Marilla Hokkasen faced a challenging transition as she started her first day at Metsä Wood’s new factory in Äänekoski after a long furlough and years at a plywood factory.
On August 4, 2025, Marilla Hokkasen was both excited and anxious as she began her first day at the new glue laminated timber factory in Äänekoski, following a lengthy furlough and almost 30 years of experience in the plywood industry at Suolahti. The transition to the new factory posed immediate challenges, as the initial weeks were spent in meetings and training sessions rather than on the factory floor due to construction still being underway. This environment required strict adherence to safety and operational protocols, underscoring the significant shift in Hokkasen's professional landscape.
The establishment of this new factory reflects a broader trend in the forestry industry, where experts have long advocated for an increase in the level of processing wood undergoes. Glue laminated timber is known for its high processing value within wood products, making it a desirable commodity. Despite the construction market in Europe facing challenges, the demand for glue laminated timber has remained relatively stable. This resilience indicates potential growth and opportunities for workers like Hokkasen, who are transitioning to new roles in this evolving sector.
The impact of automation, evidenced by the installation of 300 surveillance cameras at the factory, suggests a move towards greater efficiency and safety in production processes, which could further shape the nature of work in the timber industry. As Metsä Wood increases its capacity to produce higher-value wood products, this shift not only transforms the landscape for those directly employed at the factory but also hints at larger changes within the industry in Finland and beyond, as it adapts to meet both market demands and sustainability considerations.
