Two supermarket giants are considering timber as a construction method for proposed new stores.

Asda and Tesco have approached Finnforest Merk to discuss whether it can design, supply and instal timber building methods for supermarkets.

Tesco is considering glulam from Finnforest for the structural and load-bearing elements of a new store in Wick, Scotland. Panel systems could be used to form the building envelope.

“We aim to consider all environmental aspects of new store builds. In 2006/07 we will be testing timber frames and hope to build a store from recycled and recyclable materials,” said a Tesco spokesperson.

Meanwhile, Asda has approached Finnforest in respect of two new stores it is planning – one at Shaw near Oldham and the other at Bootle in Merseyside. The Shaw store could be built of timber frame instead of steel frame, while panel systems are being considered for the Bootle site.

Asda said it is always looking at ways to operate more efficiently and sustainably. A spokesperson added: “Developments such as those outlined by Finnforest are always of interest.”

“These potential projects demonstrate the retail sector's concern over delivering sustainability,” said Warren Dudding, Finnforest UK marketing manager.

“Timber construction is an obvious choice for organisations planning an environmental and sustainable scheme. It can work with other areas of a building infrastructure and organisational operations to move closer to a state of carbon neutrality,” he said.

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