News

GLAD 2025: The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) has announced the return of Global Lifting Awareness Day (GLAD) 2025 on Thursday 12th June 2025, with the theme “Lifting Careers, Building Futures.” This year, GLAD is dedicated to tackling the growing skills shortages across the lifting industry, promoting practical tools to attract new talent, and using the day as a launchpad to inspire the next generation to explore careers in lifting.

The lifting industry plays a crucial role in global infrastructure, construction, manufacturing, logistics, and more, yet many employers are struggling to recruit and retain skilled professionals. As recruitment challenges intensify, GLAD 2025 aims to provide practical solutions to help businesses identify, develop, and retain top talent.

What to Expect on GLAD 2025

Throughout the day, LEEA and its industry partners will roll out a series of activities, resources, and discussions designed to:

 Support Employers – Providing insights into recruitment best practices, apprenticeships, military resettlement programs, and effective interview techniques to help businesses attract and retain the best talent.

 Empower Job Seekers – Showcasing why the lifting industry is a fantastic career choice, highlighting career pathways, training opportunities, and advice on how to enter and progress in the field.

 Promote Industry-Wide Engagement – Encouraging all stakeholders, from business leaders to training providers, to collaborate and invest in the workforce of tomorrow.

A Special Industry Report & Webinar

As part of GLAD 2025, LEEA CEO, Dr. Ross Moloney and Matt Barber, LEEA Director of Membership, will host a special webinar launching an exclusive industry report that highlights the most pressing issues related to skills shortages, skills gaps, and recruitment across the lifting sector. This report will provide valuable insights into the challenges facing businesses today and actionable strategies to ensure a sustainable and skilled workforce for the future.

A Launchpad for the Next Generation

GLAD 2025 is not just about today’s challenges—it’s about securing the industry’s future. By raising awareness of the diverse and rewarding careers available, GLAD will serve as a springboard for young people, career changers, and underrepresented groups to explore opportunities in lifting. Dr. Ross Moloney, CEO of LEEA, commented: “The skills shortage in our industry is a challenge that we must address together. GLAD 2025 provides a platform for businesses, educators, and job seekers to come together, share solutions, and shape the future of lifting. It’s time to lift careers and build futures.”

Get Involved

LEEA invites industry professionals, businesses, and training providers to join the conversation on GLAD 2025 by sharing success stories, promoting career opportunities, and engaging with the wealth of resources available. Follow the campaign and share your stories using #GLAD2025.

For more information, visit globalliftingawarenessday.com

To read previous GLAD posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post GLAD 2025: Lifting Careers, Building Futures – Addressing Skills Shortages and Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce appeared first on International Forest Industries.

USNR’s Automated Lineal Grading System is a cutting-edge solution for planer mills, offering advanced lineal optimization and grading capabilities. Its compact design allows for easy installation and seamless integration into existing production lines.

Leveraging precise measurements and AI-driven technology, this system delivers exceptional accuracy while handling both standard and custom grades, all of which are fully configurable. Additionally, a specialized configuration for hardwood grading, based on USNR’s renowned NHLA-grade rules, is also available.

This elegant AI-driven system accurately and efficiently grades lumber at mill speeds. Its simple design throughout the hardware, software, and mechanical frame makes this system easy to use and maintain.

With over 70 units installed in North America, this grading system’s proven results speak for themselves.

To join the list of planer mills that have benefited from USNR’s Automated Lineal Grading System, contact your USNR representative today.

To read previous USNR related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Automate grade and trim solutions in your planer mill with USNR’s Automated Lineal Grading System appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Komatsu has introduced its newest log loader, the TimberPro TN230D. The new machine was built from the ground up based on customer and distributor feedback and was carefully engineered to help improve productivity and provide additional operator benefits.

The 197-HP TN230D offers a 36-foot reach and 58,224 foot-pounds of swing torque. It also features Power Max, which temporarily increases engine horsepower and hydraulic flow to support tough forestry tasks.

The machine is built with proven, high-quality Komatsu components and its hydraulic system, powertrain, control valve and interior components are designed and manufactured in-house to help ensure performance and quality control.

The TN230D is the first machine in its class segment to feature dual service platforms with electrically actuated platforms on the left and right sides, offering improved access for service and cleaning.

New benefits include easy access via a large, rear entry cab with service walkways and safety railings, premium heated and cooled seats with adjustable armrests, an elevated cabin with large windows and a front view camera to improve visibility, LED lights and a large overhead skylight.

