Growth in demand for home-grown products has led Ryall & Edwards Ltd to restart its sawmilling operations.
The small Surrey-based fencing and timber supplier has begun producing fencing from locally sourced wood after closing its original mill because it was cheaper to supply imported products.
Managing director Sue Rowland said supply and demand issues in China last year had made it clear that there was a growing market for UK products that the company could tap into.
“It was tragic to lose the home-grown market in the first place, but people are still wanting the products,” she said. “Having the mill means we can also control the quality and handle odd-sized orders like 8x8ft and 9x9ft panels which aren’t easily available on import.”
The rejuvenated sawmill, fully operational from the start of the year, took almost a year to complete and cost around £70,000 to equip. It includes a spindle moulder, cross-cut saws, re-saws, a planer and a mortiser. The investment also includes a cross-cut and circular bench saw in the warehouse to cut timber while customers wait.
