Timber Trader UK Magazine Issue 11 Winter 2020-2021

11

WINTER 2020-2021 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2517–26X (PRINT)

MEDITE SMARTPLY  26 The MEDITE range includes ten different families of MDF products with over 400 specifications possible WOOD PANEL INDUSTRY  16

BOOMING BUSINESS  20

Prioritising usage and securing the future of timber for UK construction

We hear from BSW Timber’s Tony Hackney about expanding its industry reach

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TIMBER TRADER UK  ISSUE 11 CONTENTS

02

12

16

News........................................................................................02

20

The latest news and views from across the industry.

24

Prioritising UK Wood Use................................................12 The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Wood Panel Industry has called for an end to the Renewable Heat Incentive amid the potential shortage of wood for the UK construction sector.

Boosting UK Woodlands..................................................16 The British Woodlands Survey was published in time to inform Government’s England Tree Strategy and the third Climate Change Risk Assessment.

26

Making the Most Out of Timber...................................20 BSW Timber is a familiar industry name and the largest integrated forestry business in the UK. We spoke to Group CEO, Tony Hackney, about an extremely busy 2020 and what the many new parts of the business are set to achieve.

What Next in 2021?............................................................24 This is a year to embrace collaboration, new regulation and celebrate huge opportunities, says Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation.

28

30

Cover Story – MEDITE SMARTPLY.............................26 MEDITE’s MDF is part of a wide range of sustainable specialist products that are helping meet the creative and diverse needs of a wide range of specifiers and designers.

Check Your Trading Terms.............................................28 As 2021 begins in uncertain waters, the impact and use of the UK-EU Trade and Co-operation Agreement and the movement of goods between the UK and EU can be confusing.

Managing Editor: Terry Hanlon

Registered address:

 terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

73 Cross Lane, Newton-Le-Willows,

 01925 270093

Merseyside WA12 9QA

Artwork: Pete Awad

Don’t Waste Time: Streamline .....................................30 Chris Fisher, UK operations director at ECI Spruce, explains how Bromley Timber and Builders Merchant manages to operate efficiently, secure repeat business and provide outstanding customer service.

 artwork@timbermedia.co.uk

Company registered in England and

Follow Timber Media:

Wales. Company Number 10839173.

 @Timber_Media

VAT registration number 271 5498 81.

The Perfect Partner for the Timber Industry Manage your timber materials more safely, using less space and in less time with Combilift’s materials handling solutions.

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Scottish timber initiative plants seed of construction sustainability Greater use of homegrown timber in UK construction is taking a significant step forward through a new demonstrator project, which could lead to a major boost for Scotland’s economy and the industry’s environmental impact.

A consortium of partners – comprising of Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC), Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) Centre for Offsite Construction and Innovative Structures (COCIS), Scottish Forestry, Confederation of Forest Industries (Confor), and SNRG – has secured funding from Innovate UK’s Sustainable Innovation Fund to prove the business case for using Scottish timber to create the structural elements of buildings.

The initiative will manufacture the first Scottish-sourced cross laminated timber (CLT) and nail laminated timber (NLT) housing unit – including wall, roof, and floor – using the UK’s only vacuum press at CSIC’s 35,000 sq. ft. innovation factory in Hamilton. The demonstrator project could ultimately lead to the mainstream use of home-grown timber in Scotland and the rest of the UK construction, as well as the development of the country’s first engineered timber manufacturing plant. The CLT and NLT superstructure will be showcased at the COP26 United Nations conference on climate change, set to take place in Glasgow between November 1 and 12 2021.

Sam Hart, innovation manager at CSIC, said: “The project is an important milestone in the move towards more mainstream use of homegrown timber in the UK’s construction sector, the majority of which is grown in Scotland. Research has proven that, with the right treatment and processing, our timber can be used for a wide variety of higher-value purposes beyond its relatively limited set of current applications. Through its increased use in commercial construction and housebuilding, we can also reduce our reliance on imported timber. The next step from there will be to make the industry aware of this transformational potential and make it a reality. Greater use of our

and Dowel Laminated Timber. As a result, a number of UK-sourced

natural and renewable resources will deliver a range of environmental,

mass timber products have been pilot manufactured, tested, and

cost, and economic benefits for Scotland and the wider UK. COP26 is a

analysed. The latest project is a natural progression to trialling home-

once in a generation opportunity to showcase what can be achieved.”

grown timber in a live environment, demonstrating the investment

Among a range of benefits, using more homegrown timber is expected to significantly lower costs for the construction industry

case for developing a Scottish manufacturing facility that can offer an alternative to products currently imported from Europe.

– initial figures suggest a potential reduction of as much as 10%

Jason Hubert, head of business development at Scottish Forestry,

compared to imported CLT – cut carbon emissions through reduced

said: “Scottish Forestry, and the wider Scottish Government, recognises

need for transportation, and open new markets to the UK-based timber

the importance of increasing Scottish timber in construction as a

sector. Analysis has suggested that around 85% of all new homes in

means of storing carbon for the long term as well as generating green

Scotland are built using timber and recent UK Government statistics

jobs for the country. This project will provide the springboard for

show that, in 2018, the UK was the world’s second largest net importer

the sector to start manufacturing a great engineering product which

of forest products – including timber – behind only China.

can be used in large-scale buildings using homegrown timber. The

Timber grown in the UK has historically been used for non-

Scottish Government is committed to getting more Scottish timber into

structural applications, such as fencing and palettes. However, ENU

construction and aims to increase the current 2.2 million cubic metres

COCIS has led on research and development to determine the viability

to 2.6 million cubic metres each year by 2021/2022.”

of using home-grown timber for the production of mass timber More at  www.cs-ic.org/innovationcentre

products and systems, such as CLT, NLT, Glue Laminated Timber (GLT),

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Wexham Golf Club unveils eco-cladding

Composite Prime has provided Wexham Park Golf Centre with

HD Clad Pro® is a wood grain composite cladding system that

a revolutionary and eco-friendly composite cladding system for

provides a durable alternative to traditional timber cladding for

its new driving range in a £500,000 project. RB Structures, using

residential, industrial and commercial exteriors. HD Clad Pro® is

Pontrilas Timber Merchants supplied Composite Prime’s HD Clad Pro

manufactured using recycled plastic and sustainable timber; it is UV

for the club’s new driving range.

stable and stain resistant, providing protection against long-term

Charles Taylor, sales director at Composite Prime, said: “We’re

degradation and damage.

delighted to have collaborated with RB Structures on the project at

Sharon Lowthian, general manager at Wexham Golf Driving range

Wexham Park Golf Centre. We’re pleased to have been able to supply

added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have found a sustainable and

one of the premier golf clubs in the country with a sustainable, long

attractive product to install at our new golf driving range. The product

lasting and low maintenance solution for its new driving range. The

provides the perfect solution for us and we’re incredibly happy with the

project, which is 330 square metres in size, saw almost one million

finished project. The cladding looks good and will be enjoyed by our

bottle caps being recycled. HD Clad Pro was the perfect component

members for years to come.”

as it is easy to install and comes in a variety of shades with concealed fixings.”

Composite Prime manufactures a range of nine products, including cladding, decking and flooring, which are tested against the latest

Composite Prime manufactures ethical decking and cladding

requirements to measure strength, impact resistance, weathering,

solutions for commercial and residential settings. By combining FSC

extreme temperature cycles, UV resistance and water absorption.

100% certified end of life hardwood timber and recycled HDPE plastics,

Founded in 2014 by Domenic Harrison and Charles Taylor and based

Composite Prime’s products retain the natural look and feel of timber

in Ilkley, West Yorkshire, Composite Prime is one of the UK’s leading

with the added strength and durability of plastic. For each square meter

brands of sustainable composite decking.

of decking produced, the equivalent of 3000 plastic bottle caps are More at  www.composite-prime.com

recycled.

