NEWSROUND Lawton Tubes invests to futureproof business


Lawton Tubes, a copper manufacturer and supplier, is investing £25 million in improvements across the business deep into 2026 to help futureproof the firm in the face of an ever-changing industry. The company is undertaking a major transformation programme in a bid to boost employment across all areas of the business, including handheld tablets for its logistics team and a new ticketing


system for managing internal and external issues and improve its existing warehousing solutions.


Building on these improvements, the company will be introducing a new enterprise resource planning system, an overhaul of its HR system, and appointments such as its new operations improvement manager, Danielle White. The improvements are set to be fully implemented in time for the opening of its new £20 million headquarters, which will strengthen the company’s operational base and create a


UK Timber prices fall as supply stabilizes


UK timber prices have fallen about 5% this quarter, the first decline in two years, thanks to improved supply from sawmills and Scandinavian imports. Homebuilders are cautiously optimistic that the easing in timber costs could reduce overall build expenses, though energy and labour costs remain high.


Omar Stoltzfus, timber-frame expert at Premier Timber Frame Builders says: “The recent drop in timber prices is welcome


news for the construction sector. Timber framing has always offered speed, efficiency, and sustainability benefits, and the improved cost stability makes it an even more attractive choice compared with steel or masonry. “For our clients, lower lumber costs can translate directly into savings, whether through reduced quotation prices or the ability to include upgraded materials or finishes within the same budget. At Premier Timber Frame Builders, we plan builds meticulously to


West Building Supplies extends branch network


West Building Supplies, headquartered in Bridlington, has appointed Filstorage to fit out the shops, warehouses and yards of its new sites in Hull and Scunthorpe.


The new depots extend West’s branch network further south in its East Yorkshire heartland, as well as into North Lincolnshire for the first time, bringing the merchant’s total branch network to six, including Scarborough, Beverley, Hull, Scunthorpe, and two branches in Bridlington. Howden-based Filstorage


previously worked with Wests to fully fit out its Scarborough


6


minimise waste, so any relief on material costs further enhances value and efficiency. “While timber is just one component of total construction spend, this dip in price helps improve predictability and affordability, especially for homeowners considering timber- frame projects. Combined with timber’s lower carbon footprint and rapid build times, stable prices strengthen the case for timber as a mainstream, sustainable building solution.”


branch and fitted the kitchen and bathroom showroom at its Bridlington depot, which included reconfiguring the existing pallet racking and supplying and fitting new shop display shelving. West Building Supplies managing director, Oliver West, said: “As a business, growth is always on our agenda and we’re always on the lookout for new opportunities. So, when we saw that the sites in Scunthorpe and Hull, were available, we knew they were a great fit. “We contacted Filstorage because we’ve worked closely with them before and knew they could turn the sites round quickly, enabling us to hit the ground running.”


modern environment for staff and visitors.


Construction is set to begin on the new HQ in 2026, subject to planning permission being granted and a main contractor being appointed.


Robert Lawton, a director at Lawton Tubes, said; “The scale of the investment demonstrates the family’s commitment to strengthening the business for the decades ahead, as well as laying stronger foundations for the company’s continuing diversification and growth.”


Murdock Group


acquires Donegal Town Hardware & DIY


The Murdock Group, owners of Murdock Builders Merchants and Brooks Timber & Building Supplies, has bought Donegal Town Hardware & DIY Ltd. Donegal Town Hardware & DIY


will retain its name, brand, and local leadership team, ensuring continuity for customers and staff.


The move brings the Group’s network to twenty-six branches across fourteen counties, supporting the Group’s national growth strategy. Ciaran Murdock of the


Murdock Group said: “Donegal Town Hardware is a respected and well-established local business built on strong customer service. Martin and Gerard have created a solid, trusted operation and we’re delighted to welcome their team into the Murdock Group. This partnership allows us to support the business with our wider Group capabilities while preserving the local identity and customer relationships that have made it so successful.”


www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net January 2026


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