In Skåne, not far from where Sweden's motorways meet, lies Klippan. A small mill town linked to a paper mill, namely Klippans mill, which was built at a rapid on the Rönne River in 1573.
Interwoven History
We have come to Klippans mill. One of our oldest customers to whom we have supplied pulp since we started production in Mönsterås in 1958. We also owned the mill from 1976 to 1989.
– During the years Södra owned Klippans mill, white and colored fine paper, special paper, stamp paper, and soft paper were produced, most of which was converted into various products, says Lennart.
After the sale of Klippans mill, the paper manufacturer has undergone several ownership changes, ups, and downs. In summer 2006, the mill went bankrupt but restarted in December that year with a clearer focus.
– Production is now focused on colored soft paper primarily for napkins, and we have a good reputation in the market. We are unique as one of the few independent producers working with deeply colored tissue in shades, says Susanne Hagerstrand, sales manager.
"Södra gives us added value"
Klippans mill today has a production of 12,000 tons per year. They supply tissue in all color scales to customers worldwide. Customers who manufacture napkins packaged and sold under different names. The commonality is the raw material from our Swedish forests.
– We only buy pulp from Södra and have done so for many years. Our cooperation is natural, secure, and well-established, and we know we get the product we want, says Lennart. Södra’s organization with an active membership is a strength for us as we know the raw material comes from sustainable Swedish forests.
As a pulp customer with Södra, you get a complete range of services. Logistics, market reports, certifications, innovations, and technical solutions, to name a few. Every customer has a contact person at Södra to turn to when help is needed, from deliveries, quality, and technology.
– We represent a growing product, so it is crucial to have a major player like Södra with whom to discuss. For example, getting help improving our product’s quality is a significant advantage, says Lennart.
Historic Investment
Klippans mill has a turnover of 170 million kronor, and last year, a significant decision was made to invest 150 million kronor in a new paper machine. The investment increases production from 12,000 tons to 45,000 tons per year, a historic investment in several aspects.
– This shows the mill means business, says Maria Staxhammar, sales manager at Södra. Considering the investment related to their turnover and size, this is one of the largest investments in Sweden in recent years. If Södra were to make a similar investment, it would mean about 17 billion kronor.
Klippans mill thereby quadruples its production and plans to expand into new markets.
– We see the market for soft paper growing, and we want to be part of it. We will be competitive in pastel and white soft paper. We have an order book exceeding capacity, and with an additional paper machine, we are less vulnerable in production. It’s a substantial investment, which we are proud of, concludes Lennart.
Thus, with roots dating back to 1573, Klippans mill continues into history. Into a new chapter where Södra is, and remains, an important part.
The mill was named Klippan after the rapid on the Rönne River where it was built. The village formerly named Åby changed to Klippan when the railway station was built.