Marking systems for SAWMILLS, PANEL and PALLET MANUFACTURERS

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

New production line for National Timber Systems

National Timber Systems has invested

that we quickly scale up our capacity and

set more than a year ago by generating

in a new manufacturing system for its

improve efficiency to ensure we can fulfil the

sales worth £2.6 million in October 2020. It

engineered joists, which will double its

increased volume of orders. This investment

attributed a large part of its recent success

overall capacity. The production line,

furthers our ability to do this, and also gives

to customer referrals and word-of-mouth.

located at its Catterick site, has been

us additional flexibility and room to continue

Many buyers, site managers, and commercial

dubbed the ‘Joist Super Centre’ after

with our growth plans.”

directors recommend its products when they

increasing the facility’s output from 250,000

National Timber Systems combines the

change roles or move to a new company,

metres per year to more than a million.

design, manufacturing, and logistic capabilities

This means National Timber Systems is

of Arnold Laver and NYTimber – both part of

capable of producing two million metres of

National Timber Group. The collaboration has

National Timber Systems, said: “The team

engineered joists each year.

created a high-quality national offering for

have been working remarkably hard in

house builders and developers. Its product

difficult circumstances and it’s great to see

engineered joists from its storage rack to

range includes an innovative NYTROOF rapid

this reflected in our figures. Hopefully, we can

the production line, without the need for a

fit roof panelised system, gable and party

carry this momentum into 2021 and continue

forklift. This significantly reduces handling

spandrels, trussed rafters, engineered joists,

to increase our share of the engineered

time and has had an enormous impact on

as well as floor and roof cassettes.

timber market. “The record sales month is

The system allows operatives to transfer

efficiency. As a result of its increased capacity,

Richard Jarvis, Operations Director at

generating new business.

Nick Kershaw, Managing Director of

even more pleasing when you consider that

the Catterick site will now also fulfil the

National Timber Systems led the project,

it is driven by satisfied customers. We deliver

joist needs of its Hebburn and Sheffield

added: “The new set-up includes additional

on our promises and in turn have become an

manufacturing facilities.

saws and racking, which has transformed the

asset that people use throughout their career.

way we process our engineered joists. We

It’s the best sales and marketing strategy we

simply had to make changes to meet demand.”

could have wished to create.”

Nick Kershaw, managing director at National Timber Systems, said: “National Timber Systems serves some of the country’s

This follows on from National Timber

largest house builders and it’s been essential

Systems, shattering a monthly sales record

Winter 2020-2021

Timber Trader UK Magazine

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

James Jones & Sons Ltd funds acquisition of windfarm James Jones & Sons Ltd has announced

House. We are constantly seeking ways

that it has funded the acquisition of

to further enhance our carbon negative

the UK’s first subsidy-free windfarm,

credentials for our products and activities

Inverclyde Windfarm Ltd, from BayWa r.e.,

and displacing 18,000 tonnes of CO2 via

in tandem with London-based specialist

the Inverclyde windfarm now supplements

asset manager, Gresham House Asset

the reduction of 17,200 tonnes from our

Management.

in house biomass plants. We have been at

Located in Inverclyde, south of Greenock

the forefront of innovation with regards to

and west of Port Glasgow, the site consists of

all environmental matters for a number of

eight wind turbines and has a total capacity

years for all of our sawn timber, engineered

of 24 MW. The clean energy produced will

wood products and pallet and packaging

displace more than 18,000 tonnes of CO2

solutions.”

emissions annually. Earlier this year, Tesco

This investment is part of a Group

Stores Ltd signed a 15-year Power Purchase

wide 2020 capital expenditure programme

Agreement as the energy off-taker, thereby

that has not slowed down in the face of

contributing to the retailer’s commitment

the Covid-19 pandemic. The Group has

to use 100% renewable electricity across the

completed two new biomass projects at

Tesco Group by 2030.

Aboyne and Mosstodloch, has opened a new

James Jones Chairman, Tom Bruce-

pallet inspection and repair site in Coventry

Jones said: “James Jones & Sons Ltd is

and is extending the Lockerbie sawmill site

delighted to have funded this acquisition

log yard in a £3 million project.

and this will further strengthen our trading and investment relations with Gresham

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Timber imports continue strong market recovery Timber and panel import volumes performed strongly in October

strongly. From talking to our members, we expect the statistics for the

2020 for the fifth consecutive month since June, according to

last two months of 2020 to continue to show this trend and end the

the latest timber statistics for October 2020. The Timber Trade

year only slightly below 2019 imports, which would be a remarkable

Federation (TTF) monthly report reveals total import volumes for

achievement given the circumstances. However, despite this comeback

main timber and panel products were 21% higher in October 2020

in supply, we must reiterate that the supply situation remains tight with

compared to October 2019 levels, as import volumes in the month

suppliers keeping most customers on allocation until further notice.

soared above the 1 million m3 mark.

These statistics are a positive sign, but we have some way to go before

However, even this strong performance cannot compensate for

balancing the market demand.”

the loss of import volume in Q2 meaning the ten months to October More at  www.ttf.co.uk

2020 is still 11% below, compared to the same time last year. Solid wood imports were 8% below the same period in 2019 and panel product imports were 15% lower. The main drivers of growth in the early Autumn were OSB and softwood imports, supported by higher volumes of plywood and MDF compared to the same period in 2019. Collectively, these four products have led to a 15% (377,000m3) increase in the latest three months (August-October 2020) for which data is available.

Softwood import volume topped over 700,000m3 in October 2020, the highest October volume since 2003.

The main contributors were Sweden and Latvia with Germany and Russia also exporting more to the UK in the month compared to October 2019.

OSB imports in October 2020 were 54,000m3, the highest in the ten months to October, and a 68% increase from the volumes seen in October 2019 (32,000m3). MDF imports continued a steady increase reaching its highest monthly total in 2020 with 77,000m3 and an 18% increase from October 2019 (65,000m3). Plywood imports continued to show a strong recovery reaching triple figures for the second consecutive month with 111,000 m3 in October 2020, slightly bettering the previous year’s imports (October 2019, 107,000m3.)

David Hopkins, CEO of the Timber Trade Federation, said: “This year has seen demand increase considerably across all products, while supply chains have been severely disrupted as a result of the COVID pandemic, so it is good to see imports rebound so

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MEDITE makes it real

®

Engineered wood panels for imaginative builds, whether practical or playful, MEDITE® makes it real.

From windows and doors to tables and chairs. To kitchen cupboards, skirting and bespoke-crafted stairs. For dolls houses and toys, putting smiles on little ones’ faces. And planters and baskets in our beloved green spaces. The clocks, the picture frames that adorn living room walls. The desks for home working and learning in schools.

Join the MEDITE MDF community online to receive the latest updates and to be entered into a competition – sign up to receive a free gift.

Visit meditemakesitreal.com for more information.

Dreamers welcome!

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

AFI asks UK fencing contractors about timber post failures products are used in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions. Wood intended for ground contact must be specified and treated as Use Class 4 to BS8417. It is the WPA view that failures are due to a combination of some users buying solely on cost without reference to quality or accurate specification and/or poor treatment/timber drying practice in some parts of the treatment industry.

“Whilst we at the AFI have no reason to doubt their judgement we feel the contractors in the UK have borne the cost of this failure of the treatment industry to regulate itself for far too long. The time has come to find a long-term solution to the problem and ensure that treatment of the timber products we use is ‘fit for purpose’.

“If the view expressed by the WPA is correct then the AFI feel that it should be possible to introduce a warranty scheme which will allow contractors to use the products covered by the scheme secure in the knowledge that the ‘total cost of replacement’ i.e. removal, disposal and replacement, including labour and materials, is covered by the supply chain.

“The AFI has proposed a scheme to the WPA to do this. However, the WPA board is reluctant to move forward with a scheme of this sort without further reassurance that AFI members and the contractor sector in general are committed to change, regardless of any necessary (modest) cost premium. As there will be a considerable cost to the setting up of a scheme of this sort which will result in additional costs to the ground contact products of around 2-3% it is felt that this would mean that contractors will not take up the scheme and WPA members would simply lose business to cheaper alternatives (which offer no such guarantee).”

