Stora Enso Plans Permanent Closure of Veitsiluoto Sawmill in Northern Finland
Paper Recycling | 2026-08-13 08:00:35
Under the current proposal, Veitsiluoto would remain shut after its temporary production stoppage and would not resume operations in October 2026.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Stora Enso is considering a major change to its sawmilling operations in northern Finland that could lead to the permanent closure of its Veitsiluoto sawmill in Kemi. The company plans to shift pine timber production to its other facilities, mainly the modern sawmills in Oulu and Kalajoki.
The proposed move is part of Stora Enso’s strategy to improve efficiency and strengthen the profitability and competitiveness of its operations. The company noted that it would require substantial investment to maintain production at the Veitsiluoto sawmill facility, which has been in operation for more than a century now.
The company has started change negotiations covering about 60 employees at the sawmill. The discussions are expected to continue for three weeks. Stora Enso clarified that no final decision on the closure or potential job cuts will be taken until the negotiations are completed. Also, the closure is expected to have only a minor impact on overall wood consumption, it noted.
Under the current proposal, Veitsiluoto would remain shut after its temporary production stoppage and would not resume operations in October 2026.
Matti Lielahti, Head of Stora Enso’s Oulu business unit, said the company is focused on handling the process responsibly and supporting employees during the negotiations. He also noted that the company’s modern Oulu sawmill is ramping up as planned.
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POLL
What is the main reason behind Stora Enso’s proposed sawmill restructuring?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Stora Enso considering closing the Veitsiluoto sawmill?
The company aims to improve efficiency, profitability and competitiveness. Maintaining production at the century-old facility would require significant investment.
- Where will production be moved if the closure proceeds?
Pine timber production is expected to be transferred primarily to Stora Enso’s modern sawmills in Oulu and Kalajoki.
- When could the sawmill cease operations permanently?
If approved, the Veitsiluoto facility would remain closed after its current temporary shutdown and would not restart production in October 2026.
