Fortis Merchants has announced that Lawsons has joined the independent mixed merchant buying group as of 1 September, 2014.

The addition of Lawsons to the Fortis group will increase the membership to 40 with a combined turnover in excess of £1bn.

Fortis chairman John Parker said: “We would like to welcome Lawsons to the group, who have the same strategic approach to the market and want to work with us to offer suppliers the first credible alternative to the nationals.”

Lawsons, established in 1921 as a supplier of timber and fencing, now trades via its three brands of Lawsons (Whetstone), Crowthorne Fencing and Sharvatt Woolwich. It has over 300 employees and supply’s timber and building materials from 17 branches throughout London and the South East.

Tony Munkley, managing director at Lawsons, said: “Following open dialogue with the Fortis team and careful consideration, the decision to become a member of a dynamic buying group was a logical one. We are looking forward to becoming an active contributor to Fortis and developing strong relationships with our fellow members and suppliers.”