Ponsse News 1/2021, EN by Ponsse Plc

CUSTOMER AND STAKEHOLDER MAGAZINE 1/2021

PONSSE NEWS A RESPONSIBLE COMPANY RECONDITIONS AND RECYCLES AGILE AND GROWING EPEC

SERGEI SVIRIDENKO:

COOPERATION TAKES TO THE TOP OF MOUNTAIN

PONSSE NEWS PONSSE CUSTOMER AND STAKEHOLDER MAGAZINE PUBLISHER

Ponsse Plc Ponssentie 22, FI-74200 Vieremä, Finland EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Katja Paananen

EDITING & CONTENT

Ponsse Plc ISSN 2489-9488 (print) ISSN 2489-9496 (online publication) EDITORIAL STAFF

Juho Nummela, Katja Paananen, Juha-Matti Raatikainen, Marika Ryytty, Jarmo Vidgren, Juha Vidgren, Marko Mattila, and Jussi Hentunen

Next-generation productivity and ergonomics

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7 VIRTUAL LAUNCH EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS

Luova Työmaa

8 CUSTOMER FEEDBACK HELPS TO CON-

COVER PHOTO

Ponsse Plc ILLUSTRATION (PONSSE KIDS)

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4 PONSSE SCORPION

STANTLY DEVELOP OUR PRODUCT RANGE 10 PURPOSE – MISSION – VISION

Ponsse’s new goals for future years 12 PONSSE REMAN AND RECYCLING

A responsible company reconditions and recycles

22 14 PONSSE MOMENT 16 PONSSE H7 HD EUCA HARVESTER HEAD 17 PONSSE UK LTD 25 YEARS 18 PONSSE EXPRESS FREIGHT SERVICES 19 PONSSE FRAME & CRANE CARE 20 AGILE AND GROWING EPEC

Electronics and software for the world’s best machinery and commercial vehicle manufacturers

GREETINGS FROM VIEREMÄ!

24 22 RETRO CORNER

History room presents Ponsse’s 50-year journey 24 SERGEI SVIRIDENKO 70 YEARS

Ponsse takes care of all of its employees 26 LOGGING NEWS 31 SIMULATORS TO SUPPORT TRAINING 33 PONSSE KIDS 34 PONSSE COLLECTION

We have lived in exceptional circumstances for more than a year now. Decelerated demand and finances in March–May last year have turned into fairly rapid growth in the forest industries. We have been busy closing forest machine deals across the globe, and our order book has increased quickly. Current challenges are still firmly linked to the coronavirus pandemic like the resulting operational challenges, social impact and uncertainly in different countries. Now that demand has picked up, the general shortage of components in the sector and the global overloading of logistics are also affecting our operating environment. At Ponsse, these exceptional circumstances have meant constant work to find new ways to help our customers in different situations. We have had to learn to work remotely, but this has also brought with it many new and good things. Together, we have found good, new and modern ways and tools to communicate with our customers and networks. We have also successfully launched new products online. I am certain that we will continue to use these new tools in the future. It is only natural that every one of us is already missing face-to-face contact with our customers and network partners. Let’s hope that we can start seeing each other soon. The world is changing fast, as the significance of digitalisation, data and services is increasing all the time. Here at Ponsse, we are working hard every day to ensure that we can provide our customers with the best solutions and services, also in the future – solutions and services that truly produce the best added value for our customers. Sustainable development and the environment are increasing in importance across the globe. They are also close to our hearts here at Ponsse. We are constantly working for the environment, and our hard work is starting to pay off. Ponsse is the only major forest machine manufacturer that only focuses on the development and manufacturing of environmentally friendly, cut-to-length harvesting technology, and on providing related services at logging sites across the world. We could not be prouder of our continuous work for the environment. We will also continue this work stronger than before. Nordic silviculture in line with sustainable development, combined with Ponsse’s products and solutions, lays a solid foundation for healthy forests of the future. Ponsse’s goal is to become carbon neutral in our operations and solutions. We have already made progress, but there is still a lot of work ahead of us. I believe that we will succeed in this, together and with cooperation.

Marko Mattila Sales, Service and Marketing Director

REPORT / PONSSE SCORPION

PONSSE SCORPION

NEXT-GENERATION PRODUCTIVITY AND ERGONOMICS Ponsse introduces a thoroughly modernised Scorpion harvester range to the market that meets all the requirements of today’s forestry. The new PONSSE Scorpion increases productivity and ergonomics in harvesting to an even higher level, and sets a new standard for the operator’s working environment. ‘For Ponsse, Scorpion is undisputedly the best harvester in the world,’ says Juho Nummela, the president and CEO.

