Friday, January 30, 2026
Leading builders’ merchant Huws Gray is improving its position in the UK timber market by creating a new operation at the former National Timber Group (NTG) plant in Ayr. The branch is currently trading under the Thornbridge brand following NTG’s entry into administration in late 2025, stepping into the domain of timber supply in South Ayrshire.
The transition has ensured continuity for customers while safeguarding the roles of several highly experienced employees, with further recruitment planned as the business expands. Huws Gray confirmed that additional roles are currently available at the Ayr site, underlining its commitment to local employment and long-term growth in Scotland’s construction materials sector.
Strategically located in Ayr, the Thornbridge branch offers a premium timber buying experience, with all products stored indoors. This approach is designed to protect timber from Scotland’s often harsh and unpredictable weather, ensuring consistent quality for trade professionals and contractors across the region.
Eddie Hernon, Managing Director at PDM Huws Gray, said, “The move aligns with the company’s wider investment strategy north of the border.” He also highlighted recent capital investment in Huws Gray’s flagship timber mill in Grangemouth as evidence of its long-term commitment to the Scottish market.
Following the news of NTG’s administration in November, Huws Gray began assessing opportunities to expand its timber merchanting capabilities. Securing the lease on the Ayr site was seen as a natural fit, enabling the business to build on existing infrastructure while maintaining service continuity for customers.
Operational leadership at the branch remains unchanged, with Lynne Douglas continuing to lead the team. She said the existing workforce has developed strong relationships with local customers over many years and welcomed the opportunity to continue supporting them under the Huws Gray umbrella.
Douglas added that integration into the wider Huws Gray business provides access to a broader product range, enhanced operational support, and new growth opportunities, while retaining the branch’s strong foundations in timber supply.
A full rebrand of the Ayr site is planned in the coming weeks, alongside investment to support a more diverse product offering. While timber remains central to the branch’s identity, the expansion will allow it to better serve evolving customer needs across the construction and building sectors.
National Timber Group, which previously operated businesses including Rembrands, Scotia Roofing, and Orchard Timber Products, reported a combined turnover of approximately £350 million and employed around 1,200 people across the UK before filing a notice of intention to enter administration.
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Tags: builders’ merchant Ayr, construction materials Scotland, Huws Gray Scotland, Scottish timber market, Thornbridge timber
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