Taking stock

The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has published an action plan that spells out its priorities for 2017/18 and reviews the key achievements of the past 12 months.

The plan sets out how BWF is helping the sector grow the market for wood products, develop a well-equipped workforce, and influence change in the new political environment.

Launched at the BWF’s AGM in June, Action Plan 2017/18 illustrates how BWF will help all sizes of joinery business embrace digitalisation and meet demanding customer briefs.

The organisation said it is working hard to help members meet the challenges of the new skills landscape and manage all accidents out of their businesses through the ‘Health and Safety Hero Campaign’.

Other priorities for the year ahead include driving new business to members and championing high standards for UK joinery through the BWF’s Code of Conduct and schemes including: the Wood Window Alliance, BWF Certifire Fire Door & Doorset Scheme and the BWF Stair Scheme.

Sean Parnaby, BWF president and managing director of West Port Timber Windows and Doors said: “We have seen a huge amount of change since the last plan was published, and I am delighted to see that many of the ambitious tasks set out there have been accomplished.

“There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic. We are seeing new competition emerging, reshaping the industry and driving us onwards. As the number one information point on woodworking matters, the BWF has never been more successful in providing clear guidance to members, designers, specifiers and increasingly to the general public, through initiatives such as Fire Door Safety Week, and BWF Stair Scheme manager Hannah Mansell’s recent appearance on the BBC’s Jeremy Vine show.

“The UK joinery industry has a stronger voice now than ever before, and BWF will be redoubling its efforts with the wider supply chain through the Confederation of Timber Industries to fight for the economy we need for our businesses to prosper.”