Since the sale of traditional CCA (copper/chrome/arsenic)

New AFI Chairman, Cameron Glanvill, said: “We cannot allow this

treatment ceased in 2006, followed by the withdrawal of chromium

to continue, if nothing can be done and our customers demand a

preservatives in 2008, there have been regular reports of the

guarantee then our only option is to use alternative treatments or

failure of timber posts in ground contact. The Association of

materials such as steel, concrete or plastic composite posts.” In order to

Fencing Industries (AFI) have been monitoring the situation since

establish the contractor’s view of the proposed scheme the AFI have set

its formation in 2017 and have been discussing the matter with the

up a questionnaire available on its website, with answers going back to

treatment industry via the Wood Protection Association (WPA).

the WPA.

The AFI say: “The WPA’s view is that currently available More at  www.afiorg.uk

preservatives do work if the treatment level is specified correctly and

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Arbor Forest Products launch new Trex division Arbor Forest Products has signalled its

very much looking forward to working with

ambitions within the composite decking

Trex: Arbor Forest Products has ambitious

market with the creation of a dedicated

plans to develop the Trex ranges into one

Trex business unit, and the appointment

of the widest and most readily available

of Jonathan Cooper (pictured) as business

collections of outdoor living landscape

manager for the division.

products for the UK market – for both

The North Lincolnshire-based business,

domestic and commercial projects. We have

which is one of the UK’s largest timber

plans to expand our reach into the landscape

importers and timber products suppliers, is

architecture and specification sectors, as well

the exclusive UK distributor of Trex Transcend

as continuing to consolidate our market share

decking and more recently added the Trex

within the merchant market too, and further

Enhance collections to its offering. Under

develop successful schemes such as the

and we want to ensure that we step up our

Jonathan’s guidance, the company’s aim is for

TrexPRO installer programme and expand the

investment in the continued success of the

Trex to become the UK’s leading composite

Trex product offering in the UK.”

products, which is why we have taken the

decking brand, mirroring its position in the US.

Arbor Forest Products’ managing director,

decision to appoint Jonathan to lead this new

Jonathan has more than 20 years’ experience

Jason Ostler added: “In the years since we

division with our business. Jonathan brings

within the building products sector, and within

launched the Trex brand in the UK, the

with him a vast amount of experience in the

the composite decking market in particular

decking market has continued to boom in this

landscaping sector and is here to offer a fresh

thanks to his previous role as managing

country and we are proud to have maintained

perspective and to take Trex to the next level

director of Ecodek and Dekboard.

our place at the forefront of the growing

within the UK.”

Commenting on his new role with Arbor Forest Products and Trex, Jonathan said: “I am

composite decking sector. We’re rightly proud of how well the product has performed,

More at  www.arbordeck.co.uk

For independent guidance on your next project Ensure your timber decking or cladding is fit for purpose through design, specification, material choice and installation. Whatever the size of your project, TDCA can offer: - an accredited materials and supplier database - impartial and expert help by phone or email - inspiration, through galleries and case studies - inspection & expert witness services - free downloadable resources including our NEW

Timber Cladding Handbook

email: info@tdca.org.uk visit: www.tdca.org.uk The Timber Decking and Cladding Association is an independent, not-for-profit technical and advisory body. It was established to promote the materials, design and installation practices required to create good quality decks, associated landscape structures and cladding on buildings.

Anti-slip Plus smooth deckboards from Marley, installed by Deckbuilders UK.

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

AJ Ferguson sees brand new panel cutting centre operational

Responding to the market demand and as part of its continued

fixed collets. It permits simultaneous cutting, which drastically reduces

commitment to providing only the best quality service, they recently

the cycle time. In addition to this the blade protrusion of 80mm allows

invested in a £85k premium numerical control beam saw, the BIESSE

it to cut a stack of three boards at the same time.

SELCO WN2.

A special software creates individual labels and prints them in real time,

“This machine is specially designed to guarantee cutting precision

on the machine. Labels can contain e.g. panel size, edge banding indicator,

and rigidity. It enable us to accept a significantly larger number of

panel description or any other relevant information you may require. Our

orders whilst helping us to maintain a high quality of standards

machine works with the software for optimising cutting patterns. Based on

and offering product customisation with shorter delivery times.

the list of pieces to be produced and the panels available, it can calculate

This improves production and machining quality by moving from

the best solution to minimise material consumption and production costs.

conventional manual machinery to real cutting technology which is

This is beneficial both economically and environmentally.

reliable and easy to use.”

AJ Ferguson has created a new showroom where you can see

BIESSE SELCO WN2 is equipped with the latest unique patented technical solutions to satisfy even the most rigorous production

samples of the various sheet materials and other products on offer and can discuss project requirements with one of its dedicated advisors.

demands. The machine is fitted with a Twin Pusher - exclusive patented More at  www.ajferguson.co.uk

system which offers an additional pushing device consisting of two

High quality media dedicated to the timber sector

WWW.TIMBERMEDIA.CO.UK

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IS AN EXCELLENT CHOICE FOR ANY GREEN BUILDING PROJECT

Using wood products from responsibly managed forests is key to any green building project.

Third-party forest certification standards, like the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI), are a proof-point that wood comes from responsibly managed forests that have been managed for multiple environmental, social and economic values — today and into the future. Architects and builders are turning to products certified to the SFI Standard to meet their green building needs.

Learn more at sfiprogram.org/green-building.

PRODUCTS CERTIFIED TO SFI STANDARDS ARE SOLD IN NEARLY

Products certified to SFI are recognized by many leading green building rating programs around the world like the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).

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FEATURE  WOOD PANEL INDUSTRY REPORT

Prioritising UK wood use The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Wood Panel Industry 2020 report has called for an end to the Renewable Heat Incentive amid the potential shortage of wood for the UK construction sector.

A

n “astonishing £3.34 billion” of taxpayers’ money

happening), that

has been paid by the UK Government in Renewable

rationale disappears.”

Heat Incentive (RHI) payments over the past decade,

Collectively, the

a scheme which subsidises wood-burning for fuel.

six plants directly

The report calls for an end to the RHI and warns that

provide more than

any future subsidy regime for biomass “must be predicated on

2000 well-paid jobs

completion of a comprehensive and robust assessment of subsidy

as well as many more indirectly. These, says the report, “are

impact upon wood supply.” Key points surrounding these issues

directly dependent on this issue being addressed by the Government.”

are raised in a report commissioned by the All-Party Parliamentary

It also asserts that open-ended subsidy to burn a scarce natural

Group on the wood panel industry which represents the UK’s

resource is inconsistent with the Net Zero commitments made by

six industrial plants producing wood-based materials for the

administrations across the UK. With the depletion of wood supply a

construction industry.

prominent concern, one solution is to bolster forestry planting across

The cost of RHI last year alone stood at more than £800 million. While

the UK. This is appropriate given that the UK’s forestry coverage is

the scheme closes to new non-domestic entrants in 2021 and domestic

lower the EU average (12% of land). The time–scales involved on

the following year, the UK Government is currently considering future

maturing trees are major considerations for the UK wood processing

subsidy arrangements following consultation. The report points out that

sector. The UK will reach ‘peak wood’ in the early 2030s and thereafter

it takes 30 years to replace every tree that is chopped up into biomass

there will be a sharp decline in domestic supply. There are therefore

pellets for burning and warns: “The UK wood supply is finite – and if

clear choices to be made and the impending review of the RHI is the

wood is being burned for subsidy, it cannot be used in the construction

appropriate time to make them, with consequences which will be felt in

industry as was the intention when these trees were planted.”

our communities for many years to come.

