Earlier this year, the directors of North Heigham Sawmills Ltd, a specialist timber supplier to the furniture industry and a home-grown timber merchant, decided to retire and put the business up for sale.
It was feared the company, which traces its origins back to 1818, would have to close. But a deal has now been finalised that will keep the yard open – under the ownership of A&W Cushion.
Founded in the 1820s, North Heigham Sawmills was originally a major furniture manufacturer, but in the 1960s, converted to specialising in hardwoods from the UK and around the world.
As well as craftsmen, furniture makers and the joinery trade, the company also caters for a wide range of specialists, including wood turners, boat builders and musical instrument manufacturers.
A&W Cushion, meanwhile, specialises in supplying and machining softwoods, hardwoods and panel products for the building, joinery and DIY trade.
Dominic Copping, a director at the firm, and the sixth generation of his family to work there, said: “We believe the North Heigham Sawmill will be a great complement to what we already offer at A&W Cushion.
“It is a new area of business for us but we have invested in the extensive specialist knowledge of the staff, as well as in the yard itself.”
It will continue to trade as North Heigham Sawmill, while the two members of staff have been retained.
