U.S. – Arauco held on April 16th a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its state-of-the-art particleboard and lamination facility in Grayling, Michigan. With an investment of USD 450 million and an 800,000 m3 annual capacity, Grayling is the most modern particleboard plant of its kind in the world, the largest in the United States and is, in turn, the largest Chilean investment in North America.

Considered a “modern manufacturing marvel,” the operation in Grayling is the company’s first greenfield facility in the United States, its 11th North American manufacturing site and the largest of its kind globally. The operation is designed to be one of the most productive in the world and houses North America’s highest-capacity, single-line particleboard press, two thermally infused laminating (TFL) lines and a large stocking warehouse for just-in-time service delivery. The plant currently staffs more than 200 full-time employees and has generated approximately 700 additional jobs in related supplier and logistics industries since construction commenced in Spring 2017.

“This is a historic day and milestone for our company,” said Matías Domeyko, Chief Executive Officer, Arauco. “The official start of production at Grayling exemplifies the outstanding innovation and sustained growth Arauco is known for globally, and what has been central to propelling our positive business results. The Grayling mill achievement also is the culmination of unwavering commitment from our valued investors who shared our vision for capturing significant market opportunity in North America. We offer heartfelt thanks for their dedication and support in making this remarkable, new manufacturing plant possible.”

During his remarks at the grand opening ceremony, Kelly Shotbolt, President of Arauco North America, acknowledged the significant contributions of the Grayling project managers, and praised state of Michigan officials and local Crawford County representative for creating an environment conducive to undertaking such a large-scale business endeavor.

“Grayling is a prime example of positive collaboration between the public and private sector,” said Shotbolt. “We are grateful for the incredible support received both from Grayling community leaders and the state of Michigan. It has been vital to enabling Arauco to renew our industry in North America through what is arguably the most advanced, automated and large-scale facility of its kind anywhere in the world.”

“While known for automobile manufacturing, Michigan also is the office furniture capital of the world,” said Shotbolt. “We are pleased to substantially expand our production capacity to assure a strong, sustainable supply of quality, raw and finished product for this growing region.”