National Timber Group is the UK’s largest independent timber distribution and processing group in the UK, headquartered in Sheffield. The Group was created through the acquisitions of brands including Thornbridge, NYTimber, Rembrand Timber and Arnold Laver. It employs 1,150 people across 47 sites in England and Scotland. The Group has been placed into administration following a difficult trading period and resultant liquidity challenges.
Unfortunately, there have been 561 immediate redundancies across sites and central functions, and the administrators are supporting these employees through the redundancy process.
Thirteen of the Group’s branches have been closed with immediate effect, with the remaining sites continuing to operate. Additionally, some of the Company’s production facilities have been mothballed.
The administrators have launched a sale process for the business and assets of National Timber Group and encourage any interested parties to contact them.
“National Timber Group is the UK’s leading timber supplier to joiners, housebuilders and contractors, operating under a number of widely recognised brands,” said Michael Magnay, joint administrator.
“As joint administrators, we have launched an accelerated sale process, and we encourage any interested parties to contact us as soon as possible. We are encouraged by the level of interest so far and we are hopeful of finding a buyer for all or parts of the group.”
“Regrettably, the Company’s liquidity challenges have led to a number of immediate redundancies. We are committed to supporting the affected employees through the redundancy process. We appreciate the support and patience of the highly skilled workforce in difficult circumstances, particularly at this time of year.”
Commenting earlier in the month, David Hopkins, Chief Executive of Timber Development UK said: “Market conditions are utterly brutal right now for all of our members, large and small alike. Our thoughts are with the staff and teams across the National Timber Group. There is a rich history and legacy within all of the brands which make up NTG and we hope that as much of this as possible can be saved.”
