14
AUTUMN 2021 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2517–26X (PRINT)
COMBILIFT 22 Celebrating 20 years of innovation and successful partnership with James Latham TIMBER MERCHANT SOFTWARE 16
SOLENT GATEWAY 24
Equipment integration, direct interfaces and adopting digital business transformation
Why port and warehousing facilities are crucial aspects of the timber commodity supply chain
ECI Webinar
The benefits of an ERP over Sage/Xero/Quickbooks Is your existing accounting solution exactly what your business needed years ago? Generic software packages are perfect for those taking the first steps to modernise an established business. But as your business matures, you need systems and automation that are specific to you as a merchant. This webinar covers: Why having software specifically developed for merchants is key to the future of your business. How Spruce seamlessly manages purchasing, inventory management, customer service, and delivery – in addition to accounting. How Spruce can equip your accounts team with more powerful reporting, better visibility and time-saving automation. How an end-to-end solution like Spruce is the simple way to manage your business.
To watch the webinar go to www.ecisolutions.com/en-gb/
www.ecisolutions.com/uk | How business gets done.
TIMBER TRADER UK ISSUE 14 CONTENTS
02
16
News........................................................................................02 The latest news and views from across the industry.
18
20
22
24
Transforming Information Management................16 Kenny Doole, commercial director for the Turnkey Group, sees adopting smart manufacturing and automation as key elements of the digital transformation of timber merchants.
Changing with the Times................................................18 Over the coming months, the TTF will absorb and merge with TRADA, to become Timber Development UK. This is a fitting response to the carbon-challenged times we live in today.
28
COP26: what’s next for global change action?........20 With only a few weeks until the COP26 Summit takes place in Glasgow, all eyes will be on the nations at the Summit to progress with ambitious, achievable targets to tackle climate change.
Cover Story: Combilift......................................................22 Celebrating a long and successful working relationship, Combilift and James Latham have worked hard to introduce innovation and streamline materials handling and warehouse management.
34
The Port-centric Approach.............................................24
36
As the timber sector is under huge pressure with material shortages, Richard Parkinson, port director at Solent Gateway, discusses why your port and warehousing facilities are crucial aspects of the supply chain.
Timber Expo 2021 ..............................................................28 Timber Expo is back as a live event at the NEC this October retaking its place as the UK’s only dedicated timber trade show – what is on offer?
Make it a Natural Choice..................................................34 James Latham have been operating for over 260 years with a chain of facilities across the UK, we heard from Stuart Devoil, group head of marketing, about market developments and the timber merchant’s diverse product range.
Managing Editor: Terry Hanlon
Registered address:
terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk
73 Cross Lane, Newton-Le-Willows,
01925 270093
Merseyside WA12 9QA
Don’t Break the Timber Chain.......................................36
artwork@timbermedia.co.uk
Company registered in England and
To improve transparency and efficiency across the timber commodity supply chain, a new service has been launched to help combat illegal logging and improve the industry’s reliability.
Follow Timber Media:
Wales. Company Number 10839173.
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Artwork: Pete Awad
The Perfect Partner for the Timber Industry combilift.com Timber Trader UK magazine 185 x 62 Liz May2021.indd 1
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Government extends CE marked products deadline to 1 January 2023
The government has officially confirmed the extension of the
from some corners of Government back in July in presentations. There
deadline to end recognition of CE marked products by one year. This
still remain some concerns across the construction products industry,
means CE marked goods – including timber construction products –
amongst others, that even a year long delay will not be enough to fully
can continue to be placed on the UK market in 2022.
prepare businesses for this change.
Speaking about the changes, the Timber Trade Federation said: “We
“We should also acknowledge that regardless of the date, the
have known for some time now that such an extension was inevitable
fundamental position of government remains the same. Recognition of
due to delays to the Building Safety Bill, an essential part of the new
CE marking is ending, and businesses who wish to continue supplying
product safety regime which the UKCA mark will work in tandem with
construction products to the UK still need to implement the use of
– an issue we wrote about in July. So while this extension is welcome,
UKCA marking as soon as possible. This is the message that TTF has
many businesses will share our frustration about the approach taken by
been giving to members and their suppliers from the start.
government on this issue.
“While the additional time will be helpful in making this transition, it
“The main reason the government gave for the extension was the
remains important you take steps now to get your businesses and supply
impact of the pandemic on businesses. Of course this is true, but it was
chain on this journey. Earlier this year we published a guide to making the
true months ago. It is difficult to see the justification for the delay in
change to the UKCA mark, and our advice remains unchanged.”
communicating this extension to businesses. Our head of technical and More at www.ttf.co.uk
trade policy, Nick Boulton, first saw some form of acknowledgement
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
dRMM’s Timber Beacon shortlisted for COP26
‘Timber Beacon’ is dRMM’s response to the collective brief of a
use of timber products is an easy way to help decarbonise construction,
unique global timber industry collaboration. The 25+ strong alliance
renovation, and the wider built environment. Wood both stores carbon
of innovators in engineered mass timber and wood-based products,
and substitutes for carbon intensive alternatives. We are also focused
global forest growth and development, is led by the UK Timber
on globally recognised good governance as the key to growing forests
Trade Federation and CEI-Bois, the European Confederation of
around the world.”
Woodworking Industries.
The ambition is to erect the Timber Beacon at COP26 in Glasgow,
“As world leaders discuss our global responsibilities and collective
UK in November, then take it on to London for the World of Wood
response to climate change during COP26, our message for the future will
Festival immediately after. Later plans include taking the Timber Beacon
be powerfully three dimensional: in wood there is hope. Timber Beacon
to the EU Parliament to continue advocating for policy change which
is a wayfinding object and storytelling device showcasing timber’s ability
acknowledge wood’s undisputed credentials as the only regenerative
to outperform other building materials in terms of carbon, strength, and
material that can deliver large scale construction.
beauty,” says dRMM founding director, Professor Alex de Rijke. Sponsorship is being sought to realise the full potential of this
Paul Brannen, director of public affairs at CEI-Bois, said “The global timber and global forest sectors see COP26 as the unmissable
project. To find out more, contact paul.brannen@cei-bois.org.
opportunity for policy makers to put into action what we already know
This initiative is supported by UK Aid, under the UK Foreign,
about nature-based solutions; global forests and wood products are
Commonwealth & Development Office’s FGMC programme (Forest
essential to averting catastrophic climate change, and increasing the
Governance, Markets and Climate).
Marking systems for SAWMILLS, PANEL and PALLET MANUFACTURERS
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Wooduchoose helping to tackle nationwide timber shortage Devon-based company Wooduchoose Limited have utilised features of their wood products comparison website to help combat the nation shortage of timber. Wooduchoose.com helps UK joinery and construction firms to source materials and share resources. Wooduchoose allows customers to connect and receive prices from multiple joinery’s and timber merchants, for any product made from wood. Customers can choose from a range on over 10,000 profiles or choose to use the made to match or bespoke joinery quoting wizard. At the core of Wooduchoose is the online supplier management system called Woodutrade, which allows timer suppliers and joinery’s to upload their own products and timber stock they have for sale. “During lockdown we saw a massive increase in three of our target groups,” says Paul Hayman, managing director of Wooduchoose. “Firstly home crafters were buying timber from our suppliers then selling their
suitable joinery’s and timber merchants, which have already been pre-
products via our portal. Architects were downloading more the free
approved, who can supply the product. The customer is then provided
technical drawings than normal for specification proposals, and home
an exact quote and time frame for their bespoke order by each supplier.
refurbishment and restoration companies were using our made to match service more.”
“Since lockdown has ended we have seen a lot more joinery firms signing up to Wooduchoose as a supplier,” adds Paul. “They like how
Wooduchoose.com allows customers to search for products, such
they receive pre-qualified leads from customers and also have an outlet
as architrave, sawn boards or planned squared edge, in any wood. The
to sell timber they have in stock. This helps with the timber shortage by
customer is given an instant indication of what the product could cost,
allowing joinery forms and construction companies to search the whole
as everything is made or cut to order and requires a bespoke quote.
country to find availability of the timber they need.”
The customers can then instruct Wooduchoose to search the country More at www.wooduchoose.com
automatically, via the inbuilt artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to find
Moelven set to modernise sawmills Moelven has plans to modernise and develop capacity at Moelven Edanesågen AB and Moelven Valåsen AB. Overall, the group will invest more than SEK 600 million in the two sawmills in the years to come. “This is a major investment by Moelven. Both Moelven Edanesågen and Moelven Valåsen will be the sawmills of the future, and they will play important parts in the group’s work to ensure international competitiveness in the future,” says CEO Morten Kristiansen, Moelven Industrier ASA. Moelven Edanesågen will undergo a complete renovation of the entire production process from timber sorting, timber
digitalisation of the production process, also known as ‘The digital
intake, new sawline and new dryer with increased capacity. This will be
sawmill’. The investments we are now making are the continuation of
Moelven’s largest individual investment of all time, with a framework of
making the sawmill even more efficient, sustainable and profitable.”
SEK 450 million. The project will be completed in the first half of 2024.
Moelven Valåsen in Karlskoga is also increasing its capacity, and is
When finished, Moelven Edanesågen will have significantly increased
currently building a new energy centre that will be put into operation
production capacity.
towards the end of the year, representing an investment of SEK 60
“In Moelven we have always viewed the Swedish border as a county
million. Now Moelven is investing an addition SEK 185 million to further
border, albeit not during this pandemic,” adds Kristiansen. “At Edane,
develop the sawmill. This entails new investments in saw intake, raw
which is just across the border, we shall now streamline and modernise
sorting and sorting with camera technology, as well as a new sawline
production so that the sawmill can continue to supply the Norwegian
for small timber. When completed in 2024, efficiency and capacity at
and Swedish markets with climate-smart wood products. Moelven
the sawmill will be significantly greater.
