About Us

We're more than just a shop for bamboo materials

A hut made from golden moso bamboo poles

Our Story

From growing up near bamboo forests in South Africa to being amazed by the bamboo architecture in China, the giant grass has always fascinated the business founder, Ken.

Returning to the UK, Ken noticed there was an appetite for bamboo poles and materials; however, nothing like he had seen was available on the UK market. Having researched bamboo thoroughly and its green credentials, Ken decided to take a chance and imported bamboo poles. Over time, demand grew. Bamboo became less a niche or retro material and more a stylish sustainable alternative to many materials like plastics and tropical woods.

That initial experiment of importing bamboo is why we are here today – heavily invested in showcasing the versatility of bamboo to the UK and how it can replace unsustainable materials.

What we do

Founded in 2004, UK Bamboo Supplies have been supplying the nation with bamboo materials for almost two decades and offer the widest range of bamboo poles available on the UK market.

From architects to events professionals, from landscapers to keen gardeners, we are proud to work with a range of industries. Our trusted network of global supply partners combined with our logistical know-how means we can grow and flex alongside demand – from supplying a few pallets of fence panels to several thousand poles.

In 2021, our products were featured on the ITV show Love Your Garden with Alan Titchmarsh, and also made an appearance at COP26 as part of a sustainable housing exhibition.

Kenneth Downing

When I visited China I was stunned by the bamboo architecture, the forests, and by the sustainability of bamboo. That visit was a lightbulb moment - what if the UK had similar access to this material?

Kenneth Downing

Director, UK Bamboo Supplies

Why we exist

Our Purpose

To supply a sustainable timber alternative and champion the versatility of bamboo.

 

How we achieve our purpose

Our Mission

To improve the UK’s accessibility to bamboo materials by offering the widest range of bamboo poles, fencing and plyboards at affordable prices.

The long-term goal

Our Vision

From the gardener to the conglomerate: To be part of a world where the full potential of bamboo is realised.

A hero image of The Beacon, a sculpture made out of guadua bamboo by Bamboology

Case Studies

View Projects

Bamboo has been used for centuries, and for good reason – it’s an incredibly versatile material. In this section, discover how our products are used across industries and projects.

Take a look
A moso bamboo geometric dome made by Atlas Domes at sunset

Who we work with

View Clients

One of the joys of bamboo is the material’s versatility. Take a look at a list of clients, selected to show a snapshot of the applications of bamboo.

View our client list