ONSSE Scorpion was first introduced to the general public in Sweden at the Elmia trade fair in 2013. Immediately after its launch, Scorpion became an international bestseller and a symbol of sustainable forestry. ”More than 1,200 Scorpions are currently at work in various logging sites in 25 countries around the world. The farthest site from our Vieremä factory is located in southern Chile,” says Jarmo Vidgren, Chairman of the Board at Ponsse. Now, as eight years have passed since its launch, Ponsse’s flagship harvester, Scorpion, has shed its skin. The next generation of PONSSE Scorpion is more stable than any other in its class, and it offers power and productivity with low surface pressure, while keeping the environment in mind. OPERATORS’ WISHES AT THE CORE OF DEVELOPMENT

The aim was to take PONSSE Scorpion to a new level from the operators’ perspective. In product development, there was a particular emphasis on operators’ productivity and comfort – improved work ergonomics, safety, visibility from the cabin and usability. ”Launching new products always feels like a day of celebration to us. We’re always aiming to develop products, product technology and our operations. The development process behind Scorpion is a great testimony to this mentality of making things happen at Ponsse. Most importantly, this work is done in cooperation with customers, because together we can succeed,” says Juho Nummela, president and CEO at Ponsse. ”The cabin workspace in Scorpion was modified to make it more practical and to develop it into a quiet workplace with a view to supporting operators’ comfort and wellbeing,” explains Product Manager Jan Kauhanen. ”The starting point for the development of the new Scorpion line was forest machine operators’ feedback. Using the feedback, we’ve been able to implement these modifications in production.” One of the most prominent changes is the new one-piece windscreen that extends to the roof of the cabin. It offers even better visibility, control and work safety in all conditions. In addition, the unique crane solution offers an excellent visibility in every direction.

New Ponsse working lights in both the base machine and cabin bring a new kind of comfort and help operators cope better. Modern lighting simulation and customer testing were used in designing an even light pattern. The new LED working light was designed exclusively for Ponsse – resulting in lighting with a natural, comfortable heating value and less blue light. AWARD-WINNING AND WORLD-CLASS DESIGN

One of the key themes in developing Scorpion was premium design. It was a success – the new Future Cabin won a product design award in the internationally acclaimed Red Dot design competition. The award in question was the Best of the Best award in the Product Design category, given for the cabin’s innovative design. This was the highest recognition that could be achieved in the competition, granted to the best products of the various award categories. ”Even though the cabin workspace was modified to support operators’ comfort and wellbeing, it’s amazing that it has also won this acclaimed award for innovative design. Thanks to our customers, partners and all Ponsse employees,” says Juha Inberg, Technology and R&D director at Ponsse. PRACTICAL EXPERIENCES FROM LOGGING SITES

Samu Liikanen from Karttulan Metsätyö Oy has driven the Scorpion for a year and also gathered experience in the renewed version. ”There really is much more light in the cabin, as the window now stretches to the roof. The crane is comfortable to use, and the machine in general feels great. Lighting is excellent, and the snow in winter doesn’t reflect the light into your eyes. Appropriate lighting improves wellbeing,” he explains. Hannu Liikanen from the same company chimes in by saying that the lights are in the right locations and correctly aimed. ”There is also better rearward visibility from the cabin. It’s now much easier to reverse away from the track when you can see behind from the back corner. Active Crane is a must in thinning, because it makes the work much easier. If actual operations can be stripped down as much as possible, you can work more efficiently.”

REPORT / PONSSE SCORPION

THE FIFTH GENERATION OF PONSSE OPTI INFORMATION SYSTEM

In addition to several modifications, PONSSE Scorpion and Scorpion King harvesters now include the advanced fifth generation of PONSSE Opti 5G information system and a totally renewed software interface. The easy-to-use information system is the most modern in the market, and it takes the user experience to a new level with its effortless and fast operations. ”Opti 5G’s fully renewed interface and newly launched Opti8 computer take the usability of information systems in Ponsse’s forest machinery to a completely new level. And for operators who have used the previous Opti generation, the shift to the new Opti 5G system is quick and easy,” says Markku Savolainen, Product Manager for information systems. The Opti 5G information system also enables the installation of the PONSSE Harvester Active Crane control system, offering a new method to control the crane and make work more efficient. SEAMLESS CRANE CONTROL

