At a time when European policymakers are accelerating their focus on industrial competitiveness and preparing the post-2030 climate and circular economy agenda, CEI-Bois reaffirmed its role as the united voice of the European woodworking industries during its General Assembly held on 11 June in Helsinki.
© CEI-Bois
From the revision of the Bioeconomy Strategy to the upcoming Affordable Housing Plan, the sector is at the heart of crucial legislative processes. CEI-Bois continues to provide evidence based input and constructive proposals, supporting the recognition of wood as a strategic material for the green transition.
Over the past months, our Confederation has intensified its engagement with EU institutions, industry alliances, and Member States, advocating for coherent frameworks. In this context, governance and continuity remain key. The Chair, Mr Sampsa Auvinen, underlined this commitment by reporting to the General Assembly that the Board had formally endorsed the appointment of the Working Group Chairs for the 2025–2028 mandate.
This structured and forward-looking decision ensures that each thematic area will benefit from experienced leadership and strategic direction over the next three years:
- Sustainability Working Group – Mr Richards (Director, Policy and Regulations - Stora Enso, Wood Products Division)
- Construction Working Group – Mr Lechner (Deputy Managing Director and Head of the Construction Department - Association of the Austrian Wood Industries)
- R&D Working Group – Mr Elvnert (Secretary General - Forest-based Sector Technology Platform)
- Social Affairs Working Group – Ms Steinwall (Responsible for international employer affairs and negotiator - Swedish Association of Industrial Employers)
- Trade Working Group – Mr King (Strategic Advisor - SCA Products, UK)
These appointments reflect CEI-Bois' determination to reinforce continuity, empower sectoral expertise, and strengthen its collective voice in shaping the future of the European woodworking and timber industries.
The General Assembly also elected Mr Henrik Söderström, Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing at Metsä Wood, as a new Board Member. His deep knowledge of the sector and strong market orientation will contribute to the strategic guidance of CEI-Bois in the years to come. The General Assembly also provided a unique opportunity for participants to experience firsthand the strength, innovation, and sustainability of Finnish forestry and the wood-based sector.
It showcased how our industry is actively contributing to the EU's climate objectives and putting into practice the core principles of the New European Bauhaus: sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusion. From sustainable forest management to cutting-edge wood construction, field visits illustrated the essential role of well-managed forests in supporting carbon and water cycles, preserving biodiversity, and fostering the wellbeing of local communities.
Participants also had the chance to witness pioneering examples of timber architecture, including multi-storey wooden residential buildings developed as affordable and inclusive housing solutions. This year's event was further enriched by a keynote address from Mr Daniel Sazonov, Mayor of Helsinki.
His remarks highlighted the critical role of innovation, policy alignment, and strong public-private partnerships in advancing the contribution of wood to Europe's sustainable and climate-resilient future. CEI-Bois warmly thanks the Finnish Forest Industries Federation, as well as UPM, Stora Enso, and Metsä Group, for the excellent organisation of the General Assembly and site events!
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