The six UK wood processing plants are located close to the forestry

The report states: “In the longer term, the answer might lie in

plantations from which their raw material comes. The report warns:

planting more trees. However, (this) offers no prospect of early relief

“If the industry becomes dependent on imported timber (as is already

— the benefits of planting over the next few years will not be realised

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Winter 2020-2021

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

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FEATURE  WOOD PANEL INDUSTRY REPORT

until 2040-60. Forestry planting has been in decline in the UK since the

forecast to decline rapidly over the period from 2035 onwards, which

1970s and that is the legacy the industry is now living with. Inevitably,

will reduce the wood materials available for domestic manufacturing

therefore, the biomass sector is currently — and for the next 20 years

and the domestic sawmill industry. The decline in supply is particularly

— relying on planting which took place with other purposes in mind,

concerning given that the UK already has a lower than average

long before the RHI existed.”

woodland coverage of 13% relative to the EU average of approximately

Selaine Saxby MP, who chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group

37%. The challenge is exacerbated further by wood fuel subsidies,

and whose North Devon constituency includes a large wood panel

which are leading to shortages within the market. Overall, the decline

manufacturing plant at South Molton, said: “Wood is too important a

in domestic wood availability combined with rising demand has two

resource to burn. That is the basic contention of those of us who are

implications: short-term and long-term.

calling on the UK Government to reconsider support for the RHI before a crisis is created for other users of our finite forestry supply.”

The wood panel manufacturing industry depends upon the current

Alastair Kerr, Director General of the Wood Panel Industries Federation and Secretary of the Expert Working Group for the Wood Panel Industry, commented: “We have a successful industry providing

and future domestic softwood supply. The industry lies central to

high quality employment and with ambitions to invest and expand,

delivering upon two central objectives of the UK Government as

particularly in response to increased demand for housing. Increased

Achieving Net Zero by 2050. Wood panel manufacturers across the UK

use of wood in construction is also consistent with the Government’s

are playing a key role in supporting the UK Government’s Net Zero by

environmental agenda. All we are asking is for recognition from

2050 ambition, with the carbon sequestration credentials outlined on

Government that wood is a finite resource and there is a conflict

Page 8 of this Report.

between burning it as fuel with taxpayer subsidy and using it for the

Secondly, the UK Government is committed to constructing in excess of one million homes before the end of this Parliamentary

purposes intended when trees were planted. Security of wood supply is now a major concern in determining our members’ investment plans.”

term in 2024. Without improving wood security, the needs of panel More at  www.wpif.org.uk

manufacturers’ consumers in the house building and construction industries will not be met. This has the potential to have a considerable impact upon the house building industry given that 50% of wood panel manufacturing products generated on an annual basis are used in construction and house building.

 NEXT STEPS

Wood panel manufacturers supplying these vital industries account for around 25% of the total 11 million green tonnes supply

Upon reviewing the evidence baseline, the Expert Working

delivered to the market. The domestic virgin roundwood supply is

Group recommends BEIS consider the following policy recommendations to be adopted: •

Close the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme as proposed by the Department for BEIS’ consultation on ‘Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive: Ensuring a Sustainable Scheme’ and create a competitive, free market for all wood users competing for a finite resource base beyond the existing renewable energy schemes. Equalisation of the market would be the most desirable for wood-panel manufacturers and place all wood users on a level playing field.

•

If any new scheme is introduced in future, it must be evidence-based and detail a restriction of the total quantity of wood materials to ensure sustainability for all wood users. This solution has a dual benefit — carbon and economic. By restricting the wood materials which can be consumed as energy, the period that carbon is locked up for can be extended for decades and the economic value generated enhanced.

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FEATURE  FORESTRY & TIMBER POLICY

Boosting UK woodlands

The 2020 edition of the British Woodlands Survey (BWS), funded by the Forestry Commission and co-ordinated by the Sylva Foundation, was published in time to inform government’s England Tree Strategy and the third Climate Change Risk Assessment.

W

ith environmental change as its main theme, the

Standard. The report’s authors highlighted that a minority (31%) of

research team from Sylva Foundation and Forest

respondents had a UKFS management plan in place.

Research explored awareness, action, and aspiration among the private sector which owns 74% of forested

Looking to the future, many respondents indicated that they might consider creating new woodlands and planting new hedgerows or

land in Britain. Attracting the views of 1,055 woodland owners,

agroforestry systems in the longer-term. In the short-term, however,

agents and forestry professionals, representing 3% of privately-

complexities of regulations and bureaucratic grants were seen as

owned woodland in Britain.

significant hurdles preventing more landowners from considering

BWS gathers evidence about Britain’s woodlands and those who care for them. The BWS aims to provide an evidence base

woodland creation. This is a concern given ambitious woodland creation plans to plant 30,000ha of trees across the UK by 2025.

on which future policies and practice can be developed. The first

The report has been published in time to inform government’s

British Woodlands Survey was held in 2012 which itself built upon an

England Tree Strategy and the third Climate Change Risk Assessment,

important series of surveys undertaken by the Department of Land

and it will underpin the work of the Forestry and Climate Change

Economy at the University of Cambridge since 1963. The intention

working group which oversees the delivery of an action plan promoting

was always that a major survey was repeated every five years, while

adaptation and resilience in England.

any number of additional surveys on specific themes may be run as required.

The report’s lead author Dr Gabriel Hemery, who is also CEO of the Sylva Foundation, commented: “There are a huge number of interesting

Hand-in-hand with increasing awareness and observation of

findings in the report, but if I was to pick one to highlight it would be

environmental threats, the report highlighted concerns that many

how we have unearthed a very strong relationship between current

of those who own or manage woodlands are not actively planning

activity and future intended actions among land managers. This is

or managing in ways which would make woodlands more resilient in

significant because it points to the importance of investing more in

future. For example, a minority of respondents had considered local

advocacy and support for those who own or manage our woodlands.

climate change projections or studied the soils that support their

The benefits will be realised not only in their woodlands, but by nature

woodlands. A key indicator that an owner or manager has considered

and by society as a whole.”

threats from environmental change while planning to make a woodland more resilient is having a management plan compliant with UK Forestry

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Winter 2020-2021

Forestry Commission Chair Sir William Worsley said: “This independent report, which we commissioned, highlights how important

16

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FOR TIMBER THAT KEEPS OUR FORESTS STRONG, ® CHOOSE FSC Our forests give us many things, including a huge variety of timber and timber products.

FSC helps look after forests and the people and wildlife who call them home. So you can use timber, panels and other forest products while keeping our forests full of life. www.fsc-uk.org

FSC®F000231

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FEATURE  FORESTRY & TIMBER POLICY

it is that we continue to nurture our woodlands. They are the cornerstone of a healthy environment and crucial in the fight against climate change. We recognise the challenges that landowners face when making management decisions, and we are committed to working closely with them to support long-term management, ensuring healthy and resilient woodlands for the future.”

Simon Lloyd, Chair of the Forestry and Climate Change Working Group (FCCWG) and CEO of the Royal Forestry Society added: “This is an immensely useful report in our work promoting adaptation and resilience in the country’s forests. While there are some positive indications of changes in awareness and behaviour, overall it’s clear that the forestry sector is not doing enough nor reacting quickly enough to combat the climate emergency.”

More at  www.sylva.org.uk/bws2020

 TREES FOR CLIMATE PROGRAMME Over 500 hectares of trees will be planted in ten Community

•

Forests over the next five months thanks to new £12.1 million

The Mersey Forest, which covers Merseyside and North Cheshire

fund. This will also build the pipeline of projects for community

•

City of Trees, Greater Manchester

planting in future years.

•

Forest of Avon Trust, which covers Bristol and Avon

•

HEYwoods, which covers Kingston-upon-Hull and the East

The new programme – Trees for Climate – will see trees planted in community forests across the country. When mature, the trees will eventually store over 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide,

Riding of Yorkshire •

playing an important role in the meeting the government’s net zero emissions by 2050 target. The project will also reduce flood

•

risk, increase sustainable UK grown timber, provide more places for nature and biodiversity to thrive, and increase people’s access to

Thames Chase Trust, which covers East London and South West Essex White Rose Forest, which covers Leeds city region and North and West Yorkshire

•

and enjoyment of woodland. The funding will also create new jobs

Forest of Mercia, which covers Staffordshire and the West Midlands.

and secure existing ones within the forestry and environmental sector, helping to boost local economies as part of a green recovery.

