The new Baltic Timber plant in Inčukalns, Latvia

German wood processor Rettenmeier has opened a major new sawmill in Inčukalns, Latvia, strengthening its presence in the Baltic region.

The company, which began as a small family business and now employs more than 2,200 people across eight European sites, said the investment marks one of the most modern and largest sawmills in the Baltics.

The new Baltic Timber plant features a sawmill with a planned cutting capacity of more than one million solid cubic m of logs per year, supported by a sorting system. It also includes a new planing mill for further processed products and a pellet plant to recycle residual materials efficiently.

Rettenmeier said the expansion not only boosts production capacity but also improves energy efficiency and sustainability.

Its lumber drying systems are designed for precise, consistent product quality, while an integrated energy concept uses biomass cogeneration. Waste heat from the drying process is reused to heat new buildings via a low-temperature underfloor system.

Latvia, one of Europe’s most densely forested countries, provides direct access to spruce and pine, valued for their high density, fine growth rings and small branches. These qualities are suited for both structural and surface applications.

“This investment is a clear commitment to our location in Inčukalns and the unique raw materials that are available to us here in the heart of the Baltic region,” said Rolands Rimicāns, managing director of Baltic Timber. “We combine state-of-the-art technology with regional strength — creating the basis for sustainable growth and excellent wood products.”

Source: panelsfurnitureasia.com