Sunds Fibertech has secured a significant contract from Medite Smartply, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of MDF and OSB products. The agreement covers a large-scale modernisation programme at Medite Smartply’s production facility in Clonmel, Ireland, marking one of the most notable investments in the European panelboard sector scheduled for 2026.
The initiative, known as Project SHINE, is focused on upgrading critical energy and drying systems at the facility. The project is expected to strengthen operational performance while supporting long-term sustainability objectives.
The contract further reinforces Sunds Fibertech’s position within the global panelboard industry. The company continues to expand its role as a technology partner for manufacturers seeking higher productivity, improved energy performance and future-ready production capabilities.
Project SHINE has been designed to address several strategic priorities. Operational efficiency will be enhanced. Energy consumption will be reduced. Environmental performance is expected to improve. The upgrades will also establish a stronger production platform capable of supporting future manufacturing requirements.
The investment reflects growing industry demand for modern production technologies. Manufacturers are increasingly looking for solutions that can improve competitiveness while supporting environmental goals.
As part of the agreement, Sunds Fibertech will supply two next-generation dryer modernisation systems. A comprehensive programmable logic controller (PLC) upgrade will also be delivered. The project scope includes advanced process technologies and energy-saving solutions developed to support long-term operational performance.
The installation of these systems is expected to contribute to higher production reliability. Greater process stability is anticipated. Manufacturing efficiency will be improved through enhanced control and optimisation capabilities.
For the panelboard sector, drying operations represent one of the most energy-intensive stages of production. Improvements in this area can generate substantial benefits. Reduced energy use can lower operating costs. Environmental impacts can also be minimised.
The modernisation project therefore carries significance beyond a single manufacturing facility. It highlights the broader direction of travel within the wood-based panel industry, where investment decisions are increasingly guided by efficiency, sustainability and digitalisation objectives.
Sunds Fibertech has developed a strong reputation for delivering specialised technologies across the panelboard production chain. Its expertise spans fibre preparation, drying processes and advanced process optimisation systems. These technologies are designed to help manufacturers improve production outcomes while reducing resource consumption.
The latest contract demonstrates continued confidence in those capabilities. It also reflects increasing demand for integrated solutions that combine commercial performance with measurable environmental improvements.
Project SHINE has been positioned as a benchmark initiative within the MDF manufacturing sector. Future-ready technologies will be incorporated throughout the upgraded systems. Long-term performance objectives have been prioritised. Sustainability targets are also being supported through the project framework.
Medite Smartply is pursuing ambitious environmental, social and governance goals. Energy performance improvements form an important part of that strategy. The planned upgrades are expected to contribute directly to those objectives by reducing energy intensity and strengthening operational resilience.
Industrial facilities across Europe are facing growing pressure to improve efficiency. Rising energy costs remain a challenge. Regulatory requirements continue to evolve. Customers are also demanding stronger sustainability credentials from suppliers.
Against this backdrop, investment in advanced process technologies is becoming increasingly important. Manufacturers are seeking solutions that deliver both economic and environmental value. Projects such as SHINE illustrate how these priorities can be aligned within large-scale industrial operations.
According to Sunds Fibertech, the partnership demonstrates how modern industrial development can successfully combine innovation and sustainability. The company believes advanced engineering solutions have a critical role to play in supporting the next generation of manufacturing facilities.
Kenth Eklund, President of Sunds Fibertech, highlighted the significance of the project and emphasised the importance of combining world-class technology with sustainable industrial practices. He noted that the company is proud to contribute as a key partner in the development of the initiative alongside Medite Smartply.
The panelboard industry continues to evolve rapidly. Greater emphasis is being placed on operational excellence. Digital control systems are becoming more sophisticated. Energy management has emerged as a central strategic priority.
At the same time, sustainability expectations continue to rise across global markets. Manufacturers are increasingly required to demonstrate measurable progress in reducing environmental impacts. Investments in energy-efficient production technologies are therefore becoming a critical competitive differentiator.
Sunds Fibertech’s contribution to Project SHINE reflects these broader industry trends. The company’s solutions are designed to help manufacturers adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining strong production performance.
Its portfolio includes technologies for both new installations and facility upgrades. Equipment can be tailored to meet specific operational requirements. This flexibility enables manufacturers to optimise production processes without compromising efficiency or environmental performance.
The Clonmel project represents an important milestone for both organisations. For Medite Smartply, it supports the development of a more efficient and sustainable production platform. For Sunds Fibertech, it strengthens its position as a trusted provider of advanced technologies for the global panelboard industry.
As implementation moves forward, Project SHINE is expected to establish new standards for operational performance, energy efficiency and sustainability within MDF manufacturing. The initiative demonstrates how strategic investment in modern process technology can support long-term industrial growth while advancing environmental objectives.
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