ask your supplier to verify that the timber meets a Use Class 4 specification – on the delivery note or with a treatment certificate

•

Never substitute wood that has been treated for an indoor application for use in an external application – early failure is inevitable

•

When cross-cutting, notching or boring treated timber products during installation, always apply an end grain preservative treatment to freshly exposed areas, to maintain the integrity of the protection. Never put cut ends in the ground, even if end grain coated.

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Spring 2020

18 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: SITE HEALTH & SAFETY

The All Seeing Eye Unveiled at IMHX last year, a new version of RackEye builds upon many features that made the first version an indispensable part of warehouse and logistics safety.

W

arehouses are busy environments, with people and vehicles competing for space to pick and dispatch orders quickly and accurately. However,

warehouse managers are also under significant pressure to optimise storage to accommodate more goods and faster turnaround times – often at the expense of aisle space between warehouse racks. With less room for forklifts to manoeuvre, the chance of rack impact incidents increases and with it, the possibility of employee injuries, operational disruption and costly rack repairs. Employees will usually report more serious incidents, but what about the smaller impacts that can lead to cumulative damage?

Can you be sure that you know where the hidden impact hotspots are in your warehouse?

RackEye 2.0 builds upon many of the features of the original, while offering enhanced functionality thanks to new cloud-based technology. RackEye provides the solution by monitoring the health of your racking

fitted to the legs of warehouse racks. If

infrastructure around the clock, providing you

these detect that an impact has occurred, the

locations have demonstrated that use of the

and your team with real time notifications the

system will pinpoint the affected rack and

system can lead to a substantial reduction in rack

instant an impact occurs. Long-term impact

send an immediate SMS notification to the

impacts and positive changes in driver behaviour.

data reporting allows you to track incident

warehouse management team. This allows

By detecting rack impacts and alerting

trends, measure driver or shift performance, and

them to assess any damage immediately and

warehouse managers the instant incidents

identify potential issues with the design of your

take remedial action if necessary. Should

occur, RackEye encourages forklift drivers to

facility quickly, simply and conveniently from

an impact occur, the RackEye App will guide

take greater care when loading and unloading

your smartphone, tablet or computer.

you step-by-step through the process of

racks. Furthermore, statistical data of when and

inspecting and reporting the damage to

where impacts are occurring helps warehouse

your rack health, RackEye helps you to

EN15635:2008 standards, providing useful

managers to identify impact hotspots, as well

address both the immediate challenges of

directions on measuring distortion and

determine when additional driver training might

racking impact incidents and your longer-term

advising you of when repairs are necessary.

be required.

strategic objectives for optimising safety and

The App also allows you to upload photos

“This new intelligent system has been

performance within your warehouse operations.

of rack damage from your smartphone as a

successfully running in a number of customer

The RackEye system monitors the health

permanent incident record and to support

locations and they have been delighted with the

you with insurance claims.

results,” say Luke Smith, co-owner and managing

A complete turnkey solution for monitoring

of racking and provides real time notifications in the event of an impact. It works fully

RackEye not only addresses the

Live RackEye installations at customer

director of A-SAFE said. “They are benefiting

independently of the customer’s existing IT

immediate dangers of racking damage, but

from changes in driver behaviour, detailed KPI

infrastructure. RackEye provides a leased

also supports companies with achieving

reporting and measurement, and reductions in

turnkey solution for large manufacturing,

their long-term strategic warehouse

incidents. One customer has even reported a

logistics and distribution businesses to ensure

objectives. The RackEye Dashboard provides

75% reduction in impacts across the legs where

the sustained safety of their employees,

detailed insight into historical impact

they’ve been trialling it. It is great to see that

customers and equipment – without the need

trends, allowing users to identify impact

our customers are just as enthusiastic about the

for significant capital expenditure.

hotspots across multiple locations, target

enhanced system as we are. RackEye aims to

predictive maintenance activities and address

transform safety in the warehouse industry in

warehouse layout problems.

the UK and around the world.”

RackEye works by actively monitoring racking infrastructure via intelligent sensors

Spring 2020

19 www.timbermedia.co.uk

COVER STORY: TIMBERMARK

The Timber Stamp of Authority Established in 2004, Timbermark is a marking systems company with a focus on the timber industry. The company pioneered high-resolution inkjet printers for the sector, allowing for sharper detailed images on end-stamps, planed timber and pallet blocks.