“We know how demanding forestry environments are – the tough work requires equipment capable of standing up to the job,” said Kyle Kovach, Product Planning Manager. “When we set out to develop a new log loader, we gathered feedback on customer needs then unleashed a team of talented engineers to design this product from the ground up. The result merges quality components with the latest technology to offer a range of productivity, safety and comfort benefits.”

The TN230D will be on display at the Oregon Logging Conference Feb. 20-22, 2025.

Photo:  The TN230D merges quality components with the latest technology.

To read other Komatsu related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post TimberPro TN230D, Komatsu announces new log loader appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Edmundston, NEW BRUNSWICK – February 10, 2025 –

Acadian Timber Corp. (“Acadian”) (TSX:ADN) has signed an agreement to purchase assets of A & A Brochu, LLC (“A & A Brochu”) and its affiliates for a total price of U.S. $4.8 million.

The assets include harvesting, trucking, and road building equipment, as well as related real estate, in the Millinocket, Maine region. “We are pleased with the opportunity to purchase this turnkey operation,” commented Adam Sheparski, President and Chief Executive Officer. “A & A Brochu has provided contractor services to Acadian for many years.

The transaction will address the historical harvesting capacity challenges in Maine and enable greater control over costs as well as sustainable forestry practices, while allowing Acadian to invest in the communities in which we live and work.”

The asset purchase agreement was signed on February 10, 2025 and the transaction is expected to close during the first quarter of 2025.

Photo Adam Sheparski, President and Chief Executive Officer.

To see other Acadian Timber Corp related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post ACADIAN TIMBER CORP. ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF HARVESTING OPERATIONS IN MAINE appeared first on International Forest Industries.

During 2025, Setra will investigate the possibilities of divesting the sawmill in Malå. A divestment is expected to contribute to Setra’s opportunities to further strengthen its position in Central Sweden, where the company’s raw material supply is expected to improve in the coming years.

During 2024, Setra took major steps in an extensive upgrade of the sawmill in Malå with new timber intake, new sawing line, updated raw sorting and increased drying capacity. The new saw line has been installed and start-up of the saw is proceeding according to plan.

The full potential is expected to be reached in 2027 when the capacity of sawn goods increases from the current 160,000 m3/year to 340,000 m3/year.

Malå is located in one of Europe’s most attractive raw material areas, both in terms of quality and growth.

The geographical location, combined with a well-invested sawmill, equipped with the latest available technology, creates good conditions for long-term good earnings and the opportunity to find a good industrial home for the sawmill in Malå.

The sales process will take place in a structured process during the first half of 2025, where Access Partners has been mandated as coordinating advisor.

For further information please contact: CEO Marcus Westdahl: or CFO Johanna Lindén

To see other Setra related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Potential divestment of Setras´s sawmill in Malå appeared first on International Forest Industries.

In 2025, it will be 55 years since forest machine entrepreneur Einari Vidgren founded a forest machine factory in Vieremä, Finland. The anniversary year will start on a high note as the 21,000th PONSSE forest machine has been manufactured and will be delivered on February 6th, 2025, to Scheff Logging & Trucking Inc. from Minnesota, USA.

Scheff Logging & Trucking Inc. is a family business established in 1977. Today, Jhace Pearson, the company’s representative in the third generation, came over to the Ponsse factory with his best friend Matthew Vosika to receive their new Ponsse Buffalo.

It is an honour for Scheff Logging & Trucking Inc. to receive Ponsse’s 21,000th forest machine. Scheff Logging considers it vital that Ponsse’s entire personnel are committed to excellent service. Scheff has grown into a three-generation harvesting and transport company and employs more than 40 professionals. Scheff Logging would like to thank everyone at Ponsse for this magnificent machine!

Logging together worldwide for 55 years

Throughout its history, the Finnish family-owned company has focused on the development and production of cut-to-length forest machines and the provision of maintenance services for them. While all forest machines are still manufactured in Vieremä, Ponsse is at home in forests around the world, as the company currently operates in the logging sites of almost 40 countries.

