Laying the Foundations
The immediate history of Meyer Timber began in 1906, the year when Mr. Montague L Meyer (known by all as Monty) started trading as Montague L Meyer Ltd
The Company’s earliest roots can, however, be traced back to 1770, when the first of six companies that would in time grow into Meyer International PLC were founded. The year1896 is particularly important, as this was the year that ‘Monty’ started working for a company itself founded in the mid 19th century and which would later become a member of the Meyer family of Companies; Louis Bamberger and Sons.
Monty was a gifted salesman and sold £100,000 worth of timber for Bamberger in the year he turned 21. This was an enormous amount of money at the time, considering that new three bedroom houses in his local area of Chingford were then changing hands at £425. By 1906, as their top salesman, Monty felt that he deserved to become a partner in the firm – Louis Bamberger disagreed, so Monty resigned and immediately started his own business - Montague L Meyer Ltd - funded by a loan from his brother-in-law, a wealthy cigar merchant.
The new company prospered with Monty firmly at the helm. There are many stories about his commitment to customer service. When a valued customer ran short during a dock strike in 1912, Monty acted fast, determined to keep the business. He hired a horse and cart, arriving early at the docks before the pickets. As he left, loaded with timber, he was spotted by striking dockers who, fortunately, recognised him and advised him to keep going – quickly.