I’d like to send hearty Season’s Greetings to all after this very unusual year. It’s not been easy for anyone, but despite the difficulties, our customers have clearly been busy this year and we have been flat out to keep up. Our range of timber products was more successful than ever, as the trend for home improvements, and support for sustainable construction, has grown from strength to strength.

Because 90% of the timber that we sell is homegrown, and we have substantial stocks of logs and seasoned timber, we fortunately did not suffer from the stock shortages caused by Covid and for the most part we were able to maintain lead times.

Whatever happens with Brexit, I’m sure that having stock on the ground will surely be important in 2021.

I’m always aware that it is our customers that make our business and we have worked to improve our customer service throughout the year. Our website is undergoing an overhaul so that more help and advice is easily available. We installed a new telephone system that links our two sites and we’ve added to our sales support team, all to make sure that our customers get the information they need as quickly as possible. Thanks to everyone who posted a review, we really appreciate the positive feedback.

Sharpening the Saw

On 1 December we took delivery of a brand new, state of the art, Primultini band mill carriage, which was like Christmas coming early. Come next year we’ll be cutting faster and better than ever before with this fine machine.

Wood for the Trees

On 12 December I spoke to the All Party Parliamentary Group on Forestry and Tree Planting. I told the group that political discussions about tree planting that don’t mention forest management and timber production drive me “a little bit potty.” Visit the Vastern Timber blog for the full story.  

And if you run out of Christmas telly, take a look at ‘Wood For The Trees’, a series of short films I’ve made this year, looking into what the future may be for British woods and woodlands. Our latest film is the sixth in the series and features the inspirational Hillyfield Woodland farm. 

We have really exciting plans for next year, and I hope to share more good news in 2021. If you’d like to know more about our product range, our history, or our plans for the future, visit our website at Vastern.co.uk

Season’s greetings and Happy new year!