Strength from the North, Global Opportunities

Mr. Kainer, how do you assess Pfeifer’s current development in Finlan

Development in Finland is very positive. Here in the North, we build on a strong industrial foundation, with exceptionally high forestry expertise. We are systematically expanding these strengths. Our focus is on sustainably strengthening our Northern Finnish sites through targeted investments while closely integrating them into the European network of the Pfeifer Group.

What exactly defines Northern Finland’s special position?

Clearly, it lies in product quality. This results from the combination of exceptional raw materials and the people who refine them. The climatic conditions in Northern Finland lead to slow tree growth, resulting in narrow annual rings, high raw density, and very stable material properties. At the same time, local teams bring tremendous experience and expertise. Employees have a deep familiarity with the material. In our plants, you can sense great care and a strong pride in what is produced here.

What impresses you about the expertise in Finland?

Finland plays a leading role in Europe in many areas—such as digital transformation and forestry. We see a high level of professionalism and experience here. As a Group, we can learn a great deal from this.

Our goal is to combine this local expertise with Pfeifer’s international perspective to create additional value.

What characterizes Pfeifer’s international perspective?

One of Pfeifer’s key strengths is its high-performing, internationally oriented sales network. We combine the quality and origin of Northern Finnish products with this market access. This allows us to fully leverage the opportunities for these products and sustainably strengthen our competitive position.

With Pfeifer Nordics, you are establishing a new product line. What defines it?

With Pfeifer Nordics, we are creating an independent premium brand for wood products from Northern Finland.

Under the claim “Premium Redwood from the Arctic Circle,” we place particular emphasis on origin and quality.

The region around the Arctic Circle and its resulting material properties form a key anchor. We will continue to develop this clear value proposition and make it visible in our markets.

Speaking of the market: how do you assess the development of the European timber industry?

The industry is undergoing structural change and becoming increasingly international. Competitiveness requires investment capacity, efficient structures, and strong market access. As part of an integrated corporate group, we are well positioned to actively shape this development. Finland plays an important role in the future development of the Pfeifer Group.

If people in Finland ask what Pfeifer stands for as a company—what is your answer?

Pfeifer is a family-owned company with a clear long-term vision. We stand for reliability, sustainable development, and partnership-based collaboration. These values shape our actions in all regions. I would also like to add that I am proud to be part of this company and to represent these values.

What are your personal expectations for the coming years?

I am convinced that by combining regional expertise with international strength, we will further expand our position. I look forward to continuing to develop our Finnish sites and strengthening our international presence.

And personally, I hope to find time one day to go fishing in the magnificent nature of Northern Finland.