Valåsen is our largest sawmill measured in terms of production capacity More at www.moelven.com/uk
and turnover. It was here we initiated the pilot project with increased
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Travis Perkins announce new carbon target ambitions Travis Perkins plc, the UK’s largest provider of building materials and equipment, has announced a commitment to a new 1.5 degreealigned carbon target by 2035. This is consistent with the 1.5 degree pathway of the 2016 Paris Agreement to limit global warming. For Scope 1 and 2 carbon, which primarily applies to the decarbonisation of the Group’s fleet, this target will involve an 80% reduction and a net zero commitment to offset any remaining Scope 1 & 2 carbon by 2035. For Scope 3 carbon, this target will involve a 63% carbon reduction in the Group’s supply chain emissions by 2035, and primarily apply to the purchasing of goods and services: concrete products, bricks and plasterboard in particular, and the in-use emissions of goods sold: especially gas heating and power tools.
in a unique position to influence our supply chain and the wider UK
The announcement builds on the progress Travis Perkins has made
construction industry, so we are looking forward to working with our
to date by reducing Scope 1 & 2 carbon intensity (per £million sales) by
suppliers and customers to reduce our own carbon footprint while
45% since 2013. “Climate change concerns us all, and we are committed
driving better behaviours across the industry more widely.”
to leading on this agenda and to meeting the growing expectations
Travis Perkins will publish a carbon reduction roadmap with key
from our colleagues, customers, shareholders and the public to play
milestone targets later this year. This will include the transition of the
our part by setting challenging, but achievable targets,” explained Nick
company’s commercial fleet to low and no carbon options, and the
Roberts, CEO for Travis Perkins plc.
decarbonisation of its estate and engagement and commercial plans
“The decarbonisation of our business is part of our Building for
around the Group’s supply chain carbon.
Better framework, and one of the key areas we are focusing on to More at www.travisperkinsplc.co.uk
build resilience in the business. Beyond our own business, we are also
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
BSW Timber launches accredited installer scheme
The UK’s largest sawmiller and manufacturer of sawn timber
access technical support from the BSW team. They will receive local job
products has launched an Accredited Installer Scheme that offers an
referrals, giving them a competitive advantage as a trusted installer,
array of exclusive benefits to contractors across the country.
and expertise recommended by BSW.
The scheme allows landscapers, joiners and builders to benefit from
John Roberts, owner of Greentop Landscapes and Design, was
a wide range of services and support that will help to promote and add
the first member of BSW’s Accredited Installer Scheme, saying: “I’m
value to their business. Benefits include exclusive product training and
delighted to be a part of BSW’s Accredited Installer Scheme and it sets
automatic access to a rewards scheme, whereby installers can earn
the standard for the timber industry. It’s a great opportunity for us
money just for using BSW products. Installers will also have access to a
landscapers and it’ll help us to secure jobs in the future. The benefits of
personalised dashboard on the BSW website, allowing them to promote
joining the scheme are endless and I’m chuffed to be a BSW Accredited
their specialist services and gain leads for their business. Installers
Installer.”
will receive a comprehensive membership pack, which includes BSW product samples, literature and branded merchandise. The scheme is completely free to join and there are no monthly fees
Sian Moreton, AIS Project Manager and National Sales Manager, at BSW added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be able to launch the new BSW Accredited Installer Scheme. This is something we have been
involved. By joining installers will gain insider access to BSW’s innovative
perfecting for a while now and we really believe that by working hand in
products and dedicated training for all BSW products, including
hand with all our fantastic installers as well as our network of suppliers
fencing and landscaping, and the IRO and Alchemy ranges. Ideal for
we can help grow all our businesses together. The new scheme is an
those working within landscaping, contractor and construction roles,
amazing opportunity for landscapers to grow their job opportunities
the Accredited Installer Scheme will see members listed as approved
all while gaining an in-depth knowledge and working with some of our
installers on the BSW website, and members will reap the benefits of
award-winning timber products.”
an exclusive rewards system – these reward points equate to money off The Accredited Installer Scheme is already live on and members can
with their local merchants.
sign up at www.bsw.co.uk/installers
Alongside their listing as an accredited installer, members can
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The complete flooring system Use CaberFix D4 BBA approved for 42 days exposure*
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Foaming D4 adhesive fills and seals joints
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Ayrshire sawmill creates 25 new jobs thanks to new forestry contract
A timber processor in Troon is creating 25 new jobs thanks to a new
in Scotland is used around the UK to support key critical sectors like the
contract awarded to them by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS). The
housing market.”
contract supports the introduction of a third shift at Alexanders
The contract also secures the future of two Argyll-based forestry
Timber Design generating 25 new jobs at the Troon site they share
contracting firms, AMAC Harvesting Ltd and Gary Anderson Forestry
with sister business, Glennon Brothers. It also secures the future of
who fell the trees from the FLS site. Gary Anderson employs a local
two local forestry contracting firms.
team from Dunoon, specialising in steep ground harvesting, saying:
The new contract grants Glennon Brothers permission to fell
“This new contract appointment is incredibly important for our
diseased larch trees and spruce on FLS land near Cowal, Argyll and
business. The appointment safeguards our future, sustains our income
Bute. The timber is then hauled by local timber haulage companies to
and has made it possible for us all to continue living and working within
Sandbank Pier and shipped to the Glennon Brothers sawmill in Troon,
our community in Argyll.”
before being processed into a range of fencing and construction
Mick Bottomley, head of marketing and sales at FLS, added: “We
products. Stress-graded timber is then processed by Alexanders Timber
understand the importance of investing in Scotland’s rural communities.
Design, for use in timber frame house kits for the UK’s affordable
By keeping the timber processing local, we can safeguard local jobs and
housing market.
enhance sustainability. We have enjoyed a close working relationship with
Alex Murray, Forestry Manager at Glennon Brothers, commented:
Glennon Brothers and Alexanders Timber Design for many years, and we
“We are thrilled to be awarded the new FLS contract to fell larch and
look forward to extending our partnership to ensure ‘homegrown’ timber
spruce trees in Cowal, creating new jobs and securing others for local
supplies are delivered for the UK housing market.”
people. The contract is a welcome addition to Scotland’s expanding More at www.glennonbrothers.ie
forestry industry, and ensures that timber grown and processed here
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Accsys Technologies buy Lignia Wood Company ReSolve has announced the sale of the brand names, physical and intellectual property assets of Lignia Wood Company to Accoya Color UK Limited, a subsidiary of Accsys Technologies PLC. Accsys is the producer of Accoya® wood, an FSC-certified sustainable wood modified for increased performance and durability. Accsys plans to transform the Lignia site into their own production facility, focusing on colouring their core Accoya® acetylated wood products to create Accoya Color, and hopes to retain some of the existing staff. Accoya Color combines the benefits of Accoya wood with colour all the way through the timber. Chris Farrington, Partner at ReSolve, commented: “We are pleased to have completed the sale of the business and assets of Lignia Wood to Accsys. It is unfortunate that Lignia’s sales were adversely impacted by COVID-19 and it was unable to secure the necessary capital to survive in these challenging times. It is, however, rewarding to have found a suitable buyer that is able to make good use of the assets and
fit for us as we grow and evolve our product range with Accoya Color.
hopefully retain some of the skilled workforce.”
Throughout this process ReSolve has been an excellent partner,
Rob Harris, Chief Executive Officer at Accsys, commented: “We are
working with us diligently and professionally. They have been great at
delighted to have purchased the business and assets of Lignia, which will
making themselves available for support and communication to reach
enable us to significantly accelerate growth in our production capability
a successful outcome, both with us and with the people based on the
of Accoya Color to help us meet the demands for this product from the
site, fostering a positive environment that was critical to retaining key
market, and drive forward our growth ambitions for the business.”
individuals and greatly benefits the smooth integration of the operation
John Alexander, Accsys Group Sales Director and Business
into the Accsys family.”
Integration Director for the new Accoya Color facility, added: “Adding More at www.accsysplc.com
the equipment, assets and staff at the site in Barry, Wales, is a great
UK visit by ambassador helps promote Indonesian wood products
As part of their trip, the delegation enjoyed a visit of the Hanson Plywood warehouse where they inspected Indonesian Timber products.
(L-R) Mochamad Rizalu Akbar, Trade Attache, Indonesian Ambassador to the UK, H.E. Desra Percaya and Adi Winarso, Minister Councillor of Economic Affairs
In a bid to encourage UK timber importers to
the implementation of UK-Indonesia FLEGT-VPA
from both countries could provide regulatory and
increase their purchase of legal and sustainable
by seeking creative ways to increase supply
market incentives support as stated in the UK-
timber from Indonesia, a delegation from the
sustainability of legal and sustainable timber
Indonesia FLEGT-VPA “.
Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia has visited
products from Indonesia and ensure that such
a number of manufacturers across the country.
high-quality timbers remain as the critical part of
premium quality timber products from Indonesia,
the UK industry’s supply chain”.
Pacific Rim Wood, who supply a number of
With FLEGT and legal and sustainable timber products at the top of their agenda - and led by
“Cooperation should be intensified to add
UK sales agents and representatives for
timber products to these manufacturers, helped
Indonesian Ambassador to the UK, H.E. Desra
more value to Indonesia’s FLEGT certified timber
organise the visit. Managing Director, Shaun
Percaya - the delegation visited James Latham,
products and to replicate a similar mechanism
Hannan commented, “It has been an honour to
Hanson Plywood, Lambson Building Products and
with other forest and agriculture commodities.
host the visit, which has already been heralded as
Caravan manufacturer Willerby.
A holistic approach which involves all relevant
a major success in helping to raise awareness of
stakeholders is indispensable. Business and
Indonesian FLEGT licensed timber products as well
commitment to further strengthen the mutually
industry associations, as well as consumers and
as encouraging UK importers and stakeholders to
beneficial partnership between Indonesia and
NGOs, play a critical role in shaping perspective
increase their purchase of legal and sustainable
the UK. “We should seize the momentum of
and demand, while governments and parliaments
timber products from Indonesia.”
