Table 7.4 shows the number of primary wood processors, according to the sampling frames used for Forestry Commission surveys of establishments using UK timber.

The figures in Table 7.4 do not correspond with the VAT and PAYE registration information given in Table 7.5.  The figures here count establishments (sites) rather than businesses and include those that do not need to register for VAT or PAYE.  They also have a different basis for classification, so some businesses that are excluded from Table 7.5 because of their VAT/PAYE classification are included in this table (typically businesses where primary wood processing is a small part of their total activity), and some businesses included in Table 7.5 are excluded here (usually because they do not use UK-grown timber).

The number of establishments in the primary wood processing industries using UK-grown roundwood has reduced from 274 in 2008 to 222 in 2017, a 19% decrease.

Table 7.4 Number of establishments in the primary wood processing industries using UK-grown roundwood

^{Source: industry surveys, industry associations}

^Notes:

^{1. A single mill may be recorded twice, as a sawmill and a round fencing manufacturer.}

Additional resources

Sources chapter: Employment and businesses