Wednesday, January 7, 2026
STIGA RM, a leading name in Latvia’s wood processing sector, has marked an important milestone with the launch of construction for a new wood processing mill in Ogre. The ceremony took place at the “Norupes” site in Tīnūži Parish, Ogre Municipality, where the company symbolically placed a time capsule in the foundations of the new facility. This marks the beginning of the development of one of the most advanced plywood mills in Northern Europe.
The project, set to unfold in two phases, is a significant step in the growth of Latvia’s wood industry. By 2029, STIGA RM’s new mill will contribute to the production of high-quality birch plywood and help solidify the company’s role as an international leader in wood processing.
Investing in Latvia’s Wood Industry
The new mill is being constructed on a site that once hosted a sawmill, a transformation that supports the company’s vision for long-term sustainable development. The first phase of the project, set to be completed by 2026, will involve the construction of a 14,500 m² veneer production facility. This phase is expected to create 50 new jobs, with an annual production capacity of 50,000 m³ of veneer.
The second phase, which will be completed by 2029, will add a further 18,500 m² birch plywood production facility. This expansion will create an additional 200 jobs and will increase the mill’s annual output to 80,000 m³ of birch plywood. Upon completion, STIGA RM’s new Norupe facility will employ 250 specialists and export high-value products to more than 60 countries.
A Strategic Investment for the Future
The total investment in this project will amount to €92 million. Of this, €34.6 million will be provided through STIGA RM’s own funding, while €47.4 million will come from OP Corporate Bank loans. Additionally, €10 million will be granted as a loan from the Development Finance Institution ALTUM under the Large Investment Loans with Capital Discount programme.
“By laying this capsule in the foundation of our new mill, we are symbolically laying the foundation for the next stage of our company’s development,” said Andris Ramoliņš, Owner and Chairman of the Board of STIGA RM. He further added, “We believe in the future of high value-added products made in Latvia—products that strengthen both our local economy and Latvia’s reputation in international markets.”
A Symbol of Growth and Prosperity
As part of the time capsule ceremony, several symbolic items were placed to represent the company’s values and vision for the future. These included local and national newspapers, samples of birch plywood, a traditional Latvian ornament known as the “wooden jumis,” and a commemorative euro coin featuring a sunflower. This coin symbolises peace, growth, and prosperity, sending a message to future generations.
Strengthening Latvia’s Economy with New Jobs and Investment
The launch of the new plywood mill in Ogre is not just an investment in STIGA RM’s future but in Latvia’s economy as well. Jānis Irbe, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Climate and Energy, highlighted the broader significance of the project, stating, “A high value-added product means establishing a production chain here in Latvia. It means new jobs, new homes, and new lives. It means putting down roots in our country.”
He continued, “Today, STIGA RM demonstrates that we can build companies that not only produce competitive products but also strengthen the development of new, non-standard types of production in our national economy.”
Project Overview
About STIGA RM
STIGA RM, a family-owned company based in Tukums, Latvia, has been at the forefront of sustainable forest management since its founding in 1994. The company operates on over 12,500 hectares of land, much of it consisting of woodlands. Their commitment to sustainable forest management practices has helped establish them as a leader in Latvia’s forestry industry.
STIGA RM’s existing factory in Kuldīga produces birch plywood from high-quality Latvian birch, while the company is also in the process of constructing the world’s most advanced production facility for Wood Wool Cement Board (WWCB) in Tukums. Additionally, STIGA RM operates the largest fleet of log trucks in the Baltic and Scandinavian regions, providing roundwood transportation services.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Latvia’s Wood Processing Industry
The new plywood mill in Ogre represents a substantial investment in Latvia’s wood processing sector and will play a key role in meeting the growing global demand for high-quality birch plywood. The development of this state-of-the-art facility, combined with the company’s commitment to sustainability and job creation, positions STIGA RM as a leader in the European wood processing industry.
As construction progresses, STIGA RM continues to build its legacy as a company that not only drives innovation but also supports the long-term growth of Latvia’s economy and its global reputation in the wood processing market.
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Tags: Latvia Wood Industry, plywood mill, Stiga RM, wood industry growth, wood processing Latvia, woodworking industry, woodworking UK
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