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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 290 in 2007 to 228 in 2016, a 21% decrease.

Year Sawmills Pulp & paper mills Wood-based panel mills Round fencing manufacturers Total1
2007 205 2 8 75 290
2008 197 2 8 67 274
2009 195 2 8 68 273
2010 189 2 7 65 263
2011 185 2 7 64 258
2012 181 2 7 61 251
2013 176 2 6 61 245
2014 174 2 6 57 239
2015 171 2 6 51 230
2016 169 2 6 51 228

Source: industry surveys, industry associations

Notes:

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

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