A dispute has arisen between agent Fore-Wood Ltd and Alexanders Sawmills Ltd over a shipment of Canadian CLS.
Fore-Wood claimed that Ayr-based Alexanders reneged on a contract in March to buy 64 packs of CLS. It subsequently took the case to arbitration. Alexanders, however, said no contract had been formed and refused to recognise the validity of arbitration proceedings.
Fore-wood claimed £31,747.58 for non-payment of the goods imported to Greenock, £767.22 for interest and quay rent. Fore-wood has since sold some of the timber and mitigated its claim to £18,384.84 plus VAT.
Arbitrator David Ogilvy Brown, a member of the Timber Arbitrators’ Association, upheld Fore-wood’s claim for non payment of goods and ordered that Alexanders, which declined to participate in the arbitration, also pay £640 costs.
“It’s all very disappointing,” said Fore-wood director Peter Crofts. “Legal proceedings are being considered,” he added.
A statement from Alexanders’ solicitors McGrigors LP said: “No contract was formed between the parties [so] there are no sums due to Fore-wood Ltd and no agreement to arbitrate any disputes. No goods have been received by our client, and we understand that Fore-wood Ltd has sold on part of the goods.”
It said the appointment of the arbitrator was “invalid” and that Alexanders was not bound by the award.