“Since the earliest days, Ponsse’s driving force has been the belief that only the best people, in cooperation with customers and stakeholders, can develop and manufacture the best forest machines in the world. Still today, forest machines are developed and manufactured in the same way by more than 2,000 Ponsse employees. As a result of long-term cooperation, Ponsse has grown over the years to become the world’s leading manufacturer of cut-to-length forest machines,” says Jarmo Vidgren, Chair of Ponsse’s Board of Directors. In honour of the anniversary, we are going on a worldwide tour to meet our customers and stakeholders,” Vidgren emphasizes

Events around the world

In accordance with the theme of the anniversary year “Logging together worldwide”, Ponsse is celebrating the milestone by inviting customers, stakeholders and Ponsse people to join the anniversary tour. The anniversary tour starts from Finland on March 18 and continues around the world during the year.  Welcome to the events: https://events.ponsse.com/

Jarmo Vidgren

Chair of the Board of Directors

To see other Ponsse related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Ponsse’s 55th anniversary year: The 21,000th forest machine was manufactured in Vieremä factory appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Southeastern Timber Products announced this week it is investing $123.4 million to expand its operations in Ackerman, which could create as many as 40 jobs.

Southeastern Timber Products is a family-owned-and-operated manufacturer of southern yellow pine lumber, timber and decking products. The company is expanding its Ackerman sawmill to increase production capacity from 120 million board feet per year to 300 million board feet per year.

To facilitate the project, Southeastern Timber Products will install a new sawmill line, new dry kilns and storage facilities.
Southeastern Timber Products has a joint venture partnership with Tolko Industries Ltd., a company based in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada.

One of the largest Canadian investments in Mississippi, Tolko has embarked on what will ultimately be a $150 million investment in the STP lumber mill that was announced in 2022. Under the banner of Southeastern Timber Products LLC, the project is a joint venture with STP Holdings, LLC.

“Today’s announcement enables us to further invest in our people, customers and local community,” said David Manley, Tolko Industries U.S. Ltd. vice president. “We greatly appreciate the Mississippi government’s support of all strategic investments that will help us by continuing to grow STP’s capacity to 300 million board feet per year.”

The news comes at a time President Donald J. Trump wants to sign an executive order introducing a 25% tariff on all goods coming from Mexico and Canada and a 10% tariff on goods from China. The order on China went into effect on Tuesday, while the orders on Canada and and Mexico have been put on hold as of Wednesday.

Canada is Mississippi’s largest trading partner and Mississippi would likely feel negative impacts from a 25% tariff on all goods coming from Canada. There also would likely be some reactionary impacts on goods that are exported from Mississippi to Canada.

Reported by Ross Reily Mississippi Clarion Ledger

To see other Southeastern related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post As Trump tariffs debated, Canada company makes good on $123 million Mississippi investment appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Valmet will deliver a chipper feeding line upgrade to the woodyard of Unilin Panels in Vielsalm, Belgium.

The order is included in Valmet’s orders received of the fourth quarter 2024. The value of the order will not be disclosed. The delivery will take place during the mill’s annual shutdown in the third quarter of 2025.

The mill’s current chipper feeding line is approaching the end of its lifecycle, leading to chip quality variation and limited production capacity. Mechanical wearing of inlet parts increases the risk of discharged metal parts in the chipper.

“The chipper feeding line upgrade with the new infeed chute, open top spout and durable chipper hood will extend the lifetime of our woodyard area and secure safe operation environment for our employees for the next years. We are looking forward to the upgrade and improvements in the chip consistency,” says Antoine Deparpe, Improvement Engineering Manager at Unilin Panels.

“We are thankful for this opportunity to deliver this customized solution to Unilin Panels, as it shows our expertise also in woodyard upgrades. We are looking forward to our skilled field service team taking care of the installation and helping the customer to take their performance to the next level,” says Nils Anspach, Product Sales Manager at Valmet.

Technical information about the delivery

The chipper feeding line upgrade includes the delivery of several parts such as infeed chute, spout, durable chipper hood, couplings, bearing assemblies as well as the installation of those parts.

Information about the customer

Unilin Panels produces innovative wood panel solutions for the construction and interior sectors. The production unit in Vielsalm, Belgium, produces MDF for the domestic and international customers. Unilin Panels is part of the Unilin Group.

Valmet has a global customer base across various process industries. They are a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries, and with their automation and flow control solutions they serve an even wider base of process industries

Photo : Valmet will deliver a chipper feeding line upgrade to the woodyard of Unilin Panels in Vielsalm, Belgium.

To read other Chipper related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Valmet to deliver a chipper feeding line upgrade to Unilin Panels in Belgium appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Comact, a global leader in wood processing solutions, has announced the launch of its new hybrid sawline, a groundbreaking innovation designed to address the evolving challenges of the sawmilling industry. Combining circular saws, bandsaws, and advanced smart technologies, this cutting-edge system sets a new benchmark for speed, flexibility, and operational efficiency in handling a wide range of log diameters.

