News

Jaakko Pusa Joins Jartek as Service Manager

Jartek — Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Jartek has appointed Jaakko Pusa as Service Manager, reinforcing the company’s focus on high-quality lifecycle services and long-term customer support.

In this role, Pusa will take responsibility for developing Jartek’s service operations and ensuring that customers receive consistent, proactive support throughout the entire lifecycle of their solutions.

Driving service beyond traditional expectations

With a background in the wood products industry and customer-focused operations, Pusa brings first-hand experience of day-to-day production. He has developed solutions for production environments that improve reliability, efficiency, and overall performance.

At Jartek, services are increasingly seen as a core part of the overall solution offering rather than a separate function.

“Jaakko brings the right combination of hands-on experience and a forward-looking mindset. He understands how service can directly support our customers’ business and help them get more value from their investment,” says Jesse Kiuru, Purchasing Manager at Jartek.

A broader view on the role of services

For Pusa, stepping into the role is an opportunity to further develop how services support customers in a changing industry environment.

“I’m excited to join Jartek and contribute to developing our service offering. Service is about so much more than just spare parts, it’s about keeping production running smoothly, improving performance, and being a reliable partner to our customers every day,” says Jaakko Pusa.

He highlights the importance of understanding customer operations in depth:

“When we truly understand how our customers work, we can anticipate needs, respond faster, and offer solutions that make a real difference in their daily operations.”

Strengthening long-term partnerships through service

Jartek continues to invest in its service capabilities as part of its broader strategy to deliver complete, lifecycle-oriented solutions. The goal is to combine technical expertise with proactive support models that improve predictability, and long-term performance.

With Pusa leading the service function, Jartek aims to further develop its service approach to better meet evolving customer expectations and support the competitiveness of modern sawmill operations.

Jaakko Pusa, Jartek's Service Manager.

Jartek Partners with Japan-Based Koeki Ltd.

Jartek — Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Lahti, Finland – May 2026 – Jartek has signed a partnership agreement with Koeki Ltd., a Japan-based company with extensive experience in working with Finnish industrial partners. The collaboration aims to strengthen Jartek’s presence in the Japanese market and provide advanced automation solutions for the sawmill industry. The partnership commenced in early 2026.

Koeki Ltd. brings decades of experience in cooperation with Finnish companies and has established a strong position within the Japanese forest and sawmill industry. The collaboration provides Jartek with valuable local expertise and access to well-developed networks in the market.

The Japanese sawmill industry is currently undergoing a significant transformation, with increasing focus on automation and efficiency in production lines. Jartek is well positioned to respond to this development by offering solutions that improve productivity, quality, and overall competitiveness.

“Japan is a strategically important market for us, and the cooperation with Koeki provides an excellent platform to grow and meet the evolving needs of our customers,” says Kari Puustinen, VP of Sales, Jartek.

As a result of the cooperation, the companies have already concluded their first deal together. Read more about the project here.

Through this partnership, Jartek and Koeki aim to establish a long-term cooperation and pursue new opportunities in the Japanese market.

For more information
Kari Puustinen
VP of Sales, Jartek
kari.puustinen@jartek.com

Johannes Hujanen Appointed Automation Manager at Jartek

Jartek — Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Lahti, Finland - January 2026 - Jartek has appointed Johannes Hujanen as the company’s new Automation Manager. In his new role, Hujanen will lead the development of Jartek’s automation business and continue strengthening the company’s position as a provider of intelligent, customer-driven solutions for the sawmill industry.

The appointment follows Heikki Laaki’s transition into the role of Chief Technology Officer and ensures continuity in Jartek’s long-term technology strategy.

Strong expertise in industrial development and factory systems

Hujanen is a professional in industrial business development and project management, with extensive experience in factory systems and automation environments. He has contributed to the development of scalable, user-oriented solutions that support operational efficiency and long-term business performance.

According to Heikki Laaki, the appointment is a natural step in Jartek’s development:

“Johannes combines deep technical understanding with a strong business perspective. He can see the big picture while still understanding the critical details. I am extremely confident that under his leadership, our automation business will continue to evolve in line with our long-term technology strategy,” says Heikki Laaki, CTO at Jartek.

Continuity in technology strategy and customer focus

As Automation Manager, Hujanen will be responsible for advancing automation across Jartek’s full solution portfolio, including sorting lines, sawmill solutions, and thermally modified wood technologies.

