When TTJ interviewed Finnforest chief executive Ari Martonen in Helsinki about 18 months ago, he said it was the Finnish company’s aim to be Europe’s leader in engineered wood products (EWP). He also hinted at “major imminent developments” that would help the company achieve this aim. He wasn’t kidding. First, and most significantly, Finnforest acquired a majority stake in its Norwegian counterpart and competitor Moelven. Not long after, it assimilated the LP Europe EWP operation.
The company has also pushed through major developments in the UK, its biggest overseas market. Its Boston timber training academy – which also acts as a showcase for its engineered wood range – underlined its long-term commitment to the market, as did its acquisition of the softwood arm of MLM.
Most recently, Finnforest unveiled its I-joist plant in King’s Lynn (TTJ July 20/27). The £3m facility has production capacity of 16 million linear metres annually and will also act as a pan-European distribution point for Finnforest glulam, Kerto LVL and I-joists. And more spending at the site is expected over the next few years.
In another key strategic move, Finnforest has invested over £1m developing a technical software system for customers to design floor, wall and roof structures incorporating its engineered wood products range. This is well under way in the UK, particularly for flooring system application, and the concept is being rolled out in France and Germany.
Addressing the market generally, Finnforest says there is now a greater appreciation of EWP.
“There’s a much broader awareness that the engineering process ensures a more consistent level of performance and of the environmental benefits from the renewable materials they use and their lower embodied energy required over their life cycle,” said Finnforest’s European sales and marketing director for EWP, Kim Poulsen, adding that the aesthetics of these products also add to their appeal.
The main feature driving the EWP market identified by Finnforest is rapid growth in timber frame housing in the UK and the specification of engineered wood by major house builders, particularly I-joists.
“The ability of EWP to meet government environmental guidelines and the increased speed of build they allow are being recognised too,” said UK national sales manager for EWP, Kevin Riley.
Finnforest categorises its heat-processed FF Thermowood in the EWP sector too and is also optimistic about its prospects in the UK, where it is working closely with key stockist Vincent Timber Ltd.
“Architects and specifiers are showing great interest in this cost-effective, durable and environmentally sound alternative to traditional timber cladding,” said industrial and new product sales manager Paul Maw. “The first UK building to be designed with a Thermowood rain screen is due to be completed by November.”
