BSW Timber Timeless Timber Decking

Timber Decking Sales in Wales Set to Rise in Light of Smoking Ban


BSW Timber, the largest sawmilling business in the UK, is expected to be a major winner when the smoking ban comes into force in Wales next year.

The company, which owns sawmills in Newbridge-on-Wye, Powys and Senghenydd, Mid Glamorgan, is bracing itself for a significant increase in orders as pubs and cafes draw up plans to build timber-decked beer gardens for smokers.

There was a major increase in demand for outdoor facilities following the introduction of the smoking ban in Ireland in 2004 and Scotland earlier this year.

Hundreds of businesses in Wales are expected to apply for planning permission to construct beer gardens, canopies and smoking shelters. Hotels, restaurants and leisure clubs are also set to follow suit and press ahead with timber decking areas for customers who smoke.

BSW Timber, which distributes its Timeless Timber Decking brand across Wales, believes the smoking ban can only boost the popularity of the product.

Bryan Crennell, marketing manager at BSW, said: “We anticipate a significant increase in Timeless Timber Decking sales as a direct result of the upcoming smoking ban in Wales. BSW is the largest sawmilling business in the UK and this represents a major sales opportunity for us as a company.

“We are prepared for the increase in orders from our customers and believe the smoking ban offers terrific growth potential.”

The Timber Decking Association (TDA) predicts a UK-wide smoking ban could boost decking sales by 20 per cent over the next three years. A ban on smoking in public places is due to start in England next summer.

Steve Young, director of the Timber Decking Association, said: “If we look at what happened in Ireland and Scotland, we saw a massive increase in demand for outdoor rooms. Decking rose dramatically. We believe there will be a similar increase in Wales.”

November 23, 2006