For Hujanen, the new role represents both responsibility and opportunity:

“I’m excited and honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time for the industry. Automation, digitalization, and data-driven development are transforming how production is optimized and managed. Our mission is to turn technological complexity into clear, user-friendly solutions that genuinely support our customers’ competitiveness,” says Johannes Hujanen.

He emphasizes that close collaboration between technology, project execution, and customer operations will be essential:

“The future of automation lies in intelligent systems that are not only powerful but also intuitive and adaptable. At Jartek, we have a strong foundation to build on, and I look forward to working with our talented team to take the next step forward.”

Building the future of intelligent sawmill automation

Jartek continues to invest strongly in automation, digitalization, and AI-driven solutions. With Hujanen leading the automation business and Laaki overseeing the company’s broader technology development as CTO, Jartek is well positioned to support sawmills in navigating the ongoing technological transformation.

The company’s vision remains clear: intelligent control systems, seamless software integration, and data-driven optimization will become a natural part of modern sawmill production delivering measurable efficiency, flexibility, and long-term competitiveness.

Johannes Hujanen, Automation Manager at Jartek.

Jartek Partners with Western Forest Products to Deliver Thermal Modification Kiln

Admin — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Lahti, Finland - January 2026 - Jartek has signed an agreement to supply a thermal modification kiln to Western Forest Products. The installation of the kiln is scheduled for May 2026.

The kiln will support Western Forest Products’ plans to expand its thermally modified wood offering, with a strong focus on consistent product quality and efficient production. The solution delivered by Jartek is specifically designed to meet Western Forest Products’ production requirements.

“Western Forest Products selected Jartek as its preferred vendor for thermal modification technology after thorough research and due diligence of available global options. Jartek’s established leadership in thermal modification and proven technology made it the clear choice. Western is excited to move forward with Jartek on this important strategic initiative,” shares Mark Dubois-Phillips, Director, Business Development at Western Forest Products.

Jeroen Hinnen, Sales Manager North America at Jartek, highlights the importance of the project for the company.

“This project is particularly exciting for us at Jartek, as it represents one of our first thermal modification projects in this region,” says Hinnen. “Partnering with Western Forest Products allows us to demonstrate how our customizable technology can support local market needs and long-term production goals.”

The project also aligns closely with Western Forest Products’ five-year vision to expand manufacturing capacity, improve fiber utilization, and add value to lower-grade materials—while fostering mutually beneficial partnerships to grow domestic demand.

Jartek’s thermal modification technology is designed to deliver flexibility, precise process control, and long-term reliability. This project reflects Jartek’s continued focus on providing customized solutions that meet the evolving needs of companies looking to enter or expand within the wood thermal modification market.

Jartek establishes U.S. and Canadian subsidiaries, Appoints Jeroen Hinnen as sales manager:: Jartek

Admin — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Lahti, Finland - January 2026 - Jartek has established Jartek US Inc. in the United States and Les Entreprises Jartek Canada Inc. in Canada. These new subsidiaries provide a clear organizational framework for serving customers across North America and demonstrate Jartek’s long-term commitment to the region.

The establishment of a local presence supports the continued development of Jartek’s global operations and strengthens its international footprint. This approach enhances customer collaboration and enables more efficient project execution throughout North America.

To further support regional sales activities, Jartek has appointed Jeroen Hinnen as Sales Manager for North America. Hinnen brings a vast experience in the wood industry, along with extensive expertise in industrial automation, international sales, and customer-oriented project delivery.

“A strong local presence and experienced professionals are essential to operating successfully on a global scale. By establishing subsidiaries in the US and Canada and appointing a dedicated Sales Manager for North America, we are better positioned to support customers throughout the region,” says Jartek’s CEO Juho Luoranen.

Jartek currently has two active projects underway in North America. A thermal modification kiln project for Arbor Wood is in the installation phase. In addition, Jartek has a new kiln project in the pipeline with Western Forest Products, where engineering and project preparations are ongoing and installation is scheduled for May 2026.

“I am pleased to join Jartek at a time when concrete projects are already underway in North America. Jartek’s strong technical expertise and customer-focused approach provide a solid foundation for supporting customers in the region,” says Jeroen Hinnen.

With established subsidiaries in both the United States and Canada, a dedicated Sales Manager for North America, and ongoing customer projects, Jartek continues to strengthen its global operations while maintaining a strong focus on technical expertise and reliable project delivery.

