All articles by Stephen Powney

Stephen Powney

BMF predicts a subdued start for the building sector in 2026

A lengthy new forecast from the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) says a stagnant market in building materials is set to continue into 2026. Government intervention, it says, is needed to jump-start the sector.

“The Timber Truth” published to dispel timber construction misconceptions

Global sustainable forest management label PEFC has released The Timber Truth, a new publication that provides fact-based insights into some of the most persistent misconceptions surrounding timber construction.

New Travis Perkins CEO Gavin Slark takes up the reins

New Travis Perkins plc CEO Gavin Slark commenced working at the building materials giant on January 1, 2026.

Premier further extends footprint with Arnold Laver Hull and NTS acquisitions

Premier Forest Products has further reshaped the face of UK timber distribution with a bold move to acquire both the Arnold Laver Hull operation and National Timber Systems.

Beatsons acquires Orchard Timber Products

Beatsons Building Supplies has announced the acquisition of Orchard Timber Products from administrators of the National Timber Group (NTG).

Happy Christmas from TTJ!

The team at TTJ would like to wish all our readers in print and online a very happy Christmas and a great New Year.

Premier Forest Products Ltd secures two Arnold Laver sites, safeguarding over 100 jobs

Premier Forest Products, one of the UK’s leading timber companies, has acquired two Arnold Laver locations from the administrators of the National Timber Group England.

Administrators close more NTG sites but nearing sale of other locations

Further site closures and redundancies have taken place at the National Timber Group (NTG), which is currently in administration.

Taylor Maxwell Timber celebrates 20 years of FSC certification

Leading timber products importer and distributor Taylor Maxwell Timber is celebrating 20 years of FSC certification.

James Latham reports solid figures despite uncertain economic background

Revenues at leading UK timber products distributor James Latham grew 5.5% to £196.8m for the six months ended September 30, 2025, compared to the same period last year.