Raute acquires Metriguard lumber & veneer grading equipment
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Pictured is Tapani Kiiski, president and CEO of Raute Corp. (left), with Jim Logan (right), president and founder of Metriguard Inc. Photo: Metriguard.com

PULLMAN, Wash. - Raute Corp. has acquired Metriguard Inc., a manufacturer of lumber and veneer grading equipment based in Pullman, Washington. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. The company will become a Raute’s subsidiary under the name Metriguard Technologies Inc.

The Finland-based Raute supplies machinery, systems and technology for the production of plywood and veneer including log handling, peeling, drying, veneer handling, plywood layup and pressing, panel handling and automation, and control. In announcing the acquisition, the company noted that Metriguard’s products and technology are complementary to the company's current product offerings.

"Raute's strategy is to provide technology to our customers to help them run their business in a profitable way, but strength grading technology has been missing from our offering. With Metriguard's technology, and its solid and well recognized brand, we will be able to offer even more comprehensive solutions," said Raute President and CEO Tapani Kiiski.

"We believe this acquisition will help Raute grow and open new opportunities for Metriguard."

Metriguard will continue to operate in Pullman, noted James D. Logan, P.E., Metriguard president and founder.  “We are really pleased to be working with Raute, a global company with a most excellent reputation for quality of products and service. Metriguard's customers can look forward to a continuing supply of outstanding production line and quality control test equipment as well new developments that will enhance performance of existing equipment and provide new functionality.”

Established in 1972, Metriguard supplies and services a domestic and international customer base for the high-speed grading equipment. The subsidiary's financials will be reported as part of Raute’s wood products technology segment.

Raute also has production plants in Kajaani, Finland, the Vancouver area of Canada and in the Shanghai area of China. The company’s net sales in 2016 were EUR 113.1 million.

 

 

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Karen Koenig | Editor

Karen M. Koenig has more than 30 years of experience in the woodworking industry, including visits to wood products manufacturing facilities throughout North America, Europe and Asia. As editor of special publications under the Woodworking Network brand, including the Red Book Best Practices resource guide and website, Karen’s responsibilities include writing, editing and coordinating of editorial content. She is also a contributor to FDMC and other Woodworking Network online and print media owned by CCI Media. She can be reached at [email protected]