Comact’s hybrid sawline is a transformative solution, particularly for southern USA mills, where a broad range of log diameters and highly flexible operations are critical to maximizing results. The sawline’s ability to seamlessly integrate multiple cutting modes—including double profiling, quadruple circular cutting, and sideboards splitting—enables mills to produce diverse lumber products on a single line, optimizing recovery and reducing costs.

“We strongly believe that this new sawline design will be a game changer, especially for our southern USA customers,” said Simon Potvin, Comact’s President and CEO. “These mills face unique challenges in processing a wide range of log diameters, which would typically require two separate sawlines to achieve optimal productivity. The new hybrid sawline provides the flexibility to handle all log sizes on a single line while maximizing efficiency and results. This innovative system is a testament to how deeply innovation drives us as a company.”

The hybrid sawline is further strengthened by Comact’s Smart Vision system, powered by artificial intelligence. This advanced technology optimizes log feeding to ensure a smooth and consistent production flow. Complementary features like the Primary Breakdown Closed Loop Smart Tool enhance precision and value recovery, offering sawmills greater efficiency and automated quality control.

As Comact celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024, the introduction of the hybrid sawline underscores its commitment to driving progress in the wood processing industry. This launch reflects a century-long dedication to providing solutions that empower sawmills to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

ABOUT COMACT

For over 100 years, Comact has been a leading OEM in high-caliber wood processing equipment, digital technologies, cutting solutions, project services, and aftermarket support. Driven by innovation and excellence, we are dedicated to helping our customers address their most pressing operational and business challenges in today’s industry.

Whether for brownfield or greenfield projects, Comact’s expertise provides wood processing facilities with the confidence that their investments will yield superior performance, throughput, and ROI. This ensures they remain competitive and achieve sustained growth in an ever-evolving market. Trust Comact to deliver exceptional performance every time. For more information, visit www.comact.com.

To read previous Comact related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Comact Introduces Game-Changing Hybrid Sawline: Redefining Innovation in the Sawmilling Industry appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Sawmill in Maine – Saint John, New Brunswick — Irving Forest Products, which owns and operates wood processing facilities in Maine and New York State, has acquired the Masardis Sawmill in Masardis, Maine. The sale closed January 5, 2025.

Previously owned by Groupe Lebel, the Masardis operation has a long history of producing random-length spruce and fir lumber. It currently employs 80 people and has the capacity to produce 115 million board feet annually.

The sawmill is located within close proximity to Irving’s 1.3 million acres of timberlands in Maine.

“We are excited to grow our lumber production capacity in the state of Maine,” said Jerome Pelletier, VP of Irving Forest Products. “The Masardis mill is well-located to access high-quality timber. It is also serviced by the Maine Northern Railway and benefits from having a team of highly skilled and dedicated employees who have worked together for decades to ensure the success of their operation.”

With the addition of the Masardis operation, J.D. Irving, Limited now operates 10 sawmills as part of its solid wood operations, with a total annual capacity of 1.3 billion board feet.

To read other Sawmill related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post New sawmill in Maine appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Koskisen is launching a comprehensive investment program in the plywood production of its Panel Industry business in Järvelä. The investment program extends until the end of Koskisen’s strategy period, i.e. 2027. The first phase of the investment program will be implemented during 2025 and the total value of the related investments is approximately EUR 12 million.

“In line with our strategy, we are creating sustainable growth and the focus of investments is now shifting strongly to the Panel Industry. In recent years, we have invested heavily in the Sawmill Industry: the total investment value of the new sawmill and related operations, such as the log yard to be put into operation in early 2025, is approximately EUR 75 million,” says Koskisen’s CEO Jukka Pahta .

According to Pahta, the demand outlook for Koskisen’s wood products is stable and will strengthen, driven by the green transition, urbanization, and the development of trade and transportation. Wood products that bind carbon for a long time are a key part of a more sustainable bio-circular economy.

The systematic investment program in the sheet Panel industry will enable volume growth, streamline production, and facilitate related internal logistics. The investments also include automation of production phases.

“The key objective of the investment program is to improve the productivity, quality and yield of plywood production. As a result of the program, the plywood production capacity will increase from the current 65,000 m3 to 85,000 m3. This requires significant development of the machinery and investment in it,” says Tom-Peter Helenius, Director of the Board Industry Business Unit .

The first phase of the investment program focuses on developing the veneer manufacturing processes.

