Read Brothers: A family legacy stepping boldly into the future
19th November 2025
At the Trussed Rafter Association, we’re proud to celebrate our members who embody the spirit of innovation, integrity, and craftsmanship that define our industry.
Few stories capture that better than Read Brothers Ltd, the Norwich-based timber merchant and timber engineering specialist now entering an exciting new chapter in its remarkable 44-year journey.
From family dream to industry leader
Founded in 1981, Read Brothers Ltd has become one of Norfolk’s most respected names in timber. Supplying softwoods, hardwoods, and sheet materials, and specialising in trussed rafter roofs, easi-joist® metal web floors and timber frame buildings, the company has built its reputation on quality, precision, and personal service.
The Read family story began with the late Ray Read, who spent 25 years with a national timber merchant and dreamed of one day running his own company. Following his passing in 1980, his wife Betty and sons Steve, Brian, Jon, and Glenn made that dream a reality.
From their Norwich site, which is still home to the business today, the family grew Read Brothers into a trusted name across the region.
After a period under new ownership in the late 1980s, the brothers reclaimed the company in 1992, refocusing on what mattered most: traditional merchant values, customer care, and technical excellence in timber engineering.
A new generation takes the helm
Fast-forward to today, and Read Brothers is once again evolving, with a dynamic new leadership team ensuring the company’s proud family ethos continues to thrive.
Matthew Read, son of co-founder Steve Read, has been appointed Managing Director, bringing over 30 years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the business. His appointment marks the third generation of Reads to lead the company forward.
Meanwhile, Brian Read will continue to play an active role as Chairman, supporting the leadership team and remaining a familiar face to customers.
Joining Matthew, Brian and Jon Read on the Board of Directors are Claire Kinzel-Read (Brian’s daughter) and John Craske, whose energy, organisation, and leadership skills will help steer Read Brothers into its next phase of growth.
“We’re immensely proud of where we’ve come from,” says Matthew Read. “But even more excited about where we’re going. Our family’s name has been built on trust, quality, and expertise, and that’s exactly how we’ll continue to grow.”
Building the future together
From its origins as a family dream to its position today as a market leader in timber engineering, Read Brothers represents everything that makes TRA members stand out: family heritage, technical expertise, and a constant drive for improvement.
Nick Boulton, Chief Executive of the Trussed Rafter Association, said:
“Read Brothers is a fantastic example of how TRA members continue to innovate and inspire. Their commitment to quality, training and leadership succession shows what can be achieved when family values meet forward-thinking business strategy. It’s great to see the next generation of Reads taking the company to new heights, and we’re proud to have them as part of the TRA community.”
As Read Brothers moves onward and upward, their story reminds us that the strength of our industry lies not just in timber and design but in the people, families, and passion behind every truss.