Jeroen Hinnen, Sales Manager for North America at Jartek.

Celebrating 25 years of Thermally Modified Wood - Jartek

Admin — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 18:00:00 GMT

“One of our earliest thermal modification kilns was 70 meters long and needed an industrial hall around it: each process phase - high-temperature drying, thermal modification, conditioning and cooling - was separate from another. This spring we launched a mini ThermoWood® chamber that can process small batches of wood with a fraction of the original volumes”, says Timo Tetri.

Tetri was the first full-time employee to join Jartek’s thermal modification kiln business in the year 2000. Originally a project manager, Tetri has since acted as product, business development and operational manager - roles that led him to his current position as Senior Advisor.

In the early years, he travelled the world looking for business opportunities for thermally modified wood in the US, Canada, South-East Asia, New Zealand and Europe. Today, Tetri is a sought after person at the office: people consult him on sales, business and project related questions.

He is also a long-time chair of the board at the International ThermoWood Association (ITWA), the members of which co-operate to enhance the use of ThermoWood® products. “Now that my career is at the end of its life cycle, my chair responsibilities will soon be taken over by Tuuli Luoranen, also chair of the board at Jartek”, he says with a smile.

The beginning of the wood thermal modification revolution

“In the early 1990’s, several large companies in the Finnish forest industry together with VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland were researching a new wood treatment method. The aim was to develop an alternative to chemical impregnation of wood and provide locally grown substitutes for tropical wood”, Tetri says.

This alternative was a thermal modification process that was designed to activate a natural reaction in the chemistry of wood itself with heat. A reaction that would help prevent the wood from decay and improve its technical qualities like dimensional stability and warping resistance. The end-product of this process is today known as ThermoWood®.

Tetri has been involved in the commercialization of thermally modified wood from the start of industrial production of ThermoWood®.

The original patents for the industrial scale ThermoWood® process were granted to VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland. When the ITWA was established in the year 2000, members received a license to these patents, some years later the patents were purchased from VTT to benefit the members of the association.

ThermoWood® was first produced by pioneers in small-scale mills, catering to local market needs around the world. The first Jartek chamber was delivered to its customer in 1998. In the early 2000’s the association started controlling the quality of the ThermoWood® process worldwide.

After 2005, global production volumes started to grow. “In 2010, ITWA started a project to check if the process needed altering in any way. As it turned out, we were already doing the right things and things right. The members of the association produce ThermoWood® on an industrial scale and have seen tremendous growth in product demand since”, Tetri concludes.

Understanding the delicate nature of the thermal modification process

Every species of wood reacts to thermal modification differently, so understanding how to optimize the process for different wood types is key. At Jartek, we are the only technology provider of ITWA. Our chambers guarantee the production of a high-quality and consistent end product that is sold under the ThermoWood® brand.

“The kiln construction has to be done carefully and the applications for each type of wood chosen correctly, to make sure that the material is suitable for its end-use and meets the quality requirements of the brand. The ITWA publishes a ThermoWood® handbook, making it easier to succeed in the manufacture and use of this wonderful material”, Tetri says.

“Jartek chambers are always tailored to fit the most common wood batches and dimensions that our customer produces. This helps our customers avoid bottlenecks and unnecessary work in their production. We also help our customers find the right parameters and formulas for treating different types of wood”, Luoranen continues.

During their history, our chambers have seen a number of technological advancements: their energy sources are moving from fossil fuels and natural gas to electricity, their reliability, usability and maintainability have been improved, their use life lengthened and their control system, logic and user interface completely renewed. A lot of research has also gone to optimizing air circulation within the kiln, to ensure consistent end-product quality.

“Working directly with our customers is the best way to move the technology and the whole industry forward. We are pleased that so many of our customers are willing to grow and increase their production capacity with us. We are here to support them every step of the way”, Tetri says.

The ITWA develops ThermoWood® for the whole industry’s benefit

Only a few of the original players from the 1990’s are still invested in the business. “Especially a lot of pioneers from Germany, France, Eastern Canada and the East Coast of the US have disappeared from the market during the years”, Tetri says.

As a neutral party, the ITWA cares for the interests of all players in the market from equipment manufacturers to wood producers and end-users. After early years, the association has welcomed new members, with producers increasing their capacity and conquering new markets. According to Tetri, the association and its concept is key to growing the industry and introducing new products under the trademark.

