The British Woodworking Federation Group

Encouraging talks between the BWF and Timber Trade Federation (TTF)

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22/07/2014

Encouraging talks between the BWF and Timber Trade Federation (TTF) I was delighted to be re-elected President of the BWF and look forward very much to working with the BWF Council, Executive Board and staff team in supporting you.  One exciting development for the year ahead was confirmed at the AGM last week – BWF are in talks with TTF regarding a closer future relationship.  With John White vacating the role of CEO at the TTF, their President, Stephen King of SCA contacted me to examine any opportunities this may open up to work more closely together.

The aim would be to create a more influential lobby and to intensify focus on growing timber usage, streamlining operations and extending the service offering for the respective memberships.   We have had some initial, but very positive discussions.  From BWF side our Council discussed this in detail in a meeting last week and have expressed positive support.  We have now developed a Memorandum of  Understanding (MOU) that sets down some principles and next steps and you can download a copy of this below. TTF are going through a similar process.  

This is potentially a very exciting opportunity to raise the profile and understanding of the benefits that the timber supply chain provides the economy, environment and individual customer sectors; to drive research and projects to support the influence of policy and market development and improve supply chain interaction and collaboration to resolve common problems and grow markets.

The MOU proposes a joint management company led by a CEO, effectively heading the TTF and BWF, with separate managers for the woodworking and timber trades memberships.  There is a lot of detail to work through, but at this stage it is about consulting with the respective memberships.  An important point to emphasise is that this would be collaboration between two strong organisations working together to enhance what we do.  Both BWF and TTF are well established organisations in good financial shape who are growing and developing well.  From BWF side, we are one of the fastest growing trade bodies in the UK with our membership numbers at a record high.  This achievement was recognised this month in the Trade Association Forum Awards, where we picked up the prestigious award for Membership Success.   

Members can view a copy of the draft MOU on this page (once you are logged in).  We ask that you do send in your comments over the next month and, if there is sufficient support, we hope to sign the document by the end of August.  Comments can be submitted below or in email to president@bwf.org.uk

 

Posted By
site_admin
Member of Construction Products Association
National Specialist Contractors Council
Passive Fire Protection Federation
CITB
The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products