During his visit, the Ambassador reiterated his
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
Arnold Laver supports Tingdene Homes through stock shortages
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
When an industry shortage of plywood threatened to compromise
construction of luxury offsite park homes. In Tingdene’s purpose-built
Tingdene Homes’ ability to deliver their customers’ dream homes
factory, customers’ homes are built to their exact specification under
with the efficiency and reliability they’re committed to, the team at
controlled conditions. Luke Wilkins, operations director at Tingdene
Arnold Laver Oldbury were brought onboard to co-ordinate a timely
said: “We have a great partnership with the Team at Arnold Laver. Terry
solution which not only put paid to Tingdene’s stock concerns but
is a key part of the Tingdene family and has been a great sounding
allowed them to invest in a long-term solution which has already
board for our design team and will find solutions to almost any timber-
saved the company an average cost saving of £200,000 per year.
related problem we have. Lavers understand our business model and
An industry-wide shortage of plywood (used in the packing and lining of park home walls) had the potential to delay Tingdene’s delivery
our business needs, which is hard to find when partnering with a timber specialist.
of homes and an alternative solution was required urgently. Tingdene
“An example of their dedication to supporting our business needs is
commissioned the support of Terry Palmer, regional director & category
their suggestion to us to invest in a CNC machine to groove our boards
manager for Decoratives & Sheet Materials for the Arnold Laver Group.
used for wall and ceilings, the investment alone has resulted in an
Working closely with the Arnold Laver supply chain network, a solution
average cost saving of £200,000 per year to the business. We previously
was proposed that not only enabled Tingdene to fulfil existing orders to
had the boards fabricated externally via Lavers, but the CNC machine
schedule but will also provide a more durable better-quality alternative
has been a fantastic investment leading to even greater cost savings.”
material for future works. More at www.laver.co.uk
Tingdene Homes Limited lead the market in the manufacture and
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TIMBER TRADER UK NEWS
UK timber market at possible risk
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) says that the UK as a whole – which
stores when trying to get timber for home projects. Pointing out that
currently imports 80% of its annual timber requirement – is far too
the timber market is set to become increasingly competitive in years to
vulnerable to fluctuations in the global market. But it also says
come – and with long lead time of 25-40 years in productive forestry,
that Scotland is well placed to mitigate that risk by stepping up its
Mick Bottomley suggested that the opportunity needs to be seized
commercial forestry sector.
now: “Transport and energy costs will increase; emerging economies
Homegrown grown timber makes up only around 33% of the
around the world will demand more timber and timber producing
UK market and while we are largely self-sufficient in fencing, there
countries may be required to use more of their own timber at home
is significant, unmet domestic demand for more structural timber
as they seek to meet stricter climate protocols and net zero targets.
and also pallet wood. Mick Bottomley, FLS head of marketing and
Sweden is recording the lowest stock levels in 20 years and this trend
sales, said: “Scottish-based timber manufacturers could potentially
is likely to be further exacerbated as current issues like wildfires, tree
triple production to meet current and anticipated future demand and
diseases and pests, exert additional worldwide pressures on the supply
produce a greater share of the remaining 67% of the market, that
of timber. The UK can attempt to compete for diminishing supplies on
is currently imported, predominantly from Scandinavia, Latvia and
the world market against growing economies such as China and India
Germany. There is also significant potential to expand Scotland’s one
or do something to mitigate its exposure to these forces, by planting
fifth of forested land area so that we can be more self-reliant in our
more commercial forestry now so that we are more self-sufficient in the
requirements for timber.”
future.”
Sawmills in Scotland and UK produce high quantities of pallet and
FLS’ sustainable management of existing productive forests aims to
fencing products but mainly produce construction timber, kiln dried
bring three million tonnes of timber to market every year. This year, FLS
carcassing that is used for roof battens, floor joists and studwork for
is planting 25 million trees and is further contributing to meeting the
partitioned walls.
Scottish Government targets by acquiring land for new productive and
Already this year prices have risen 30%, as housebuilders and
native woodland creation.
related industries struggle to secure supplies due to a huge increase More at www.forestryandland.gov.scot
in building activity, post-lockdown. This is even noticeable in the DIY
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ADVERTORIAL TIMBER TRADE FEDERATION
The World of Wood Festival for COP26
Tropical forest management © euflegtredd
GSK Labs © Michael Thomas
With the eyes of the world on COP26 in the first two weeks of November, the global timber industry is collectively hosting the ‘World of Wood Festival’ in London.
T
his six-week celebration of
climate change policy, the World of Wood
has created an alliance of over 40 separate
global timber and global
Festival will showcase the vital role that forest
associations, organisations, businesses and
forests takes place from 25
supply chains have on our climate in local and
campaigns representing global forest growth
October to 3 December at the
global environments, and feature innovations,
and development, engineered mass timber
Building Centre in Store Street in London,
design and increased carbon storage potential
and wood-based products from Indonesia to
online, and virtually.
of responsibly sourced timber from around
the Congo Basin, Australia, North America and
the world.
China. This initiative is also supported by UK
The COP26 climate talks will bring together heads of state, climate experts and
Devised and coordinated by the UK Timber
Aid, under the UK Foreign, Commonwealth
campaigners to agree coordinated action
Trade Federation and CEI-Bois, representing
& Development Office’s FGMC programme
to tackle climate change. Building on crucial
European woodworking industries, the team
(Forest Governance, Markets and Climate).
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ADVERTORIAL TIMBER TRADE FEDERATION
Extraction and Sapele Sound Pavilion from ‘Conversations About Climate Change’ exhibition © Chris Jackson / Building Centre
Global action, global collaboration
David Hopkins, Chief Executive of the Timber Trade Federation
The World of Wood Festival
and a WOW Festival mobile augmented reality
Recognising that global action against
The WOW Festival will celebrate
app will be launched for the start of the festival.
climate change requires global collaboration,
international best practice and use its in-
The AR app will offer engaging interaction with
the the WOW Festival will celebrate the full
person and digital experience platforms for
six key messages and a virtual ‘Timber Beacon’: a
timber supply chain from different regions
discussion and knowledge-sharing to help
pavilion installation designed for the Festival by
of the world, governance and sustainable
strengthen forest governance and trade in
award-winning architectural practice and timber
management practices, as well as the
wood products globally.
advocates dRMM. “As world leaders discuss our
products that come out of these forests, their
Drawing attention from the increasingly
global responsibilities and collective response to
busy streets around Tottenham Court Road
climate change during COP26, our message for
in central London, the crescent outside
the future is powerful: in wood there is hope,”
Timber Trade Federation, said “COP26 is an
the Building Centre on Store Street will be
said dRMM founding director, Prof Alex de Rijke.
unmissable opportunity for policymakers to
home to the “Wood Passage”; an illuminated
put into action what the global timber and
sculpture from proHolz Austria which guides
that the World of Wood Festival is accessible
forest sector already knows; that nature-based
visitors through the journey from forest, to
both in-person and virtually. COVID is a
solutions are an essential part of the climate
tree, to house.
consideration, but we also want to reach as
uses, and applications. David Hopkins, Chief Executive of the
mitigation necessary. Global forests and wood
The Building Centre itself will host
David Hopkins said, “We have ensured
wide an audience as possible. Visitors will
products are crucial to averting catastrophic
exhibitions telling the story of global forest
be able to fully experience, explore and
climate change. We want to display the beauty
management with a focus on European, North
understand our messages in a fun, immersive
of timber, its role in the climate emergency
American, and tropical timber forests and
and memorable way whether they join us in
as a carbon store and to build global
production and twelve hybrid events including
real life or digitally.”
recognition that good governance and forest
keynotes speeches, debates, webinars and
management is the fundamental component
reports launches calling for policy change.
If you want to get involved, contribute or
for growing forests around the world”.
The Festival will also exhibit the Wood Awards
sponsor the WOW Festival, contact
shortlist as a celebration of the ultimate
info@worldofwoodfestival.org
The World of Wood Festival tells the story of how global forests and the wood products
expression of design in wood and responsibly
cycle is helping to avert climate change, is
sourced timber from around the globe, and will
To get the latest updates register now on
decarbonising construction, and supporting
host the winners ceremony later in November.
www.worldofwoodfestival.org
social, environmental and economic growth
The WOW Festival will be supported by
through governance in developing countries.
an event website www.worldofwoodfestival.
Within these three connected themes, one
org as a key resource and home for timber
key message prevails and remains more crucial
product, forests and climate information from
than ever: that wood equals hope.
the Festival’s supporters from all over the world,
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FEATURE TIMBER SOFTWARE
Transforming Information Management
Kenny Doole, commercial director, Turnkey Group, sees adopting smart manufacturing and automation as key elements of digital transformation and increasingly central to the way that timber merchants now work.
C
ustomers across the timber
equipment or weighbridges means teams’
industry are making a
productivity increases and errors are reduced
significant shift in how they
by eliminating manual, often repetitive, data
use technology to achieve
entries.
and drive business efficiencies. Embracing
Historically, making investments in new
paperless processes underpins this move,
equipment meant trawling through up to
understanding how to utilise technology
a years’ worth of physical data sheets and
to directly interface with manufacturing
manually extracting relevant data. With
equipment, and automating repetitive tasks
modern systems operational teams can get
where possible.
instant access to data in a format to suit them.
Despite the rapid evolution of technology,
Furthermore, data analytics can be easily
some businesses are still antiquated in the
provided in the form of graphs and charts
way they approach data and systems. In an
giving businesses a snapshot of performance
ever-changing digital world, the need for
and allowing them to make rapid, informed
wholly integrated software systems that bring
decisions.
together people, processes and technology has never been greater.
With a product such as the Turnkey Timber software, integrating XML feeds
Kenny Doole, commercial director of Turnkey Group
directly from the Forestry Commission (UK) Why integration?
& Coillte (Ireland) systems can advise the
Together, the use of smart manufacturing
Embracing digital transformation Digitisation can support all the areas
user of incoming deliveries. Electronic Data
and equipment integration can drive
Interchange (EDI) allows the system to then
of the timber industry from harvesting to
automation and data exchange. For example,
capture contract details, including map
sawmilling, timber sales, timber merchants to
having a direct interface to sawmilling
locations electronically from key partners.
co-products including biomass.
