About us

K J Howells has been based at Cobbs Quay Marina since 1987, providing bespoke carpentry services and the supply of fine quality teak products to the yachting and marine community.

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In 2004 a new showroom was opened next to the manufacturing operation to provide an onsite retail outlet and face-to face advisory services for customers seeking expert and knowledgeable advice from Ken and Dave Howell.

In 2018 Ken Howells, the founder and senior partner, decided that after almost 50 years of dedicated craftsmanship it was time for him to take a step back from the firm, and the whole operation of K J Howells was purchased by Haroys Limited.

The management team of Haroys are six local entrepreneurs who decided to use their business experience to identify investment opportunities in local companies seeking a buyer. Their criteria are that the companies must specialise in producing fine quality products, employ local craftsmen and provide services to this area. The opportunity to invest in K J Howells was a perfect fit with their joint commitment to the local community and shared business goals and ethics.

The new management team are committed to continuing the proud traditions of superb quality and personal service that K J Howells are so well known for, and we will continue to work with Ken on a consultancy basis.

We are delighted to introduce Rupert Jessett, who has joined our team as the new manager for K J Howells. Rupert has been a professional yacht skipper for the last 25 years and has a deep personal knowledge of yacht refitting, deck fitting and maintenance. He has been based in Poole for the last 15 years.

We look forward to hearing from you or seeing you at our shop in Poole.

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About us

Teak grows in natural forests in Thailand, Laos, Burma (Myanmar) and India, and is also grown commercially in plantations in various temperate locations. Natural teak wood has a high oil and resin content, which helps it to withstand extremes of weather and also prevents insect infestation. Teak wood is moderately hard, easily worked, and extremely durable. This makes natural teak wood ideal for the yacht and marine building and services industry. Plantation grown teak tends to be less durable, but is suitable for internal marine fittings.

Why the Elephant in Our Logo?

Teak is typically harvested when the trees are over 80 years old; they are mature and very large. Due to the challenging terrain in which natural teak trees grow, the traditional method of harvesting requires the use of specially trained elephants which have the strength and intelligence to work in this environment without causing severe damage to the fragile eco-systems. Our logo pays tribute to these noble, hard working animals.

Teak Facts

  • Teak is a tropical, deciduous tree which is part of the mint family.
  • Teak trees can reach up to 150 feet in height, and are propagated using seeds, cuttings and grafting.
  • Teak does not rot. Most hardwoods rot after being immersed in water for long periods of time.
  • Teak floats, despite it’s density.
  • Long before teak wood was used for marine purposes the indigenous peoples of Southeast Asia discovered the medicinal uses of teak wood, bark and flowers which were brewed into broth to treat headaches, fevers and digestive problems.
  • There are teak beams said to be over 1,000 years old which are still serviceable.
  • The Titanic was fitted with teak decks which are still intact.