Premier Forest Group has acquired National Timber Group’s Reading and Manchester sites

Cardiff – CFI is pleased to announce that it acted as exclusive financial advisor to Premier Forest on its acquisition of National Timber Group’s Reading and Manchester sites.

Premier Forest Group is on the UK’s largest timber business covering importation, processing, merchanting and wholesale distribution of timber in the UK.

National Timber Group is one of the largest independent timber distribution and processing groups in the UK. The group has 60 processing and branch/distribution sites across the UK providing nationwide coverage, and employs at least 1450 people.

The move secures 36 jobs at the two sites in Reading and Manchester, with plans to increase that number to over 100 as the branches are rebuilt and re-staffed, ensuring continuity for customers and suppliers.

The acquisition of these operations is a strategic investment by the 32-year-old business, strengthening Premier Forest’s presence in the two regions and supporting its long-term plans to build a sustainable UK-wide network.

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

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 to customers.

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. We are pleased that we 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.”

This transaction closed on 17 December 2025.

Real Estate & Construction

has acquired the Reading and Manchester sites of

Transaction details

Premier Forest Group, the UK's largest timber business, has acquired National Timber Group's Reading and Manchester sites, strengthening Premier Forest’s presence in the two regions