The plywood factory produces customized, high-quality birch plywood products for light and heavy transport vehicles, stamping tools, interior design, fixtures and furniture. The largest customer groups are the automotive, transport, construction and furniture industries.

“The existing production line has been built in stages and currently places restrictions on production development and volume growth. It is great that with the investment program being launched now, we have the opportunity to think about things with new eyes by modernizing the different stages of production and their mutual relationships,” says Helenius.

Koskisen is an international wood processing specialist with over a century of experience. They utilize the valuable wood raw material carefully, down to the last sawdust. They manufacture high-quality and sustainable bio-circular economy products that bind carbon for decades.

To read more plywood related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Koskisen to increase plywood production in Järvelä, Finland appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Bruks Siwertell has received an order for a state-of-the-art Bruks Klöckner drum chipper from Bioena, a leading bioenergy company in Colombia. It will reliably deliver consistent quality wood chips and features a custom-designed knife and infeed configuration, supporting Bioena’s commitment to sustainable, high-capacity energy production.

Bioena is at the forefront of the renewable bioenergy industry. Its industrial plant, located in Santa Marta, produces biomass wood pellets from sustainably sourced wood, which play a vital role in the global move away from the use of fossil fuels.

Bruks Siwertell’s pioneering fiber- and wood-processing equipment and bulk handling technology is already playing a pivotal role in supporting renewable energy transitions worldwide.

“For Bioena, the choice was clear,” says Rafael Escamilla, Project Development Engineer, Bruks Siwertell. “Our Bruks Klöckner drum chippers have a proven track record for performance and reliability. With our strong presence in South America, we are excited to support Bioena in this project, and by fast-tracking the delivery, we are demonstrating our commitment to meeting its timeline and operational needs.”

Bruks Siwertell is able to offer unique equipment configurations depending on the needs of its customers. For Bioena, the horizontal-fed Bruks Klöckner drum chipper has a customized knife configuration to produce specifically sized wood chips, and its first two infeed rollers, closest to the drum, are segmented, enabling efficient and powerful material flows into the chipper. It also has a tailored infeed belt conveyor, while Hardox steel components, including the rotor, rotor hood, chip mantle, and chip pockets, enhance the chipper’s durability and performance.

“This partnership not only underscores Bruks Siwertell’s expertise in wood-processing technology but also celebrates our mutual commitment to environmental stewardship,” adds Escamilla. “Together, Bruks Siwertell and Bioena are proving that innovative solutions are able to drive meaningful change in renewable energy.”

Engineered to process whole eucalyptus logs at 50t/h, the new Bruks drum chipper will enable Bioena to expand its production capacity and keep pace with its growth and sustainability goals. The unit is planned for delivery from Germany in the first quarter of 2025.

To read other drum chipper related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Bruks Klöckner drum chipper ordered to support Bioena sustainability goals appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Tigercat has released the LX877 feller buncher, the second model to be built on the new sloped tail platform. The LX877 is equipped with Tigercat’s well-proven closed loop drive system. Equipped with a 260 kW (350 hp) engine, it is best suited to high production, steep slope, mature timber clear fell applications.

Optimized weight distribution and low centre of mass, along with Tigercat’s patented super duty levelling undercarriage, provide the operator with comfort, stability and confidence on sloped terrain.

One of the most important LX877 design features is the sloped tail profile. It provides increased levelling capability to 26 degrees, and better cable clearance in winch assisted applications.

Along with the improved levelling angles, Tigercat redesigned the ER boom system to provide a larger envelope with tighter tuck, and increased below grade capability. Through-tip hose routing offers better protection of the boom hoses leading to the felling head. The boom has three operating modes – ER, semi-ER and conventional – and can be set based on operating conditions, tree size and operator preference.

Other enhancements include further improvements to service access, and in-tank hydraulic filtration for extended service intervals. The side opening engine enclosure completely exposes the top and both sides of the engine and most hydraulic components. When open, the enclosure roof serves as a safe, spacious and convenient work platform.

The LX877 is best matched to the Tigercat 5702 and 5702-26 felling saws.

To read previous Tigercat related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Tigercat Releases LX877 Feller Buncher appeared first on International Forest Industries.

SAINT-GEORGES, QC, DECEMBER 10, 2024 — As 2024 comes to a close, Comact, a leading OEM in high-caliber wood processing equipment, digital technologies, cutting solutions, project services, and aftermarket support supplier, is proud to celebrate its 100th-anniversary short film that highlights a century of innovation, evolution, and leadership in the wood processing industry.