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FEATURE TIMBER SOFTWARE
“The amount of time lost due to manual work outside of the old system was a huge issue for us. This also included the possibility of human error as we were making manual calculations and entering them back into the old system.” Liam Kearns, ICT Manager, ECC Timber Products Digitising processes provides a complete transparent document trail for a logs journey. Managers can see at any time where a log is and what processes it has been through from treatment to cutting to delivery. Previously handwritten labels would have been extremely time consuming and labour intensive to review – using unique bar coding and pack IDs gives instant traceability and batch information when needed. Designed for growth Not all ERP systems are equal. For example, Turnkey Timber has been designed specifically for sawmills, harvesting and timber sales. It encompasses all the financial and administrative functionality a business needs as well as specific operational and timber functionality. No one size fits all. Often companies compromise on software functionality and still need to use multiple solutions to fit their processes. Turnkey offers a suite of extensions that can be built onto a base system and they
vendors, and items more efficient. The key
can build tailored Apps to ensure users get
benefits 365 Business Central offers include:
the complete system needed to run a business •
effectively. The underlying platform for Turnkey Timber is built on Microsoft Dynamics 365
• •
chart of accounts and standard posting groups that make the process of assigning default general ledger posting accounts to customers,
All-in-one software – view all your financials and operational data in one solution
•
On-premises or Cloud installation
Cloud Access – retrieve your data from any
•
Encrypted data back-up via Microsoft Azure
device, securely in the cloud
•
Integrates with Windows, Office 365,
Speed – from clever shortcuts to
Power BI, and PowerApps.
responsive pages, 365BC is lightning fast
Business Central – efficiency is built in as standard. The base configuration includes a
•
•
Microsoft 365 – seamless integration with
Ultimately finance teams get complete
other 365 products like Outlook and Excel
financial management including general ledger,
Scalable – 365BC is fully customisable and
workflows and audit trails, bank management,
can grow with your business at any time
budgets, deferrals, bank reconciliation, dimensions, fixed assets, and currencies. Operations teams can achieve operational
Efficient Processes
efficiencies through the use of automation to streamline business processes. Inventory
“We went live with Turnkey’s operations module in May of this year,” says Pat Twomey,
or logistics managers, get information on
chief financial officer, GP Wood.
inventory turnover, analysis of inventory
“Due to COVID restrictions Turnkey had to manage this process remotely. All of the
movement, and much more. Turnkey Timber
Turnkey team pulled out all the stops to get the ‘go live’ over the line. Users are very
can help you with digital transformation and
pleased with the system as it is user friendly, errors are significantly reduced, and the
make your timber business more efficient
time involved in dispatching trucks has been reduced by half due to the introduction of
across your processes, streamline your financial
handheld scanners. We are live for three months across two sites and the system uptime
workflows, and remove siloed systems.
is 99%, which is well above our expectations.” More at https://turnkey-timber.com
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FEATURE NET ZERO TARGETS
Changing with the Times
The Timber Trade Federation is changing. Over the coming months, as it absorbs and merges with TRADA, it will become Timber Development UK. This is a fitting response to the carbon-challenged times we live in today.
B
ringing together those who specify timber for its
Goldsmith, Product
carbon storage and aesthetic benefits with those
Marketing Executive at
who supply it, the move to Timber Development UK
MEDITE SMARTPLY. “EPDs
will help present a more cohesive case for timber the
allow the comparison of
COP26 climate conference approaches. Talk of reaching ‘net zero’
products across a range
carbon emissions is pervading every sector, bolstered by the COP26
of environmental factors,
conference. In the construction sector, the Construction Leadership
including their ‘Global
Council’s CO2nstructZero initiative Net Zero Business Champions
Warming Potential’
now numbers amongst its ranks companies like Saint Gobain.
through any greenhouse
“Sustainability is becoming one of our most important
ENVIRONMENTAL PROD UCT DECLARATION
as per ISO 14025 and EN 15804 + A1 Owner of the Declaration – MEDITE SMARTPLY Declaration number EPDIE-1 9-17 ECO Platform EPD no: 1019 Issue date 11th Novemb er 2019 Valid to 11th November 2024
EPD Programme - EPD Ireland Programme Operator Irish Green Building Council www.epdireland.org
SMARTPLY Oriented Stran d Boards (OSB) SMARTPLY FLAME RETAR DANT (FR) SMARTPLY OSB2 SMARTPLY OSB3 SMARTPLY OSB3 T&G SMARTPLY ULTIMA (OSB4) SMARTPLY PATTRESS PLUS SMARTPLY PROPASSIV SMARTPLY SITEPROTECT SMARTPLY TOUGHPLY SMARTPLY WEBSTOCK
gas emissions associated with their manufacture. They form
responsibilities,” says sustainability director Philip Pointon. “We know
part of the life cycle analysis (LCA) of a product, which comes under the
it’s important to everyone in the supply chain, from merchants to end-
ISO14025 standard.
users. Alongside parent company Saint-Gobain, International Timber has
“MEDITE SMARTPLY has EPDs available for products across our MDF
just set out its roadmap to net zero, which we’re confident we’ll meet in
and OSB range. They help you and your customers to choose the right
2045 – five years ahead of schedule. Besides efforts to become carbon
product, from both a practical and an environmental perspective. It’s
neutral in our own operations, we also aim to improve the sustainability
also important to understand that an EPD differs from a Declaration
of our supply chain. We do this by making it easier for contractors,
of Performance, which covers the product’s performance when in
developers and merchants to contribute to their own carbon efficiency
use. All our MEDITE SMARTPLY products are carbon negative when
goals by specifying carbon-neutral timber from sustainable sources.”
they leave our sites. Carbon is stored in the panels from the point of
Other TTF members are responding to the climate challenge
manufacturing and stays locked in the panels for the life span of the
and net zero targets in different ways. “The environmental impact
building they are used in.”
of products from all perspectives will become more of a feature in
Understanding the back-story of the products you sell in your
2022 and beyond as society looks to address the problems of climate
merchant outlet can give both you and your customers confidence
change,” says Jason Dodd, Director at Setra Wood Products. “The Setra
that it’s the right choice for the planet, as Keith Ainslie, Sales
Group is aiming to be climate neutral by 2030. Already, our electricity
Manager at James Jones & Sons, says: “We remain at the forefront
and 97% of the energy we use in production is from renewable sources.
of environmental innovation across all our product categories. We
We’re now taking this further. Recent research and development has
have been working on embodied carbon in timber products for over
resulted in a bio-oil, made from sawdust, which will form the basis of
ten years, allowing us to clearly demonstrate the net carbon storage
new renewable petrol and diesel fuels to replace fossil fuels.
credentials of our products. We are carbon negative in everything we
“From this autumn, Pyrocell, a new joint venture manufacturing
do and constantly seek ways to enhance our environmental credentials.
plant combining the expertise of Setra and refining company Preem,
As a Group we displace 38,000 tonnes of CO2 per annum with our
will start producing the bio-oil using from sawdust from our Kastet mill.
biomass plants, and through the funding of a windfarm.”
Biofuels emit 80-90% less carbon dioxide than fossil fuels.” Factors beyond the efficacy of the products in use are now coming into play, as builders and architects examine their environmental
The Federation and its members are changing with the times, and moving forward together to a more integrated, climate-beneficial future.
impact. “An increasingly important aspect of choosing the ideal product More at www.ttf.co.uk
is the EPD or Environmental Product Declaration,” says Rebecca
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FEATURE PANEL PRODUCTS
Safety Storage Efficiency
Manage your Timber more safely and more productively using less space with Combilift’s materials handling solutions • • • • •
Safer product handling Optimised production space Improved storage capacity Increased productivity & output Enhanced profits
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FEATURE NET ZERO TARGETS
COP26: what’s next for global change action? With only a few weeks until the COP26 Summit takes place in Glasgow, it is expected that all eyes will be on the nations at the Summit to progress with negotiations and set ambitious, achievable targets to tackle climate change.
N
ow two years on from the last event, will this year’s summit achieve what COP25 could not? COP25 was tasked with
finalising the rules of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, particularly focusing on the rules of future international carbon markets and agreeing upon numerous financial matters. Overall, very few decisions were made at COP25 despite many hours spent negotiating and the Summit continuing two days longer than planned due to this. Businesses however, really shone a light on the event as they began to recognise their responsibility and the role they play in contributing to climate change, with many announcing their ambitious plans to decarbonise during COP25. These announcements helped to mitigate the frustrations many felt from the Summit’s outcome. It is hoped that COP26 will make more headway on Article 6, and deliver clear decisive action to reduce global emissions and make the changes needed to fight climate change.
•
What can we expect from this year’s COP26 Summit?
•
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic
Adapt to protect communities and natural
scientific advice on staying within 2°C limit of
habitats around the world, to improve their
global warming. In preparation for the Summit,
resilience against climate change
nations are expected to have already submitted
To mobilise finance through developed
their updated NDC’s to the UN, at this point 110
countries delivering on the promise to
out of 197 nations have done so.
postponing COP26, the Summit, which is taking
raise $100bn in climate finance per year to
place this November is much anticipated, but
support developing countries
nations can come together to solve problems
To work together to agree on, deliver and
with devastating worldwide impact. This has
rise to the challenges of climate change.
inadvertently created a potential step change
what plans do the UK Government, as hosts, have to ensure its success? The Government’s
•
ambition is to lead from the front and position the UK as a global exemplar of climate change
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us how
in how nations could work together to tackle In the run up to COP26, much like we
the challenges of the climate emergency.
innovation and action. In recent months there
saw with COP25, many large organisations
Without a doubt the pandemic has shown us
has been consistent announcements from
are making their commitment to reduce their
that health, wealth and environment are linked,
Government offering incentives and schemes to
emissions, and it is hoped that more will follow.
and that we must take care of our planet to
encourage both commercial and domestic users
The appetite for net zero from business is
protect ourselves from further climate impacts.
to take steps to reduce their emissions. These
certainly growing, with 4,660 organisations so
commitments have included funding for green
far having joined the Race to Zero campaign,
stage, there is growing public awareness of the
jobs, the introduction of green sovereign bonds
and 828 businesses with approved Science-
effects of climate change, and startling warnings
and research grants to accelerate the emergence
Based Targets.
that we are running out of time to take action
of renewable and carbon capture technologies. There are four main goals to be achieved at COP26, including: •
As global leaders prepare to take the worlds
Many developed countries have been
to protect ourselves from disaster. With high
putting their efforts into their own Nationally
expectations for what COP26 will deliver, this
Determined Contribution (NDC), a promise which
Summit will be potentially the most anticipated
each made in the Paris Agreement to reduce
and contested yet.
