The company has just taken delivery of the first of several regular shipments of European whitewood which arrived on board the Stina. The Scandinavian ship, which can accommodate 2,500m3 of timber, contained a combination of regularised and treated carcassing timber which has been kiln-dried, graded to C16/C24 and planed, kite-marked batten and CLS framing timber.
Premier claims to be the only company in South Wales importing this type of product into Newport from Sweden.
It said the shipment has already attracted interest from the building trade and that sales for one-third of the consignment were confirmed before the vessel left Sweden.
Much of the shipping to and from Newport Docks has ceased in recent years, but Premier believes it is important to keep using local opportunities where possible.
“This is an exciting initiative for us and for Newport,” said Paul Ford, the company’s softwoods director.
“Shipping via Newport Docks is a great way for us to import large quantities of quality timber to our front door, helping us to efficiently supply the South West and Wales.
“This is a great way for us to support the local economy and ensure that we can bolster our stocks while keeping our road mileage lower.”
Mr Ford will be travelling to Sweden shortly to organise the second cargo into Newport. “The sentiment of our customers and our sales team is that this type of cargo will continue to be in high demand for the foreseeable future,” he said.
