Located in Shelton, Wash., Olympic Panel is the largest overlay plywood manufacturer in North America.
Swanson Group will relocate production of the Olympic Panel assets to its state-of-the-art facility in Springfield, Ore. once the mill is fully operational. Olympic Panel Products has continued to operate out of its facility in Shelton, Wash. to ensure a smooth transition for all customers and suppliers.
Swanson executives believe the Springfield mill will continue the Olympic Panel tradition of building the highest-quality overlay products.
“We have long been impressed with the quality and depth of Olympic’s overlay product line,” said Steve Swanson, President and CEO of Swanson Group. “We believe that this acquisition fits perfectly with our goal to become the leading producer of overlay panels in North America.”
The new mill features state-of-the-art machinery such as a Meinan Arist lathe that can peel veneer sheets in lengths up to 20 feet with a .002” variance. The facility will also feature automatic dryers and a sophisticated overlay stacking system.
The opening of the Springfield mill marks the completion of a two-year effort to rebuild Swanson’s old mill that was destroyed by an accidental fire in July 2014. It was reconstructed on the site of the old mill and will employ about 200 workers.
“The new facility is a triumph for both the business and the community in a rebuilding effort that began with devastation,” Swanson said. “Springfield has both an excellent workforce and log supply. We’re proud to be working here again.”
