‘We are delighted that the Marshall family can carry forward the vision of Brinos and Spiro.’
After more than 70 years supplying quality hardwood timber and timber products, the Notaras sawmill at Grafton has passed on to new owners.
The board of J Notaras and Sons says it is pleased that business will continue its strong legacy and commitment to the family-owned service ethic and the outstanding quality its customers have come to admire and respect under the direction of new owner the Marshall family.
Completion of the transaction, which includes land, buildings, equipment and all business assets is subject to the fulfillment of essential conditions precedent including the assignment of the Wood Supply Agreements with Forestry NSW to the purchaser.
J. Notaras & Sons was founded in Grafton by brothers Lambrinos (Brinos) and Spiro Notaras in 1952 and has continuously operated since then under the ownership of the Notaras family.
J Notaras & Sons has an outstanding reputation for delivering quality hardwood timber products and exceptional service to local customers, and has been a significant long-term employer and contributor to the Grafton and Clarence Valley community in North NSW, as well as a strong sustainability advocate for the timber industry .
Marshall’s Timbers is a family-owned business operating for more than 60 years and is Newcastle’s largest supplier of timber and timber products with a family commitment to quality and service aligned to the Notaras family.
The Notaras family issued the following statement:
“We are delighted that the Marshall family can carry forward the vision of Brinos and Spiro, and that the J Notaras and Sons business can continue to operate and thrive in the Grafton business community, provide sustainable employment to its many loyal employees and suppliers, and continue to supply quality hardwood timber products to its customers.
“The sale will allow the company to continue to grow and thrive with new energy and commitment. The board would like to express its thanks to present and former employees, suppliers, customers and stakeholders who have contributed to the on-going success of the J Notaras & Sons business over many years.”
Paul Marshall, representing the Marshalls group, said:
“We welcome the opportunity to continue and grow the specialised timber production business started by Brinos and Spiro Notaras in Grafton over 70 years ago. We also bring a wealth of timber knowledge and over 60 years’ experience in timber retailing from our continuation of our father’s business, Marshalls Timbers Pty Ltd.
“With the support of NSW Forestry, state, gederal and local governments we can keep the machines rolling to continue producing premium timber products in Grafton”.
Donna Layton, general manager of J Notaras & Sons said, “I have mixed emotions, after working for the Notaras family for 45 years; it is hard to say goodbye. However, I am excited that the Marshall family, as the new owners, will continue to keep the business operating with the existing staff and the same commitment that family businesses have. Their enthusiasm to continue and grow the business into the future is great news for everyone concerned, including our community which the Marshall family will continue to support.”
The transaction is expected to close within six weeks of fulfillment of essential conditions precedent, with all employees to be retained by the new ownership structure.
Findex Corporate Finance (Australia) Limited acted as lead and financial advisers to the board and shareholders of J Notaras & Son Pty Ltd, with Talbot Sayers acting as legal advisers to the company.
