Timber Update April 2023

30th April 2023

Industry and Market News

Latvia has declared a state of emergency in 32 regions over the rapid spread of spruce bark beetles. Baltic News Network (BNN) report that protected zones and various economic restrictions have been put in place until 30th June to limit any potential damage.
Timber Development UK (TDUK) have highlighted the success of Softwood imports so far this year, with 426,00m3 totalled in January. Increased volumes from Sweden, Finland and the Republic of Ireland are mainly responsible. Despite this, overall timber import volumes have dropped 8.7% compared to January 2022.
Irish roundwood timber supply is predicted to increase by 68% by 2035, according to Council of Forest Research and Development (COFORD).
TDUK have launched a powerful new price indexing tool for market analysis. The new Structural Timber Price Index will help assess the state of the construction industry and changes in the UK timber market. To use the new structural index tool, click here.

Company Update

TRA Membership

We are committed to supporting strict standards of quality and service. Our further involvement with the Trussed Rafter Association (TRA) ensures we have access to regular training sessions, online courses and up-to-date information on all relevant national and European codes and standards, so we stay informed on the latest industry changes. We supply quality-assured TR26 to roof truss manufacturers, find out more about our offering here.

BMF Membership

This year we have also become members of the Builders Merchants Federation Ltd (BMF). The BMF is the only trade association that represents and promotes the interests of merchants, manufacturers, service providers, associates and distributors in the building materials supply sector.
As a member of the BMF, we now have access to additional business support, training and industry-leading market data to enable us to continue to support our customers and provide the best quality service. Our marketing team have already enjoyed and benefitted from attending the BMF’s Marketing Forum event this month at the JCB World Headquarters in Staffordshire. Learn more about the BMF here.

TTJ Voting is Open!

For the second year running, we are delighted to once again sponsor the Environmental Achievement Award at the 2023 Timber Trade Journal (TTJ) awards. This year the awards will take place on 15th September at the Hilton, London Bankside.

Alongside our sponsorship, this year we are taking votes for two award categories: Softwood Trader of the Year (Imports) and Hardwood Trader of the Year. We would be very grateful to any customers who would be happy to vote for us – you can do so here.

Responsible Timber Sourcing

We understand that it is crucial to support a sustainable timber supply chain, which is why we adhere to the international standards for FSC® and PEFC™ chain of custody certification. By working with trusted, certified sawmills and partners who share our values, we can ensure we supply you with responsibly sourced timber products.

We are proud to let you know that we have successfully transferred our certification to Interface NRM. Read more about our comittment to sustainabilty here.

Spring Offer

Check out our spring offer on composite decking. Contact our team here and place an order today!

Fun Fact!

Did you know the Cherry Plum is one of the first trees to flower in spring?

Due to this, it is often planted in urban areas. It’s been cultivated in the UK from the 16th century, originating in a region from the Balkans to central Asia. The tree, also known as the Myrobalan Plum, goes on to produce yellow or red plums in July. Read more, here.