“The members contribute to research and testing of e.g. new raw materials and surface treatments. When everyone participates in the costs and shares the risks, the benefits are also available to everyone. Together we can move forward faster”, Tetri says.

A promise for the next 25 years of ThermoWood® with Jartek

The global production volumes of ThermoWood® exceeded 280 000m³ in 2024, when the volume in the early 2000’s was only 20 000m³. 99% of it is exported from Finland to 30-50 countries around the world. The most typical end-uses for ThermoWood® are external cladding, terraces, windows and sauna interiors, where they replace impregnated or tropical woods. In addition to ThermoWood® production, many companies also use Jartek’s thermal modification kilns to manufacture high-quality thermally modified wood that they market under their own brands, further showcasing the versatility and reliability of Jartek’s technology.

The use of thermally modified wood is likely to increase worldwide along with the general use of wood as a construction material. The growth in demand is due to more environmentally friendly choices made both in the manufacturing and end use of wood, and the ease of disposing of non-toxic materials compared to chemically treated ones.

The biggest threats to the industry are the insecurities concerning the global economy. Another threat are the organizations that try to copy the treatment methods and sell non-standardized, poor quality wood under the ThermoWood® brand.

The association and Jartek as head of it promise to keep safeguarding the trademark and its reputation, and increase the usage of this beautiful wood material.

“We will continue being the forerunner and a responsible, reliable player in the thermally modified wood market. We will stay close to our customers and their end-customers, listen to their needs and find new ways to advance the technology - to continue ensuring the best possible end quality and future for ThermoWood® products”, Luoranen promises.

Looking Ahead – and Looking Back

After nearly three decades of advancing thermal modification technology, Timo Tetri will retire at the end of October 2025, leaving behind a legacy that has helped shape not only Jartek’s direction but the entire ThermoWood® industry. His career has spanned the evolution of thermal modification from experimental technology to a globally trusted process — one that now defines sustainable wood modification.

Reflecting on the journey, Tetri says:

“When I started, we were experimenting with what was still essentially an unproven idea. Today, ThermoWood® is an international benchmark for ecological, durable wood products. It’s been fascinating to witness how innovation, persistence and collaboration have turned thermal modification into a mature, globally respected process.

Looking forward, I see enormous potential — especially as construction and design move toward more sustainable materials. Jartek’s strength lies in our ability to keep developing reliable, efficient technology while staying close to our customers. I believe Jartek will continue to lead this transformation — combining engineering expertise with a genuine understanding of what the market needs next.”

As Tetri steps into retirement, Jartek’s team, customers and partners thank him for his insight, dedication and pioneering spirit — qualities that will continue to inspire the next generation of innovators in the ThermoWood® story.

25 years of development – from 70 metres to modern thermal modification kilns.

Jartek to Supply Green and Dry Sorting Lines to Kushiro Wood Products:: Jartek

Admin — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Lahti, Finland – October 2025 – Jartek has signed a significant contract with the Japanese sawmill company Kushiro Wood Products (KWP). The delivery includes green and dry sorting lines as well as conveyors from the sawline. The project is scheduled for completion in early 2028.

Kushiro Wood Products is a joint venture led by Sunadaya Cypress, a family-owned company with over 120 years of history. Sunadaya currently operates two sawmills in the Matsuyama area, and with this investment, the company is expanding its operations to Kushiro, on the island of Hokkaido.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Automation

The new plant in Kushiro will be one of the most advanced of its kind, even by European standards. The delivery features Jartek’s latest automation solutions, including automated stick quality grading and the AR-HUB system, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and quality in sawmill operations.

“This is a highly significant project both technically and strategically. The Japanese market emphasizes precision and quality, and we are proud that Jartek’s technology and expertise are recognized as top tier,” says Kari Puustinen, VP of Sales at Jartek.

Jartek’s International Growth Continues

This project further strengthens Jartek’s position as a global leader in sawmill solutions, automation, and technology. The collaboration with KWP and Sunadaya Cypress also opens new opportunities for future projects in Japan and across Asia.

Jartek secures key project at Norra Timber’s Hissmofors sawmill :: Jartek

Admin — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Lahti, Finland – September 2025 – Jartek has secured a landmark agreement with Norra Timber for a significant production line scale delivery to modernize the green sorting line and stick stacking at their Hissmofors sawmill in Sweden. A key element of the delivery is Jartek’s automation solution, which will also be integrated into the existing plant alongside the extensively modernized sections. This delivery marks an important milestone for Jartek, strengthening the company’s presence in Sweden and reinforcing its commitment to long-term growth in the market.

