Latvian-based Stiga RM, a leading player in the timber industry, has unveiled a significant expansion strategy for its birch plywood mill situated in Kuldīga, earmarking an investment surpassing €10 million. This ambitious project, set to unfold within the year, aims to bolster the mill's production capabilities and environmental stewardship.
The expansion will see the addition of 2,900 square meters of production space, accompanied by the integration of cutting-edge, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly machinery. "This year, our investment in enhancing productivity and the quality of our products is projected to reach over €10.5 million," the company stated.
In a move to further modernize the facility, the existing office building will be demolished this spring to make way for a new heat treatment pool and associated equipment. Concurrently, efforts are being directed towards renovating and enlarging the production area, constructing an additional production building, developing a maintenance hub for production machinery, and setting up modern office premises. "These development initiatives are poised to substantially uplift our production capacity and energy efficiency, all the while embedding sustainable practices more deeply into our operational ethos," announced the company.
Viesturs Krēvics, the Director of Stiga RM Plywood Mill, highlighted the ongoing modernization and equipment upgrade efforts, stating, "The upgrades initiated last year, which include the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment from leading global manufacturers, will persist through this year. These enhancements are designed to render our production processes more robust, energy-smart, and eco-conscious."
The comprehensive development plan for the Stiga RM plywood production facility is set to total over €22.4 million over a two-year span. Initiated at the start of last year and continuing through to the end of this year, the project is expected to significantly ramp up production and export figures.
This factory expansion is not just a boost for production but also for the local job market. Currently, the mill employs 278 individuals, with expectations for increased workforce numbers following the project's completion. While specific figures were not disclosed, the company is recognized as Kuldīga's largest employer and taxpayer as of 2023, indicating a significant economic contribution to the region.