With Active Crane, operators can control the movements of the harvester head, instead of just controlling the individual operations of the crane. This allows the operator to focus on the actual wood processing, not just controlling the crane. Active Crane is easily controlled using two levers, one of which controls the harvester head’s height from the ground, and the other

the direction of movement. The travel ranges of the controls are especially optimised for typical harvester work. The system also slows down all movements automatically before the end of travel to protect mechanical structures and the operator from straining impacts. When the operator selects a specific spot, Active Crane automatically takes care of lifting, folding and extension movements. Valtteri and Ville Pirttimaa from Metsä Pirttimaa Oy speak from personal experience when they say that ‘good has become even better’ in the modernised Scorpion. The most significant improvements for them are the Active Crane and the cabin. ”Visibility to the sides as well is much better in the new cabin. The machine doesn’t sway during operation, and the new model is quieter than its predecessor. The more comfortable the cabin and the machine is, the more efficiently you work even during longer days,” says Valtteri Pirttimaa. Ville Pirttimaa praises the spacious cabin’s open feel and improved visibility. In addition, thanks to Active Crane, the crane is now more to his liking and easily adjusted. ”The operator now has smoother and more comfortable control of the crane. The sound of the hydraulics does not really carry to the cabin. The lighting doesn’t leave any areas dark, and it doesn’t glare. The new Scorpion is more to my liking as a whole.”

PONSSE Scorpion The next generation’s features • Renewed user experience • Improved visibility • Improved cabin ergonomics and usability • The fifth generation of Opti information system, Opti 5G • Harvester Active Crane

PONSSE SCORPION

VIRTUAL LAUNCH EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS

he new PONSSE Scorpion was launched in February 2021, when meeting customers and partners face-to-face was difficult due to the coronavirus pandemic. At Ponsse, no time was wasted wondering what to do – plans were made to launch the new Scorpion in a live stream online. The stream would be in Finnish in the morning and in English later in the day for the international audience. The carefully planned and organised virtual event progressed smoothly in the hands of a skilled host, and both Ponsse management and key people from development were given their turn in the spotlight. An impressive studio was built and decorated for the stream. “The virtual launch event garnered a lot of interest and when we came in the next day after announcing it, all our channels were filled with requests for more information,” says Ponsse’s marketing manager Juha-Matti Raatikainen.

The quality, design and performance of the PONSSE Scorpion were demonstrated with videos. The important development partners – forest machine entrepreneurs and operators – were also given an opportunity to speak. “For example, we’ve received feedback from Sweden that it’s important to include the customer’s perspective and the operators’ working environment in our launch events, both of which are, of course, premium quality in the new Scorpion.” MORE ONLINE PRODUCT LAUNCHES

Before the Scorpion launch, Ponsse had launched four products online. According to Raatikainen, the first launch was a basic webinar, but lessons were learned with each iteration, and the productions have become higher in quality, and they are targeted at a larger audience. “Scorpion’s visibility received a significant boost, and this event set the bar high for all our future online launch events. The recording of the

event is also a significant factor in the event’s overall reach. It can be found on Facebook and YouTube in different language versions that keep the launch event current.” Of previous launch events, Raatikainen mentions the Bison launch of 2018 at Finnmetko as particularly successful. Even if a launch at a trade fair is successful, it is usually only witnessed by a local audience, Raatikainen reflects. “With Scorpion’s launch, we instantly achieved global visibility and were able to provide the same information to all markets simultaneously. I believe this will be how we will do it in the future as well.” And so it has been. In May, the H7 HD Euca harvester head was launched online, the Active Care seminar was organised as a webinar, and the new K101 and K111 loaders for forwarders were first introduced virtually. In June, the Shaping the Future event focusing on digital services will be organised as a webinar.

INNOVATION / PRODUCT CHANGES

PRODUCT CHANGES

CUSTOMER FEEDBACK CHANGES OUR MODEL RANGE Ponsse’s research and development activities are always based on customers’ needs. Therefore, they are not limited to the design of new technologies. Our existing range of machines is continuously being developed and improved. Each year about a thousand continuous improvement changes are made in the PONSSE product family, based on the development wishes of customers, maintenance and production. For example, the following changes have made their way into production. PONSSE SYNC’S NEWEST VERSION 2.0 NOW DOWNLOADABLE FROM GOOGLE PLAY

PONSSE Sync is a mobile application that can be used as a data mule to transfer data from PONSSE forest machines to PONSSE Manager service via a smartphone. This is especially useful in situations where the site is not covered by data transfer networks. PONSSE Sync is free, and it can be downloaded from Google Play. The new version works only on an Android

phone (not on an iPhone), and it includes the following improvements: • PONSSE Sync informs the user when it connects with the machine. Data transfer starts when the user clicks on the icon. • PONSSE Sync remembers connected machines. • It shows a list of connected machines and the data transferred from each of them. • Requirements: Android Pie 9.0 (published in 2018), Android 10 (published in 2019) or a newer Android version

