Distributor Spotlight / Russwood, Scotland

Originally specialising in fencing and joinery timber, the family-run business has grown in scale and scope to supply a wide range of durable and sustainably produced cladding, decking and flooring systems.

The strong community roots of the business have persevered through these changes, with founder John Russell’s appreciation for timber having passed down to the current joint managing directors of the business, his children Naomi and Michael Russell.

“We believe in doing things the right way, whether that’s sourcing responsibly, investing in our people, or ensuring our products perform well and look beautiful for decades,” says Mike.

The company now has over 60 employees spread between its headquarters and production facilities in Newtonmore, which is in the Cairngorms National Park at the geographical centre of Scotland. They also have an office and product display in Glasgow, which allows their dedicated architectural support team to work more closely with architects and designers in the central belt of Scotland.

“This setup also allows us to work closely with customers across the UK,” says Mike. “Our customers range from award winning architects and designers to contractors and self-builders – essentially anyone looking to specify high quality, sustainable timber products for exterior and interior applications.”

Russwood’s range of products is carefully selected for performance, stability, and aesthetic appeal, with special attention and respect paid to the character and strengths of each species. By knowing the timbers through-and-through, the team offers expert guidance to help clients choose the right timber for their specific design, location, and technical requirements.

Sustainability is also key to the Russwood range and to the business’s core values. This means ensuring supply chains are Forest Stewardship Council ® (FSC®) certified, with only low emission coatings and energy efficient production methods chosen.

“We actively seek out suppliers and partners who share our values, like Abodo, whose thermally modified timbers are both renewable and non-toxic,” says Naomi.

Russwood celebrated 30 years in business in 2020, with both Naomi and Mike attributing their ongoing success to the solid foundations laid by their father. As they continue, this original vision is passed onto their loyal staff.

“Our team is our greatest asset. Many have been with us for years, and their specialist knowledge and passion for timber is what sets us apart” says Naomi.

As they look towards the next 30 years, Russwood sees a bright future for wood, which they hope to foster through a greater understanding of timber as not just a finishing material but also a viable structural solution.

“That shift will require a more joined-up approach within the timber industry and from government, particularly when it comes to regulation and long term thinking,” says Mike. “We fully support a timber first approach and are excited to be part of leading that conversation.”