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return to more normal levels of spending. It’s uncertainty that’s been holding markets back – not demand. Customers are ready to invest again when confidence returns.” He said spending was already steady in hospitality and commercial projects, with residential markets showing renewed long- term strength.
Some customer sectors had stalled, though. Mr Rudd noted that prices per cubic metre were currently about 20% off where they should be, with a notable decline over H1 2025.
“Over the next 12 months I think you’ll see business return, grow and prices rebalance. What matters most is that we stay dependable for customers through that cycle.”
More consolidation, he added, was likely in the industry, though he doesn’t see any new major players entering the sector.
SOLID TIMBER AMBITIONS The acquisition of CP Timber, the hardwood trader founded by Chris Powell, in November last year was a key move for Hadleigh as it seeks to boost the solid timber side of its business into a leading position. “Timbmet lost its way for a number of years,” said Mr Rudd. “It was costing too much to operate efficiently, and we had to refocus it on customers, service and sustainability.”
Timbmet’s panels business had transferred to the Meyer/Panelco operation some years ago, and its turnover had reduced to about £20m, compared to over £50m in the past. Acquiring CP Timber added turnover of
approximately £25m, with the company’s trading department still based in Hertford under founder Chris Powell, and stock moved to Hadleigh’s Shellingford warehouse. It’s not just hardwood that is being expanded. Hadleigh sees strong potential for increased Accoya modified wood sales. It became a UK Accoya distributor in December 2024 – a partnership that Accoya’s developer, Accsys Technologies, said would accelerate the product’s growth in the UK. “Accoya represents the future of sustainable
timber,” said Mr Rudd. “Customers are asking for more durable, responsibly sourced materials, and we’re ready to deliver that at scale.”
He estimates that total UK Accoya sales (from all suppliers) are about 25,000 m3, with the other main distributors being James Latham and Arnold Laver. Mr Rudd sees Accoya as aligning perfectly with Hadleigh’s values and dedication to quality.
“Not being a listed company means we have more freedom in decision-making,” he explained. “That allows us to respond quickly to customer needs and focus on long-term value.”
“For me, the biggest shift is understanding where we sit in the value chain,” he continued. “A strong distribution network is key, and success depends on close, long-term relationships with suppliers and customers. This business is built on trust.” The Meyer name, of course, has a big history in the UK timber trade, and Hadleigh’s acquisition of the business heralded major changes.
“When Meyer was acquired, we had to
make some tough calls to make it stronger for the future,” said Mr Rudd. “Those changes were about sustainability, efficiency and serving customers better for the long term.” Now Meyer and Panelco are approximately the same size, with both reporting strong margins on MFC. Hadleigh is now Egger’s single largest customer for that product. As well as having high hopes for future growth and success, Mr Rudd has firm views on how the UK timber sector could change for the better.
“It’s the oldest industry in the world, but it can evolve,” he said. “We’ve got to modernise our approach and be proud of what we do. This industry has huge potential — we just need to unlock it and focus on customers, innovation and service.”
“What Hadleigh is doing is coming at the sector from a different dynamic. This is a wonderful industry, and we need to safeguard and nurture it so it’s valued properly. We can do things differently.”
Maintaining price margins, he added,
is key. Hadleigh’s distribution model and next-day service guarantee, he said, show the Group’s commitment to innovation and customer reliability. “We’re demonstrating that you can combine efficiency, quality and service — that’s what will shape the future of this industry.” Hadleigh’s recent board appointments have included Michael Dineen and Dave Siggins. “We’ve assembled a strong and diverse board of directors — probably the best in the industry,” said Mr Rudd. “Everyone brings a different skill set, but what unites us is the same belief: that our success depends on listening to customers and delivering real value.”
“With the team and infrastructure we’ve built, I’m confident we’ll reach our long- term growth goals. But more than that, our ambition is to be the supplier of choice across the UK timber sector — through service, quality and integrity.” ■
Right (from top to bottom): The Hadleigh leadership team: Chris Rudd, CEO, Board members Derek Barnett, Alex Gambroudes, Michael Dineen, Chris Powell, and Dave Siggins
www.ttjonline.com | November/December 2025 | TTJ
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