The Hull site was one of 33 around the UK with its future hanging in the balance after its former owner fell into administration
An aerial view of the Hull business Arnold Laver(Image: Ian Bracegirdle)
Jobs have been saved at a Hull business after it was bought out of administration. The National Timber Group called in business advisors last month after a period of challenging trading placed a squeeze on its finances.
The group – made up of separate firms including Thornbridge, NYTimber, Rembrand Timber and Arnold Laver – had 47 sites employing more than 1,100 people. However, 13 were shut immediately after Alvarez & Marsal were appointed joint administrators of the five entities, putting 561 people out of work just weeks before Christmas.
As we previously reported, its Hull base, which trades under the Arnold Laver brand, remained open but 13 jobs were lost when administrators sought to cut costs when they were appointed. However, the remaining workforce has now been saved after administrators struck a deal with new owners to take on the site.
Premier Forest Products – which has its headquarters in Newport, Wales – has acquired the Arnold Laver Hull operation to strengthen its northern capability. Bosses said the Hull deal builds on Premier Forest’s recent purchases of Arnold Laver sites in Manchester and Reading, which were also formerly part of National Timber Group UK.
The purchase safeguards 18 jobs, following the safeguarding of more than 36 jobs at the Manchester and Reading operations. And there is also hope for former staff members as plans are now under way to recruit for all three branches, with the number of staff likely to reach 150.
Terry Edgell, co-founder and chief executive officer of Premier Forest said: “This latest acquisition is another important step in strengthening Premier Forest’s presence across the North and North East of England. The Hull operation significantly extends our geographic coverage and delivery capability, enabling us to better support customers across Yorkshire, the Humber and the wider North East with a broader range of timber products and faster, more resilient supply.
“Alongside our recent acquisitions of the Arnold Laver sites in Manchester and Reading, this reinforces Premier Forest’s long-term commitment to investing in high-quality operations that enhance our offer and service for customers across the UK.”
The Welsh company is one of the UK’s leading independent timber distribution and manufacturing groups, supplying customers nationwide across housebuilding, construction, manufacturing and modular sectors. It has also swooped for National Timber Systems, which was previously part of the group, saving 160 jobs.
The transaction saw Premier Forest acquire NTS operations in Bristol, Catterick and Newcastle, plus the assets of the Sheffield site, with the aim to bring it back to full production capacity to meet customer demand.
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