Hardwood trade gathers for annual LHC event in London

Around 200 representatives from the UK and international hardwood industry converged on the City of London on January 23 for the annual London Hardwood Club (LHC) New Year Luncheon.

stephenpowney January 26, 2026

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Hardwood traders at this year’s LHC NY Luncheon at the HAC, London. Photo: TTJ

Around 200 representatives from the UK and international hardwood industry converged on the City of London on January 23 for the annual London Hardwood Club (LHC) New Year Luncheon.

Many of the biggest names in the sector attended the annual event at the HAC, including James Latham, Brooks Bros, Timber Connection, and Danzer, while large overseas hardwood exporters also came – such as Vandecasteele Houtimport, Rougier, Baillee Lumber, and Garbelottta SpA, as well as some manufacturing custbeech wood lumberomers.

LHC president James White welcomed members and guests, reminding that the club was approaching 100 years, reflecting how the trade had changed since the 1930s.

Mr White pointed to the success of multiple club meetings at The Globe in Moorgate over the course of 2025, covering products, market intelligence and trends. He also made an appeal for younger members of the trade to join the LHC committee.

The New Year luncheon was particularly memoDecking Woodrable this year for its entertainment by Steve Rawlings, which consisted of high drama, juggling and audience participation the like which has not been seen at timber industry events for many a year. Attendees were transfixed as a unique combination of comedy and highly unusual juggling feats took central stage.

A princely sum exceeding £2,500 was raised for charity in the raffle.