Tilhill Harvesting, part of Tilhill Forestry and member of BSW Group, has completed a multi-million-pound investment to expand and modernise its harvesting operations, now operating the largest and most advanced harvesting fleet in the UK, alongside enhanced steep-ground expertise following the acquisition of Duffy Skylining Ltd.
The business now runs 35 harvesters and 33 forwarders, including the latest John Deere 1270G and H models, a wide range of Tigercat tracked harvesters, and forwarders from Ponsse, Komatsu, and John Deere. Machines are selected to suit terrain and timber type, with most units tracked for rugged, rougher sites.
As part of Tilhill’s commitment to performance, reliability and sustainability, all machines operate on a rolling five-year renewal programme, ensuring the fleet remains up to date with the latest technology, lowest emissions, and best-in-class operator comfort and safety.
“We’ve built a fleet capable of delivering safely and efficiently across any terrain – from exposed Highland slopes to productive lowland clearfells,” said Graeme Kemp, Harvesting Director. “We match equipment to site, so we can scale output without compromising on safety or sustainability.”
The latest John Deere 1270H harvesters show signs of improved productivity in the field, with better operator ergonomics, enhanced oil flow, and extended 1,000-hour service intervals. Meanwhile, the Ponsse Scorpion Giant can deliver up to 400m³ per day in mature stands, and Tigercat 855C units are deployed on steep ground, capable of handling exceptionally large trees over one metre in diameter.
Tilhill has also bolstered its steep ground capacity through the acquisition of Duffy Skylining Ltd, a specialist business based in Inverness. The move adds four skyline systems, 12 machines, and a skilled team led by Calum Duffy, now heading up Tilhill’s steep ground operations.
“This isn’t just about equipment,” said Kemp. “Calum and his team bring specialist expertise in skylining, chainsaw felling and steep-ground safety. There are very few operators in the UK who can do what they do. Their knowledge not only brings a rare level of capability to our team but also opens harvesting opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.”
As part of Tilhill Forestry’s fully integrated service, the company is expanding its innovation pipeline by trialling mechanised tree planting systems – combining nursery, forest management, and harvesting expertise to improve planting consistency, speed, and workforce sustainability.
With these investments, Tilhill Forestry reinforces its role as a full-service forestry provider and a major player in securing timber supply for the UK’s low-carbon economy.