This was the message of Timber Trade Federation president Neil Donaldson to the 173-strong audience at the North East Timber Trade Association (NETTA) annual dinner.
The industry, he said, was “too fragmented”.
“We need to get closer, TRADA, TTF, the Trussed Rafter Association, UK Timber Frame Association, Wood for Good – I could go on”.
To explore greater industry-wide collaboration, Mr Donaldson has invited eight associations in the sector to meet.
“Such a summit, attended by respective chairmen, could just be the start of some pooling together of resources, aims and objectives,” he said.
He added that the new Wood for Gold initiative to lobby for the use of timber in London Olympics construction projects was evidence of the industry’s abil-ity to come together.
Mr Donaldson also urged all members to get behind the TTF’s latest initiatives, in particular the Responsible Purchasing Policy (RPP) aimed at helping secure timber supplies from environmentally well-managed sources.
“The RPP has been criticised by some for being a burden, but this fundamental business tool is actively demonstrating benefits to members,” he said.
The TTF was also planning to give its Code of Conduct “teeth” to ensure standards were maintained. “We cannot and will not allow the federation to be spoilt by bad apples,” said Mr Donaldson.
NETTA president Pat Burke focused on the vital role of regional associations in boosting timber’s reputation, highlighting NETTA’s initiatives in promotion and education.
