BPI appoints Ashley Woodfine to support growing woodworking sector in the South

As BPI Auctions continues to build its presence across the UK, strengthening support in the South has become a key focus, as demonstrated by this recent personnel change.

Ashley Woodfine, BPI Business Development Manager for the South

The woodworking sector in this region is vibrant, diverse and growing, and BPI recognises the value of having dedicated expertise on the ground. 

By introducing an additional Business Development Manager, the company is reinforcing its commitment to being closer to customers, offering practical knowledge, industry insight and consistent support as BPI continues to expand.

Building strong relationships

BPI has appointed Ashley Woodfine to support its growing presence in the South. Ashley brings more than 20 years of industry experience, underpinned by strong technical expertise and a deep understanding of the woodworking sector as a whole.

“My role is focused on reinforcing BPI’s presence across the southern region,” he confirms. “That means building strong relationships with workshops, joinery manufacturers and cabinetmakers, ensuring we provide the technical understanding and industry insight our customers expect as the business grows.”

A wealth of industry experience 

Ashley began his career in the industry aged 18, studying Furniture Restoration (HND) at London Metropolitan University. “From a young age, I was fascinated by wooden furniture and originally intended to become an antiques auctioneer specialising in English and Japanese furniture. However, during my second year at university, I discovered I was going to be a father, and it was time to step firmly into a long-term career.”

Ashley went on to join Leitz Tooling UK Ltd as a Technical Application Engineer, beginning a 15-year career that shaped his understanding of the industry from the ground up. During that time, he worked alongside respected manufacturers including Mumford & Wood, Plain English, Egger, Sonae and Kronospan.

“Working on diverse projects across windows, kitchens and panel products gave me invaluable insight into both large-scale manufacturing and bespoke production environments,” he explains.“

Over the past 21 years, I’ve seen significant changes in our sector. Board materials have become more consistent and higher performing, while innovations such as Accoya and Tricoya have transformed industries like timber windows by offering durability that was once difficult to achieve. Laminated timber is now more widely trusted and specified and CNC machinery has become increasingly accessible to smaller workshops – something that continues to level the playing field.”

For many businesses, buying machinery at auction provides a cost-effective route into advanced manufacturing

That accessibility is also being driven by the strength of the machinery auction market. “For many businesses, particularly SMEs and growing workshops, buying machinery at auction provides a cost-effective route into advanced manufacturing. Quality second-hand CNC machines, edgebanders and panel saws can be secured at competitive prices, allowing businesses to increase capacity, improve accuracy and take on more complex work without the financial burden of buying new.”

“For the end user, this brings clear benefits. Lower capital investment improves cash flow, reduces risk and allows businesses to scale more confidently. Access to reliable, well-maintained equipment through a transparent auction process helps workshops modernise, remain competitive and respond quickly to customer demand. 

It also supports sustainability by extending the working life of high-quality machinery.”   Looking ahead, Ashley believes machinery and software will play an increasingly important role in addressing the industry’s skills shortage. “10 years ago, machine software was often slow and disconnected. Today, businesses can present drawings on site and send that same job directly to CNC machinery in the workshop. 

This integration between design and manufacture will only become more seamless over the next five years – and auctions will continue to play an important role in making that technology attainable for more businesses.”

“One aspect of the job I enjoy most is visiting workshops. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing raw material transformed into a window, a staircase, or a beautifully crafted cabinet. That process, and the people behind it, is what drives my passion for the sector.”

“As BPI strengthens its southern operations, my goal is to ensure we remain close to the industry, offering practical support and understanding alongside commercial expertise. Growth is important, but it must be backed by knowledge and strong relationships.”

Woodworking collective auction 

To support increasing interest from both buyers and sellers, BPI is also launching a Woodworking Collective auction, taking place every other Wednesday, starting on 4 March. This dedicated auction will provide a consistent platform for woodworking machinery and equipment, helping sellers reach an engaged audience while giving buyers regular opportunities to secure quality assets that directly enhance productivity and profitability.

“It’s an exciting time for woodworking and for BPI. I look forward to working with businesses across the South and supporting the next stage of the industry’s evolution,” Ashley concludes.

For more information on BPI, visit the website: www.bpiauctions.com.