With over 180 years' trading experience, the Howarth Timber Group has grown to provide not only the widest range of products, but expertise, service, and knowledge you can rely on. Now the UK's largest privately-owned timber company, our origins can be traced back to 1840 when we commenced trading as Hudson & Co. Over the years the Howarth Timber Group has expanded from a one-man company to an employer of more than 1,000 people specialists who know the industry inside out. We take great pride in our teams of local experts serving our local communities.
Much more than just timber
Howarth Timber & Building Supplies encompasses a network of 33 timber and builders' merchant branches geographically spread across the country, complemented by dedicated manufacturing divisions supplying highly specialist timber engineering products and services.
The group has achieved Chain of Custody certification covering all divisions, proving compliance with government specifications for timber sourced from legal and well-managed sources. The accreditation also confirms that the company meets the requirements of the construction industry's independent third-party audit organisations. We work consistently to reduce the impact our activities have on current and future generations.
With a continued clear focus and drive, Howarth is proud of its place at the very forefront of its industry
Leading supply partners
Howarth Timber & Building Supplies is proud to be associated with many of the top manufacturers of construction and home products in the UK. We work with the best suppliers in the industry, in order to supply excellent quality products to our customers and deliver an excellent service.
Our history
When John Howarth embraced the opportunity to work for his uncle’s small but thriving timber business in Leeds in the latter half of the nineteenth century, the idea that today, the firm he joined would not only bear his name but still be owned, managed, and controlled by his descendants may have never crossed his mind.
Under the imaginative and ambitious direction of successive generations of the wider Howarth family, the group has developed into the clear industry leader that it is today – a business with character, strength and values, and a company that enjoys the loyalty of those it proudly employs.
Such qualities are reflected in the service we offer our customers today – those on the front line and those who work behind the scenes share a passion for putting the customer first, imparting detailed knowledge, and supplying products and services that are recognised throughout the industry as class leaders.
A determination to be the best has been the hallmark of the Howarth Timber Group since its formation more than 180 years ago. This determination combined with continuous investment in its people and its branches is what drives the company forward.