Consistent quality is key
Committed to ethical practices
According to Opmann, the quality of Puidukoda’s products relies heavily on the raw materials used, with Nordic sawn timber being a key component, known for its durability and superior properties. Metsä Fibre has long been one of the main suppliers of sawn timber to Puidukoda. “We choose Metsä Fibre’s sawn timber because of its consistent quality and sustainability, both of which align well with our own commitment to ecological responsibility,” says Opmann. According to Opmann, Nordic sawn timber stands out due to its exceptional durability and fine grain, which is a result of the slow growth rates of trees in the cold Nordic climate. “This timber has a higher density compared to other timber types, making it a preferred choice for high-quality planed timber products.”
Opmann points out that upholding high standards of business ethics, transparency and integrity in all operations is crucial for Puidukoda. Other ESG factors such as community engagement are important too. Opmann says that Puidukoda supports local communities through various initiatives, such as educational programmes, community projects and charitable activities. Ultimately, it all comes down to the customers and their satisfaction with the products and services they receive. According to Opmann, maintaining high standards of product and service quality is something that Puidukoda strives to do consistently.
Meeting customer needs
As one of the leading planing mills in the Baltics, Puidukoda has come to rely on its prowess in product development and innovation. Introducing new products is the lifeblood of the company. “We’re coming up with innovative products that cater to customer demands, such as environmentally friendly products or products with unique designs.” Opmann points out that enhancing the quality, durability and appeal of existing products is also integral to Puidukoda’s strategy for success. The company exports products to Europe, the USA, Southeast Asia and North Africa. Upon entering a new market, product development is tailored to suit the specific market demands and preferences.
Growing capacity
Having started as CEO almost four years ago, Opmann has seen the markets shift because of issues such as war, rising energy prices and inflation. The global push towards sustainability is also driving higher demand for eco-friendly materials such as wood products. Global warming may have a negative effect on the availability of Nordic timber due to increased exposure to pests, diseases and extreme weather conditions. “Sustainable forest management practices and adaptation strategies are essential to mitigate these negative impacts and ensure the long-term availability of Nordic timber,” Opmann says. Despite these challenges, the CEO sees a bright future for the business – and Puidukoda is making moves accordingly. Having recently increased its maximum annual capacity to 200,000 cubic meters, Puidukoda is now one of the biggest planing mills in the Baltics. “Puidukoda is investing consistently every year. The main target is to improve production efficiency and extend our product portfolio.” •
PUIDUKODA
“We can reduce our environmental
Puidukoda is one of the leading planing mills in Baltics. Its main activity is the production and marketing of value-added softwood planing materials.
footprint by using timber products in construction.”
Founded in 1997, the company employs 120 people.
Continuous improvement
Puidukoda has sales to more than 35 countries, with exports accounting for more than 85% of sales.
Recently, Puidukoda introduced a new Nordic-style interior panelling range, with natural colours creating a warm and cosy atmosphere. Another new product line is the thermally modified product range. Thermal modification involves using only heat and steam to treat the wood, giving it the desired properties for its intended use. The products are free of chemicals, have a long service life and are recyclable. With regards to process innovation, Opmann says that the company is continuously automating and digitalising its manufacturing process to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. “Our latest digitalisation project is related to the quality checking of incoming sawn timber,” she reveals.
Eveli Opmann
Since 2013, Puidukoda has been part of the Rose Group, headquartered in France.
Metsä Fibre is one of the main suppliers of sawn timber to Puidukoda.
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