The Lignor product range will provide a valuable alternative for Australian plantation growers who are presently growing timber solely for the wood chip export market and are reliant on the volatility of global pulp wood prices. Lignor presents a market that mitigates this dominant risk. For instance, in early 2009 chip exports from Albany were down between 20-40% on the previous year, with prices being driven down by the economic uncertainty of two significant tree planting entities.
Lignor offers investors and growers a competitive price for quality timber, leaving lower-grade trees for chipping. This new timber industry will provide significant employment and thus make a major contribution to the economic base of the region. With every 100,000 tonnes harvested, 22 “Full Time Equivalent” employees will be required, excluding the added service and maintenance needed for an industry of this size and nature.
Lignor is seeking to be part of a competitive training schedule, augmented by liaison between Lignor and schools and local TAFE. In this way, the company will have a ready workforce coinciding with the progress of the building and commissioning of the plant.
Lignor is proud to provide the Australian customer with a value-added product to be produced in Australia by a dedicated workforce drawn from rural and regional communities.