“The decision to close Näpi mill was one of several actions to improve Stora Enso Group’s long-term competitiveness and profitability. We are very pleased to have come to an agreement with Puidukoda, who will give the mill the attention it deserves and ensure a long-term development of the business," says Lars Völkel, EVP and Head of the Wood Products division at Stora Enso.
The transaction with Puidukoda includes all the land and buildings as well as the equipment related to wood processing, excluding the sawmill's machinery. The sawline and associated equipment will be sold to another buyer and the rest of the equipment from Näpi site has been shipped to other Stora Enso sawmills.
“Näpi Mill has been operating for more than 30 years, and we are pleased to witness the beginning of a new chapter for the site. The mill has played a significant role in the local community, now with the introduction of new employment opportunities, the area will have a positive outlook,” commented Anne-Liis Kapstas, former Näpi Mill Director.
The primary purchaser Puidukoda is a wood processing company based on French capital, located in Karksi, Southern Estonia, established in 1997. The company specializes in manufacturing planed timber products and will start operations at the acquired site.
