FRANCE –   Long-established French company Joubert Plywood, a European benchmark in certified plywood, has entered a new chapter by joining Japanese conglomerate Nankai Plywood, following the decision of its president, Thierry Joubert, to prepare for retirement without a family successor.

The agreement, built on shared values and a common vision, ensures the continuity of the French brand, which has been a key player in the plywood sector for over 90 years. With an annual production capacity of 80,000 m³ and 60% of revenues from exports, Joubert closed 2024 with EUR 75 million in turnover, with sales spanning more than 35 countries.

As Europe’s leader in FSC and PEFC-certified Okoumé and Poplar plywood, Joubert is known for its strong environmental commitments: 100% legal wood sourcing, strict traceability, sustainable forestry practices, and French manufacturing excellence. Its panels, certified for low VOC emissions, are widely used in sustainable construction projects meeting HQE, BREEAM, and LEED standards.

Meanwhile, Nankai Plywood, a family-owned Japanese group with more than 70 years of history, brings extensive expertise in innovation, vertically integrated production, and sustainable afforestation projects, as well as a solid foothold in the European market.

“This merger happened naturally through shared values and the goal of ensuring a successful transition. Nankai embodies the long-term vision and commitment to quality that guarantee the continuity of Joubert Plywood,” said Thierry Joubert, who will remain president during a one-year transition period.

Through this acquisition, Nankai becomes the sole owner of Joubert Plywood, strengthening its European base and creating a global leader in high-value plywood, particularly in marine, architectural, and sustainable construction markets.