To secure global net zero by 2050, keeping
national emissions and adapt to the impacts of
the 1.5 degree global warming limit within
climate change. The NDC sets out how countries
More at https://ukcop26.org
reach
should align their emissions-cutting targets with
www.teamenergy.com
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Introducing the new
TIMBERMEDIA.CO.UK Your source for all things Timber, with more news, features and resources. We’ve redesigned our website to give you a better experience – whether you’re a reader, advertiser, marketeer or work in the timber sector, Timber Media is for you.
INDUSTRY SECTOR NEWS
IN-DEPTH FEATURES
UPCOMING EVENTS
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
WEB & PRINT ADVERTISING
VISIT THE NEW SITE
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COVER STORY COMBILIFT
James Latham and Combilift – 20 years of partnership
Celebrating a long and successful working relationship, Combilift and James Latham have worked hard to introduce innovation and streamline materials handling and warehouse management.
F
or those in the timber sector, James Latham hardly needs
Innovators in their sectors
70 Combilifts in operation
Combilift is acknowledged for its
Two decades on, around 70 C4000 models
any introduction. With a
are in operation across all Latham branches,
innovative design philosophy, and Lathams
history stretching back over
and according to Combilift’s Tommy Cadden,
continues to be an innovator in its sector
260 years the company is now one of the
who been closely involved with the company
too, which has led to an expansion of many
UK’s largest independent distributors of
from the outset, over 165 trucks have been
of the company’s depots and consequently
timber, panels, and decorative surfaces.
supplied in all, which have a typical lifespan
the ongoing need for space-saving materials
of seven years before being replaced by
handling. “We consistently push the
throughout the UK and Ireland, Lathams
new models. “When we first started working
boundaries of materials selection,” says Piers
supplies its products to a broad range of
with James Latham they were considering
Latham. “From our origins in timber products,
customers, from contractors and merchants to
two electric 4-way reach trucks for indoor
panels and doors, to today where we are one
construction professionals and designers. The
operation and two counterbalance trucks for
of the most recognised suppliers of cutting
company has also been the recipient of many
outside use only at Hemel.”
edge materials technologies, including
Operating from twelve branches
major TTJ Awards over the years. When it comes to materials handling
Until the launch of the Combilift, this combination was then quite a standard
decorative laminates, veneers, thermoplastics and acrylics.” The Yate branch is an example of how
and warehousing – a crucial aspect of any
one, but as Company Director Piers Latham
business to get right – it is now exactly 20
explains: “We had nearly decided to go with
the Latham Group is addressing growth and
years since Lathams ordered its first three
this option, but were ideally looking for a new
progress. It is one of a number of new facilities
C4000 multidirectional forklifts from Combilift
way of working, and one that would maximise
designed with 9m high racking to make the
in June 2001 for its Hemel Hempstead site,
the footprint in our depots. After seeing the
most of every inch of possible space, following
starting a partnership that continues to
Combilift at a show at the NEC, the rest was
on from sites in Motherwell and Leeds. With
this day. The Irish specialist manufacturer
history. The combination of Combilifts and
a footprint of 53,000sq ft it has a current
was at the time just a few years old and
racking enabled us to be the first to go to an
storage capacity of 7,000m³ for its stock which
still a relatively small company, albeit one
impressive height of 8m in narrow aisles, and
comprises 70% sheet and panel products and
with big ambitions, and it has since enjoyed
of course the indoor/outdoor ability meant
30% hardwoods. A 10,000sq ft extension is
unparalleled growth in the global materials
we needed fewer trucks whilst achieving
planned for later this year on site to cope with
handling sector.
optimum operational versatility.”
expanding volumes.
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COVER STORY COMBILIFT
Combilift is acknowledged for its innovative design philosophy, and Lathams continues to be an innovator in its sector too, which has led to an expansion of many of the company’s depots and consequently the ongoing need for space-saving materials handling.
Hard working trucks The ten Combilifts on site are on the go
possible, which is in line with the general
Ongoing collaboration and customer
move in many countries towards greener
care
constantly on a 24/5 shift pattern, offloading
operation. Due to an upsurge in demand,
incoming deliveries, putting products into
over 50% of Combilift products that leave
customised products, the design of which has
racking and reloading for despatch to
the production lines in Monaghan are now
also been influenced by input from Latham
customers. Their 4t base capacity, with lifting
electric. For applications with high utilisation,
employees and depot directors, together with
capability of 2t to 9.4m enables them to handle
Combilift also offers the option of supplying
the level of after-sales service that we offer
diverse loads, which can be up to 4.5m long.
these trucks with GNB/Exide Tensor fast-
have enabled Combilift to continue to be the
They work in real guided aisles of 2520mm
opportunity profile batteries and chargers,
company’s preferred provider of handling
(for easy entrance, exit and quick travel within
and this was included in the specification for
equipment. This extends to recent new
aisles and reduced risk of product damage) as
Latham’s machines.
company acquisitions in Rochdale and Dublin,
well as in some free roaming aisles set aside
“There are numerous advantages to the
Tommy Cadden: “I believe that our
where a Combi-WR4 stacker truck and other
for the storage of 3m x 2m jumbo boards. For
electric trucks,” says Andrew Jones. “A major
easier and stable handling of these larger loads,
one of which is the quiet operation. This is
four trucks have been fitted with telescopic
appreciated by our neighbours, particularly
an important role in Combilift’s product
forks which measure 2050mm when extended.
when we are working during so-called
development, and this was the case when
These can lift 1900kg at 1035 load centre
unsociable hours (many Latham depots work
the first trucks were planned for Hemel. “This
to 7.8m. Other specifications requested by
24 hour shifts to maximise delivery capacity).
site was in essence a guinea pig,” says Piers
operations manager Reg Court and depot
There is enough juice left in the batteries after
Latham. “Combilift worked on our suggestions
director Andrew Jones and their team were
the night shift for the rest of the following
regarding various issues such as the position of
blue warning lights to alert pedestrians of
morning before we need to charge again.
the exhaust, the hydraulics, the cab size and also
an approaching truck, and a mast mounted
Any doubts we may have initially had about
incorporating cameras. Not all manufacturers
camera with an in-cab screen to ensure safer
performance compared to LPG power have
are willing to pursue such open and frank
handling for drivers when placing and picking
also been totally dispelled, and we look
dialogue, but this resulted in trucks that were
loads from the higher bays.
forward to delivery of the three new electric
100% fit for purpose and was a major reason for
models we have on order.”
adopting Combilift’s multidirectional concept
Embracing electric power
Drivers are equally happy with the electric
multidirectional forklifts are now in operation.” Customer feedback has always played
across the board. The people at Combilift are
models according to materials handling
great to work with as their ultimate aim is to find
electric Combilifts into its fleet – previous
manager John Bennett: “There is now a bit
solutions for our requirements. This has been
trucks at Lathams have been LPG powered
more space in the cab, and when you are
key to the long and ongoing partnership.”
– and four of its current fleet are electric.
working in hot weather, conditions are much
According to Piers Latham, all the company’s
cooler and more comfortable as there is no
More at www.combilift.com
replacement models will be electric wherever
heat emanating from the engine.”
www.lathamtimber.co.uk
Yate is also the first branch to introduce
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FEATURE WAREHOUSING & PACKAGING
The Port-centric Approach
As the timber sector is under huge pressure with material shortages, Richard Parkinson, port director at Solent Gateway, discusses why your port and warehousing facilities are crucial aspects of the supply chain.
T
imber handling volumes have grown at an incredible
business, so it’s a unique, cost-effective opportunity that we’re offering
rate in the last year, which reflects the fact that overall
in an optimum location which results in the avoidance of cargo having
construction activity is expanding at its fastest pace
to go through Southampton City Centre.
since June 1997. COVID-19 has put incredible pressure
Marchwood Port has been an MOD cargo post since 1943 and
on global supply chains and although the recent joint statement
only part-developed so there is much opportunity to use the capacity
from the Confederation of Time Industries (CTI) and Swedish Wood
available and until now, there has never been access to commercial
suggests the market will soon stabilise, there will be a surplus of
business. The bonus of it being an MOD site is the high level of security
softwood stock at UK ports due to driver shortages, demonstrating
for your cargo.
the need for suitable warehousing options which offer more than just commercial space.
The dedicated rail line is a relatively unique offering which allows you to load straight from vessel onto rail and move goods across the
The UK supply chain is facing a multitude of challenges including
UK through the national rail network whilst reducing the traffic on the
an ageing infrastructure, HGV driver shortages, record-high prices and
roads. In the current climate, it would also alleviate some of the stress
record low space availability on sea freight options, new rules in trading
associated with the current HGV driver shortages.
with the EU and a UK-wide shortage of warehousing capacity. However,
We know the volume of imports of timber are very high and
there are options available which could meet your needs more than you
the wood has already been pre-sold and allocated to customers,
anticipated.
but it being stuck at ports and unable to reach building contractors,
There are a number of things to consider when choosing your
merchants and manufacturers isn’t sustainable. The current shortage
warehousing and how hard it works for you as a business. At Solent
of 65,000 HGV drivers means a solution to help with moving the goods
Gateway’s 225-acre Marchwood Port on the south coast of England for
away from ports is vital for a problem which isn’t going to be fixed
example, not only do we offer 85 acres of storage with both open and
overnight. The rail connectivity takes you to the main line at Totton,
closed options, but we also have sea, road and rail access, and with our
which is currently accessed three times a day with scope for more. And
Freeport status, typical VAT and customs rules don’t apply. This makes
if you aren’t affected by the current driver shortages, we’re just 15
it cheaper and easier for many raw materials entering the UK, teamed
minutes to the M27 and M3 motorways. We offer many incentives for new business including the option
with simple planning rules which helps us as a port quickly build or adapt premises where needed. Marchwood Port will be one of the very
for you to take land from us and build your own bespoke storage
first Freeport tax and customs sites that has new space available for
facility, if our current facilities don’t meet your needs for any reason.
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RACKING SYSTEMS DESIGN | MANUFACTURE | INSTALLATION Wickens is one of the largest manufacturers of specialised heavy duty storage solutions in the UK with over 40 years’ experience in the market. Our robust and reliable racking systems can help improve your site operation in the most cost-effective way. We offer a full Project Management service from the initial site survey, manufacture and installation to annual racking inspections and replacement parts.
