Komatsu Forest in Umeå is implementing one of the largest investments in industrial Sweden right now.
Komatsu Forest is one of the world's leading manufacturers of forest machines. The company sells its products all over the world and is wholly owned by the Japanese company Komatsu Ltd. Komatsu Forest is now making one of its biggest investments ever and it will take place in Umeå, Sweden. Komatsu Forest claims that it will be a “future-proof factory” in large format, with a focus on sustainable production. The company's investment further strengthens the region's position as a leader in the field of forest technology.
Komatsu sees the forest industry as an industry for the future, with new innovative and climate-smart products produced from wood fibre. Komatsu Forest has both headquarters and manufacturing in Umeå, where approximately 530 of the company's employees are located. The new factory will be built in the industrial area of Klockarbäcken on the outskirts of the city. Komatsu Forest has carried out a feasibility study to assess the entire project, including construction and transfer of operations while keeping the high productivity levels intact. The start of construction is estimated to be May 2019 and the plan is that the finished factory will be inaugurated in 2021. The factory will be a unique landmark with its nearly 40,000 m2 of space divided into production area on two floors and an associated office building of six floors.
Komatsu Forest will use the new factory to lay the foundation for the next generation of forest machines. In the new premises, they will be able to accommodate both production and development. The factory will meet current needs but also gives room to grow for the future. The factory will be carbon neutral in its production, which is achieved through efficient energy supply with solar panels, modern building techniques and geo energy. The location at Klockarbäcken in Umeå is also an important factor, since the proximity to the railway means that an increased share of the company's goods can be transported by rail. Other advantages include better quality monitoring, availability and safety, and customers will experience higher flexibility and shorter lead times. The new factory is hoped to further strengthen the region's position as a leader in the field of forest technology. Source