Austrian-based sawmiller Mayr-Melnhof has appointed a new CEO and announced a €45m investment programme.
The company, whose Swiss Timber sawmill is in administration, also said it would intensify its efforts to develop international sales.
“Our group will place its strategic focus in the coming years on international markets and high quality finished products,” said chairman Franz Mayr-Melnhof Saurau.
The investment programme will be carried out over the next two years to expand existing sites.
About half the investment is to be channelled into the company’s Russian facility at Efimovskij, with preparations for a further increase in Russian capacity also under way.
“The last three years were not easy for our industry; this investment programme will strengthen our market position,” said Mr Mayr-Melnholf Saurau.
Existing CEO Josef Dringel is stepping down, with Dr Michael Spallart assuming the role.
Mayr-Melnhof has eight locations and employs around 1,900 people. In 2010 turnover was €500m.