Paul Nolan, Director of The Mersey Forest and the Chair of England’s Community Forests, said: “Our Trees for Climate

Forestry Minister, Lord Goldsmith, said: “Through this exciting

programme will plant millions more trees around England’s town

new programme we will build back greener, as more communities

and cities, targeted at areas where they can make the greatest

- particularly those in urban environments – will have access to

difference, in particular to local quality of life and levels of health

nature, with real benefits for health and wellbeing. Trees are the

and wellbeing. The national network of Community Forests has

backbone of our urban and rural environments and essential in

been working for over 25 years to bring nature closer to people and

tackling the climate emergency. This vital programme will plant

local communities and is perfectly placed to deliver real change, on

trees where they are most needed to stem flooding and provide

the ground.”

more places for nature to thrive.”

Trees for Climate will help deliver against goals in the

The programme is being delivered by a collaboration of ten

government’s 25 Year Environment Plan and support Nature

Community Forest organisations, supported by the national charity

Recovery Networks across England. The government recently

The Community Forest Trust. The following Community Forests will

consulted on a new England Tree Strategy to accelerate tree planting

carry out the planting:

and improve the management of our existing trees and woodlands.

The new Strategy will help shape policies to plant and look after

•

The Forest of Marston Vale, Bedfordshire

•

Great Western Community Forest, covering the North Wessex

•

more trees for the climate, nature, people and the economy.

Downs to the River Thames

More at  www.gov.uk/government/organisations/

The Greenwood Community Forest, West Nottinghamshire

forestry-commission

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FEATURE  THE BIG INTERVIEW

Making the Most Out of Timber BSW Timber is a familiar industry name and the largest integrated forestry business in the UK. We spoke to Group CEO, Tony Hackney, about an extremely busy 2020 and what the many new parts of the business are set to achieve.

W

ith five main operating

SCA Wood UK and also bringing the ‘highly

divisions: tree nurseries,

mechanised’ timber harvesting company

forestry, sawmilling, timber

Dick Brothers Forestry Ltd, into the Group.

manufacturing and energy

How will this add value to the manufacture

working seamlessly together, BSW’s

and distribution of timber products to the

the challenges and opportunities of how a

portfolio of companies form an important

merchant sector? “This is a very exciting

highly-mechanised harvesting team operates.

chain of supply from ‘seed to sawn’ and

development for us, working with one of the

We believe that using innovative production

beyond. Whilst each division prioritises

UK’s leading imported timber processors and

planning we can bring synergies to our

servicing other divisions in the group as

manufacturers,” says Tony. “It opens up a

harvesting and sawmilling divisions. Above all,

appropriate, they operate as ‘autonomous

number of market opportunities for us which

short and immediate lines of communication

profit centres’ and are individually

we’ll be working on behind the scenes. The

between mills, harvesting supervisors and

measured on performance.

blend of talent in SCA Wood UK and BSW will

machines will be hugely beneficial.”

2020 was a very busy business year with a number of changes at BSW, with the acquisition by private equity investor Endless LLP in February 2020, successfully underpinning the business for future growth. “2020 has indeed been a very special year for us,” says Tony. “The impact of the

We now have an incredibly aspirational product offering that is generating interest among end users, landscapers and architects

coronavirus pandemic could not have been foreseen but with the backing of Endless and through the extreme efforts of our staff we have succeeded in growing the business.

be a strong combination in bringing a new

It is reassuring having the experience and

vigour to timber marketing in the UK.

expertise that Endless provide and knowing

“Importantly, delivering the right logs

Two exciting products and ‘standalone’ brands recently added to the BSW range are the IRO and Alchemy range of cladding

that when opportunities for acquisition

to the right mill on-time to service our

and decking. These brands also signal a

or investment arise, we are in a position

production planning and sales is vital to our

change in emphasis for BSW. “We now have

to analyse and strike deals if and when

business. A key element of that is how the

an incredibly aspirational product offering

appropriate.”

trees are felled, prepared and despatched

that is generating interest among end users,

to our sawmills. Working with Dick Brothers

landscapers and architects,” adds Tony. “IRO is

the Building and Supply Solutions division of

Forestry allows us to get under the skin of

a range of natural timber cladding and decking

Winter 2020-2021

Two recent acquisitions by BSW include

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

Flame retardant treated cladding from a carbon dioxide neutral production at Woodsafe Timber Protection factory in Sweden

As the winner of the WPA Award, Project of the year 2020, Woodsafe’s wide range of cladding is now available via partners in the UK. For more information, feel free to contact our customer service +46 10 206 72 30 or visit the website www.woodsafe.com

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FEATURE  THE BIG INTERVIEW

that is inspired by Yakisugi, the ancient Japanese process of charring timber and is available in 10 unique colours. Meanwhile, Alchemy is our range of hollow and solid capped composite decking, highlighting our commitment to developing products that complement traditional timber materials.

Consumers love low-maintenance products that look the part, while landscapers are after something that is easy to install – both IRO and Alchemy tick all of these boxes.”

The pressures of the circular economy and on the UK to deliver the 2050 net zero carbon targets are high. Like all sawmills, BSW produce a range of co-products as part of its operations and has a large portfolio of customers they sell its woodchips, sawdust, shavings and bark. BSW Energy is making sure that environmentally-friendly wood fuel products are produced and securing a sustainable supply chain. “As well as thirdparty markets, a proportion of our co-products

to be sustainable. Our raw material comes

to grow trees on their land which absorb CO2e

are consumed by our on-site biomass boilers,

from a lifecycle of well-managed forests from

emissions, enhance our ecology and wildlife

allowing us to produce heat to dry timber

growing our own saplings and planting out

and purify and stabilise our water systems,”

in our kilns and in one site, to generate

in accordance with UK Woodland Assurance

finishes Tony. “By paying landowners to deliver

electricity,” says Tony. “This investment was a

Scheme. It’s all about nurturing and managing

these services, companies incentivise them

commitment over two decades to eliminate

to maturity. After careful consideration of

to use their land in the most environmentally

the burning of oil and gas to dry timber: we

felling, the whole process starts again with

sensitive way. CarbonStore plays a central

became completely self-sufficient in terms

replacement.”

role in the process. It matches suitable

of kiln heat in 2015 when our last mill was converted to biomass.

“We are also building our team of logistics

As part of its wider environmental

companies with appropriate landowners. It

programme, BSW has developed CarbonStore

creates healthy, vibrant woodlands within

to help ‘businesses, landowners and individuals

beautiful landscapes. Finally, it develops the

specialists to examine how we can develop

to create a cleaner, greener low-carbon

legal framework for long-term partnerships

alternatives to road transport. Providing

economy’. CarbonStore provides the vital link

between companies and landowners. As

continuity of supply and on-time deliveries is

between companies who want to minimise

such, CarbonStore is playing an important

critical to our customers so this is a complex

their impact on the environment and

part in helping the urban and rural industries

area, but we are determined to make a

landowners who can help them achieve that.

work together so that we all enjoy long-term

difference. The nature of our process has

“Farmers and landowners need encouragement

benefits.”

 CROWN DISTRIBUTOR SCHEME For the merchant sector, the BSW Timber Crown Distributor Scheme offers stockists, timber and builders’ merchants a way to drive quality. What is the membership criteria? “The Crown Distributor Scheme is designed to be the gold standard for timber merchanting, focusing on the delivery of timber excellence throughout the supply chain.

Crown Distributors must display a commitment to promoting timber excellence in their branches and in return we offer an exclusive, comprehensive support package. This covers what we consider to be the key areas of merchanting – sales, marketing, training, service and innovation, finance, and presentation – so when someone visits a Crown Distributor branch they can be completely assured that they are in good hands.”

More at  www.bsw.co.uk

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FEATURE  BRITISH WOODWORKING FEDERATION

What next in 2021?

This is a year to embrace collaboration, new regulation and huge opportunities, says Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF).

A

s a trade organisation we’ve always been by the side of

webinars, we will ensure that members have the knowledge and

our members, helping them to navigate challenges and

understanding to conform to the new regulations.

seize opportunities, but in 2020 this took on a whole new meaning. We’ve seen the impact the COVID-19

Regulation and policy have a large influence on our members, and so lobbying Government to protect their interests and influence policy

pandemic has had on our members and we’ve worked hard to ensure

will remain at the heart of the BWF’s work in 2021. We will continue

we are reactive and support them, and the wider construction

to lobby the Government over fire safety standards, the use of timber

industry, in the best way we can.

as a preferred construction material and for truly sustainably-minded incentives to stimulate the home renovation market.

