Supported by further investment from Cairngorm Capital Partners LLP, the two businesses said the transaction is the next step in the strategy to consolidate the UK value added timber distribution sector.

Established in 1979, North Yorkshire Timber is one of the largest independent timber merchants in North Yorkshire and the North East of England. In addition to offering an extensive range of timber, sheet and joinery products, NYTimber has a specialist roof solutions division which designs and fabricates roof trusses, spandrel panels, insulated roof cassettes and the NYTROOF Rapid Fit System.

Head quartered in Northallerton, it has a dedicated 120,000ft2 design, manufacturing and distribution centre in Brompton-on-Swale and is supported by seven branch outlets.

In 2017, NYTimber had revenues of over £18 million and employed over 200 staff.

Following the merger, the enlarged group now has an established distribution network across Scotland and the North of England, served by a central manufacturing hub in each region, providing the platform for further growth.

NYTimber’s senior management team will continue to lead the NYTimber business and Nick Kershaw, NYTimber managing director, will join the group Board. David Cook, the founder of NYTimber, is exiting the business and expressed his delight that NYTimber can look to realise its full potential through new investment in an enlarged timber group.

Thornbridge and NYTimber will continue to be headquartered in Grangemouth and Northallerton respectively and both businesses will continue to trade under their existing brands. The enlarged group will have 15 branches across the UK, generating revenues of over £50 million and employing over 360 people.

Bruce Muirhead, managing director of Thornbridge, said: “We are delighted to see such a well-respected company with significant market presence joining the group, bringing together the leading timber merchants in Scotland and the North East of England. There is a clear fit between the two businesses and the combination creates exciting opportunities.

“We have much in common in terms of our heritage and commitment to outstanding product quality and customer service. Our product ranges are highly complementary. Together, we will be well equipped to pursue new opportunities for innovation and growth, to the benefit of our customers and employees.”

Nick Kershaw, managing director of NYTimber, added: “We welcome the investment from Cairngorm Capital – this deal will support the growth ambition of NYTimber’s management team. Combining with Thornbridge is the perfect partnership for two businesses which share a commitment to innovation and the highest standards of customer service. There are great opportunities across the sector and the alignment of our goals, values and vision, offers significant strategic benefits for both organisations.”

BDO (financial and tax), Addleshaw Goddard (legal), CIL (commercial), JLT (insurance) and Clive Owen LLP (financial advisory) advised Thornbridge and Cairngorm Capital on the deal.