The restructuring of the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) was outlined to members of the North East Timber Trade Association (NETTA) in Hull by TTF president John Tong last week.
Speaking to around 270 members and guests, he said 2005 would see the further strengthening and rationalisation within the TTF to ensure it can meet future challenges within a sound, long-term financial structure.
Mr Tong said the departure of some large memberships over recent months had emphasised the need to maintain strict control over the TTF’s finances and a proactive attitude to members’ demands.
A key stage of this development, he said, had been the appointment of John White as chief executive. His key goals are to increase membership and deliver alternative funding streams.
A further part of the restructuring, he said, had been the “regrettable” departure of Mark O’Brien and Caroline Ready from the organisation while, finally, he said, the TTF would move from Clareville House by the end of December. Alternative premises are currently being sought.
Talking about environmental matters, Mr Tong said the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification scheme had adopted changes which should see it declared legal and sustainable by CPET in November.
Finally, Mr Tong urged members to sign up to the Responsible Purchasing Policy, which the TTF will make mandatory at its 2006 AGM.
NETTA chairman Ian Robinson said a campaign is under way to put the association on the map. The NETTA website is up and running and a membership list is being distributed to users and specifiers of wood and wooden products. A promotional flyer will soon be available and further open days will be held.
Mr Robinson urged the trade to support the wood. for good campaign and said: “I was devastated when the proposed promotional [premium] campaign was dropped when some of the leading timber companies reneged on their promised to support it.”