This year has been a pivotal one for Comact. Alongside commemorating its centennial, the company introduced a refreshed brand image and welcomed a new management team. These milestones mark its continued growth while staying true to the values that have defined Comact for 100 years: performance, innovation, and commitment.

“At Comact, our roots run deep. While we’ve grown and evolved over the past century, our core mission remains unchanged—empowering the wood processing industry with the tools, technologies, and support needed to succeed,” said Simon Potvin, Comact’s President and CEO.

The 100th-anniversary film reflects this journey and Comact’s vision for the future: pushing boundaries, delivering results, and driving progress for generations to come.

To watch the film and learn more about Comact, click here or visit comact.com.

ABOUT COMACT

For over 100 years, Comact has been a leading OEM in high-caliber wood processing equipment, digital technologies, cutting solutions, project services, and aftermarket support. Driven by innovation and excellence, we are dedicated to helping our customers address their most pressing operational and business challenges in today’s industry.

Whether for brownfield or greenfield projects, Comact’s expertise provides wood processing facilities with the confidence that their investments will yield superior performance, throughput, and ROI. This ensures they remain competitive and achieve sustained growth in an ever-evolving market. Trust Comact to deliver exceptional performance every time. For more information, visit www.comact.com.

To read previous Comact related posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Comact wraps up a transformative year with its 100th-Anniversary short film appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Monaghan, Ireland – 9 December 2024 – Combilift, the global leader in material handling solutions, has been awarded Company of the Year at the prestigious Business & Finance Awards 2024, in association with KPMG Ireland. This remarkable achievement marks Combilift’s 9th major win in the last three months, solidifying its position as an industry leader.

The Company of the Year award, presented to Combilift’s CEO Martin McVicar by Seamus Hand from KPMG at the 50th Business & Finance Awards ceremony – held in Dublin, is a testament to the company’s significant impact on both the Irish economy and the global market. Combilift, with annual revenue exceeding €500 million, has continued to thrive with its export-focused business model, with 98% of its operations serving international markets.

Since its founding in 1998, Combilift has built a global reputation as the largest manufacturer of multi-directional, articulated, and sideloading forklifts, as well as large material handling equipment such as straddle carriers, with over 85,000 units in operation across 85 countries. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and research and development has been pivotal to its exceptional growth, making it a true leader in the material handling industry.

Martin McVicar, CEO of Combilift, said:

“This award reflects the bold vision and relentless drive that has been at the heart of Combilift since Robert Moffett and I started in 1998. Every forklift, every innovation, and every milestone reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries and transforming material handling worldwide. This moment belongs to our employees, our dealers, and our customers, who rely on us to deliver quality material handling solutions to optimise their warehouse space.”

Joining a Legacy of Excellence

Winning this award places Combilift among an elite group of previous winners, including industry giants Glen Dimplex, Kingspan, Primark, Google, and Intel. As a homegrown Irish business with a global footprint, this latest recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the company’s ongoing success and its critical role in shaping the future of the material handling industry.

Photo  L-R. Ian Hyland – Business & Finance, Martin McVicar -Combilift, Seamus Hand – KPMG

For previous Combilift posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Combilift Scoops ‘Company of the Year’ at the 2024 Business & Finance Awards appeared first on International Forest Industries.

DECADES OF HIGHER-QUALITY PRODUCTS

This year marks 70 years since the first mass-produced Cambio debarker was delivered. Since then, nearly 7,000 machines have been built, and the name Cambio has become synonymous with rotary debarkers in many parts of the world.

Cambio revolutionized debarking, which until that point was mostly done manually out in the forest. The new machine was efficient while being gentle on the wood, characteristics that also define the modern machines and which made Cambio appreciated worldwide

The name Cambio comes from cambium, the Latin name for the cell division zone that lies between the wood and the bark. Cambio takes advantage of the fact that the strength here is lower than in the rest of the log.

Many designers in Europe and the United States worked after World War II to develop new debarking equipment because the methods at the time were unsatisfactory. However, the machines that were developed either caused large fiber losses or left bark residue on the log.

Decisive efforts to develop better debarking machines were made at a paper mill in southwestern Sweden. It is a classic inventor story of three men, Erland Andersson, Gunnar Brundell and Karl-Erik Jonsson, setting up a prototype in Andersson’s laundry room. They had to make holes in the wall to feed the logs. After a period of intensive development, a patent application was granted in 1948.