F

ocusing on the timber industry, Timbermark has developed

work is done in the HP cartridge itself. It’s just more efficient. If there’s

products, applications and engineering solutions for the specific

a problem, just change the cartridge. No waiting for systems to start or

needs of sawmills and pallet factories. It offers dedicated printer

engineers to turn up. The result is improved productivity.”

installations for moulded timber, sawmill sorting lines, pallet blocks, 2-way bearer pallet lines and 4-way pallet lines.

Founder Colin Stewart, had already worked with distributors

Timbermark’s thermal inkjet printers are supplied by Sojet in China.

They are low-cost and the technology is easy to use. Colin says: “The Sojet system is very flexible. You can use up to six heads, so the printing

serving Swedish sawmills and set up the company to offer high-

setup can be configured in ways to suit the project. Any repairs are done

resolution inkjet printing to UK sawmills. “We have worked with our

by simply swapping the module. It is value-engineered in China so that it

customers in the timber industry to understand their demands and

is the right price, and our customers are often surprised at how little the

developed applications which meet those needs,” says Colin. “We

system costs. It is so simple to set up and install – most plant technicians

engineer our installations to be robust enough to withstand what can

have the skills required, especially with our guidance. And we can

be a pretty rough operating environment, but also to allow the users to

pre-configure the machine to their requirements before shipping. It is

get the benefit of an electronics-based system with counting and date

realistic to expect zero service costs for this type of printer.”

functions, or message switching capabilities.”

The latest developments in printing technology allow Timbermark to provide new options for customers. Thermal inkjet (TIJ) printers have found a place as a more efficient alternative to the continuous inkjet

New Products, Development & Innovations High-resolution inkjet printing can be used for a variety of applications such as printing barcodes. This option gives customers a cost-effective

system. The printers offered by

alternative to labels, and for

Timbermark use Hewlett Packard

sawmill customers, barcodes can

technology in the ink cartridges,

be used to identify an individual

which means improved speed,

piece of timber as it transfers

quality and reliability – and all at

between different processes. Using

a lower cost. “What we like about

high-resolution print technology,

TIJ,” adds Colin “Is that is provides

a machine-readable code can be

a step-change in terms of inkjet

printed onto the top or end of

reliability and performance. No

timber on a transverse conveyor.

more blocked jets, pumps, filters,

Print quality at 200m/min

damaged print heads – all the

Spring 2020

20 www.timbermedia.co.uk

Barcodes can also be scanned to simplify data entry processes.

COVER STORY: TIMBERMARK

High-resolution inkjet printing can be used for printing barcodes.

Sojet technology is low-cost and easy to use

Timbermark offers both low- and highresolution handheld printers with scan-to-print

Barcode scanning with Sojet’s handheld Elfin V1H printer

Printing with a pigmented white ink using a UV-curing system

high-resolution printing onto challenging substrates such as wet-painted surfaces.

functionality so customers can scan a barcode

The TIJ technology is really simple to

and reproduce the information it contains in

use, and Timbermark is offering customers

a variety of formats. Fixed position systems

the opportunity to self-install. Via its new

can utilise the same protocol for sending and

e-commerce platform at: www.t-mark.

receiving data via a network cable. In this way

co.uk technicians can purchase the printing

factory data systems can be used to make

equipment online and install it themselves

external variable data work, without the need to

without having to rely on expensive service

use a more expensive, fully-featured controller.

engineers. This potential cost-saving is one of

Printing speed is another area where

the benefits of the new generation of printers

Timbermark is looking to make improvements.

and seems a timely development in the light

Current installations run at a speed of 200m/

of the current social distancing policies many

min, but Timbermark is looking for opportunities

companies have adopted to contain the

to test at higher speeds. “Our print head and ink

spread of the coronavirus.

supply mounting concept mean we can run a high-resolution head less than

In its 15 years of trading, Timbermark has developed a customer

3mm from the substrate and get precise registration between the stitched

base across the UK and Europe. It has exhibited at LIGNA in Germany

print heads that make up the design,” adds Colin. “The concept is to arrange

and now has customers in five Eurozone countries. Exporting is still

two heads to overprint each other, thus doubling the resolution. In this way

a key part of the company’s growth strategy, a plan that Colin hopes

we can run at low-resolution and higher speed and double-up on the ink

won’t be impacted by Brexit. “We have assured our customers that their

deposit to make the stamp opaque enough at high speed.”

costs from us won’t change,” says Colin. “We will pay the import tariffs

Timbermark is also exploring how to print with a pigmented

on goods that we supply. We are committed to ensuring our customer

white ink using a UV-curing system. The equipment – from Yeacode

across the UK and Europe continue to enjoy the best possible service

in China – produces an incredibly sharp 300-dpi print quality. It allows

from us, whether we’re inside the EU or not.”

