Monday, August 25, 2025
Mellanskog, one of Sweden’s leading forestry associations, has announced a price reduction for firewood and hardwood pulpwood, effective August 20, 2025. The decision comes as a result of a surplus in the market for these products, paired with the strengthening of the Swedish krona. This move also reflects broader changes within the forest industry, with the price of finished products dropping due to the increased availability of timber resources. The surplus of firewood has been further amplified by an unusually mild winter in 2025, which resulted in fewer heating demands and, consequently, an overproduction of firewood. This shift has affected the pricing of firewood and hardwood pulpwood, prompting Mellanskog to adjust its prices accordingly.
Fredrik Munter, CEO of Mellanskog, explained that the price reduction is a necessary response to the current market dynamics. “We are adjusting the price in line with the prevailing market conditions, ensuring the long-term interests of our members,” said Munter. “While firewood prices have decreased due to surplus, timber prices remain at high and stable levels. This presents a favourable environment for forest owners to manage their forests effectively.”
Mellanskog’s adjustment aims to reflect the realities of the market while ensuring that its members, who are predominantly forest owners, continue to benefit from competitive and fair pricing. Despite the dip in firewood and hardwood pulpwood prices, the organisation emphasises that timber prices remain strong and stable, offering a unique advantage to Mellanskog members.
As a cooperative, Mellanskog operates with a focus on fairness, transparency, and simplicity in pricing. The cooperative structure ensures that members, both large and small, are treated equally and are rewarded for their commitment to the association. By pooling resources and negotiating with purchasing industries, Mellanskog can secure the best possible prices for its members’ timber. “Transparency and fairness in timber pricing are crucial to the benefits our members experience,” Munter added. “Our pricing structure is designed to be clear and to create long-term value, ensuring that the cooperative continues to thrive for the benefit of its members.”
The history and legacy of Mellanskog
Founded in 1906 as the Dalarnas Forest Owners’ Association, Mellanskog’s roots go deep in Swedish forestry history. The association was born out of a desire to combat the monopolistic purchasing practices of forestry companies and landowners. By forming a collective, forest-owning farmers were able to create a functioning market for timber, ultimately leading to the formation of Mellanskog.
Mellanskog has grown significantly over the years. Today, the organisation has 28,700 members across Sweden, from Gotland in the south to Härjedalen in the north. It also operates in 23 countries globally, highlighting its expansive reach and influence in the forestry sector. With over 271 employees and an annual turnover of more than 5 billion SEK, Mellanskog remains a powerhouse in Sweden’s forest industry.
Mellanskog’s main objective is to ensure that forest owners receive fair prices for their timber. With the cooperative working on behalf of its members, the larger volume of timber it handles gives the association significant bargaining power when negotiating prices with the purchasing industries.
Mellanskog’s approach benefits forest owners in several ways. Not only does the cooperative secure favorable prices, but it also provides valuable advice and support on forest management. This guidance helps members improve the value of their properties and maximise the potential of their timber. For many forest owners, Mellanskog serves as a trusted partner, offering expertise that increases the value of their timber and land. While Mellanskog’s price reduction is a response to the current market conditions, the cooperative’s long-term vision remains focused on creating a sustainable and fair forestry market. With timber prices remaining stable and strong, forest owners are encouraged to continue managing their forests in ways that ensure healthy and profitable yields.
As the global demand for timber and other forest products continues to fluctuate, Mellanskog is committed to adapting to market shifts and supporting its members through these changes. The association’s strategy of transparency, fair pricing, and long-term thinking helps ensure that its members are well-positioned to thrive, regardless of short-term market fluctuations.
For Swedish forest owners, Mellanskog represents more than just a place to sell their timber. It is a partnership that provides security, market access, and a voice in an otherwise fragmented industry. With over a century of experience, Mellanskog remains a pillar of the Swedish forestry community and a model for similar organizations worldwide.
Mellanskog’s decision to reduce prices for firewood and hardwood pulpwood in August 2025 is a direct response to a market surplus and the strengthening of the Swedish krona. However, the cooperative’s commitment to providing stable and competitive timber prices for its members remains steadfast. By prioritizing transparency, fairness, and long-term value, Mellanskog continues to uphold its mission of supporting Swedish forest owners and maintaining a fair and efficient forestry market.
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Tags: forestry industry, forestry news, hardwood pulpwood, Mellanskog, timber raw materials
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