Changing Hands

 In 1951, Söderhamns Verkstäder (now known as USNR AB) acquired the rights to manufacture and sell debarking machines according to the patent from 1948. The machine represented a major technological breakthrough. But it was heavy and complicated and required perfect synchronization of log length and feed rate.

Gunnar Brundell and Karl-Erik Jonsson formed the company Brundell & Jonsson where they continued to develop debarking machines for Söderhamn’s Verkstäder, which led to Cambio. This machine had a large capacity while producing minimal fiber loss. Cambio worked well on all types of wood, even in extreme cold.

The first Cambio was delivered to a customer in 1954 and already by 1956, the annual production was up to 200 machines. Cambio soon became a volume product which, for 20 years, accounted for more than half of the company’s turnover. A dealer network was established around the world. Cambio was made in many sizes for both pulpwood and sawn timber, both stationary and mobile, and is still an important part of the USNR’s product program.

In 1971, Gunnar Brundell and Karl Erik Jonsson received the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences’s gold medal for their efforts in the field of debarking.

 The Secret to Success

 What has characterized Cambio right from the start are the triangular feedworks. These ensure that the log is automatically centered in the rotor opening. Since the original designers worked at a paper mill, the quality of the chips was important when developing the machine.

The pointed spikes of the feed rollers provide a good grip on the log while being gentle on the wood as they penetrate between the wood fibers without breaking them. Since the outer parts of a log become chips that are sold to paper mills, it is still important to the sawmills’ overall economy to deliver high-quality chips. The combination of the feed roller’s gentle handling of the logs and the gentle debarking means that the proportion of best quality chips is high with a Cambio.

 Cambio has undergone a series of development stages over the years. From the beginning, the feed speed was modest, about 130 feet per minute (40 meters per minute) as a maximum. Today’s modern machines have the capacity to run more than four times as fast.

Modern Advancements

 In 2000, the first CamShift-type system was delivered. This means that the debarking line is built up in separate modules with independent feed works and rotor units (debarking machines or butt end reducers). The name CamShift refers to the fact that the rotor units can be shifted out sideways to facilitate service and repair. The CamShift system provides, among other things, the possibility of high speeds and the debarking of short logs.s modern machines have the capacity to run more than four times as fast.

Modern Advancements

In recent years, Cambio has gone through a renaissance with several product developments and a clear upswing in new sales.

In 2000, the first CamShift-type system was delivered. This means that the debarking line is built up in separate modules with independent feed works and rotor units (debarking machines or butt end reducers). The name CamShift refers to the fact that the rotor units can be shifted out sideways to facilitate service and repair. The CamShift system provides, among other things, the possibility of high speeds and the debarking of short logs.

 The first model with high-speed ball bearings was the Cambio 600. The bearing, which is of the same type found in, among other things, wind turbines, allows significantly higher rotor speeds. This allows for, in addition to higher feed speed, the bark tools can be opened while running. If the debarking line needs to be stopped while a log is in the rotor, the rotor speed can be After being in trial operation last year with very good results, the Cambio 800AD is now being launched. It is USNR’s largest machine, now equipped with high-speed bearings for increased feed speed and with the same capability as the Cambio 600 to open the rotor during operation.increased so that the debarking tools are thrown out by the centrifugal force.

The Cambio 800D was presented in 2011, where the D stands for direct drive. This means that feed rollers have separate electric motors for operation, unlike previous models that have a motor connected to a chain that drives all the feed rollers. The direct-drive system has many advantages, among other things it means a higher redundancy and simplifies maintenance.

After being in trial operation last year with very good results, the Cambio 800AD is now being launched. It is USNR’s largest machine, now equipped with high-speed bearings for increased feed speed and with the same capability as the Cambio 600 to open the rotor during operation.

CamShift Debarker

The module-designed CamShift system can be delivered with or without flare reducing, and with one or two debarking rotors. The manually adjusted flare reducer rotor is infinitely adjustable for reduced diameters up to 560 mm (22″). The modular, pull-out design makes set-up and tool changes a breeze.

Cambio 800D

With its separately driven feed rolls and newly developed high-speed rotor, the Cambio 800D debarker is designed for high speed and all log sizes. The new rotor and its separate electric motors for each feed roll results in higher feed speed and lower costs for maintenance.

To read other USNR posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post 70 Years with Cambio appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Burton Mill Solutions has announced its acquisition of Menominee Saw & Supply, based in Menominee, Michigan. Menominee specializes in supporting wood processors in the Northern Great Lakes region and across the Midwest by supplying and reconditioning a variety of industrial cutting tools, including machine knives, small- and large-diameter circle saws, and wide and narrow band saws.