For enquiries please call: 0870 803 1877 or visit: www.timbermark.co.uk. Printers and ink cartridges can also be purchased direct from our e-commerce site: www.t-mark.co.uk

Spring 2020

21 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: ERP SOFTWARE

Spruced Up for Customer Care Coomers Timber & Building Supplies has been serving builders, small local developers, landscapers and retail customers since 1956. The introduction of ECI’s ERP software, Spruce gave the team the functionality to be more efficient and deliver improved customer service.

W

hen adding a third site to their portfolio, it became

or look them up in the catalogue using a range of search terms.

obvious to the Coomers team that new technology was

Supplementary information is also easy to bring in, including wiring

required to ensure minimal disruption for staff and to

diagrams, COSHH data sheets or photos – often exceeding customer

maintain a high quality customer experience. Selling a

expectations.

wide range of heavy building materials, landscaping,

timber and lightside products, the team at Coomers realised they required industry-specific software, designed for the challenges builders merchants face on a day-to-day basis.

Managing stock Being able to easily access live stock levels across the three sites, via a single and fully-integrated system was an absolute must.

As Coomers stock more than 7000 items, it was imperative that the

Understanding customers

sales staff had instant access to the most up-to-date stock level

The modern customer expects builders’ merchants to understand

information to avoid customer disappointment. The Coomers team

their needs and even pre-empt their orders.

Despite the obvious challenges this brings, the Coomers team were determined to be proactive as well as reactive to their customers, meaning they needed to be able to collect and access customer data at the click of a finger to spot key trends.

ECI’s ERP software, Spruce, brings efficiency to customer relationship management. As well as being able to spot

Modern consumers have grown to expect notifications and updates on their order status.

Via ECI’s Spruce system, Coomers can send out automatically generated notifications – ensuring customers are kept updated all the way through the ordering, buying and delivery process.”

key buying trends, it combines a point-ofsale system and information database, making communication simple. With customer records available at the

now have access to an automatic stock replenishment feature, which

touch of a button, the Coomers staff can print or email documents,

the team heavily relies on to review all purchasing needs on a daily

providing the information customers require, in their preferred format

basis. Most suppliers now generate orders based on predetermined

within minutes.

stock levels – making the process far simpler. Additionally, instances

Busy builders, developers and landscapers also expect the check-

of over-ordering or running out of certain stock lines have significantly

out process to be as streamlined as possible. Using the software,

reduced, helping to drive a customer-centric approach, not to mention

the Coomers staff can quickly scan items, enter product codes,

a far more efficient and cost-effective operation.

Spring 2020

22 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: ERP SOFTWARE with customers while maintaining control in the back office.

This also helps with customer communication. Modern consumers have grown to expect notifications and updates on their order status. Via ECI’s Spruce system, Coomers can send out automatically generated notifications – ensuring customers are kept updated all the way through the ordering, buying and delivery process.

Managing change The introduction of new software can be disruptive, especially if staff are not technologically savvy. Time and revenue lost training staff is an understandable concern for businesses considering a new system. With this in mind, installing an intuitive and easy-to-use ERP system was an absolute priority. Alongside a thorough implementation period there is also extensive online help available. This has ensured that whatever screen or part of the system a user is in, there is

Managing a multi-branch operation

always a help button to ensure the user feels fully-supported

Visibility into all areas of the business is important in a multibranch operation employing over 70 members of staff. The

and has access to hints and tips. So much so that Coomers require less than half an hour to set up and train each new Spruce user.

Hampshire, Surrey and Sussex branches are now linked via a single system, meaning one branch can see, sell and deliver stock to a customer from a completely different branch – ensuring customer satisfaction and bolstering Coomers’ overall reputation.

Significant expansion Having worked tirelessly to build a reputation for outstanding customer service, the Coomers team are determined to stay ahead

Knowing how best to handle credit control can be tricky. This

of the game. For Coomers, the introduction of a new ERP not only

process is now handled professionally and in a consistent manner

facilitates a more streamlined way of working, but also allows for

across every store, providing various levels of controls for the credit

expansion of the operation and increasing profits, while facilitating

controller and giving point-of-sale staff some ‘room for manoeuvre’

strong customer relationships and overall satisfaction.

