Canadian manufacturers of timber housing and building products are optimistic of future business opportunities in the UK after a three-day intensive mission to build contacts.

The visit, organised by the Canadian High Commission and Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation on October 21-23, involved more than 140 meetings with UK architects, developers, contractors, merchants and housing associations.

Roger Léger, senior trade consultant at Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation, said: “After speaking to some of the Canadians and the UK companies, there seems to be some synergy and a strong indication that business is possible. Some of the products they have seen are the right fit for the direction the UK housing market is going.”

Fermco of Québec is interested in the UK affordable housing market. Its national and international sales director Marc Desy said: “I think this country will want to move to timber frame because of the speed of building and problems with getting labour for traditionally-made buildings.”

He said UK architects had told him their clients were increasingly looking for a quicker turn-around on their investment in land banks.

&#8220There seems to be some synergy between UK and Canadian companies and a strong indication that business is possible. Some Canadian products are the right fit for the UK housing market ”

Roger Léger, senior trade consultant at Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

Meanwhile, David McFarlane, president and chief executive officer of Canada’s largest post and beam manufacturer Normerica, said: “I would see us doing numerous projects in the higher end of the timber frame market, utilising our post and beam capabilities, and also reaching into commercial projects such as golf course lodges.”

One English bespoke builder who met the Canadians said he was interested in sourcing Canadian oak as European oak was becoming too expensive.

Other Canadian companies included a hardwood flooring manufacturer and a cabinet and door maker.