Facing challenges together

Our hope is for incentives to be based on whole-life carbon

For all of the challenges of the pandemic in 2020, it has brought

assessment and material choice rather than being solely based upon

our sector and the wider supply chain closer together for the first time

operational carbon. Although the recent Green Homes Grant is a

in a long time. To help the construction industry co-ordinate when it

positive economic stimulus, it provides no guidance on the types

reopened after the March lockdown, everyone came together under

of materials that homeowners should use and is therefore a lost

the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) and Build UK.

opportunity for our sector.

Through the BWF’s membership of Build UK and the Construction Products Association, we were able to represent the woodworking and

Personal growth and development

joinery manufacture sector and ensure its voice was included in the

Although the pandemic and Brexit continues to influence our sector,

creation of the CLC Roadmap to Recovery as well as discussions over

we can’t allow this to detract our attention from skills and development

product availability and site operating procedures.

as they remain integral to growth. By providing access to quality training

This cross-industry collaboration has been hugely beneficial

provision, the BWF continues to support efforts to reduce our sector’s skills

to immediate post-COVID lockdown recovery and was a clear

gap by encouraging new talent into the profession and developing the

demonstration that together we can tackle and overcome challenges of

skills of individuals already working in the sector. Retaining and developing

unprecedented size. This collaborative approach was vital to the overall

existing talent through continuous learning is crucial to skills retention. The

effectiveness of the construction supply chain, and it must continue

impact that Brexit will have on the labour market is not yet clear, but we’re

into 2021 to help us move forward and tackle challenges together.

working hard on behalf of members to ensure that they have access to the relevant courses and qualifications to help plug any skills gaps.

Navigating regulation

There are also significant changes on the horizon, brought about by the

A considerable challenge for 2021 will be the introduction of new

Fire Safety and Building Safety Bills, which will impact our sector. Both bills

regulation. For the manufacturing industry, this puts extra pressure on

have competency and standards as a key focus, so we’ll be representing our

our members, who often don’t have the time to unpick complex new

members and helping guide them through the changes that will come into

guidelines and regulation. One of the biggest challenges of Brexit will

force – with an emphasis on skills, training and certification.

be the introduction of UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking, which will cover most goods that previously required CE marking.

2020 was a challenging year but I’ve been so encouraged by the resolve and determination of our membership to get through it, and I’ve no

The Government expectations in terms of conformity for UKCA

doubt that our resilience will see us grow stronger in 2021 and beyond. We

marking is not easy for everyone to understand, but all manufacturers

must continue our essential focus on collaboration, skills and development,

are obliged to comply. Helping BWF members understand and navigate

and ensuring timber is at the heart of sustainable construction.

this change will be a core part of our focus next year. Providing access More at  www.bwf.org.uk

to simple-to-follow guidelines as well informative sessions such as

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Industry news | Features | Design | Certification Construction | Interviews | Analysis | Sustainability Merchant news | Cladding | Decking | Offsite Timber protection | Markets | Health & safety Events | Case studies | & much more...

WWW.TIMBERMEDIA.CO.UK

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COVER STORY  MEDITE SMARTPLY

Imagination meets innovation with MEDITE As one of Europe’s best known brands of MDF, MEDITE is considered the benchmark for quality, consistency and performance. Its wide range of sustainable specialist products are helping meet the creative and diverse needs of a wide range of specifiers and designers.

I

t is no secret that the construction industry is a major

MEDITE MDF makes it real by continuously developing new

producer of carbon. Nearly 40% of the UK’s total

innovative, versatile and sustainable products, suitable for bespoke

carbon footprint is from the built environment, and

interior fit outs and refurbishments.

almost half of this energy comes from operations

Part of the Coillte Group in Ireland, its sustainable supply chain

within buildings and infrastructure that has nothing to do with

and manufacturing processes means the products themselves are as

their functional operation.1 It is a problem across the industry—but

environmentally conscious as they are in their application. Around 20%4

progress is being made.

of the Coillte Estate, which is nearly 90,000 hectares of forest lands,

In a bid to bring the construction industry down a more sustainable

is managed with biodiversity and nature conservation in mind.5 Coillte

route, several initiatives are now underway. In November 2020, Prime

uses the latest technology and information to harvest wood efficiently,

Minister Boris Johnson announced the ‘Ten Point Plan for a Green

safely and responsibly in order to be as sustainable as possible.

Industrial Revolution,’ which aims to reduce UK emissions by 180 million

MEDITE MDF fulfils an important recycling concept for the forestry

tonnes of carbon dioxide between 2023 and 2032 and develop further

sector by processing waste from the Irish sawmill as wood chip,

plans to meet the target of net zero by 2050.2

accounting for nearly 60% of the raw input for MEDITE MDF.

Part of this plan includes the extension of the Green Homes Grant for

As one of Europe’s most renowned brands of MDF, MEDITE is

another year, in which homeowners in England, including landlords, can

considered the benchmark for quality, consistency and performance.

get up to £5,000 to pay part of the cost of energy saving measures like

Its wide range of specialist products are designed to meet the creative

insulation.3 This means that the design and construction industries need to

and diverse needs of specifiers, users and designers while meeting

step up their game and become even more environmentally conscious.

Wellbeing is also high on the agenda. The need for more healthconscious interior spaces at home and at work has also risen sharply in recent years, especially since the onset of the pandemic and consequent lockdowns which has forced many of us to spend more time at home.

This unique situation has brought about its own challenges. As a result, architects and designers are under more pressure than ever to take active steps to incorporate features and products in their work that will make spaces safer and healthier to live and work in.

This raises the question on how the timber construction industry can adapt to these demands. For example, how can innovative and bespoke interior fit outs be created while focusing on sustainability and wellbeing?

1 https://www.ukgbc.org/climate-change/

2 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-ten-point-plan-for-a-green-industrial-revolution

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3 https://greenhomesgrant.campaign.gov.uk/

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COVER STORY  MEDITE SMARTPLY

MEDITE MDF fulfils an important recycling concept for the forestry sector by processing waste from the Irish sawmill as wood chip, accounting for nearly 60% of the raw input for MEDITE MDF.

demands for more sustainable and healthier spaces. Through constant

Originally formulated for environmentally sensitive applications

progression and investment, MEDITE SMARTPLY can delve into diverse

such as hospitals, schools and museums, MEDITE CLEAR offers a no

markets and continuously produce fresh, new products to address ever-

added formaldehyde, low volatile organic compound (VOC) solution for

changing demands.

other interior spaces too. Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring VOC

The MEDITE MDF range is CARB phase 2 compliant – a regulation

substance, found in all natural things in very small amounts. Wood,

limit lower than the European regulate E1 formaldehyde class — with

for example, contains a small amount of formaldehyde which may be

some specialist products, notably MEDITE CLEAR, being manufactured

emitted into the air over time. MEDITE CLEAR can help to improve

with guaranteed no added formaldehyde.

indoor air quality in the home, especially in areas which may require

This opens doors for professionals who work with MDF, or those

special attention to help ensure the health and wellbeing of those who

who have an enthusiasm for MDF, to be able to make bigger, better

will spend time there: children’s bedrooms, for example. Furthermore,

and ever more design led work real, as well as maintain their peace

a flame retardant version is also produced, for complete peace of mind

of mind when it comes to the sustainability and the sensitivity of the

from all angles: MEDITE FR CLEAR.

environments they are create.