COMING SOON... The most

protection for your Construction Timbers

sol x www.lonzawoodprotection.com/eu Use wood preservatives safely. Always read the label and product information before use.

Spring 2020

23 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: FORESTRY TECHNOLOGY

Changing the industry – one log at a time In an effort to make the forestry sector more profitable, efficient and transparent, an innovative mobile-device-based solution is providing accurate measurement of timber in a variety of settings.

T

he supply chain from forest to merchant is a complex one.

How is it done? A simple photo taken using the dedicated Timbeter

One forest-tech company has been working hard to improve

app of the timber, whether in a pile, on a truck or in a container can be

that chain for both log buyers and sellers and is doing it using

analysed. This provides a wealth of accurate and reliable information

specialist digital software and a pioneering algorithm. This

for anyone dealing with timber log measurement from forest owners,

collected digital data on timber – from logs to containerised

sawmills to manufacturers and transport companies. Only an Android or

shipments can be used for management of the entire supply chain.

iOS smart device (mobile phone or tablet) is required to run the software

All the required data (volume, number of logs, log diameters, location)

and it can run on any computer or browser.

are available in digital form, reducing human error and enabling quick reporting and data processing.

Timbeter was created by a sawmill owner who was facing the problem of measuring logs manually every day and thought that if smartphones could recognise human faces, they could also recognise logs from a photo. “The idea for Timbeter came during a 48-hour hackathon that really helped us to look at the problem from a different angle and question the traditional methods and habits of the forestry sector,” says Martin Kambla, co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer. “It is a digital timber measurement solution that uses machine learning technology and artificial intelligence for accurate log detection.”

Spring 2020

24 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: FORESTRY TECHNOLOGY Each pile of logs can be measured for pile density, log diameters,

has dropped significantly. Previously, since the measurements were

and the number of logs in minutes, to save the measurer time and

done manually and there were claims regarding quality and volume,

obtain accurate data. Users can filter the diameters to see how many

many shipments were not accepted. Now, with the availability of

logs are in the specific range. Every pile is geo-tagged making the

the data digitally, the authorities receive the necessary information

tracking of the timber’s origins easier. This can also be used as a key

beforehand and approval can happen in real-time.

step in maintaining forest chain of custody and combating illegal logging.

So as the new decade begins, there are some exciting and busy times ahead for the Estonian-based forest-tech pioneer. What

Every measurement is stored in the cloud providing a real-time

does the next 18 months hold for the company? “Measurements

overview of measurements related to their species and qualities

are just the beginning,” says Martin. “The majority of our future

and every pile can be re-measured in the web if required. Timbeter’s

developments are focusing on reporting, logistics, and sales to help

storage enables users to analyse and share your measurements

companies and governments reduce their administrative burden.

quickly, view inventories, active storage statuses and create instant

We will continue developing more features and applications for our

reports in a few taps of a button, aiding managers and accountants to

AI, automatic defect detection, creating 3D models. Last month we

remain informed and up-to-date.

launched a new feature to detect duplicates measurements to help

Timbeter allows users to have a greater control over their measurements, as all the information can be easily audited and controlled. This digital data can then be shared between customers

companies control the sub-contractors and single high-value log measurement.”

Timbeter serves clients in 61 countries around the world and is

and business locations to create a totally transparent and easily

available in 11 languages with over 10,000 users, measuring more than

understood flow of information.

10 million cbm annually.

The introduction of digital technology across the construction industry is having a profound effect globally. But the forestry and timber sectors have been seen as slow and reluctant to modernise and adopt new technology. “Technology is only one part of the adoption process,” adds Martin.

Precision forestry is still relatively new. The sector also tends to love heavy machinery and paper, so in that sense, adopting smart devices in their daily processes is a big change.”

“Precision forestry is still relatively new. The sector also tends to love heavy machinery and paper, so in that sense, adopting smart devices in their daily processes is a big change. What we have seen is that it really depends on the mindset of the people in a company and how willing they are to change old habits and procedures. There are still many opportunities for artificial intelligence (AI) to make a big impact in solving forestry’s big issues. For example, illegal logging, reducing the administrative burden related to reporting and control for both companies and governments, and to make sure each tree that has been cut in a sustainable way reaches its maximum value.”

