Premier Forest Products acquires two Arnold Laver sites, protecting jobs & expanding regional presence

Premier Forest Products, one of the UK’s leading timber companies, has acquired two Arnold Laver locations from the administrators of National Timber Group England.

The move secures 36 jobs across the two sites, with plans to increase that number to more than 100 as the branches are rebuilt and re-staffed, ensuring continuity for customers and suppliers.

Aerial view of the Reading branch

The acquisition of the Manchester and Reading operations represents a strategic investment by the 32-year-old business, strengthening Premier Forest’s presence in both regions and supporting its long-term ambition to build a sustainable UK-wide network.

Arnold Laver was an established brand within National Timber Group England, which filed for administration in November following ongoing financial pressures across the timber and construction markets.

Administrators have since been working to secure the future of viable parts of the business through the sale of selected sites and operations.

Terry Edgell, Co-Founder and CEO of Premier Forest Products, said: “Our priority throughout this process has been to provide stability for the affected teams and ensure customers continue to receive the service they rely on.

The newly acquired Manchester branch

“We're pleased to have been able to protect jobs and bring these two sites into the Premier Forest Group. This is a carefully considered decision that strengthens our ability to serve key regional markets. It supports the long-term growth plans for the wider business during challenging trading conditions for the industry as a whole.”

The Reading and Manchester sites will now trade under the Premier Forest brand, with an immediate focus on stabilising operations, supporting colleagues through the transition and re-establishing services for customers.

Terry Edgell added: “Premier Forest Products has remained independently owned for more than 30 years and our approach has always been to think long term. This move reflects our commitment to building a sustainable future for the business, our people and our customers.”

For further information on Premier Forest Products, see www.premierforest.co.uk.