Perthshire-based RTS Forestry purchased by Scottish Woodlands

SWL Ltd, the parent company of Scottish Woodlands, has acquired RTS Forestry - creating the UK’s largest forest management, consultancy and timber harvesting business.

The combined business will have more than 300 employees and operate across all of Scotland as well as in the north of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

Said to provide "long-term stability for RTS", the purchase will see its existing name continue to be used, while its senior management team will also remain in position. 

WANT MORE LIKE THIS? 

• Forest management, timber harvesting and woodfuel: RTS Forestry at 40
•  
• RTS Forestry's Dougie Elgar on the future of commercial industry
• Dick Brothers rebranded as Tilhill Harvesting following asset transfer

Ian Robinson, managing director of Scottish Woodlands, said: “We are delighted to welcome RTS into the SWL Group and look forward to supporting the continued development of the business. RTS brings to the Group a respected and highly skilled team of staff who have grown the company significantly in recent years.

“We are pleased that the existing senior management team are remaining within RTS to continue to develop the business. With the support and expertise of our own team within Scottish Woodlands and the SWL group, an exciting future can be expected for RTS staff and their forestry clients.”

The deal marks a significant change for RTS. Founded in 1984 by Alan and Heather Robbins, the company was originally known as Robbins Timber Services, and has grown substantially in the decades since, now employing more than 50 people across four offices. 

Announced on Thursday, the buyout comes hot on the heels of harvesting specialist Dick Brothers changing its name to Tilhill Harvesting after its assets were transferred to Tilhill Forestry. 

Norman O’Neill, managing director of RTS Forestry, said: “When we took the decision to investigate a sale process, the requirement to secure a stable future for RTS staff and our clients was the primary objective. Scottish Woodlands was by some distance our preferred choice and we are delighted to see the sale conclude in a straightforward manner.

RTS Forestry celebrated its 40th year in business in 2024 (Image: Supplied)

“The sale provides long-term stability for the RTS team and an opportunity to develop their careers within a larger group.

"We are delighted to continue to move the RTS business forward with Scottish Woodlands, an employee-owned business of remarkable financial strength, and highly regarded within the industry. The senior management team within RTS look forward to continuing our stewardship of RTS within the expanded group.”