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01905 456780
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sales@wickens.co.uk
PROUD MEMBER
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FEATURE WAREHOUSING & PACKAGING
Our ROLO and LOLO capability means we’re able to accommodate a broad range of cargoes including large vessels at our docks. We’ve then got the unique facility to load straight onto our railway structure to move goods across the UK. So, whether you need support with high-priority, fast-moving freight or slower freight which needs short or long-term storage, we can support this. Whilst there is no silver bullet for the combinations of complex challenges we face, one suggested approach is to put port-centric warehousing at the heart of your UK timber distribution strategy. The portcentric model is very simple. Rather than transporting your timber hundreds of miles inland to primary distribution centres, the storage facilities are located close to, or within key ports with Freeport status like at Marchwood. By
committed to doing all we can to solve these and provide support to
doing so, you take costly, time-consuming links out of the supply chain,
those where we’re able to offer solutions.
replacing them with seamless, simple solutions from ship to doorstep. More at: www.solentgateway.com
Although every timber business will be facing similar challenges, we’re
Knauf Insulation Unveils new Packaging Upgrade
Knauf Insulation has launched new packaging to make it easier
are more easily identifiable. The Earthwool® brand has been
to choose, use, transport and handle its high-performance, non-
phased out to simplify the branding structure, and a new brand,
combustible insulation products, and to further reduce their
Rocksilk®, has been introduced for its Rock Mineral Wool product
carbon footprint. The changes include new designs across the
range.
whole range, an upgrade taking its industry-leading compression
The further upgrade of the compression technology on
technology to a 10:1 ratio, and new, more environmentally-
the Glass Mineral Wool range enables, on average, 15% more
friendly packaging.
insulation per roll and 25% more packs on each pallet for slabs.
“We’ve listened to our customers, but we have also been
“Space is always at a premium, whether in-branch, in a vehicle or
proactive, trying to pre-empt future needs,” said Vanessa Rae,
on site,” adds Vanessa Rae. “So we’ve pushed our industry-leading
marketing director at Knauf Insulation Northern Europe. “We know
compression technology even further. It means less handling and
how important it is to choose the right product for the application
transport, and more efficient storage for all our customers across
quickly, and move and store it efficiently, whether in-branch or
the supply chain. It’s another example of how you always get more
on-site. We also know that sustainability matters more than ever, so
with Knauf Insulation.”
we’ve taken these steps to reduce our products’ carbon footprint
These changes further reduce the company’s carbon footprint.
further so customers can rely on us to help them tick the green
Enhanced compression means more product per truck, fewer
boxes for their projects.”
vehicles on the roads and less packaging is used per m2 of
The new packaging designs feature bigger and clearer product
insulation. Knauf Insulation is also introducing a new packaging film
names. Products are colour-coded into thermal conductivity groups
made from a minimum of 30% recycled plastic, and the new designs
consistent across the whole Glass Mineral Wool range, and essential
use less ink, which makes the packaging even easier to recycle.
features such as the Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification and More at: www.knaufinsulation.co.uk
ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation’s unique bio-based binder,
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Sawn, Planed and Glulam Timber
E-mail: timber.uk@moelven.com Phone: 020 8916 2401 Web: moelven.co.uk
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2021
5-7 OCTOBER 2021 NEC BIRMINGHAM
Back with a Buzz
Timber Expo is back again as a live event at the NEC this October, retaking its place as the UK’s only dedicated timber trade show and one of the key highlights of the awardwinning UK Construction Week (UKCW).
I
t’s a welcome sight. After 18 months of being cooped up at home, unable to benefit from the serendipities of networking, making new contacts or discovering new products without having to spend hours trawling
online, the return of trade shows is being greeted with open arms by many in the timber industry. The rate of registrations for the first major construction event in two years has already got off to a record-breaking start, running at 22% higher than for the same period in 2019. Those who pivoted towards digital-first last March were the first off the starting blocks during lockdown. Now it’s the other way around – those who are prioritising face-to-face communication are gearing up to reap the benefits of a post-Covid business bounce. Two years’ worth of products, solutions and innovations There’s a lot to catch up on. Timber Expo was last held in 2019
Timber Expo is free to attend, with delegates able to share and update their technical knowledge and debate topical matters around
and since then there have been significant advances in key legislative
all the latest ideas and developments from across the timber sector.
areas around fire and life safety, net zero and post-Brexit trading, not
There will be many opportunities to network with both new and familiar
to mention huge strides forward in digitalisation and two years’ worth
faces and learn about the trends that are currently affecting the market,
of exciting new products and services for the sector. In recognition of
making UKCW one of the most important dates for the rest of this year.
the quality of its events, UKCW has won two major awards in the last year, scooping the Best Trade Show award from Exhibition News and
What’s on? Timber Expo is a dedicated area in the UKCW event which runs from
the Best UK Tradeshow award by the Association of Event Organisers. It is testament to the innovations, positive delegate experience and
5-7 October at the NEC in Birmingham. UKCW 2021 is expected to attract
sustainable procedures around events like Timber Expo. This year it will
more than 20,000 specifiers and buyers with at least 300 exhibitors
all be put into practice once again.
providing launches, demos and offers on more than 6,000 products.
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The UK’s largest timber showcase FEATURING PAVILIONS FROM: Russia - Czech Republic - Germany
in partnership with
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST www.timber-expo.co.uk
CO-LOCATED WITH
#timberexpo
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2021
Burger & Cie GRAD system
5-7 OCTOBER 2021 NEC BIRMINGHAM
Baumann Sideloaders
Among the major UK brands at the show, PRO-TEK Flooring will
Products being put on show at Timber Expo will be relevant to a breadth of timber applications, including timber frame construction, sawmills,
also be introducing new products for the first time, with 28 new styles,
merchants, glulam, SIPs, CLT, fixings and fastenings, timber cladding,
including 12 herringbone patterns expanding its ever-growing range of
doors and windows, mouldings, skirtings and flooring.
designs. There will also be a state-of-the-art virtual showroom unveiling
Reflecting the interest in the booming UK market following Brexit,
from Hanson Plywood, the perfect platform for architects, designers
exhibitors at this year’s Timber Expo are not just from the UK but from
and specifiers to view all Hanson’s plywood products along with their
an increasingly diverse international market. These include Adkalis (a
accompanying technical data.
subsidiary of Groupe Berkem in France), one of the major players in the protection, treatment and decoration of wood materials, which is using
Spoilt for choice In addition to Timber Expo, there is much to see at this years’ event.
Timber Expo to promote its 100% organic microemulsion guaranteed to preserve wood’s natural state and longevity through bio-based materials. Burger & Cie, another French business, has an exclusive fastening
Each day has a topical theme, with day one focusing on sustainability, day two on diversity, equality and inclusion in construction, and day three
system on show, for use with timber decking and other timber
dedicated to major updates on quality, social value and building safety.
products. Its GRAD system has no screws, is invisible, reliable, and
UKCW’s long-established half-day summits on Quality and Wellbeing will
removable for the interior and exterior of buildings, revolutionising
also be scheduled during the show (you can add a ticket to these summits
how we fasten materials.
at the same time as registering for Timber Expo), along with the BMF’s
Baumann Sideloaders is coming over from Italy to promote its vehicles and machinery, including unveiling its newest 120v electric
Young Merchants Conference. Grand Designs Live is also running next to UKCW from 6-10 October and is free to attend from 6-7 October. Don’t miss the insightful line-up on the UKCW main stage, with
model, the ELX Plus – the first of its kind seen in the UK, perfect for handling timber or roof trusses, and with zero emissions. The ELX is
keynote talks and panel discussions from industry experts, commentators
the most compact machine of its type ever produced and features a
and disruptors. This years’ main stage, sponsored by COINS, will see
completely new chassis, battery and power train configuration. DHS
presentations by senior leaders from, among others, McKinsey, the
International from the Netherlands will be promoting its popular
Construction Products Association, CIOB, Willmott Dixon, Barratt Homes,
European Oak and Siberian Larch hardwood beams and boards, pine and
Bioregional, Grimshaw, the Sustainable Energy Association and the
spruce timber, and finished product wooden panels.
Construction Leadership Council. The COINS ‘Future of Construction’ series of seminars will be looking at how the last 18 months have changed the way we build and how that catalyst for change can now be used in a positive way. These sessions will cover updates in technology, procurement, sustainability, wellbeing and more. The pandemic saw a real rise in demand for digital transformation and the adoption of new technology. The Digital Construction Hub, sponsored by Procore, will feature more than 30 presentations and over 10 hours of learning. There will be a large Sustainability Hub, supported by the Renewable Energy Association, plus the Regeneration Hub, sponsored by Easy-trim, which will focus on social value and quality issues in construction.
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ADVERTORIAL TIMBERMARK
Timbermark at Timber Expo Timbermark ID Systems Ltd will be showcasing its latest range of thermal inkjet (TIJ) printers at this year’s Timber Expo.
B
rand new from Timbermark
an adjustable greyscale setting so that users
are the B30 and B80 handheld
can decide how light or dark they want their
devices from Zhuhai Bentsai
colour to be, optimising print quality and cost
Printing Technology in China.
per print. For the water-based ink cartridges,
The new products offer some exciting new
which are ideal for printing on timber, Bentsai
features for handheld TIJ printers.
have introduced a refill kit, so that one 42ml ink
Firstly, they come with a 1” printhead as standard (twice the height of the standard HP
cartridge can be reused up to 4 times. The new handheld printers will be on
downtime by offering easy maintenance solutions. Stitching up to 6 printhead together means Sojet’s Elfin VI printer can print over 3” or 75mm in height. The heads can be grouped
product), which is perfect for printing HT stamps
show and available for visitors to try out on
according to the user’s requirements, which is
on pallet blocks and bearers. The B30 machine is
Timbermark’s stand (M135) alongside the fixed
useful for sawmills running splits on a planning
ideally suited to this application (see image).
position printers from Sojet, which are suitable
line, or for printing across boards on a grading
for installation onto factory production lines.
line in several places. Single or 2-head versions
The B80 printer uses 4 of these cartridges to print characters and logos up to 4”
Timbermark’s Sojet range of printers are
are available for smaller designs. Timbermark has recently opened a
(100mm) in height. This high impact, high
already used by sawmills and panel factories across
resolution print is especially suitable for
the UK and Europe. Their super-sharp print quality
European subsidiary office to tackle the delays
packing cases. A guiderail is available to keep
can print bar codes onto end grain, or characters as
it encountered exporting to Europe post-Brexit.
all the printheads in perfect registration.
small as 1mm onto planed timber at speeds of up to
Orders from the EU – including the Republic of
300m/min. Like the Bentsai handheld devices, their
Ireland - can now be fulfilled from its subsidiary
ink cartridges carry an integral printhead limiting
office, based near Bruges in Belgium.
