Blackfinch Acquires Productive Scottish Forest to Boost UK Timber Market

Deal News | Dec 12, 2024 | Blackfinch

Blackfinch Acquires Productive Scottish Forest to Boost UK Timber Market

Blackfinch Group, a UK-based investment specialist, has made a strategic acquisition of a 174-hectare commercial forest located in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. This move marks Blackfinch's first entry into commercial forestry, achieved through its subsidiary, Litchfield Trading Limited. The acquisition was financed by retail investors via the Blackfinch Adapt IHT Service, highlighting the firm's emphasis on sustainable, long-term investments. The newly acquired forest, consisting primarily of Sitka spruce, contributes to the UK forestry industry and the demand for timber in the construction and packaging sectors. Given that 80% of the UK's timber is currently imported despite a growing need for renewable materials driven by decarbonization goals, this acquisition is timely. It supports both the domestic supply chain and employment in the Scottish forestry sector, which contributes £1.1 billion annually and sustains 34,000 jobs. This initiative fits with Blackfinch's commitment to providing long-term benefits for its investors and strengthening key local industries. The acquisition was facilitated with expertise from Bidwells and legal support from Turcan Connell.

Sectors

  • Forestry
  • Construction
  • Packaging
  • Investment Management

Geography

  • United Kingdom – The investment by Blackfinch Group supports the UK timber market and aligns with domestic economic priorities.
  • Scotland – The acquired forest is located in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, emphasizing the regional focus of the acquisition.

Industry

  • Forestry – The acquisition of a commercial forest indicates the article's focus on the forestry sector, which plays a critical role in the UK economy.
  • Construction – Timber from the forest will support the construction industry, which is a significant emitter of greenhouse gases and is seeking sustainable materials.
  • Packaging – Timber is increasingly being used as a sustainable alternative to plastics in the packaging industry, emphasizing its relevance.
  • Investment Management – Blackfinch Group, an investment management company, is making the acquisition, highlighting the financial and investment aspect of the article.

Financials

  • 174 hectares – The size of the commercial forest acquired by Blackfinch Group in Scotland.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
Blackfinch GroupBuyerCompanyA UK-based investment specialist acquiring its first commercial forest in Scotland.
Litchfield Trading LimitedSubsidiaryCompanyA subsidiary of Blackfinch Group involved in the acquisition.
BidwellsProperty ConsultancyCompanyAdvised on the purchase of the commercial forest.
Turcan ConnellLegal AdvisorCompanyProvided legal support for the acquisition.
Kerry HughesInvestment DirectorPersonInvestment Director for Energy and Forestry at Blackfinch, commenting on the acquisition.
Sam BoothAssociatePersonAssociate in the Forestry team at Bidwells, involved in the acquisition.