Hardwood traders at the London Hardwood Club’s September 4 meeting expressed their willingness to support Wood for Good’s Wood First initiative to make it easier for architects, designers and builders to choose and use timber.
They were responding to guest speaker David Hopkins, head of external affairs at the Timber Trade Federation and Wood for Good, who explained how the Wood First Plus database initiative needed accurate information and how it could result in increased business leads for the industry.
Afterwards, Mr Hopkins said hardwood traders had shown a great willingness to help, including sharing their company data.
“In particular, we need accurate data on [hardwood] kilning and drying and the energy and demand and fuel mix this consumes – it is one of the biggest impacts on timber production,” said Mr Hopkins.
He said demonstrating the aims of Wood First Plus to different facets of the timber industry was important and could show companies how it could boost market demand in the future.
“Hardwoods are a smaller yet no less important part of the industry in the UK and we want to help grow market share for them just as much as softwood.”
Robert Morgan, club president, said two companies at the meeting – Associated Timber Services and East Brothers – which have their own kilning operations gave a commitment to share data. He said a number of others who deal with hardwood supplies overseas could also probably access information.
“We are hoping to give David some useful input,” said Mr Morgan. “Members are very keen to help because it’s in everyone’s interest to assist the project.”
