In today’s world, UPM Plywood is a global player with roots in Finland dating back to the 19th century. The founder of UPM’s plywood business, Wilhelm Schauman was an entrepreneur, who continuously established new businesses.

After seeing the potential of plywood, he established a mill in Jyväskylä, Finland in 1912. Although Schaumann wasn’t the first plywood manufacturer, his company used modern manufacturing methods.

Since the beginning of the forest industry, UPM has been at the forefront of plywood production. The group’s first mechanical pulp mill, paper mills and sawmills started operations in the early 1870s. Pulp production began in the 1880s and paper conversion began in the 1920s with plywood production launching in the following decade.

UPM then established a presence in plywood through its subsidiary, WISA Plywood.

Wisa Plywood’s history is one of innovation, craftsmanship, and unwavering pursuit of excellence in the plywood industry. From its humble beginnings to its current global prominence, Wisa Plywood has left an indelible mark for wood-based panels.

The joining of veneers was one of the biggest innovations in plywood manufacturing. Jointing veneers reuses wood waste that was previously thrown away. The company started processing plywood in the 1960s. The WISA-Form panel was introduced followed by the launch of the WISA . Today, special plywood represents a significant share of total production, surpassing bulk products in 1976.

Universal Plywoods’ partnership with Wisa Plywood has resulted in a dynamic duo, challenging conventions and redefining the plywood landscape. UP is one of the biggest distributors in Southern Africa and adheres to the same passion for excellence and vision for innovation. For further information, contact Universal Plywoods. Universal Plywoods have branches in Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban and Ballito. You will be given expert advice and guidance.