For the merchant sector and timber supply chain the benefits are potentially massive. Smart and quick digital solutions that can be used by large manufacturers and small private forest owners, that is affordable and accessible for everyone, helps to increase transparency, secure fair trade and boost productivity levels.

“We have had cases where customers get a 200 EUR win with their first measurement by having a more accurate result,” says Martin. “It is really all about the transparency, efficiency of operations and safety of the people during the measurement process. Some exporters using Timbeter have told us the number of claims coming from China

Spring 2020

25 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: UK TIMBER SUPPLY

Grown Britain: Use in Britain The UK consumes over 17million m3 of sawn timber and sheet material each year, but only around a third of this is sourced from the UK. Charlie Law, Director, Sustainable Construction Solutions, explains why this needs to change.

T

he UK is the second largest net

Act (2008) to include a commitment to net

of new woodland in the UK every year.

importer of timber in the world, only

zero emissions by 2050.

There also appears to be a realisation in

behind China but with the demand for

Trees, woodlands and forests play a key

Government that we do need to become

construction timber likely to increase

role in greenhouse gas removal, and the

more self-sufficient, but the targets in the

in the UK and around the world,

CCC has therefore recommended that we

25 Year Environment Plan for England only

should be aiming to plant 30,000 hectares

call for 6,200 hectares to be planted per

linked to commitments for net-zero carbon buildings by 2050, this leaves the UK in a position of significant material insecurity.

Unsustainable harvesting over many centuries left the UK with less than 5% forest cover at the start of the 20th century, and although this has recovered slightly, the UK is still one of the least forested countries in Europe at around 13% forest cover (European average is 42%). This, linked to the availability over the last century of good quality softwood timber from places like Scandinavia, and hardwood and plywood from the Far East, has meant there has been little incentive to increase planting in the UK. The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has recommended that the UK Government adopt a net zero greenhouse gas (GHG)

We are launching a new Grown in Britain tree planting scheme this year ‘New Trees and Dynamic Woodlands delivering net zero, net environmental gain, sustainable materials for the future and a boost to Natural Capital’ all delivered in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard and the Woodland Carbon Code, and will be looking for commitment from industry to fund planting through their carbon offsetting budgets.

This will ensure we have a continued supply of sustainable material for the UK construction market well into the next century.”

Dougal Driver, CEO of Grown in Britain

emissions target and on the 27 June 2019 the UK Parliament amended the Climate Change

Spring 2020

26 www.timbermedia.co.uk

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Spring 2020

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FEATURE: UK TIMBER SUPPLY year by 2030, well below what many believe

over the medium term. Engineered timber

that, with help from designers shifting to

is required. The Confederation of Forest

products such as cross laminated timber

lesser used species such as ash, beech, sweet

Industries (Confor) and others are calling

(CLT) are also in high demand and could be

chestnut and sycamore, rather than oak

for much higher targets of at least 40,000

manufactured from home-grown sources if

which makes up over half of all hardwood

hectares of new woodland to be planted per

there was more supply. Also over 60% of the

imports, up to 50% of the UK’s sawn

year by 2030 (18,000 hectares in Scotland,

OSB and particleboard, and 40% of the MDF

hardwood consumption could be met from

10,000 in England, 9,000 in Wales, and 3,000

and other fibre board, are manufactured in

home-grown supplies – where currently less

in Northern Ireland).

the UK, largely from home-grown material.

than 10% is supplied from UK sources. Grown

As pointed out in the Confor targets document, planting the tress is just the first

As for hardwood, the Grown in Britain

in Britain has also invested in research such

WoodStock study published in 2016 showed

as thermal modification which can allow

step in a long process. These woodlands need to be managed over their lifetime to ensure good quality timber is produced. It is estimated that over 40% of woodland in the UK is undermanaged or left unmanaged, and this figure is considerably higher when just looking at broadleaf woodland.

For too many years timber from the UK has been seen as the lower quality alternative, but this is not necessarily the case. Over 20% of the structural softwood used in construction is from home-grown sources (generally C16 strength grade) with UK sawmills operating almost at capacity, with real concerns over the lack of material

Our woods and forests are amazing and their future is in our hands.

We need to work together for the good of UK wood.