The second innovation, is to help users bring down the cost of ink use. The printers have
Crystal clear printing every time • Bentsai B30 handheld inkjet printer • Prints HT stamps, logos, date and batch data in high resolution • Prints one inch/2.54cm high
SEE US AT STAND B835
• Prints onto pallet blocks, bearers, packing cases and other packing materials • Prints onto fresh, rough-sawn timber • Print is waterproof once dry • Typically 5,000—10,000 stamps per cartridge • Refillable water-based black ink cartridges sales@timbermark.co.uk 0870 803 1877 www.timbermark.co.uk
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2021
5-7 OCTOBER 2021 NEC BIRMINGHAM
Working with the Offsite Alliance, the Modern Methods of
Barry Goodwin, carpentry and joinery lecturer at Wigan-Leigh College,
Construction Hub will deliver three days of MMC and offsite construction
are both shortlisted, recognising their contribution to helping to educate
case studies. The Innovation Zone will also return and will be a huge draw
future generations on the importance and benefits of wood use. All will
for many, showcasing a collection of the most interesting and inventive
go forward to the final of awards scheme, with the winner announced at
products that have allowed construction projects to thrive and keep
3pm on 6 October on the UKCW main stage.
going through numerous lockdowns.
The UKCW Role Models awards scheme provides both personal and wider community benefit, including creating a public platform to
Celebrate
professionals of any age and background. And finally, at the end of a jam-
It’s not just about the products – Timber Expo is first and foremost about meeting, celebrating and being inspired by great people. With
packed day, attendees are invited to unwind, share experiences and chat over the day’s events at UKCW’s popular beer festival.
skills shortages and talent retention issues faced by many across the construction industry, a highly motivated group of experts are taking the
Free registration to UK Construction Week is now open:
lead to inspire the next generation, as part of the UKCW Role Model of
ukconstructionweek-2021-visitor.reg.buzz/pr
the Year awards. One entry badge gives access to multiple sections: Build, Modern
A total of 102 people from across all sectors of construction have been shortlisted as role models for the industry, with several
Methods of Construction, Building Tech, Timber, Civils, Energy and
representing the timber and wood industry. These include Barbara Jones,
HVAC, and Surface and Materials, as well as Grand Designs Live,
director at Strawworks, a world leader in climate change mitigation, that
which runs from 6-10 October and is free to attend on 6-7 October.
designs cement-free foundations as standard and promotes materials that store carbon for construction (straw and timber in particular), and
To get regular updates on the event, including safety protocols
Carl Benfield, the timber business development manager at Benfield ATT.
and new features, follow UKCW on social media using the hashtag
Andy Locker, lecturer of wood machining at Stoke-on-Trent College and
#UKCW2021. More at www.ukconstructionweek.com
Andrew Carpenter, CEO at the Structural Timber Association (STA), a returning partner at this year’s event: “UKCW is the perfect place to meet with
programme 2021-2026. The most sensible
direction of travel and the STA are particularly
other passionate professionals to learn
approach to this is to deal with both subjects
encouraged having received full RIBA support.
and discuss the most important industry
together, as they are inextricably linked. It
“One particular interesting piece of
issues and come together to create real
goes without saying, that any construction
work being carried out in the industry, is the
change for the future. In my forty-four
has to be wholly safe, but also it should be
Construction Industry Council’s CO2nstruct
years within the UK construction industry,
providing a zero carbon solution.
Zero Champions. Here, companies are being
never have I witnessed two topics that
identified as ‘champions’ when it comes
are dominating the sector to such effect. I
plethora of organisations to promote the
to their zero carbon credentials. From
refer of course to the global climate crisis
solutions to fire safety in accordance with
my position as a CO2nstruct Zero Board
and the Building Safety Bill.
the Building Safety Bill, as well as the obvious
member, I am suggesting the timber, steel
benefits of structural timber when it comes to
and concrete sectors need to agree a set of
organisations clambering for the use of more
net zero. It was two years ago that the Climate
metrics by which carbon can be measured,
structural timber in construction, and on the
Change Committee recommended the use of
so that clients, designers and contractors
other, people suggesting you shouldn’t use
more timber in construction and this advice
specifying materials, can compare like-for-
combustible materials in the external skin, as
has been promoted far and wide within the
like. This move has the backing of the CLC.
has been experienced in the London Mayor
Time for Timber campaign and in our dealings
We look forward to discussing these major
banning timber frame in his affordable homes
with industry bodies. Many support this
issues at Timber Expo.”
“On the one hand, we have many
“The STA is currently working with a
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SEE US AT STAND T230
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FEATURE MERCHANT FOCUS: JAMES LATHAM
Make it a Natural Choice James Latham have been operating for over 260 years with a chain of facilities across the UK, we heard from Stuart Devoil, group head of marketing, about the state of the timber merchant market and what to expect from its diverse product range.
J
ames Latham operate from twelve distribution depots
Market pressures
throughout the UK & Ireland, and a number of other
Global demand for timber products is huge and the sector is being
locations that provide specialist services such as
widely affected by rising raw material prices and lower volumes – how
in-house machining and bulk direct timber supplies.
has Lathams dealt with the ongoing supply and demand issues? “The
As well as timber, the firm also offers a broad range of other
timber industry often has times when it’s difficult to source and import
products such as panels, decorative surfaces, laminates and veneers,
materials,” says Stuart. “This is among the worst periods the industry
alongside ‘advanced materials’ including solid surfaces, technical
has seen, especially when it comes to price volatility. In advance of
panels, acrylics and thermoplastics.
Brexit, Lathams set up a dedicated Supply Chain Team (SCT) which now
The whole business feels like a family. It’s an ethos helped by
sits at 11 people strong. We took the flow of materials seriously and it’s
members of the Lathams family working there, including chairman Nick
paid off. The SCT secured Advanced Economic Operator status for the
Latham, and the genuine pride that the team has in the history and
business. A mark of quality for imports and exports, it means that our
legacy of the business.
goods aren’t facing delays, significantly reducing any negative impacts.” Lathams has a huge range of products on offer to the timber trade
James Latham has: “probably the most comprehensive range of species, sizes and non-standard thicknesses available in the UK today.” What sets the
and since its acquisition of Dresser Mouldings, has seen a huge upturn in
business apart from other merchants? “The size of our depots, the breadth
cladding sales. “While we sell cladding in a wide range of materials, our
of stock we hold and our experienced staff set us apart,” says Stuart. “So
excellent relationship with Accsys Technologies means Accoya remains a firm
does our willingness to listen to customers and innovate to accommodate
favourite,” adds Stuart. “Not just for cladding, but many other joinery and
their needs. Setting up facilities like Lathams Direct Timber (LDT) is a good
landscape-led applications. From a panel perspective, we remain very strong
example. It provides customers with easier access to bulk hardwoods and
in plywood, OSB and MDF, right the way through to speciality products like
softwoods, offering landed stock direct from the port.
Valchromat which is the most requested sample from our website.”
“This means that products are readily available and clearly priced, without the need to worry about shipping and customs requirements.
See the quality for yourself For those interested in knowing more about the Lathams range, they
LDT offers popular varieties from all over the world including Iroko and Sapele (Africa), Cherry, Maple and Red Oak (North America) and
have two dedicated product specification showrooms – in London and
Jelutong, Meranti and Keruing (the Far East).
Manchester respectively – where the trade can get to know the products
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FEATURE MERCHANT FOCUS: JAMES LATHAM
Valchromat is the most requested sample from the Lathams website
better. “While we have two physical showrooms, Covid lockdowns forced us to look at other ways of reaching our customers,” says Stuart. “We’ve invested in digital tools that help us to take the showroom directly to customers, including virtual meetings and video content, to support people working remotely. Because our staff couldn’t interact with customers in person, we set up a central sampling function too. Anyone who has a video consultation or makes an enquiry via the website will receive samples, fully Latham-branded, within 48 hours.” While there has been an increase in interest in fire retardant (FR) products, such as SMARTPLY MAX FR B, Garnica Fireshield, and Sundeala FR, this has been overshadowed by the increase in demand for sustainable materials. Lathams is committed to supporting responsible forest management and
The London Product Specification Showroom
has a wide range of FSC and PEFC-certified material on offer. “Sustainability is critical to the future of construction and
to the forefront as people look for alternative solutions. We’ve
we’ve bolstered our compliance team because of our ever-increasing
seen a significant increase in enquiries from the general public as
focus on the topic,” adds Stuart. “As part of the TTF Responsible
garden rooms and such structures become more and more ‘the
Purchasers Scheme, we stringently vet all suppliers to ensure they
norm’. Although we can’t deal with enquiries such as this directly, the
meet environmental standards. In addition, we are currently working
merchant sector will benefit from this growth.
with a number of parties to identify and promote the use of timber in construction as a carbon storage strategy.”
“We’ve focused heavily on our product portfolio, adding exclusive ranges, high-performers and innovative materials to provide greater
What key market developments do Lathams expect to see for
choice. These include new cladding options, some exciting new décor
themselves and across the merchant and timber supply sector for the
ranges and even a super-sustainable panel product made entirely from
rest of 2021 and into 2022? “The merchant sector is well positioned
waste material – watch this space!”
for growth post-pandemic,” says Stuart. “Demand for materials is More at www.lathamtimber.co.uk
high and there is an opportunity to bring new, advanced products
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FEATURE CERTIFICATION & ACCREDITATION
Don’t Break the Timber Chain To improve transparency and efficiency across the timber commodity supply chain, a new service has been launched to help combat illegal logging and improve the industry’s reliability.
