As BPI continues to build its presence across the UK, strengthening support in the South has become a key strategic focus.
The woodworking sector in this region is vibrant, diverse and growing. Recognising the value of dedicated expertise on the ground, BPI has introduced an additional Business Development Manager to reinforce its commitment to being closer to customers.
The appointment strengthens the organisation’s ability to provide practical knowledge, industry insight and consistent support as the business continues to expand.
BPI has appointed Ashley Woodfine to support its growing presence in the South. Ashley brings more than 20 years of industry experience, underpinned by strong technical expertise and a thorough understanding of the woodworking sector.
“My role is focused on reinforcing BPI’s presence across the southern region,” says Ashley. “Building strong relationships with workshops, joinery manufacturers and cabinet makers, and ensuring we provide the technical understanding and industry insight that customers expect as the business grows.
“I started in the industry at 18, studying Furniture Restoration HND at London Metropolitan University. From a young age I was fascinated by wooden furniture and originally intended to become an antiques auctioneer specialising in English and Japanese furniture. However, during my second year at university I discovered I was going to be a father, and it was time to step firmly into a long-term career.
“I joined Leitz Tooling UK Ltd as a Technical Application Engineer, beginning a 15-year career that shaped my understanding of the industry from the ground up. During that time, I worked alongside respected companies such as Mumford & Wood, Plain English, Egger, Sonae and Kronospan. Working on diverse projects across windows, kitchens and panel products gave me invaluable insight into both large-scale manufacturing and bespoke production environments.
“Over the past 21 years, I have seen significant changes in the sector. Board materials have become more consistent and higher performing, and innovations such as Accoya and Tricoya have transformed industries like timber windows by offering durability that was once difficult to achieve. Laminated timber is now more widely trusted and specified, and CNC machinery has become increasingly accessible to smaller workshops, something that is continuing to level the playing field.
“That accessibility is also being driven by the strength of the machinery auction market. For many businesses, particularly SMEs and growing workshops, buying machinery at auction provides a cost-effective route into advanced manufacturing. Quality second-hand CNC machines, edgebanders and panel saws can be secured at competitive prices, enabling businesses to increase capacity, improve accuracy and take on more complex work without the financial burden of buying new.
“For the end user, this has clear benefits. Lower capital investment means improved cash flow, reduced risk and the ability to scale more confidently. Access to reliable, well-maintained equipment through a transparent auction process gives workshops the opportunity to modernise, remain competitive and respond quickly to customer demand. It also supports sustainability by extending the working life of high-quality machinery.
“Looking ahead, machinery and software are expected to play an even greater role in addressing the industry’s skills shortage. Ten years ago, machine software was often slow and disconnected. Today, businesses can present drawings on site and send that same job directly to CNC machinery in the workshop. That integration between design and manufacture is set to become even more seamless over the next five years and auctions will continue to play an important part in making that technology attainable for more businesses.
“One of the parts of the job I enjoy most is visiting workshops. There is something incredibly rewarding about seeing raw material transformed into a window, a staircase, or a beautifully crafted cabinet. That process, and the people behind it, is what drives my passion for the sector.
“As BPI strengthens its southern operations, the goal is to remain close to the industry, offering practical support and understanding alongside commercial expertise. Growth remains important, but it is underpinned by knowledge and strong relationships.
“To support the increasing interest from both buyers and sellers, BPI is also launching a Woodworking Collective auction, taking place twice a month starting on 4th March. This dedicated auction will provide a consistent platform for woodworking machinery and equipment, helping sellers reach an engaged audience while giving buyers regular opportunities to secure quality assets that can directly enhance productivity and profitability.
“It is an exciting time for woodworking and for BPI. I look forward to working with businesses across the South and playing my part in supporting the next stage of the industry’s evolution.”