Make sure it’s GROWN IN BRITAIN 10,000 PEOPLE MARCHED IN 2010, TO SAVE OUR FORESTS Grown in Britain was born

LONG TERM ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

ONLY CHINA IMPORTS MORE WOOD THAN THE UK We import £7.8bn of timber, whilst neglecting our own supplies

CREATE JOBS AND GROW INDUSTRY Managed woodlands boost the economy

TRUE BRIT? Use of the British ag on products can be deceptive. The Grown in Britain logo ensures they are home-grown

Managed woodlands provide cleaner air, reduced ooding and enhanced wildlife habitats

BESPOKE LICENSING SPECIFIC TO THE UK Grown in Britain licensing is tailored for our woodlands and UK regulations

Only the Grown In Britain logo guarantees timber has been grown legally in the UK in accordance with the UK Government Timber Procurement Policy and conforming to the UK Forestry Standard.

Make sure it’s GROWNINBRITAIN.ORG

Spring 2020

28 www.timbermedia.co.uk



Spring 2020

29 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: UK TIMBER SUPPLY

non-durable species including ash, sycamore and poplar to be used

However there is a need to increase the number of suppliers, with

outside, with test results close to class 1 durability being achieved.

the only general timber merchant able to supply Grown in Britain timber

To ensure there is recognition of this UK timber supply we must

with full chain of custody being Arnold Laver. The certification process is

start to promote the quality timber we have. A number of UK sawmills

almost identical to FSC and PEFC chain of custody certification, with the

including the largest softwood supplier, BSW, and the largest hardwood

only addition being evidence that the timber has been supplied from

supplier, Vastern, have adopted Grown in Britain certification. This

a UK source. It can also be audited alongside FSC and/or PEFC chain of

certification mark guarantees that the timber has been grown in the UK

custody certification by a merchant’s existing auditors in most cases,

and can either sit alongside more established certification marks such

helping to keep any additional costs low.

as FSC and PEFC to provide just a provenance guarantee, or be used as

So, with the increased visibility of UK grown timber, the threat of

a stand-alone responsible sourcing label (all timber supplied through

tariffs on imported products, and a continued focus on supplying a

Grown in Britain meets the requirements of the UK Government’s

quality, value for money product, the future for home-grown timber

Timber Procurement Policy and is accepted by many of the UK’s largest

looks promising – as long as we can grow enough trees and bring more

contractors including BAM and Willmott Dixon).

woodlands back into management to keep up with demand.

Watch out for the future of Britain’s forests Tom Barnes, Managing Director of TRADA member Vastern Timber has kicked off 2020 with new video series Wood for the Trees discussing the future of British woodlands – at a time when afforestation has never been more urgent, yet our woodlands remain at risk from climate change, disease and poor management.

Of the project, he said: “Last year ended with me freezing in a woodland, discussing the climate crisis and the benefits of timber as a sustainable building material, with an eco-activist filmmaking team. An odd thing for an owner of a timber company to be doing maybe, but I sense that next year will be critical for the future of our woodlands and the industries that work with them. 2020 could be a golden opportunity to capture the public and political will to plant more woodland, and I believe making more of our homegrown timber is key to a lower carbon future.”

Tom, who has over twenty years’ experience in the timber

trade and is passionate about increasing the use of British wood

film produced a month throughout 2020, with each installation

in the built environment, hopes to capture the public and political

highlighting a different topic linked to woodlands, land use and

will to plant more woodland. Wood for the Trees will see one

wood in the built environment.

Spring 2020

30 www.timbermedia.co.uk

Spring 2020

31 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: MACHINERY & INDUSTRY 4.0

From Wood Carvings to Automation How is technology enhancing the art of working with wood? Alex Dalton, Director at Daltons Wadkin explores technology trends which can be adopted and implemented within factories and what can be expected for the future of the industry.

P

roductivity and efficiency are two of the most important elements when it comes to the profit and success of a

Automation and Robotics Recent innovation in technology has enabled the introduction

business – particularly within woodwork manufacturing.

of robotics to help in achieving mass production and cost effective

Fortunately, as technology enhances, many aspects of

solutions for manufacturing wooden products. The emergence of

manufacturing are becoming digitised and even automated,

smart machines in the woodworking industry will help in reducing

which in turn is allowing the opportunity for increased productivity

wastage and increasing production efficiency. Fully automated

and efficiency.

crosscutting systems now have the ability to perform all the

Technology is now available which can help streamline operations,

processing on a single saw, optimising cutting lists, ensuring

remove the risk of human error and even reduce time spent on

productivity, energy savings, and reducing waste. The latest computer

back-office tasks. The advancements in technology allow modern day

numerically controlled (CNC) routers and lathes have the ability to

specialists such as carpenters, joiners and machinists to spend more

assist in making a variety of beautiful and ornate wood products,

time and attention on their core tasks.

which are appealing and affordable, and in the past could only be

More and more organisations are switching to Industry 4.0: a trend towards automation and data exchange in manufacturing, resulting

manufactured through manual labour, which is often time consuming and expensive.

in a smart factory being implemented and utilised. The National Institute of Standards and Technology describe smart factories as a: “fully integrated and collaborative manufacturing system that responds in real-time to meet the changing demands and conditions in factories, supply network, and customer needs.”

