Euroforest Limited was founded in 1991 through a management buyout from Economic Forestry Group plc. The buyout was led by key personnel and investors, with Ahlmark AB of Karlstad, Sweden, serving as the principal investor. However, Euroforest’s roots trace back much further, with a direct lineage to Forest Thinnings Limited, established in the 1950s, and later evolving into EFG plc during the 1980s.
As government legislation in 1988 brought large-scale tree planting to a close, the forestry industry began shifting its focus towards harvesting the forests planted after the World Wars. This transition created a growing demand for forestry services, positioning Euroforest as a key player in the timber harvesting and marketing sector.
Led by an experienced team including Tony Willis, Roger Cantle, and Keith Leech, Euroforest expanded rapidly across the UK in the 1990s, building its reputation through private forestry services and long-term state contracts. By 2010, annual sales exceeded 1 million tonnes of timber, doubling to over 2 million tonnes by 2017. Today, Euroforest continues to handle around 2 million tonnes each year, with its founding mission — delivering exceptional service to forest owners of all sizes still at its core.
Recognising the need to diversify and expand its service offerings, Euroforest undertook a series of strategic acquisitions and partnerships. In 2012, David Symons was appointed Managing Director, ushering in a new phase of growth and diversification for the company. This period saw Euroforest evolve from a traditional timber harvesting business into a multi-faceted forestry services provider.
Euroforest is committed to sustainability, supporting responsible forest management that promotes biodiversity, carbon capture, and replanting after harvest. Working with regulators and holding FSC and PEFC certifications, we uphold the highest industry standards. We also embrace innovation, using tools such as remote sensing, GIS mapping, and digital logistics to optimise operations and minimise environmental impact.
Euroforest works with private landowners, government agencies, and corporate forestry groups, combining industry expertise with a nationwide network. As a market leader, we deliver advantages in timber marketing, harvesting efficiency, and sustainable land management. Through strategic growth, strong financial backing, and a focus on long-term relationships, we maximise value for timber producers while maintaining the highest service standards.
In February 2025, Euroforest moved to a brand-new headquarters located at Carlisle Airport. The new office incorporates a modern, innovative working environment designed to encourage and facilitate collaborative working for staff. This relocation marks another significant step in the company’s evolution, reinforcing its commitment to providing the best possible infrastructure for its team and clients.
Today, Euroforest stands as a leading provider of forestry services, offering a comprehensive range of solutions for forest owners across the UK and Ireland. The company aggregates and supplies substantial volumes of timber to the UK’s wood processing industry, ensuring the highest value for clients in both financial returns and service quality.
With a proud history and a vision for the future, Euroforest is committed to shaping the next chapter of sustainable forestry, ensuring that the forests of today continue to provide value for generations to come.