AUTOMATIC STEEP SLOPE BRAKE (ASSB)

Automatic steep slope brake (ASSB) is a system that monitors the speeds of the components included in the machine’s powerline and activates the brakes automatically if abnormal deviations are found in average speeds. This automatic steep slope brake is included as standard in machines with PONSSE Synchrowinch. It is also an option for the eight-wheeled PONSSE Ergo, Bear, Cobra, Buffalo, Elephant and Elephant King forest machines.

NEW FOLDABLE HYDRAULIC STEP

NEW COOLER CELLS FOR STAGE 3A ENGINES

The new hydraulic step now includes a joint that makes it easier to use during transport. This foldable step can be used when the machine is being transported on a truck or a lowbed trailer. Thanks to this foldable step, it can be left down during transport, because it can be folded within the machine’s tyre line.

Coolers are changed in six-cylinder machine models in accordance with the Stage 3A emission standard. In the new cooler, the previously horizontal cells are now installed vertically. Thanks to the change, the cooler remains clean more easily even in harsher conditions, without compromising the cooling power.

EXTENDABLE ADDITIONAL STEP FOR SERVICE

A NEW, IMPROVED HOSE SUPPORT AND HOSE

LADDERS IN LARGER MACHINE MODELS

CHANNEL FOR PONSSE FOX HARVESTERS

Service ladders that can be moved depending on the service location now include an extendable additional step to improve safety during maintenance. Service ladders with this additional step are available for Bear, Buffalo, Elephant, Elephant King, Bison and Ergo Active Frame machine models.

Fox harvesters now contain a new and improved hose channel and support at the central joint. The hose channel with rounded edges and a fixed hose guide ensure the hoses’ improved service life.

A NEW, WIDER HOSE CHANNEL AT THE CENTRAL FRAME FOR PONSSE SCORPION MODELS

A new and wider hose channel has been implemented in the production of PONSSE Scorpion and Scorpion King harvesters. It protects the slewing motor’s hoses, for example, better against friction caused by snow and other loose material. The edges of the hose channel are also modified with additional cleanouts, making it easier to remove snow and other material between the hose bundle and the channel.

NEWS / PURPOSE, MISSION, VISION

PURPOSE – MISSION – VISION

PONSSE’S NEW COURSE FOR FUTURE YEARS

he last time Ponsse’s long-term plans were defined was some ten years ago. “Those plans carried us all the way to today. Back then, we were in a tight spot with our customers. The global financial crisis stopped our factory and our customers’ machines, and we had to go through everything with a fine-tooth comb, including the direction in which we were heading,” Juho Nummela, Ponsse’s president and CEO since 2008, remembers. Discussions on how to solve the challenges often continued until late into the night. The strong guidelines set by Ponsse’s founder Einari Vidgren were the basis for the new plans as well: Ponsse is here for our customers. Without our customers, we would have nothing. “Whenever we were caught between a rock and a hard place, Einari would simplify things. And it always worked. He used to say that once you knew the direction in which you were heading, the rest just needed to be organised. We still adhere to those principles today,” says Nummela. CHANGE ENCOURAGES DEVELOPMENT

In the midst of the coronavirus crisis, financial uncertainty and climate change, it was once again time to stop and look into the future. As a result, Ponsse’s Board of Directors approved an updated course for Ponsse – its mission,

vision and purpose. Ponsse’s heart, i.e. its values, did not change, and customer orientation, the Ponsse spirit, integrity and innovation remained unchanged at the core of Ponsse. Ponsse’s course was corrected to better correspond not only to its business, which has doubled in size, but also to a world that has changed. “Our customers are still at the core of all our operations, and their needs were the catalyst for the changes made now,” says Nummela. “The forest industry and harvesting entrepreneurs have become the focal point of sustainability. The demand for sustainable timber is rapidly increasing, as timber construction becomes more popular, and wood-based raw materials replace fossil-based plastic. At the same time, there is strong demand for environmentally friendly harvesting from all directions.” Sustainability is a strong driving force globally. Ponsse’s new course therefore also focuses heavily on sustainable development goals. Nummela admits that where sustainability is concerned, some development is still required, both in terms of products and operations. “The most important thing is to keep moving forwards, and we’re genuinely committed to this development,” he says.