Introducing a combination of digital technologies into factories, warehouses and

Technology is now available which can help streamline operations, remove the risk of human error and even reduce time spent on back-office tasks. The advancements in technology allow modern day specialists such as carpenters, joiners and machinists to spend more time and attention on their core tasks.”

production environments such as artificial intelligence and automation provide a range of benefits, such as increased process efficiency, product quality,

Having the ability to produce large volumes of products in

sustainability and decreased costs. So, just how can small businesses

an efficient way not only meets demands for sales purposes but

utilise certain technologies and digital systems to stay ahead of the

allows the opportunity to drive market growth. The introduction of

game when it comes to updating current systems and implementing a

automation and robotics into the industry will also help overcome

smart factory?

the challenges faced by the current skills shortage – particularly in

Spring 2020

32 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: MACHINERY & INDUSTRY 4.0 Optimise Processes Managers have to make sense of all information which is fed into systems from all arms of an organisation: a process which historically was a very time consuming process. Nowadays, managers can rely on business intelligence dashboards which have the ability to consolidate relevant data and provide greater oversight in all elements of the business, helping to identify areas of improvement.

This is done using scheduling and planning systems to identify the impact of schedule changes and planning different scenarios; answering the ‘what if’ questions, or ‘can we take on this rush order?’

Decrease Time Spent on Back-office Functions The importance of streamlining admin work should not be overlooked: carpentry and joinery roles. Not only will modern technology help

whilst it might seem more worthwhile to invest in machinery that

in enhancing productivity and supporting with the industry skills

increases production, a digital system that will automate time-

shortage, but automation and robotics can help improve relevant

consuming admin tasks such as searching for information, data or

health and safety challenges within factories and workshops.

documents, filing important paperwork or chasing people for review

Innovative technology can carry out more intricate and high risk tasks,

and sign-off and other tasks is also very beneficial and worthwhile.

eliminating the risk of human error. An innovative piece of technology is much more cost effective than the process of spending months training an individual on becoming fully capable and competent at a highly skilful task.

Establish Stronger Customer Relationships Increasing sales is arguably any businesses’ main priority, and one way that this can be done is by establishing a stronger customer base.

Integrating a customer relationship management (CRM) system with

Software Solutions and Cloud Computing Being aware of the technology and systems currently available

an ERP will allow the identification of sales trends as well as the ability to anticipate orders, liaise with clients as well as ensure forecast

is the first step in becoming more efficient. Many businesses are still

demand is able to be fulfilled. Software solutions and cloud based

relying on outdated ways to carry out work, when they could be relying

systems which incorporate the technology from Industry 4.0 will allow

on technology programmes as a solution. Cloud computing is helping

more accurate and open communications, helping businesses to build

manufacturers innovate, reduce costs, and increase competitiveness

and maintain rapport with their clients.

and can assist woodwork businesses in the following ways:

Tips on Keeping Up With New Advances

Enhance Resource Planning

New advances in technology and machinery are being introduced

Investing in and implementing a digital system which allows

to us every day and despite the benefits and innovations that come

personnel to manage and have the ability to track the location of labour,

with these, it is important to bear in mind that with them come new

materials, machines, and moveable assets in real time is super beneficial

safety issues to consider. With the ever-evolving laws and legislation

to productivity. Offering greater visibility across your business to

of modern times, it can be hard to keep up with what the latest

ensure the right volume of materials are in stock or on order at any

requirements, especially those regarding health and safety.

given time will help improve return on investment and should be one of your first considerations in transitioning to a smart factory.

Make sure you are making a conscious effort to keep up to date with relevant industry news and aspects which can directly affect your personnel – for example the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has

Ensure Traceability

recently updated legislation on dust extraction.

