This year marks a significant milestone for BSW Timber’s Fort William Sawmill, which is celebrating 50 years of successful operations. Officially opened by King Charles (formerly Prince Charles) in 1974, the sawmill has grown and evolved, becoming a cornerstone of the local economy and community.

A Legacy of Growth and Innovation

Originally owned by the Riddoch family of Rothiemay, the Fort William Sawmill changed hands in 1985 to Thomas Smith & Sons. In 1988, the sawmill became part of BSW Timber after the merger of Brownlie, Smith, and Western Softwoods, forming the company as it is known today, Brownlie (B) Smith (S) Western Softwoods (W).

Expansion and Modernisation

Over the years, the sawmill has consistently expanded its capabilities. In 2009, wood treatment tanks and kilns were installed, allowing for onsite timber treatment and drying. By 2011, groundwork began on a second sawmill across the road, K2, effectively doubling the mill’s capacity. The original location became known as K1, and the second became K2. BSW invested £40 million in K2, adding advanced equipment, including two biomass boilers, playfully named Ben and Nevis after the nearby mountain.

A Community Anchor

 After a five-year transition period moving operations from K1 to K2, in February 2013, K2 processed its first log, marking a new era for the sawmill. By then, the mill employed around 150 workers, with a processing capacity of 260,000 cubic meters of Timber per year.

Today, the Fort William Sawmill employs over 200 people and processes 500,000 cubic meters annually. It also supports the community with an estimated 600 additional jobs provided by local businesses that work with BSW Timber, now a member of the wider BSW Group. These roles cover various sectors such as logistics, forestry, engineering, and more.

Voices from the Mill

Business Development Manager, Andy Rogers highlights the unique community spirit fostered by the sawmill: “Having worked in Fort William before the sawmill, there’s a little bit of ‘can-do spirit’ here. I’ve worked in a lot of different places in the UK and Belgium. In some places you just clock in and clock out – once you’re clocked out of the mill, your job is forgotten. Here, because it’s so much more of an integral part of the town – you meet the guys in the supermarket, on the squash court or you go biking with them – you’re much more part of the community.”

Mill Manager, Oliver Stephen reflects on the milestone: “We are delighted to have reached this exciting milestone. With so much investment into this mill across a half century, a lot has changed over the years. But one thing that has never changed is the expertise, dedication, and love of timber that everyone on site shares. With over 200 employees, we have a footprint all over the community and we’re really proud to provide so many jobs to local people. Here’s to another 50 years for Fort William sawmill!”

The Fort William Sawmill’s 50-year journey is a testament to its resilience, innovation, and integral role in the community. As BSW Timber looks to the future, the sawmill remains a symbol of strength and a vital part of Fort William’s heritage and economy.