UK's Wood Window Alliance chairman pledges to push for industry consolidation after announcing merger with British Woodwoorking Federation, says timber industry has been too fragmented for too long, needs united, consistent support to drive growth

Wendy Lisney

LONDON , November 21, 2013 (press release) – At the BWF Annual Awards Dinner on Friday, the Wood Window Alliance and British Woodworking Federation announced that the two industry organizations are merging in a move intended to drive growth in the timber sector.

Iain McIlwee, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation commented, "We’ve supported the Wood Window Alliance from the start and the campaign has done a fabulous job of promoting timber windows – leading the way within the industry. But, as the campaign has evolved, the benefits of integrating the promotional side with the wider services offered by the BWF have become increasingly clear. Together, we can provide a seamless offer, project our messages further, and offer better value to our members."

WWA Chairman, Sean Parnaby, said "I’m delighted to have led the WWA into the BWF on my watch as Chairman. From a standing start some eight years ago, our influence and effectiveness have grown impressively. We’ve promoted timber windows based on demanding quality, performance and sustainability standards; we’ve undertaken ground-breaking research to support our marketing proposition; we’ve increased our value share of the market to around 25% – and our membership. The BWF has demonstrated similarly strong growth in the past couple of years and, frankly, is a transformed organization. Our combined strengths make for a formidable force focused on highlighting the exceptional value of timber windows, ensuring the sustainable credentials of timber and composite windows are properly recognized, and helping the sector to define and uphold high standards.”

As part of this merger, the BWF is taking on responsibility for auditing companies to meet the WWA Standard, enabling a wider pool of companies to take advantage of membership. These standards are based on design and performance principles, as well as sustainability, to ensure timber windows can meet exacting service life requirements and make a positive contribution to the low carbon economy.

Sean added. “I hope this move starts a bit of a domino effect in the timber sector. As part of this new structure, I have been co-opted onto the BWF Board. In this capacity, I intend to push for further consolidation. The timber industry has been too fragmented for too long. It needs united and consistent support to drive growth - the future is bright for timber products, but only if we are there with the tools to grab it."

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