Listing criteria

Mill & Merchant is curated, not a scraper feed. Here's exactly what I look for when someone applies — and what I politely decline.

Who can list

Independent UK timber businesses: sawmills, timber merchants, and genuine specialists. You have a real presence here — not a shell company or a reseller fronting someone else's stock — and you're happy to talk to real buyers: makers, joiners, self-builders, small contractors.

What I look for

Honest stock: You actually buy and sell timber — boards, beams, sheet goods, speciality lines — not just fixings with a timber tab for SEO.
Independent spirit: Privately owned, with its own judgement and reputation — not a national chain outlet.
Respectful of enquiries:You intend to reply to directory messages in good faith — even when the buyer isn't placing a wagon order.
Accurate listings: Species, services, coverage, opening approach — presented plainly, without bait-and-switch.

What I don't list

National chains and large corporate builders' merchants — there are other places for that.
Businesses that don't meaningfully trade in timber.
Operations that won't engage with individual buyers at all (if that's your model, say it clearly elsewhere — this directory is built for accessible trade).
Spam, fake locations, or profiles that misrepresent what happens on the ground.

Verification

Every application gets read by a human (me, for now). I check that you match the criteria, that your website or references line up, and that the listing feels fair to buyers. Sometimes I ask a few follow-up questions — that's a good sign, not a brush-off. Verified badges are earned where I've been able to confirm the basics; they're not pay-to-win.

How to apply

Use the guided “List your business” flow — it asks for the details I need and keeps everything in one place. If you're not sure you fit, apply anyway and make your case. I'd rather read a thoughtful note than miss a brilliant small mill.

Start an application →Ask a question first