This acquisition significantly expands Burton’s geographic footprint and enhances its technical capabilities, enabling it to provide better service to primary wood producers. With the addition of Menominee, Burton strengthens its already comprehensive technical expertise in wood processing technology, including saws, knives, filing room equipment, technical services, and industrial wear parts.

Chuck Wert, Senior Vice President of Burton, commented, “We are excited to work more closely with the Menominee team. This partnership will allow us to elevate our service offerings and better address the needs of our customers in the Midwest.”

John Brock, General Manager of Menominee, shared his thoughts, saying, “Burton has been important partner for many years, but by joining forces, we’ll be able to significantly expand our network and capabilities. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.”

Dale Brown, CEO of Burton Mill Solutions and sister companies USNR and Mid-South Engineering, added, “this acquisition aligns perfectly with our mission to provide innovative solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency in the wood processing industry.”

Menominee’s Great Lakes location will complement Burton’s existing network of saw and knife reconditioning service centers in Maine, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana.

About Burton Mill Solutions

Burton Mill Solutions is the leading North American manufacturer and supplier of industrial saw blades, machine knives, filing room equipment, cutting tool reconditioning services, and vocational training to the lumber, pulp, and wood biomass industries, with a history dating back to 1832.

About Menominee Saw & Supply

Based in Menominee, Michigan, Menominee Saw & Supply specializes in designing, manufacturing, and reconditioning cutting tools and supplying a variety of related products to the primary and secondary wood products markets in the Northern Great Lakes region, and across the Midwest.

Image: Dale Brown, CEO of Burton Mill Solutions

To read other Burton Mill Solutions posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Menominee Saw & Supply is now part of Burton Mill Solutions appeared first on International Forest Industries.

Karelia forests – Since late 2022, Segezha Group, a subsidiary of Russian AFK Sistema, has engaged in large-scale logging operations near Lake Maksimyärvi in Karelia, an area proposed for reserve status. Over one year, the company has cleared 1,700 hectares of old-growth forests with trees ranging from 150 to over 300 years old. These forests are home to 72 species listed in the Red Data Books of Russia and Karelia, including rare plants, fungi, and animals. Logging activities have destroyed six critical wildlife habitats and 73 documented sites of rare flora and fauna, as reported by Kedr.Media, which has been labelled a foreign agent by Russian authorities.

Until the fall of 2022, these forests were protected under a moratorium agreed upon by Segezha Group and FSC. However, FSC’s withdrawal from Russia and the loss of European markets led Segezha to abandon its commitments. Between June and November 2022, the company removed 1.5 million hectares of old-growth forests in Karelia from protection. These areas include sites intended for reserves such as Kuzharvi, Lakes Nyuk, Vygozersky-2, and Zaonezhsky.

Scientific research emphasizes the critical role of old-growth forests in carbon storage and climate regulation. A study titled “Large Trees Dominate Carbon Storage in Forests East of the Cascade Crest in the United States Pacific Northwest” revealed that large trees, constituting just 3% of total forest stems, account for up to 42% of stored carbon. Logging such trees not only releases significant CO2 but also undermines ecosystem resilience.

In Karelia, old-growth forests represent only 12% of the total forest cover, equivalent to 10% of the republic’s land area. These ecosystems are vital for biodiversity and support rare species, such as the northern reindeer. The Maksimyärvi area, with an average tree age exceeding 150 years, is considered a unique natural asset.

Delays in formalizing protections for these areas exacerbate the problem. While documentation to designate Maksimyärvi as a reserve was submitted in 2023, legal protection has yet to be implemented. Environmentalists appealed to the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office in April 2023 to halt logging, citing Ministry of Natural Resources Order No. 264, which mandates the preservation of habitats for species listed in the Red Data Books. Despite this, logging continues.

Nikolay Shmatkov, director of the Lesnoy Etalon certification system created by former FSC staff after its exit from Russia, confirmed to Lesprom Network that Segezha Group is logging in proposed reserves, including Maksimyärvi. “This is not an isolated incident, other reserves face similar threats,” Shmatkov stated. “The law requires forest users to identify and protect habitats of rare and endangered species, such as the northern reindeer in Maksimyärvi, yet these obligations are not being met.”

To read previous Segezha Group posts click here.

Follow IFI on Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram

The post Segezha Group clears old-growth Karelia forests, endangering 1.5 million hectares of unique ecosystems appeared first on International Forest Industries.