UPM-Kymmene Corporation was established in autumn 1995 when Kymmene Corporation and Repola Ltd with its subsidiary United Paper Mills Ltd announced their merger. The new company, UPM-Kymmene, officially started its operations on 1 May 1996.

The history of our company goes back to the origins of the Finnish forest industry. The group’s first mechanical pulp mill, paper mills and sawmills started operations in the early 1870s. Pulp production began in the 1880s and paper converting in the 1920s with plywood production starting the following decade.

Our family tree’s oldest roots can be found in Finland, in Valkeakoski and Kuusankoski. Our predecessors Aktiebolag Walkiakoski and Kymmene Ab were established in 1871 and 1872, respectively. Many significant Finnish forest industry companies such as Kymi, United Paper Mills, Kaukas, Kajaani, Schauman, Rosenlew, Raf. Haarla and Rauma-Repola have been merged into the current UPM Group along the years.

The 150 years of forest industry at UPM has been an era of exceptional growth. A journey from traditional industry to modern, innovative new businesses with a focus on sustainability and renewal. 

If you are curious about how it all started, join us on a journey from PAST to PRESENT and learn the history of Verla, Tervasaari, Kymi and Seikku mills.