A restructuring and business expansion programme at Taylor’s Timber Centre in Bradford has seen general manager Mark Pullan acquire a 25% shareholding in the business and take over as managing director.

He succeeds former MD Charles Taylor, a third generation timber merchant who has been at the helm of the Thornton Road business, first established in 1960, since 2012 and continues to retain the remaining 75% share.

He is now increasingly concentrating on his role as sales director of fast-expanding eco-friendly decking firm Composite Prime®. From a standing start four years ago, the company, based in Ilkley, is now one of the largest suppliers of composite decking products in the UK.

Mark Pullan, from Leeds, has a solid track record in the timber business. He initially spent a decade in various roles with Howarth Timber in Leeds, followed by 15 years as branch manager of Kirkstall Timber in Holbeck.

A £10,000 rebranding of the business includes the provision of new signage, new staff uniforms, launch of a new website, increased product ranges in both the showroom and yard, an enhanced drive-in trade collection facility - and a change of direction.

Mark Pullan explained: “Traditionally, we have been a drop-in centre for ‘white van men’ – small, independent builders and joiners, as well as the DIY market. Cash sales previously accounted for 80% of our turnover and while we will continue to cater for all these customers, we have turned the business round and now have 80% account customers, ranging from house builders and developers to shop fitters and joinery contractors.

“We have broadened the appeal of the business and are now dealing with larger professional concerns, not only across our core West Yorkshire heartlands, but much further afield, either through our suppliers or via direct deliveries, enabling us to offer everything from trussed rafters and engineered joists to full loads of timber or sheet materials.

“The whole ethos is to better equip Taylor’s Timber Centre as a 21st century operation and offer a modern, professional and knowledgeable experience.”

He added: “We are now gearing up for the 2019 outdoor season with a much larger portfolio of landscaping and garden products, including Composite Prime’s increasingly popular decking ranges.”

Charles Taylor commented: “Under Mark, Taylor’s Timber Centre remains in good hands. He has a great deal of experience in the trade and is well respected by staff, suppliers and customers alike. He has already increased sales significantly, particularly in the last 12 months. We will be working closely together to build on achievements to date and look to future growth.”