Couple establish Chelmsford based timber supplies business

Operating from their Chelmsford base, the company will import and pre sell timber to UK customers. Amongst the countries that they will import from are the Baltic States, where Jim has particular knowledge and experience, having worked in this market for a number of timber companies over his career. Jim will oversee the operational and sales side of the business, whilst Samantha will work as the company's financial controller.

NatWest have backed the start up of the business providing the business with working capital facilities that will allow for the import of the timber into the UK.

Speaking about the new venture, Jim Roberts said: "I have worked in the timber business most of my professional career, so it is great to be now establishing my own business alongside my wife Samantha. During my career I have built up a strong network of timber companies and we see some good opportunities to build a new business that has strong potential. The funding and business advice from NatWest is much appreciated as it is helping us to realise our business ambitions.

Gary Webb, relationship manager, commercial banking at NatWest added: "Jim and Samantha have shown us a strong business plan which displayed real insight into the potential of the business, building upon Jim's experience. Our funding helps them to import the timber, whilst at the same time helping them to establish the operational side of the business."