TTJ 150th
Anniversary: Jatham Latham Perspectives | 31
1873 – 2023
LATHAMS LOOKS TO THE FUTURE
James Latham is one of the oldest timber companies around. We asked it some questions on the future of the industry and about its own roots
TTJ: WHERE DOES LATHAMS THINK THE TIMBER SECTOR IS HEADED? James Latham: Harking right back to our roots in 1757, there will, of course, always be an eager audience for traditional timbers. Handcrafted furniture, carvings and mouldings and other applications mean demand will continue well into the future. However, as the global ecological balance worsens and new technologies are introduced, we see an increasing appetite for alternatives to the norm. Be it driven by technology, performance, availability or the environment, we’re looking at innovation to pave the way.
TTJ: WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT ISSUES TODAY? JL: Clearly the environment is a key driver. From deforestation to carbon footprint, recyclability and emerging materials, you can’t speak to a designer, architect or specifier without it being high on their list of priorities. The whole construction industry has shifted, from people designing multi-storey commercial buildings out of timber to avoid concrete and steel, right down to asking how they can recycle or return product samples, it’s all-encompassing.
Short term, of course the economy is also
likely to have a significant impact, from construction output to price fluctuation, it will all contribute to uncertainty.
TTJ: HOW ARE TIMBER PRODUCTS AND SERVICES CHANGING? JL: We are in a time where timber-based products can do things never dreamed of before. Science is coming to the fore with physics and chemistry combining to deliver revolutionary materials. Engineered timber is everywhere, from massive, structural glulam beams down to engineered WoodEx door linings, people have begun to embrace
the benefits of engineered wood. Modified wood has also taken the exterior timber market by storm, be it thermal, impregnation or acetylation. The ability to take a widely available but less durable timber, and turn it into something akin to a durable hardwood is no longer seen as dubious or suspicious, instead becoming widely accepted and even aspirational.
In panels, the Spanish company Honext
has taken cellulose fibre in the form of waste paper pulp and used an enzyme-based process to make a revolutionary board that has zero VOCs or added chemicals, is Cradle to Cradle silver certified, Euroclass B performance against fire, fully recycled and recyclable. It truly is a scientific landmark for our sector.
TTJ: WHAT STRENGTH DOES THE COMPANY DRAW FROM ITS LONG- ESTABLISHED FAMILY ROOTS AND BRAND? JL: Established 267 years ago, it’s safe to say our business has seen the world go through a myriad of changes. We think this is one of our key strengths, that we’ve ridden the crests and troughs, seen fads and fashions come and go and encountered almost every
type of customer known to man. Whilst those events may lead to some initial uncertainty, the confidence and stability provided by the Latham family, not just those who bear the surname, but also those employees who benefit from the family ethos means that we’re ready to take on whatever the next challenge may be.
Evolution not revolution is one of the main strengths of the Latham brand. The credibility and integrity borne out of longevity is certainly key, but the agility and pioneering spirit to always look for the next development or progression keeps us fresh and relevant. Our employees respond to it, as do our suppliers and, most importantly, our customers.
TTJ: CAN YOU COMMENT ON THE TTJ’S 150 YEARS AND LATHAMS’ 267 YEARS SHARED HISTORY? JL: Many of the brand strengths we value are also true of the TTJ. This landmark 150-year anniversary exemplifies the credibility and integrity borne out of longevity we mentioned earlier. Our businesses are synonymous in the timber industry. Long may our relationship continue. ■
Above left: An old James Latham lorry Above right: A modern Lathams warehouse
www.ttjonline.com | July/August 2021 | TTJ
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