kebony, a leading enduring wood manufacturer, has announced the closure of its production facility in Skien, Norway, affecting most of its 58 employees. The decision comes after a thorough assessment of the challenging market conditions and financial viability, leading the company to focus operations solely at its plant in Antwerp, Belgium. CEO Tom Paemeleire expressed deep regret over the impact on staff, emphasizing the company’s commitment to supporting affected employees during this transition. Kebony aims to maintain non-production jobs and ensure continued delivery of high-quality products to its customers, reinforcing its dedication to sustainability in the industry.
Interview wiht Tom Paemeleire, CEO of Kebony: Navigating Market Challenges and Commitment to Sustainability
Editor: thank you for joining us today, tom.Kebony has recently announced the closure of its production facility in Skien, Norway. This must have been a arduous decision for the company.Can you share the key factors that led to this decision?
Tom Paemeleire: Thank you for having me. Yes, the closure of our Skien facility was not taken lightly. after a thorough assessment, we found that the challenging market conditions and financial viability necessitated this strategic shift. We are now focusing our operations solely at our plant in Antwerp, Belgium, wich allows us to consolidate our efforts and resources more effectively.
Editor: The closure affects most of your 58 employees in Skien. What measures is Kebony taking to support these staff members during this transition?
Tom Paemeleire: It’s truly regrettable to impact our dedicated employees.We are committed to providing support throughout this transition.This includes exploring opportunities for retraining and helping them find new employment. We aim to maintain non-production jobs as well,ensuring that we can continue delivering high-quality products to our customers while reinforcing our values of care and responsibility.
Editor: Speaking of values, Kebony is known for its dedication to sustainability. How does this decision align with your ongoing commitment to sustainable practices in the wood industry?
Tom Paemeleire: Sustainability remains at the core of what we do. By consolidating our operations in Antwerp, we can enhance our efficiency and reduce our environmental footprint. This move allows us to continue innovating and producing products that not only meet but exceed the sustainability standards in our industry. We will ensure that our commitment to quality and sustainability continues uninterrupted.
Editor: What insights can you share regarding the current state of the wood manufacturing industry, especially in terms of market challenges?
Tom Paemeleire: The wood manufacturing industry faces several challenges, including fluctuating demand, rising costs, and increased competition. Companies like Kebony are tasked with navigating these complexities while staying true to their sustainable roots. It’s crucial for us to remain agile, embrace technological advancements, and adapt to changing market conditions to stay competitive.
Editor: For readers interested in the wood manufacturing sector, what practical advice can you offer for businesses looking to thrive in such challenging times?
tom Paemeleire: My advice would be to focus on innovation and sustainability. Embrace new technologies that enhance production efficiency and product quality. Building strong relationships with customers and being transparent about your practices can also foster loyalty and trust. Lastly, always be prepared to adapt to market trends and shifts, as flexibility is vital in today’s landscape.
Editor: Thank you, Tom, for sharing your insights and the measures Kebony is taking to support its employees and maintain its commitment to sustainability.
Tom Paemeleire: Thank you for the prospect to discuss these critically important topics. We are focused on navigating this phase while staying true to our mission.