New timber confederation plans gain impetus

Mr Lennan’s update follows the recent suspension of merger talks between the TTF and British Woodworking Federation (BWF), which had formed part of the process towards creating the CTI.

“It seems that other trade associations and supporters now feel much more relaxed about joining a new confederation with no ambition of control, but simply to act as an umbrella confederation to ensure that their views, and the views of the wider industry supply chain, are fully understood and represented,” said Mr Lennan in the update emailed out to TTF members.

“We are now moving forward quickly and with the confidence that support can be gathered for the launch of CTI on June 10, from other trade associations, companies and associates by developing the same sort of model as the very successful Construction Products Association.”

Meetings with potential trade association members and other key stakeholders are currently being held. Plans are also being developed with a branding agency on how best to present the CTI, while web developers are working on a website that will act as an industry portal.

“We hope to have links to all sectors across the chain by launch day, to ensure that we can offer a real window to the timber world, ensuring that trade association and associate members remain the clear content providers and expert voices in their sectors and that CTI acts as a conduit,” added Mr Lennan.

The search has also begun for the new CEO of the CTI.