subject: The History Of Laver [print this page] Arnold Laver is a UK based timber and wood products manufacturer that can trace its history to the start of the twentieth century, having been started by its eponymous founder in 1920 after returning from the Great War. Instead of joining the family business, Arnold Laver informed his father he was going to use his life"s savings to become a timber merchant, before being met by the steely response of "Don"t come crawling back here when it"s gone."
Having found a site in Heeley, Sheffield, Arnold Laver began the process of transforming it into his first timber yard and shop, even fencing in the area himself. At the start of his new enterprise, Arnold had to ask customers to pay in advance so that he could first buy the wood to fulfil their order. Transport for the firm was rudimentary and being unable to afford a horse, all deliveries were made by hand cart. However, within a year, the firm were doing so well that they were able to invest in a horse to make the deliveries, along with a saw bench and planer to make the preparation of the wood easier.
After five years in operation, the company had outgrown their yard in Heeley and started to look for somewhere larger. After finding an appropriate spot in Bramwell Lane, Laver set about preparing for the new opening. The new Olympic Sawmills opened in 1927, and was to later become the company"s headquarters when the firm expanded further and logistical operations needed to move elsewhere.
Laver led the company by practical example and expected his workers to show the same grit and determination in making sure the company did well amidst the economic fallout of the Depression which had swept Europe and America. When asked what hours the company worked, Laver was fond of saying "24 hours a day, and don"t be late in the morning!"
Although the original Mr. Laver passed away in 1971, the family continues to have a large role in the running of the company which has since diversified into a large multinational, with operations throughout the UK and Europe. The company is currently run by the third generation of the family, with Alan Laver, grandson to the founder, as Chairman. The company now produces a wide range of timber products and supplies all sections of the building trade, along with the general public. Although a large firm, the company still holds to their founder"s philosophy of putting considerable emphasis on customer service and old-fashioned values of integrity and value for money.