Traceability eliminates the risk of unforeseen issues, saving time

Using specialised courses of refresher training, you can help to

and money in the long run. Businesses without dedicated tools and

remind your staff members of the safest procedures to use when

processes in place will find dealing with traceability queries extremely

handling such machinery – whether it’s a piece of kit they’ve used

time consuming and is a duty which can be carried out by a digitised

for years, or a new development they’re still getting to grips with.

system. Having the ability to track forward and back with certainty

Not only will this help to encourage safer engagement with these

is very important, especially as manufacturers are facing increasing

technologies, it also helps to promote your business as one that

pressure to prove that their products meet a range of quality

is fully prepared to take on new advancements and technological

standards and are ethically sourced.

changes to your industry.

Spring 2020

33 www.timbermedia.co.uk

FEATURE: MACHINERY

Encouraging Industry Diversity

Preconceptions of women in construction are changing with building sites and factory workshops no longer considered female-free zones. Stewart Milne Timber Systems and its in-house training is enabling change across the factory floor.

A

lthough the industry has been trying

Aimee Bascombe, SMTS

Although Aimee had never worked in the

employee. In-house training and mentoring from

to tackle the perceptions and close

construction industry before, she was keen to

experienced operatives and management allows

the gender gap, young women are

learn new skills and believed SMTS would give

previously inexperienced recruits to flourish and

often reluctant to consider a career in

her all the support required to develop and hone

a dedicated factory trainer has been appointed to

construction, particularly if they have

her skills. Since starting, Aimee’s confidence has

allow all employees to develop.

no relevant skills or experience in the sector.

Factory operative, Aimee Bascombe, was

grown, so much so that she has even delivered

Stevie Mitchell, factory manager at Westhill,

training to newer members of staff, including

explains: “By providing our own in-house training,

a self-confessed ‘DIY disaster zone’ before

new colleague, Sarah Gall, another factory

we can tailor the content of courses specifically to

she started working for Stewart Milne Timber

operative who started five months ago.

the needs of our business and our staff. This allows

Systems (SMTS). In the past six months Aimee

Previously in logistics, Sarah joined SMTS

employees to gain the knowledge they need and

has not only been trained on the machinery

with a background in HGV transport before

she handles daily but has gained skills and

moving to the factory for a more hands-on role.

confidence as a tradesperson.

With no previous experience of working with

skilled to begin with because our quality in-house

“Before, if something was broken around

develop their skills without leaving the factory.

“New recruits are not required to be highly

timber-cutting machinery or in a factory, Sarah

training equips them with the skills they need

the house, I would ask a friend or pay for

has already become a valuable member of the

and avoids the ‘bad habits’ that can be picked

someone to fix it. Now I’ll give it a go myself

factory team.

up from previous experience. As a result, we

because I now know I’m good with my hands. I

Stewart Milne Group recognises that a lack

know that our staff are working the ‘Stewart

really enjoy the work that I do. I applied to SMTS

of experience doesn’t mean a candidate doesn’t

Milne Way’ and to the high standard we expect.

because I wanted a change from my previous job

have the skills necessary to become a valuable

As well as ensuring quality of work, by training

but now, I really feel like I’ve found my vocation:

groups of staff together there is an element of

a job that fits my lifestyle and skill set. I wish I’d

team building that would be missed if staff were

made the move sooner.

trained externally by people they’ve never met.”

“I didn’t have any experience in construction,

Both female factory operatives believe that

but I was unhappy in my previous job as a

the trepidation of entering the construction

courier. My friend, who was working at Stewart

industry is worse than the reality and Aimee

Milne, recommended that I looked into the job

would encourage any woman considering it to

opportunities available. They knew that I liked

take the plunge, saying: “Just go for it. I know

working on my feet and figured I would be

it can be intimidating and you will be worried

attracted by the manual aspect of the job. She

about how you’ll be treated working in a male

also spoke highly of the training on offer, as well

dominated industry but breaking those barriers

as the flexible company benefits including private

is never a bad thing. I am just as appreciated as

healthcare, dental insurance and a good pension

Sarah Gall, SMTS

scheme.”

Spring 2020

34 www.timbermedia.co.uk

my male colleagues and you’ll feel like one of the team in no time.”

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Spring 2020

35 www.timbermedia.co.uk

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With over 4,500 timber industry business professional contacts, we can send your bespoke, solus e-newsletter to top decision makers in our industry... but be quick, the service is limited to one e-newsletter per week which will be mailed on a Monday to our mailing list.

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All for a set price of only ÂŁ500 (+vat) Our e-marketing service began at the beginning of February. To book your slot today email terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

Spring 2020

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