One of Ireland’s timber business industry leaders, Glennon Brothers has officially opened a new £18 million (€21 million) timber frame construction facility located in Irvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland. Glennon Brothers was recently joined by Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney MSP to open the new manufacturing plant.
The new facility is the UK’s most technologically advanced timber frame construction facility. The plant is operated by Alexander Timber Design (ATD), a company owned and run by Glennon Brothers. The opening marks a significant leap forward in sustainable building practices and green manufacturing in the UK and Ireland.
Commenting on the launch, First Minister John Swinney said: “Today’s opening is a symbol of the kind of future Scotland is building with high-skilled, high-tech and environmentally responsible next generation industries. This facility brings together sustainable construction, advanced manufacturing and regional economic development, placing Scotland firmly at the forefront of the green industrial revolution”.
He went onto say that “It is an excellent example of the kind of economic opportunities that can exist to help both grow our country’s economy whilst tackling the climate emergency. Quite simply, it is creating Scottish homes from Scottish timber.” Mike Glennon, Joint Managing Director of Glennon Brothers said, “This is a very proud day for our company. We’ve always believed in the potential of Scottish timber and in the skilled people who make this industry thrive. With this facility, we’re investing in advanced technology, and in Scotland’s sustainable future. We are honoured to have First Minister John Swinney MSP here today to share this very positive story about forestry, timber, and the outstanding economic and environmental benefits from which Scotland can prosper.”
Pat Glennon, Joint Managing Director of Glennon Brothers said, “Today’s launch provides a real-world example for governments, developers, and consumers looking for greener alternatives. This facility offers a tangible example of how the timber industry can lead the transition to a low-carbon economy. With this facility, we’re not just investing in cutting-edge technology, we’re backing a greener, more sustainable future for Scotland. What you see here today is proof that the timber industry can lead the way in the transition to a low-carbon economy. It’s a real-world answer to the call for energy efficient, affordable homes”.
The opening of the Irvine facility is part of a wider commitment from Glennon Brothers, a third generation Longford family business, deeply rooted in the Irish timber sector and with longstanding successful operations in Scotland and Northern Ireland reflecting decades of expertise and investment.
Glennon Brothers now employs over 340 people directly across their four operations in Scotland, with another 170 indirectly employed in harvesting and haulage. Alexander’s Timber Design Irvine facility sets a new European benchmark for innovation, environmental responsibility, and industrial integration.
