People behind the machines - expertise and passion at Oulu
Transforming Oulu Mill into a high volume, world-class operation goes beyond new equipment—it is powered by the expertise, dedication, and teamwork cultivated over the years at Stora Enso. Specialists at the mill bring extensive hands-on experience to fiber-based packaging solutions. “It’s how we work together,” says Teija Laakkonen, Production Engineer at Stora Enso. “Everyone contributes their knowledge, and that’s how we succeed.
What distinguishes Oulu is the blend of expertise and cutting-edge technology. “Our team is heavily involved in bringing new technologies to life. Thanks to their know-how, we're not just improving the way we do things here in Oulu, we're raising the bar that could set a new benchmark for the industry,” states Mia Kvarnlöf, Technical Product Manager for FBB & CKB at Stora Enso. This unique combination of innovation and heritage positions Oulu as a leader in renewable, high-performance packaging materials.
Food safety at the heart of our production
Upholding food safety at the Oulu Mill is more than a standard, it’s a shared responsibility that guides the actions of each employee, every day. Ensuring the purity and integrity of our packaging materials is a deeply ingrained mindset, rooted in our commitment to the health and safety of consumers. This responsibility begins at the source, with a meticulous selection of certified, traceable and fresh fibers specifically chosen for their suitability in food-grade packaging.
“Our philosophy is simple—we work with raw materials that are as close to nature as possible, and are free from harmful chemicals or contaminants,” explains Kvarnlöf. “The choice of materials isn’t just about quality, it’s about keeping food products intact, from the start.” This attention to sourcing ensures that the materials meet the highest standards of food safety and sets a foundation for every part of the production process.
While Oulu’s commitment to food safety is clear, it’s equally important to recognise how this focus shapes the design of the production lines and enhances overall efficiency. Built specifically with food end-uses in mind, the mill’s layout reflects this priority, with strict protocols followed at every stage of production. For instance, the pulp used for packaging undergoes a specialized process that minimizes any risk of spoilage or contamination.
“Ensuring food safety is one of the main quality standards in our daily operations. Every step in the process is guided by the shared responsibility to protect what people consume,” Laakkonen states.
Once production is underway, microbiological testing is conducted daily to detect any potential contamination, ensuring that the packaging remains safe for use throughout its lifecycle.
“All raw materials used in the process must go through our approval process to ensure they are suitable for food-grade board,” Laakkonen adds. “Our lab teams run daily tests for any contaminants, and if an issue is found—whether related to pulp, mechanical systems, or microbial growth—it’s addressed before any product reaches customers. Any problems can be traced back to their source and resolved quickly with insights from our teams through sparing.”
Leveraging advanced technology to build customer trust
State-of-the-art technologies are used throughout the facility to reduce contamination risks, where the production process is maintained in a controlled environment—from automated monitoring systems to specialized equipment designed to prevent impurities.
“The packaging materials we produce are made to protect the food it holds, and that protection starts here in the mill,” Kvarnlöf assures. “It’s a level of care and precision that our customers, especially top brands in the food and beverage sector, rely on. We’re committed to giving them complete confidence in the safety and reliability of our products.”
While these high standards add layers of complexity to the production process, they’re viewed as essential investments in building long-term customer trust. Every step in the process is guided by the shared responsibility to protect what people consume.
Beyond packaging—Oulu’s vision for a sustainable, safe future
Stora Enso’s Oulu Mill is setting a new standard in sustainable packaging by championing both food safety and environmental responsibility. Through the production of high-quality carton boards made from responsibly sourced fibers, Oulu is leading the shift away from plastic and reducing reliance on non-renewable resources, all powered by cutting-edge technology.
"Our technology allows us to create packaging that’s not only strong but also surprisingly lightweight,” states Laakkonen. “For our customers, this means lower material costs and better logistical efficiency, all without sacrificing the durability or visual appeal their brands rely on."
As the specialists at the mill work to refine the plant’s processes, the team remains dedicated to upholding Stora Enso’s core values – sustainability, safety, and excellence. “The future is bright for Oulu,” Kvarnlöf concludes. “And we’re proud to be building that future with our expertise.”
Explore how Stora Enso is shaping the future of sustainable packaging at our website.