T
The security, productivity, and sustainability of
by Nature and iov42 plan to expand the service to accommodate other
international timber markets are too often affected by
forest and agriculture commodities across Preferred by Nature’s areas
corruption and the fragmented nature of the industry,
of expertise.
impacted further by outdated methods for information
gathering and verification. Timber Chain is a new service launched
What the platform can achieve
by Preferred by Nature and iov42 that will enable stakeholders
The Timber Chain modernises traceability away from labour-
across timber supply chains to improve efficiency, transparency
intensive processes to real-time, digital data recording. The service
and security through a secure blockchain application, storing all
standardises data capture, analysis, and reporting and grants access
information in one place.
to reports to relevant stakeholders, such as certifiers, regulators and
By combining blockchain technology, third-party certification, and market knowledge, Timber Chain modernises traceability: introducing
buyers. This streamlines the information gathering, collating, and verification process for organisations. With all relevant information stored in one location, Preferred by
real-time digital data recording, replacing traditional, paper-based processes which are labour intensive and often prone to human error.
Nature can easily access and verify that organisations are compliant
The Timber Chain service has been built to improve and secure
with certification criteria. This will reduce the need for certification
the interactions between all stakeholders across the supply chain
bodies to make individual trips to sift through an organisation’s paper
from forest to shelf. All data and claims are checked and certified
records to perform audits. Relevant certificates are issued and stored
by a reputable third party. All data is stored and secured by iov42’s
digitally, saving time and resources for both certification bodies and
distributed ledger technology, ensuring complete data integrity and
audited organisations. Only organisations with verified Timber Chain identities will be able
confidence by using blockchain – a system of recording information in a way that makes it impossible to change, hack, or cheat the system. The new application was first piloted by Carl Ronnow, a global
to upload information to the service, though the information can be made visible to external parties specified by Timber Chain users. Adam Grant, Preferred by Nature’s Head of Market Development,
wood trader of over 30 years. Having appreciated the increased levels of transparency and security provided by the new platform, Timber
comments: “We are excited to evolve our services to real time,
Chain will continue to equip Carl Ronnow with a much improved and
immutable and transparent data controls offering ‘frictionless due
modern avenue to meet their commitment to providing comprehensive
diligence’ to all of our clients.” iov42 CEO Dominic von Trotha Taylor continues: “Timber Chain
due diligence to their buyers, supported by third party audits. Preferred
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Do it the Wright way! Fire Retardant Treated Timber & Plywood 100% natural, non-toxic & bio-degradable
Approved decorative coating
Fire class B-s1, d0
DRF Class EN 16755:2017
For further information, please call, click or visit: WJ Group, 1A Main Street, Kirkburn, Driffield YO25 9DU T: 01377 796001 E: info@firewright.co.uk
wj-group.co.uk
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FEATURE CERTIFICATION & ACCREDITATION
is an excellent example of what is possible when two different industries come together to address a real world issue, in this case, the transparency, efficiency, and resiliency of international timber markets. Integrating our identity-centric, trust building technology with Preferred by Nature’s expertise in certification will establish a new standard for supply chain management. We look forward to expanding this service for a number of high-risk commodities.” The first user of the new service is Carl Ronnow, an international wood trader that has been certified by Preferred by
onto a secure digital database such as Timber Chain created by IoV42,
Nature against the LegalSourceTM Standard since 2016. Dick Anning,
and combining this with our Preferred by Nature’s LegalSource due
Carl Ronnow Environment Manager comments: “We at Carl Ronnow
diligence certification, we know that we have found a new avenue for
always look for opportunities to increase the levels of credibility and
meeting these goals.”
transparency to the due diligence information that we offer to our More at www.iov42.com www.preferredbynature.org
buyers. By committing to uploading all of this due diligence information
Blockchain Vital to Stop Illegal Logging The timber industry is notoriously
chain try to do their best, it’s clear that
one of challenge and risk, says David
the whole industry needs to raise the bar.
Coleman, chief product officer, iov42,
There is opportunity for the timber industry
with complicated processes and complex
to embrace new technologies to increase
supply chains historically very difficult to
the effectiveness of combating this illegal
track.
trade.
Any market built around the growing of
challenges of opaque supply chains is
weather, political volatility and the
harnessing the power of blockchain.
merging and disbandment of traders have
Blockchain contributes to increased
challenged the timber sector for a long
transparency and security through
time. But what impacts supply chains is
decentralisation, security, and immutability
the mismanagement of supply: a too-large
features. This minimises the risk of illegal
minority of trade bodies and global corps
timber activity and will instead promote
help to support a range of other sectors
who overlook fundamental flaws in their
accountable decision-making, providing a
and agri-enterprises overcome similar
production or supply chains. Some make
transparent audit trail of actions. This is why
challenges, with the value of blockchain
excuses, others ignore the problems, and
blockchain-powered solutions are needed:
innovations in this space expected to grow
few actively engage in malpractice. But the
they enable governments and organisations
to nearly £420 million by 2023.
actions of the few are actively harming the
to ensure regulatory compliance
majority, so how can we create a system
throughout the entire supply chain. They
industry from forest to shelf, blockchain
that rewards those doing the right thing?
also leverage cryptography to make sure
technology is far from the only change
records can’t be altered or deleted.
that must be embraced. But the level of
Responsible for losses of over $50 billion each year, it’s estimated that up to
One emerging solution to the complex
produce will face difficulties. Unpredictable
FSC is piloting new secure blockchain
David Coleman
Given the complexity of the logging
transparency and accountability it provides
30% of timber harvested annually across
technology specifically for their own
across the supply chain can be harnessed to
the world is taken illegally. And in a year
certification, with the goal of re-
incentivise better, more holistic behaviour
that’s seen the introduction of space
establishing trust, as its immutable nature
from participants, providing the end
tourism and virtual offices becoming the
means that it’ll be impossible to manipulate
consumer with reassurance that their
norm, there’s no reason why the timber
records on the database. Whilst these
purchase has been sourced responsibly.
industry should continue to be behind
solutions are geared towards the timber
Given the environmental cost to our planet
when new solutions are available. Needless
trade, they’re also a litmus test for other
if mistakes are made, it’s something we all
to say that whilst many across the supply
agricultural industries. Blockchain could
should be striving for, with no excuses.
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The UK’s Number One Joinery & Furniture Manufacturing Event
4000+ New Products
500 Brands
You wood be mad to miss out on all of this at W Exhibition
6-9 FEBRUARY 2022 NEC BIRMINGHAM Register for a FREE ticket today by scanning the QR Code or visiting WExhibition.co.uk
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Flooring system choices for all applications from West Fraser Choosing the most suitable flooring system for a project makes an enormous difference to the quality of the finished floor; and will cut costs and save problems later. This is why West Fraser’s versatile CaberFloor system offers an advanced range of flooring products designed to fit all applications including new-build, replacement, domestic and commercial. Leading the field in the popularity stakes, CaberFloor P5 is the UK’s most specified moisture-resistant P5 flooring. The high-strength wood particleboard is ideal for domestic and most other floors and removes the need for intermediate noggins. The boards are moisture-resistant, stable, durable, easy to lay and, with a tongue and groove or square-edge profile, provide an excellent surface for subsequent floor laying operations. Some floors require more advanced solutions and, no matter the size or shape of the floor being laid, there are key questions to ask. Although not necessarily obvious, the first point to consider is whether the building’s roof will be in place. If the answer is no, the floor will need to withstand the elements. This is where CaberShieldPlus proves its worth as it is designed to allow building work to continue in all weathers. CaberShieldPlus is an advanced product that has all the inherent benefits of CaberFloor P5. In addition, it offers double-sided protection with a tough, permanent waterproof coating and is BBA approved for 60 days exposure. It is also a non-slip, safe working platform that withstands high site traffic. An alternative solution is CaberDek which is BBA approved for 42 days exposure. The P5 grade flooring has the advantage of a strong, waterproof and slip-resistant peelable film. It provides protection from the elements and construction mess and, when removed, leaves a clean, finished floor. The film is impact, puncture and tear-resistant to withstand high site traffic. CaberDek also provides 44dB sound reduction when used in conjunction with leading I-beam and insulation manufacturers. All three CaberFloor products comply with BS EN312 and are designed to be used with the CaberFix range of specially developed sealing and fixing products that include powerful adhesives and tapes. For example, CaberFloor P5 is best used with CaberFix Joint&Joist, an adhesive and sealant that will adhere to a wide variety of materials, creating a strong, silent, and flexible bond. Similarly, CaberFix D4 complements CaberDek and CaberShieldPlus. This adhesive bonds flooring to joists, T&G joints and seals exposed perimeter and edges to provide full BBA approval for up to 60 days exposure. Beyond the advantages and practicalities of using CaberWood MDF, the materials and processes used to manufacture the product offer the reassurance of being sustainable. Unsurprisingly, West Fraser’s range of board products is available in a wide selection of sizes to minimise waste. All timber used is responsibly sourced and FSC certified. The panels are manufactured in the UK from locally grown timber and are net carbon negative. Additionally, all of West Fraser’s UK mills have obtained the coveted ISO 14001 environmental accreditation. Samples of all West Fraser construction panels can be ordered on the website Uk.westfraser.com. Head to the housebuilder page on the website to download a selection of tools including a fullyinteractive guide to all West Fraser products and a checklist to make sure you have everything you need for your build. For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit Uk.westfraser.com
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For more information call Terry Hanlon on 01925 270093 or email terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk
Timber Trader UK Magazine
Autumn 2021
40
www.timbermedia.co.uk
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Choose life, Choose wood
Go to vandecasteele.be and discover why wood is the only sustainable construction material…
Read more about sustainable forest management
Using timber tackles climate change
Using timber is good Using certified timber is wonderful
Contact Bergstraat 25 8511 Aalbeke Belgium vandecasteele.be
Calculate your environmental impact
genevieve@vandecasteele.be +32 56 43 33 00 dave@vandecasteele.be +44 15 94 83 43 32
Committed to the cause
2021, whilst marking Timber Connection’s 30th year, also represents one of the most turbulent years of trading the timber industry has ever seen. Throughout the years we have been dedicated to ensuring you have a supply line you can depend on and we stand by that today. Timber Connection, a company you can rely on.
Better, connected. www.timberconnection.co.uk