For an MDF with even more design possibilities, there is MEDITE

The extensive MEDITE range includes ten different families of MDF

PREMIER. Produced using superior wood refining technology and specially

products and many variants within this, with over 400 specifications

designed resins, MEDITE PREMIER features excellent facing properties,

possible—a choice vast enough that a brand new MEDITE MDF

making it suitable for the thinnest laminates and surface coatings as well

enthusiast community is now blossoming online.

as a wide range of interior applications such as contemporary and ready to

Joiners, carpenters, furniture makers, or anyone with an interest

assemble furniture, shelving, fit outs and much more.

in MDF, are now able to join this forum for the industry, to share ideas,

MEDITE PREMIER FR also has the added benefit of flame

gain inspiration and meet other similar professionals and enthusiasts.

retardancy. It is a Euroclass B and C are MDF panel specially developed

Anyone who joins will also have first access to exclusive news, updates

for use in fire rated applications where a Euroclass B or a Euroclass C

and other exclusive content.

flame retardant board is required under building regulations. These

Each MDF offers the designer or specifier a specific benefit. If wellbeing is on top of the list for example, then MEDITE MR and

include hotel foyers, offices, public libraries, schools, cinemas and other public buildings.

MEDITE CLEAR are the top choices. These two specialised MDF panels

Of course, those wanting a high performance breathable sheathing

have the versatility to allow interior designers and home improvers to

panel for a timber frame structure, will find MEDITE VENT an ideal

transform a space into a healthier, design-led one.

choice. Its high racking strength in excess of Category 1 requirements,

MEDITE MR is a moisture resistant panel, specially designed for

and high vapour permeability and weather resistance, makes it

use in humid conditions in accordance with MDF.H (Option 1) as

the perfect choice for the outer sheathing layer in ‘diffusion open’

defined in EN 622-5 – making it ideal for applications such as kitchen

breathable timber frame walls, particularly for Passivhaus.

and bathroom furniture – as well as window and skirting boards and architectural mouldings. Its smooth surface allows for a superior finish

For further information on the extensive MEDITE range of MDF visit

when used for interior applications.

 mdfosb.com/en/products/medite-mdf

 MEDITE MAKES IT REAL With industry leading engineered wood panels, you bring the imagination, we’ll bring the innovation. Join the MEDITE community today for your chance to win exclusive prizes every month from power tool brand Milwaukee, to help take your work to the next level:  www.meditemakesitreal.com

4 https://www.coillte.ie/coillte-nature/coilltenature/why/

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5 https://www.coillte.ie/our-business/our-divisions/medite-smartply/

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FEATURE  TRADING TIMBER

Check Your Trading Terms As 2021 begins in uncertain waters, the impact and use of the UK-EU Trade and Co-operation Agreement and the movement of goods between the UK and EU can be confusing. The TTF has provided a guide to compliance.

T

he Timber Trade Federation

comply with the rules of origin requirements

be recorded on the customs entry as the party

(TTF) is advising members

when importing or exporting such goods

being responsible for any EU duty to be paid.

on all aspects of the Brexit

between the UK and the EU. In order to avoid

process and the ways it is

paying tariffs on the remaining wood products

case of wood-based panels if the NI Buyer wishes

affecting those trading and moving timber

which qualify under the UK-EU Trade and

to avoid such duty then under the Northern

across the UK and EU borders. With the

Co-operation Agreement, all traders must –

Ireland protocol they have the opportunity to

signing of the UK-EU Trade and Co-operation

from 1 January – ‘claim preference’ by way of

do so by confirming as part of the customs entry

Agreement the vast majority of traders

meeting the relevant ‘rules of origin’ for their

that the goods are NOT ‘At Risk’ of crossing the

moving goods between the UK and EU will

products and making a declaration to that

border and being sold in the EU. This includes the

avoid paying tariffs on that trade. However,

effect.

three options available to avoid paying tariffs and

this trade agreement only applies to goods that originate in the UK or EU. “Unlike the customs union where ‘third

Where EU duty would be necessary, as in the

when bringing goods into Northern Ireland from

Northern Ireland

Great Britain, you will pay no duty if you are:

All goods which are shipped from Great

•

Able to claim a preferential rate of

country’ goods imported into the UK could

Britain to Northern Ireland (either direct or via

move freely and duty-free from here to other

Ireland) will have to submit a customs entry as

duty under the Trade and Co-operation

EU member states, under the new trade

part of the shipment process. This is because

agreement such ‘third country’ goods may

for all practical purposes NI remains part of

and declare that your goods are not ‘at

now need to pay further duty when crossing

the EU and therefore remains subject to EU

risk’ of onward movement to the EU

the border into the EU or vice versa,” says Nick

requirements including Plant Health and due

Boulton, TTF’s head of technical and trade.”

diligence. The buyer in NI will in most cases be

The detailed Government guidance says:

named as the Importer and their unique EORI

“Goods that do not meet the rules of origin

reference which will start with XI will need to

Agreement between the UK and EU •

•

Authorised under the UK Trader Scheme

Eligible to claim a waiver on the duty up to specified limits.

More at  www.ttf.co.uk

can still be traded but they will not be able to benefit from preference under the TCA and may have to pay the standard (“Most Favoured Nation”) tariffs that the EU and UK apply to imports. For exports to the EU, this will be their Common External Tariff. Likewise, for imports to the UK, this will be the UK Global Tariff. For some goods, these Most Favoured Nation tariffs may be low or zero, but for many other goods they can be much higher.”

“Fortunately, most wood products are traded duty free on a global basis,” adds Nick.

“So while it will be necessary to list country of origin on customs entries, there is no need to claim preferential duty rates and undertake the additional administration necessary to

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Winter 2020-2021

28

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FEATURE  TRADING TIMBER

 TREATMENT AND MOVEMENT OF TIMBER PALLETS Wooden pallets and packaging that originate within the EU are generally free to move between member states without having to meet international ISPM15 standards.

However, when the UK leaves the EU, regulations state they must be heat-treated and marked as ISPM15compliant when travelling in either direction between the UK and the EU, meaning they may be subject to official checks that could delay shipments for a period immediately after Brexit. The timber packaging and pallet industry has worked hard with industry and the UK government to build up stocks of compliant wooden pallets and packaging, expanding the country’s kilning capacity and announcing that ISPM15-marked components can be used to repair used pallets, for example.

The European Pallet Association (EPAL) UK & Ireland chairman says some companies have sought out guaranteed sources of ISPM15 compliancy such as EPAL. “We have seen a rise in demand from businesses wishing to eliminate completely the risks to their supply chains of the new

for established suppliers. As EPAL pallets are kiln dried to ISPM15

regulations,” says Paul Davidson, chairman of EPAL UK & Ireland.

specifications as standard, they automatically conform to these

“When pallets are ISPM15-compliant, they are free to move through

regulations.”

customs across Europe, and throughout the world, and won’t be More at  www.epal-pallets.org/eu-en

the source of unnecessary details, so business have been looking

Advertise with Timber Media’s Products & Services

For more information call Terry Hanlon on 01925 270093 or email terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

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FEATURE  ENTERPRISE RESOURCE PLANNING

Don’t Waste Time: Streamline Chris Fisher, UK operations director at ECI Spruce, explores a range of factors that Bromley Timber and Builders Merchant needed to consider in order to operate efficiently, secure repeat business and provide outstanding customer service.

H

aving been part of a larger organisation that was taken over by a new operator around ten years ago, Bromley Timber

and Builders Merchant found themselves struggling to excel in customer service, forced to operate under a fixed infrastructure, wasting time on pointless business initiatives and admin tasks – none of which seemed to focus on the needs of the consumer.

Following the decision to ‘go it alone’ and set up independently, Bromley now take pride in offering a personalised and professional service, with access to an extensive range of products and materials, catering for the needs of individual tradespeople as well as national housebuilders. Before committing to the implementation of a

that they’re working off the most up-to-date information and ultimately,

new ERP system, the team knew it needed to be right for them if they

providing a better customer service. To strengthen their reputation as industry

were to thrive in a competitive environment. With this in mind, they

experts, the team were keen to invest as much time possible in customer

spoke to a number of industry experts, as well as fellow independent

interaction, offering unparalleled advice and guidance. This meant they were

merchants, determined to fully understand the pros and cons of the

keen to reduce the headache created by invoicing and record keeping, with

different systems available.

endless paperwork and outdated processes draining time.

