BSW is celebrating a standout evening at the Scottish Timber Trade Association (STTA) Awards Dinner 2026, securing two prestigious accolades that recognise both its commitment to community impact and the strength of its people.
The business was awarded the Community and Social Value Award in recognition of its ongoing partnerships with Social Bite and Forests With Impact, alongside a Rising Star Award for Area Sales Manager, Steven Cairns.
The Community and Social Value Award reflects BSW’s continued investment in initiatives that deliver tangible benefits for both people and the environment.
Through its partnership with Social Bite, BSW Group has supported the development of innovative village projects in Edinburgh and South Lanarkshire by supplying sustainably sourced C16 construction timber and cladding. These modular, timber-built homes provide safe, supported accommodation for individuals affected by homelessness, helping residents transition towards independent living.
In parallel, BSW Group’s role as a National Partner of Forests With Impact highlights its commitment to long-term environmental and social progress. The programme establishes commercial tree nurseries within prisons, equipping individuals with practical skills in horticulture, nursery management and environmental conservation.
Working closely with BSW Group members including Maelor Forest Nurseries, BSW Group has helped support the development of facilities such as the first polytunnel at HMP Haverigg. The initiative contributes to the UK’s tree planting and biodiversity targets, while reinvesting surplus income into training and community resources, creating a powerful model for rehabilitation, skills development and ecological restoration.
Together, these partnerships demonstrate how timber can play a central role in addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges, from housing and employment to climate and nature recovery.
The evening also saw recognition for individual excellence, with Steven Cairns named Rising Star of the Year.
In a relatively short period, Steven has progressed into a key commercial role within BSW Timber, managing customer relationships across Scotland. His proactive approach, strong technical understanding and commitment to continuous development have enabled him to build trusted partnerships across the supply chain, from merchant teams to major national contractors.
Steven’s work also extends beyond day-to-day commercial activity. His involvement in projects such as the MAKAR affordable home prototype reflects a wider commitment to promoting the value of UK-grown timber in sustainable construction, helping to demonstrate how locally sourced materials can support low-carbon building solutions.
Commenting on the award, Steven said:
“It was a fantastic evening at the STTA Awards Dinner and a real honour to be recognised alongside so many respected businesses from across the timber sector.
I’m incredibly proud to be part of BSW Timber, particularly seeing the business recognised for its work in supporting communities through initiatives like Social Bite and Forests With Impact.
To receive the Rising Star Award was a genuine surprise, and I’m grateful for the support of colleagues and customers across Scotland who have played a big part in my journey so far.”
The STTA Awards bring together members from across the timber supply chain, from primary processing through to timber frame construction, providing an important platform to celebrate innovation, collaboration and progress within the sector.
BSW’s dual success reflects both the strength of its ESG commitments and the calibre of its people, reinforcing its position as a leading force in the UK timber industry.
