The Timber Development UK (TDUK) Global Market Conference, held on 5th November 2025, brought together key players from across the timber supply chain to assess the market performance of the past year and look forward to 2026. In a year marked by ongoing economic uncertainty and a downturn in global timber trade, the conference provided an essential platform for professionals to discuss challenges and opportunities within the timber industry.
Opening the event, TDUK Chief Executive David Hopkins set the tone with a review of the year’s performance. He acknowledged the difficult market conditions but also highlighted the resilience and continued support that TDUK has offered to its members. As the UK’s leading membership organisation for the timber sector, TDUK has been crucial in “connecting, educating, and advocating” for the industry, making its role more vital than ever.
Supporting Members Through Change
David began by noting how TDUK has guided its members through a year of challenges. Despite a subdued market, TDUK has continued to deliver value through a wide range of services, from policy development and compliance support to training, research, and communication. “This year hasn’t been easy for anyone,” he remarked, “but we’re pushing the industry forward and working hard to help members navigate these complex and fast-changing conditions.”
Throughout 2025, TDUK has kept its members updated on key legislative, policy, and market changes. This includes:
- The ongoing delays and uncertainty surrounding the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
- The shift in log supply mix, from Spruce to Pine.
- Temporary duty suspensions on certain plywood products.
- The ongoing sanctions concerning Russian and Belarusian plywood, as well as concerns over illegal imports.
TDUK has been proactive in issuing trade notes and hosting online meetings, with over 20,000 minutes of learning shared to keep members informed. These updates, coupled with in-person events, have helped ensure that members remain up-to-date on these critical issues.
Pushing for Policy Change and Innovation
A key point of discussion during the conference was TDUK’s collaboration with industry stakeholders such as Confor and the Structural Timber Association to push forward the Timber in Construction Roadmap. This roadmap was relaunched by the government in February 2025, marking a significant milestone for the industry. “For the first time, all those things we’ve talked about for years – the carbon benefits of timber – are recognised in policy,” David explained. “It’s a very, very good thing that we need to keep pushing away at.”
TDUK now chairs two of the roadmap’s key working groups: one focused on whole-life carbon and another on the safe and sustainable use of timber. The organisation’s commitment to driving innovation was also evident in its collaboration with research institutions like Edinburgh Napier, NMITE, and Built Environment – Smarter Transformation. Together, they are exploring new build systems and innovative ways to use British-grown species of timber.
Expanding Reach and Digital Resources
TDUK’s reach has grown significantly in 2025, with its digital platforms now connecting over 24,000 professionals and 9,500 organisations. The website attracts 146,000 annual users, while TDUK’s social media presence generates over 500,000 impressions. One of the most popular resources is the online Knowledge Library, which contains webinars, case studies, technical knowledge sheets, and trade notes. With more than 51,000 downloads to date, this platform continues to be a vital tool for TDUK members.
David also highlighted the success of TDUK’s “Find Your Timber Partner” tool, which has become one of the most visited pages on the website. This tool connects timber professionals with potential customers, partners, and suppliers, further expanding TDUK’s influence and reach.
Focus on Education and Training
In 2025, TDUK has placed a strong emphasis on education and training. The Wood Campus learning platform, relaunched in September, now offers more than 60 modules covering over 80 topics. Since its launch, there have been over 700 enrolments, with 400 completions. “We launched it a month ago, and we’ve had 717 enrolments in four weeks, which is fantastic,” David said.
TDUK’s commitment to compliance has also grown. In 2025, 130 Responsible Operator badges were issued, and more than 23,000 minutes of online training were delivered. To support this, TDUK released a new Guide to the Construction Products Regulation on the day of the conference.
Celebrating Women in Timber
David also celebrated the success of TDUK’s Women in Timber initiative, which continues to make strides in changing the sector’s image. “It’s been a fantastic initiative, and we’re doing all we can to change the image of our sector,” he said, recognising the positive impact of this growing movement.
Looking Ahead: Optimism for the Future
While acknowledging the difficulties faced by the industry in 2025, David pointed to signs of optimism. Increased demand from architects and housebuilders for timber-based construction solutions is seen as a positive sign. “More and more architects are winning projects that involve timber and are coming to us in search of information. There’s a real appetite for timber now – and we need to keep building on that,” he added.
TDUK’s efforts to connect, educate, and advocate have ensured that the timber industry remains informed and prepared for the future. By continuing to push for policy change, innovation, and education, TDUK is helping its members stay ahead in an ever-changing landscape.
Encouraging Industry Participation
David concluded his remarks by encouraging all members to get involved and maximise the value of their membership. Through collaboration, training, and advocacy, TDUK continues to drive progress within the timber sector, ensuring its continued growth and success in the years ahead.
Read more news on Timber
Get such updates through woodandpanel.us
