Unique forestry firm celebrates 50 years with book on success story
ONE of Scotland’s leading forestry companies has marked its 50th year by publishing an anniversary book, planting a celebration woodland and announcing increased profits of 20 per cent.
The Wood and the Trees: A History of Scottish Woodlands Ltd and its People tells the story of the company, which is unique in the sector as it is 80 per cent owned by its employees, the company said.
The book recounts the of two management buy-outs, in 1986 and 2005 major changes to forestry’s tax position that led to a slump in tree planting.
Ralland Browne, managing director of Scottish Woodlands, said: “There have been ups and downs, but the company and the wider forestry and wood-processing industry are in good health in 2017 – and we are optimistic, with a strong focus on driving up tree planting rates.”
Scottish Woodlands’ annual results showed turnover up almost £1 million to £70.358m, with profits rising from £1.315m to £1.575m.