Sustainable Forestry

FIM'S INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICE

Maximising Return

Portfolio management to maximise investment returns requires an in-depth understanding of modern sustainable timberlands practices and detailed knowledge of timber production and markets, all of which are delivered by FIM.

FIM's strategy is to maximise the return on the investment whilst ensuring that plantations are run in accordance with the strict environmental guidelines set down by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This requires:-

  1. Investment in Quality: Well managed timberlands on productive sites close to established timber markets will generate the highest returns.
  2. Active Management: Employing the best management and management techniques with strict on-going control of costs.
  3. Astute Marketing: By actively tracking and analysing timber and property prices, FIM seek to maximise the return from the investment through the implementation of either well timed timber sales or disposal of the property.
  4. Adding additional value to a property with strategic sales for higher and better use, such as residential, sporting or leisure uses and by identifying alternative sources of income, such as wind farm and hydro electric developments and telecom masts.

Investment Selection

Sound investment decisions are rooted in a close liaison between FIM, the client and their financial advisers to establish a thorough understanding of the client's objectives. FIM then identifies appropriate investments to suit the investment strategy.

FIM's extensive knowledge of the timberland market, combined with detailed professional analysis of a forest's potential, assist in identifying the best quality properties.

Prior to purchase, detailed reports are prepared for the client. Close liaison with the client's solicitor resolves any matters arising through the legal process.

Providing the Benefits of Independent Advice

FIM does not undertake or profit from operations in the woodland. This ensures that:-

  • Acquisitions are assessed solely on their merits, with no concern to maximise future management or contracting work or to favour a particular location.
  • Management is undertaken by skilled professionals at competitive prices. FIM advise the client on the appointment of appropriate Woodland Managers. Detailed knowledge of different woodland management companies enables us to maintain strategic and budgetary control and ensure the client obtains best value for money.
  • The assessment of the optimum method of realising the investment, be it harvesting the timber or property disposal, is not distorted by any potential desire to secure harvesting or replanting work.
  • We are free to advise on alternative management systems, such as the management and contracted exit vehicles offered by some of the large scale timber processors, without the threat of loss of revenue.