90 years of forest industry history

1947 – The start of Metsäliitto cooperative 

Forest owners decided to join forces to establish a stronger position in timber trade negotiations. The operations started with shared sales, and in 1934 Metsäliitto Oy was established to broaden this with timber exports. The company has been a cooperative since 1947. It established its first sawmills in 1949 and expanded its operations into the chemical forest industry in the 1950s.

1960 onwards – Prosperity in Finland

The Finnish forest industry grew rapidly and became increasingly international from the 1960s onwards. It developed into one of the cornerstones of well-being and prosperity in Finland. Metsäliitto Cooperative expanded its operations as well. Important milestones included the formation of Metsä-Serla in 1986 and the growth and development of the pulp industry within Metsä-Botnia Oy. In the 1990s, a decade of rapid growth, Metsäliitto invested strongly in both the Finnish and international markets.

2005-2012 – Restructuring of operation

By the early 2000s, Metsäliitto Group had become an international forest group with more than 25,000 employees in dozens of countries. A systematic structural change was implemented between 2005 and 2012, with Metsäliitto Group changing its name to Metsä Group and renewing its corporate identity.

The decision to make large-scale operational changes, like numerous divestments and stopping the production of print paper, proved to be very successful. This change represented the final stage in a profound restructuring to create a unified and competitive forest industry group.

Today – Profitable growth

In 2020's Metsä Group is in a phase of strong, profitable growth. We have a strong belief in the future of the forest industry and the role of renewable products as substitutes for fossil materials. Our major investments are leading the way towards a fossil-free future.

And still today, our operations are founded on the principles of cooperation and working for the best of Finnish forest owners.