Wednesday, September 11, 2024
This year marks a major milestone for BSW Timber’s Fort William Sawmill, which is celebrating 50 years of successful operations. Originally opened in 1974 by King Charles, then Prince Charles, the sawmill has grown to become a cornerstone of both the local economy and community in Fort William.
A History of Growth and Innovation
The Fort William Sawmill was initially owned by the Riddoch family of Rothiemay but changed hands in 1985 to Thomas Smith & Sons. In 1988, following the merger of Brownlie, Smith, and Western Softwoods, the sawmill became part of BSW Timber, named after the initials of the three companies. This merger laid the foundation for the modern company, with Fort William at its heart.
Expansion and Modernisation
Over the years, the sawmill has undergone continuous expansion. In 2009, the installation of wood treatment tanks and kilns enabled onsite timber treatment and drying. In 2011, construction began on a second sawmill across the road, named K2, doubling the facility’s capacity. The original location, known as K1, continued to operate alongside K2, which benefited from a £40 million investment. K2 was fitted with state-of-the-art equipment, including two biomass boilers affectionately named Ben and Nevis, after the nearby mountain.
By 2013, after a five-year transition, K2 processed its first log, marking a new era for the sawmill. With these advancements, the mill increased its workforce to around 150 employees and boosted its processing capacity to 260,000 cubic metres of timber annually.
Current Operations and Community Impact
Today, the Fort William Sawmill has grown even further, employing over 200 people and processing 500,000 cubic metres of timber each year. Additionally, the sawmill supports an estimated 600 further jobs in the local area through partnerships with businesses in sectors such as logistics, forestry, and engineering. As part of the BSW Group, the sawmill continues to play a critical role in the regional economy.
Community Spirit and Reflections
Andy Rogers, Business Development Manager at the mill, emphasised the sense of community fostered by the sawmill: “There’s a real ‘can-do spirit’ here in Fort William. Unlike in other places, where work ends when you clock out, here the sawmill is such an integral part of the town. You meet your colleagues in the supermarket or on the squash court – it’s much more than just a workplace.”
Mill Manager Oliver Stephen also expressed pride in reaching this important milestone: “We’re thrilled to celebrate 50 years of operations. So much has changed over the decades with significant investments, but the dedication and expertise of everyone here have remained constant. We’re proud to be part of the Fort William community, providing jobs and supporting the local economy. Here’s to another 50 years for Fort William Sawmill!”
The Fort William Sawmill’s 50-year journey is a testament to its enduring strength, innovation, and its vital role in the local community. As BSW Timber looks to the future, the sawmill remains a symbol of resilience and a key part of Fort William’s heritage and economy.
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