One of Tasmania’s Largest Timber Retailers is on the Market.

by Vanessa Lovie 19th of February, 2024

One of Tasmania’s Largest Timber Retailers is on the Market

In the heart of Tasmania, a unique opportunity awaits those who dream of owning a piece of the islands speciality retail market. The Wood Guys, one of the state's largest retailers of premium Tasmanian timber, is now on the market for the first time since its establishment in 2005.

The Wood Guys is not just a business; it's a custodian of Tasmania's finest timbers. "Specialty timber is a valuable and finite resource. We currently have a huge stockpile of Tasmanian specialty timber, all sawn and air-dried, ready for use, which is now irreplaceable, given the recent changes in the industry." Holly Smillie, current owner.

This stockpile not only secures a sustainable supply for years to come but also presents an enticing investment opportunity amidst the soaring prices of specialty timber.

The Wood Guys currently operates from two retail locations, with a prime showroom in Derwent Park and a smaller outlet in Devonport. The Wood Guys has established itself as a key player in the region.

What sets The Wood Guys apart is not just the quality of their products but the versatility of the business model. Ms Smillie explains, "The beauty of this business is you can do as much or as little as you like. It is the perfect husband/wife business, with one doing the milling/machining/workshop work, while the other does the showroom/marketing side of things, or you could employ a manager and workshop staff and sit back, reaping the rewards."

The business not only caters to the local market but has also garnered attention on the mainland, with increasing demand for expansion.

For prospective buyers, the allure lies not only in the exquisite range of Tasmanian specialty timbers like Huon Pine, Sassafras, Myrtle, Celery Top Pine, Blackwood, King Billy, and more but also in the beautiful handmade woodwork sourced from Tasmania's finest craftspeople.

The successes of The Wood Guys speak volumes about its craftsmanship and reputation. Ms Smillie proudly shares, "We have completed many notable commissions - new kitchen for the CEO of Estée Lauder, a custom table for Harvey Norman, timber for the Emirates Wolgan Valley resort (Australia’s only 6-star resort), a commission for the Arch Bishop of Australia, and many more."

However, health issues have prompted Ms Smillie and her partner to make the difficult decision to sell. She shares, "The only reason we are selling is due to serious health issues. The business is growing at a rapid rate, and our health is impacting our ability to progress."

In search of the right steward for The Wood Guys, Ms Smillie outlines the qualities she is looking for in a potential buyer: "Ideally someone with a passion for timber." She envisions a future where the business expands into franchises or sister shops throughout Tasmania and the mainland./p>

Looking back on their journey, Ms Smillie emphasizes "Dedication, resilience, and drive are what have kept us going over the last 20 years. Never give up, and you will be rewarded for your effort. So many businesses have come and gone over the years; you just need to work hard and keep your eyes on the prize."

For those captivated by the idea of owning a business rooted in craftsmanship, sustainability, and the allure of Tasmanian timber, The Wood Guys beckons. The opportunity is priced at $750,000 WIWO, and interested buyers can find more details and express their interest by contacting Ms Smillie at 0401328535.

Tags: business owner business for sale tasmania retail