Arnold Laver: 18 jobs safeguarded as Welsh firm swoops in to purchase Hull site
South Wales-based Premier Forest Products has announced that it has acquired the Hull operations of timber merchant and supplier, Arnold Laver, in a move Premier said would safeguard 18 jobs.
It comes after Premier recently purchased the Manchester and Reading sites of Arnold Laver, which were formerly part of National Timber Group UK. November saw National Timber Group UK enter administration, with reports of over 550 people being made redundant at the time.
Premier said in a statement that the purchase would “safeguard 18 jobs”, following the safeguarding of more than 36 jobs at the Manchester and Reading operations.
The company added that plans are underway to recruit for all three branches, with the number of staff likely to reach 150.
Commenting on the acquisition, 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”.
National Timber Group was the UK's largest independent timber distribution and processing group.
The company operated through a number of brands including Scotia Roofing, Rembrand and Orchard Timber Products, as well as Arnold Laver.
The company’s joint administrator, Michael Magnay from Alvarez & Marsal, said in November: "Regrettably, the company's liquidity challenges have led to a number of immediate redundancies. We appreciate the support and patience of the highly skilled workforce in difficult circumstances, particularly at this time of year.”