Boise, the US manufacturer of the Simple Framing System, which includes its BCI Joists, Versa-Lam LVL beams, Versa-Strand and Versa-Rim, has invested heavily in expanding operations in the UK and is bullish about market prospects.
The major development over the last year or so was the company’s decision to set up a 200,000ft2 distribution and processing base at Upper Heyford, Oxfordshire. UK sales manager Simon Jones said the investment is already paying dividends.
“We’re delighted with the response from customers,” he said, adding that the new facility significantly improves service levels and will deepen Boise’s market penetration.
“The fast turning and substantial stockholding, including undercover storage, gives the market access to a wide range of sizes and lengths of the highest quality,” he said.
Earlier this year Boise announced a deal to supply its Simple Framing System through Jewson – a move that was predicted to give a major push to engineered wood products into UK housebuilding. The engineered flooring system is supplied as a complete package with ancillary components, installation guide and layout plan.
To boost market knowledge and awareness of its products, this year Boise also published a 52-page technical guide for architects, engineers and developers. It provides technical details for the Simple Frame Flooring system, plus the component BCI joists, Versa-Lam LVL and Versa-Rim plywood rim board and Versa-Strand OSB. It also includes application instructions, illustrations and technical data.
Boise UK managing director Mark Rees hinted that it may soon use its success here as a stepping off point into Continental Europe. “You can probably expect developments in the next year to 18 months,” he said. “The market in mainland Europe for engineered wood products has tremendous potential and we’re looking to make significant inroads.”
Mr Jones said that the prospects in the UK are also healthy: “We are all benefiting from the general growth in the engineered wood product market. Our current trading position is on target and well ahead of our position last year. “
