Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Premier Forest Products, a leading UK timber company, has successfully acquired two Arnold Laver sites, located in Manchester and Reading, from the administrators of the National Timber Group England. This strategic acquisition not only secures the immediate future of these locations but also safeguards over 100 jobs, with plans to increase the workforce further as the sites are rebuilt and re-staffed.
The Manchester and Reading sites will now operate under the Premier Forest Products brand. This acquisition marks an important step in the company’s long-term strategy to expand its presence across the UK. As part of this move, Premier Forest Products aims to strengthen its operations and offer continued stability to both customers and suppliers in these regions.
Arnold Laver, a well-established name within the National Timber Group England, entered administration in November after facing ongoing financial pressures within the timber and construction industries. In response, the company’s administrators have been working diligently to secure the future of viable assets, including the sale of select sites and operations. The acquisition of the Manchester and Reading branches by Premier Forest Products ensures that these locations will continue to serve their respective markets while remaining a valuable part of the UK timber sector.
The purchase of the two Arnold Laver sites is seen as a vital move for Premier Forest Products, a company that has been independently owned for over 30 years. The company’s CEO, Terry Edgell, highlighted the importance of providing stability for both employees and customers during challenging times for the industry. “Our priority throughout this process has been to provide stability for the affected teams and ensure customers continue to receive the service they rely on,” said Edgell.
Premier Forest Products plans to increase the workforce at the sites, which currently employ 36 people, to more than 100. This will involve rebuilding the operations and re-staffing the branches as the company works to restore and grow these important sites. This expansion will provide a boost to the local economy and continue to support Premier Forest’s goal of building a sustainable UK-wide network of timber operations.
The acquisition is seen as a critical part of Premier Forest Products’ broader growth strategy. The company aims to position itself as a leading force in the UK timber market, especially during a period of uncertainty for the industry. By securing these sites, Premier Forest is reinforcing its commitment to maintaining a strong regional presence, ensuring that both new and existing customers continue to receive the quality service and products they expect.
Premier Forest’s expansion into Manchester and Reading aligns with its long-term growth plans and strengthens its foothold in key markets. The company has emphasised that its independent ownership allows it to take a long-term view, which is crucial for maintaining stability and ensuring sustainable business practices. This approach has guided the company for more than three decades and will continue to shape its growth in the years to come.
The transition of the two sites to Premier Forest Products will focus on stabilising operations, supporting staff through the changes, and re-establishing services to customers as quickly as possible. The company is committed to maintaining high standards of customer service and product delivery during this transition phase. Premier Forest Products has a track record of resilience and adaptability, qualities that will be essential as it integrates the new sites into its broader operations.
Terry Edgell commented further on the move, stating, “Premier Forest Products has remained independently owned for more than 30 years, and our approach has always been to think long term. This move reflects our commitment to building a sustainable future for the business, our people, and our customers.” By acquiring these sites, Premier Forest Products is ensuring that it can continue to serve its customers in the Manchester and Reading regions, while also contributing to the broader stability of the UK timber market.
This acquisition also signals the company’s ability to adapt to the changing landscape of the timber industry. As timber companies face increased competition and pressures on supply chains, the need for strategic acquisitions and investments has never been greater. Premier Forest’s decision to acquire these sites demonstrates its confidence in the long-term potential of the UK timber market, despite the challenges posed by ongoing economic and market pressures.
Looking ahead, Premier Forest Products remains committed to expanding its UK presence and ensuring that it remains a key player in the timber sector. By securing over 100 jobs and stabilising two key sites, the company is not only protecting the future of these branches but also contributing to the overall growth and resilience of the UK timber industry.
In conclusion, Premier Forest Products’ acquisition of the Manchester and Reading Arnold Laver sites represents a strategic investment in the future of the company and the UK timber market. It safeguards jobs, strengthens regional operations, and demonstrates the company’s long-term commitment to sustainable growth and industry leadership.
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Tags: Arnold Laver acquisition, National Timber Group England, Premier Forest Products, sustainable timber business, timber workforce growth, UK timber industry, woodworking news and updates
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