Hissmofors is one of Norra Timber’s key sawmills, combining a long industrial tradition with modern, efficient production. Since the early 1980s the mill has been continuously developed into a state-of-the-art facility, featuring a fully optimized saw line and a versatile planing mill. With strong logistical connections and its own biomass heating plant that even supplies surplus heat to the local community, Hissmofors stands as a model of sustainable and competitive sawmill operations.

The investment underscores Jartek’s dedication to the Swedish sawmill industry, further supported by the establishment of Jartek Nordic AB, a local subsidiary focused on serving customers across Sweden with tailored solutions and close collaboration.

“We are proud to have earned the trust of Norra Timber for this significant delivery,” says Kari Puustinen, VP of Sales at Jartek. “This project not only strengthens our presence in Sweden but also demonstrates our capability to provide innovative and efficient solutions that support our customers’ growth and competitiveness.”

According to Hissmofors sawmill manager Thomas Haiduga, Norra Timber was particularly impressed by the solutions presented during reference visits as well as by Jartek’s professionalism.

The new production lines will play a key role in supporting Norra Timber’s ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen their sawmill operations in northern Sweden.

With this delivery, Jartek builds on its strong track record of developing advanced and reliable sawmill technology while also demonstrating its commitment to investing in international growth.

Photo: William Falk / Norra Timber

Jartek establishes Swedish subsidiary, Appoints Juha Ropilo as sales manager

Admin — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Lahti, Finland – September 2025 – Jartek is taking a step in expanding its international efforts by establishing a new subsidiary, Jartek Nordic AB in Sweden. This move underlines the company’s commitment to the Swedish market and its long-term growth strategy in Scandinavia.

To further accelerate growth, Jartek has appointed Juha Ropilo as Sales Manager, focusing particularly on the Swedish market. With almost four decades of experience in the sawmill and wood processing industries, Ropilo brings a deep understanding of customer needs and a proven track record in international sales and management.

Ropilo has previously held various leadership positions in the wood processing sector, ranging from Technical Manager to Sales Director and Managing Director. His extensive experience in both technical and commercial aspects of the wood processing sector make him an ideal addition to the team Jartek.

“Establishing Jartek Nordic AB in Sweden marks a new chapter for us. The Swedish market is strategically important, and we see great opportunities to support our customers with innovative solutions and strong local presence. With Juha joining the team, we are confident that we can further strengthen our position,” says Chair of the Board Tuuli Luoranen.

“I am excited to join Jartek at this stage of growth. Having spent a significant part of my career working with Scandinavian sawmills and wood industry experts, I believe we can bring real value to our Swedish customers by combining Jartek’s expertise with a more direct presence,” adds Juha Ropilo.

With Jartek Nordic AB, the company looks forward to building closer relationships with customers in Sweden and supporting the industry with high-quality solutions tailored to local needs. The first successful steps in customer collaboration have now been taken, and Jartek is eager to continue building on this foundation.

Juha Ropilo
Sales Manager
tel. +358 50 556 1393
juha.ropilo@jartek.fi

Jartek Calculates Company's Carbon Footprint to Support More Responsible Operations

Admin — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT

By participating in the Finland Chamber of Commerce’s Climate Program, we were able to officially calculate our company’s carbon footprint. According to the 2024 assessment, Jartek’s Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions totaled 99.6 tCO2e. Our Chair of the Board, Tuuli Luoranen, highlights the strategic importance of sustainability efforts: "We see sustainability first and foremost as an opportunity. We're interested in how considering the environment can create a competitive advantage and deliver value to our customers. We're open to new ideas and want to develop these solutions together with our partners."

Measuring our carbon footprint helps us identify areas of improvement and make better decisions based on these facts. It increases transparency in our operations and supports our goals to improve processes, use resources more wisely, and reduce emissions where possible.

We closely follow the development of regulations related to sustainability reporting, especially the implications of the EU’s ESG framework. This enables us to integrate climate objectives into our strategic planning and risk management in a more natural and effective way.

Calculating our carbon footprint is just the first step towards more transparent and sustainable operations. The Finland Chamber of Commerce’s Climate Program provided us with a clear and practical way to get started, and we highly recommend this path to other companies as well. Collaboration with our customers and partners will remain a key part of our progress.