From the outset, they knew they required a system that could help

Under the Spruce document management system, all transactions

alleviate many of the day-to-day challenges draining resources and

are automatically linked, giving the team instant access to everything

slowing down the overall operation, as well as one that could scale up

they might need on one single database. Customers’ quotes, purchase

as the business grew, while also remaining flexible as market trends and

orders, goods received, and POs are all available via this central system,

customer demand evolved.

allowing those working on the shop floor to quickly pull up information

It’s becoming more common for businesses to deploy ERP systems

while chatting to a customer.

in an attempt to better manage many of the back office processes, with

Full customer records are also available at the touch of a button,

staff able to access point-of-sale and stock management records via the

allowing staff working on the shop floor to print or email documents,

cloud, reducing the chance of over or under ordering certain products.

providing the information customers require, in their preferred format

Interestingly, poor document management is one of the main reasons

within a matter of minutes. In an increasingly digitised world, many

preventing merchants from scaling up, as extending product ranges and

customers now prefer a digital record of their transaction, with paper

increasing stock levels becomes all the more tricky.

receipts increasingly viewed as a thing of the past.

Diversifying the product range was identified as a potential way

As all timber and builders merchants will understand, the majority

Bromley could set themselves apart from competition and alongside

of customers are time-poor so it is important that measures are taken

high quality hardwoods, softwoods and other timber supplies, Bromley

to reduce queuing time by streamlining the check-out process. Since

stock an extensive range of building products, making efficient stock

implementing the Spruce software, check-out staff can quickly scan items,

replenishment crucial to avoid customer disappointment.

enter product codes, or look them up in the system using a range of key

With an ERP in place, much of the ordering and stock management process is now automated, as purchasing needs are reviewed on a daily

search terms – making the sales transaction efficient and professional and reducing the chance of customers taking their business elsewhere.

basis and orders are automatically generated based on pre-determined

The decision to implement an end-to-end ERP system isn’t always easy,

stock levels. The buying team continue to oversee this process, but

with businesses understandably concerned around the initial outlay and

Bromley are now confident that they’re unlikely to run out of, or over-

getting employees up to speed with a new system, however as Bromley

order certain stock lines – costly mistakes for an independent merchant.

have demonstrated, the benefits can be extensive, with many reporting

Since implementing the software, Bromley have been able to extend

significant savings on resources and far less duplication of work.

their product lines, now offering a selection of non-core items, alongside its traditional product ranges. Via the cloud, staff can easily access the correct

More at  www.ecisolutions.com/en-gb/builders-merchants-

item price without having to source and input the details each time, confident

software/spruce/

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 @Timber_Media

Grow Your Business Timber Media has launched our e-marketing service for advertisers.

With over 5,000 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.

A second e-newsletter will be sent the following Thursday to engage contacts who opened but did not click the links. You’ll then receive a statistics report for the two e-newsletters the following Monday.

All for a set price of only £500 (+vat)

To book your slot today email terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

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New cladding handbook provides welcome knowledge resource A new ‘must have’ cladding resource

Judging by the increased number of enquiries and reports of good sales growth from TDCA members, there is a healthy interest in using timber to create a natural and attractive cladding finish to beautifully designed, low carbon buildings.

Correctly designed, specified and installed, timber cladding will have a long and low maintenance life. But do you know your roof batten from your cladding batten or how to calculate the ideal length for your fixings or what type they should be? This and many other topics are addressed in the new Cladding Handbook produced in partnership with the Timber Trade Federation and supported by the Wood Protection Association and Wood Campus. Developed to support the growing cladding market, this go-to 48-page resource provides clear, relevant and up to date information for specifiers, buyers and installers.

Janet Sycamore, Director of The Timber Decking & Cladding Association (TDCA) says that many of its members have been working round the clock to meet demand with some selling out as soon as a delivery arrives. “If 2020 is anything to go by, then the popularity of timber cladding has never been greater.”

New cladding choices Despite the obvious challenges in 2020, TDCA members continued to innovate and successfully bring new products to market with colour, texture and durability being top of the list of attributes required. Products such as the award winning IRO timber cladding with a striking grain appearance – durable and finished with a protective cream, it comes in a range of 15 colours.

The Handbook references a new version of the TRADA External Cladding manual which is due for release in April. The two documents go hand in hand – The Handbook acting as a forerunner with summarised and illustrative guidance with the TRADA one being more detailed and of particular interest to the architect.

Finish Line cladding from James Latham is another example. Combining modified wood (Accoya), timber engineering and surface protection, this specialist process can even create a distinctive two-tone effect with some of the 12 colour options available.

Janet concludes, “Given the number and type of cladding enquiries we have been receiving, we expect our new collaborative booklets to literally fly off their virtual shelves whilst recognising that some people will still want a copy they can physically pick up and flick through’’.

Ecochoice is also offering a pre-weathered range where the cladding is supplied with a natural looking silvery grey finish to provide colour consistency throughout the weathering process.

The Cladding Handbook is free to download or available in hard copy (£12 inc p&p) from www.tdca.org.uk

5C Flemming Court, Castleford, WF10 5HW  01977 558147  info@tdca.org.uk  www. tdca.org.uk The TDCA is an independent, technical and advisory body for the timber decking and timber cladding industry.

It was established to promote the materials, design and installation practices required to create good quality decks, associated landscape structures and cladding on buildings.

NOW HIRING

Timbermark helps Swiss Krono develop export sales with high quality marking on OSB panels

BRANCH MANAGERS Timbermark, the printing and marking systems specialist, has added Swiss Krono Group to its international customer base. Swiss Krono, which is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of OSB panels, approached Timbermark at the start of 2020 regarding a marking project at its production site in Hungary. A large export order had been rejected by their customer for illegible marking. The company had been using a large character printer to add traceability information to their OSB panels, but with the production line operating at speeds of 120m/minute, the LCP was not able to produce a consistently legible mark.

TIMBER & BUILDERS MERCHANTS

UK WIDE

Timbermark, whose international customers already include BSW in Latvia, Sotrinbois in France and MyWood in Slovakia, proposed using a handheld inkjet printer in the first instance to recover the rejected panels, and Swiss Krono was able to save approximately 3000m2 of stock by re-applying the mark. They used the Sojet D1 ‘Dragon’ handheld printer, which is low cost, low maintenance and uses Hewlett Packard print technology to provide a high quality, high resolution print. Impressed by the print quality and user-friendly interface offered by the Sojet product, Swiss Krono wanted to install a printer onto the production line in Hungary to mark all panels as they are produced.

Contact Specialist Consultant, Fiona Hamilton for more information on opportunities in your region

Following a site visit in mid-March, Timbermark designed and installed a printer system on the main OSB production line. The system has 3 print heads with floating skids on a moving cross beam, controlled from a PLC to change height automatically according to the panel thickness. The finished system is fast and accurate, producing a high-quality print at 120m/minute. Swiss Krono can include their logo as well as the traceability information their customers need. The enhanced quality of the mark has enabled Swiss Krono to consolidate their export sales volumes, ensuring all production is legibly and attractively marked.

Tel. 01234 826450 Email. fiona.hamilton@srsuk.com web. www.srsuk.com

For further information visit www.timbermark.co.uk or call 0870 803 1877

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Huge stock in certified timber: 120,000 m3, more than 140 different species

Our investments for engaged partnerships

Post Brexit: we set up a company in the UK – Vandecasteele Timber LTD to facilitate our collaboration with UK partners

New website – with online portal for customers

We will continue to build our story in 2021 and hope to have a fantastic collaboration with you!

2025 – our aim is to trade in Certified timber only from 2025 onwards

Contact Bergstraat 25 8511 Aalbeke Belgium vandecasteele.be

We achieved the Unitar SDG certificate, international recognition in sustainable business

genevieve@vandecasteele.be +32 56 43 33 00 dave@vandecasteele.be +44 15 94 83 43 32

Stand and deliver

Being responsible for the UK’s largest single stock holding of Hardwood and Premium Grade Softwood, Andy appreciates that time is money. That’s why he makes it his business to ensure every truck that arrives to collect your timber is loaded promptly so your goods are received on time every time.

Better, connected. www.timberconnection.co.uk

Sole distributors of LIGNIA to the UK and Republic of Ireland and designated supplier of LIGNIA Yacht to Europe.