PURPOSE Sustainable solutions for the benefit of our customers and the environment Ponsse’s roots are deep in the forest, and a love for the forest joins us and our customers all over the world. Healthy and well-managed forests are essential for the future of both Ponsse and our customers. Sustainable development provides us with a direction and an opportunity for new innovations and operating methods. The development of our innovations and so-

lutions is always initiated and guided by our customers’ needs and the opportunities enabled by technology. Our customers’ insight enables us to develop solutions that offer true added value in everyday work within the harvesting business. Ponsse’s technology and operations need to be part of the solution that will secure a good future for the generations that will follow us.

MISSION Our customers succeed together with us Our partnership with our customers is based on trust. We always keep our promises. Our task is to understand our customers and their business. Our customers’ extensive knowledge of timber harvesting and the industry also enables us to learn. An understanding gained through cooperation helps us develop all our solutions for customers’ actual needs. Ponsse’s company culture is our most important competitive edge. Our values guide our daily work, and quick

decision making based on them enables our success. We believe in our work and always strive to be the best at what we do. We do things efficiently, seeking the best end result and maintaining a good atmosphere. Alone, nobody can accomplish much. That is why we always work for the customer’s benefit together. Together with our customers, personnel and other stakeholders, we form the Ponsse family.

VISION The preferred partner for responsible forestry We offer our customers the best solutions on the market and exceed their expectations. We strive to always manage our partnerships so that our customers continue to choose our solutions again and again, across generations. Sustainable development guides all our actions. As an innovative leader in our industry, we also take responsibility for our environment and the wellbeing of forests. We strive for carbon neutrality in our operations and solutions. We are passionate about improving Ponsse, and we want to be a leader in the Cut-to-Length method. Fast te-

chnological development combined with the Ponsse way of working produces constant results. Our innovations are based on a culture of experimentation and networking, and they enable us to efficiently introduce new technology and solutions to the market to support our customers’ business. Our most significant asset is our continuously learning employees. We work in the excellent Ponsse spirit, appreciate each other and take care of each other and our whole network.

INNOVATION / PONSSE REMAN AND RECYCLING

A RESPONSIBLE COMPANY RECONDITIONS AND RECYCLES Ponsse has extensive experience and knowhow in recycling parts and materials. PONSSE Reman parts are affordable and environmentally friendly. Ponsse’s reconditioning and assembly centre, also known as the Reman workshop, was complemented with the Recycling Center at the beginning of 2020. As a result, the reuse of parts was enhanced and their availability improved.

he Reman workshop has operated in Iisalmi for a decade. It enhances recycling and improves the availability and quality of parts that can be reused. The Recycling Center, a new centre for increasing recycling, refines parts recovered from Ponsse’s production, logistics and service network so that they can be reused in the best possible way. The PONSSE Reman service is based on recycling and reconditioning used parts, whereas the Recycling Center disassembles and sorts parts that cannot be reconditioned into reusable or recyclable parts.

“Customers value Reman Parts, and their demand even exceeds supply. The parts are popular, because they are more affordable and environmentally friendly, and they have a factory warranty. The majority of the parts are sold in Finland, but some are delivered to other markets,” says export spare parts manager Mikko Eskelinen. “In the Reman service, it’s very important to have a continuous and steady flow of incoming parts to be reconditioned. Steady workloads ensure better availability of Reman parts,” says Reman team leader Tero Leinonen. By concentrating the recondition-

ing and assembly activities in the Reman workshop, it is possible to ensure a more efficient and factory-like operating model. At the same time, it is possible to improve the back-office processes, such as the procurement and storage of spare parts and the logistics of recovering vehicle frames for reconditioning. “The Reman workshop employs four maintenance mechanics and a team leader. The reconditioning and assembly work is divided between the mechanics by product group. The aim is to centralise product-specific special expertise,” says Leinonen.

Reman team Jani Kukkonen, Niko Huttunen, Tero Leinonen, Seppo Karvonen, and Pasi Hynynen.

their service life and life cycle. The Reman workshop also produces ready-made assemblies and performance packages used in maintenance. It is faster to replace pre-designed and pre-assembled component assemblies than individual parts, especially if this takes place in a forest environment. “Our most popular performance packages have been the CT+ chain tensioner package and the measuring wheel packages. The performance packages are always pre-designed for a certain purpose, and their price is affordable,” says Otto Kärkkäinen, product group manager for performance packages. THE RECYCLING CENTER BOOSTS THE RECYCLING OF MATERIALS

NEW REMAN PRODUCTS ARE INTRODUCED ACCORDING TO OUR CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS

The reconditioning and assembly centre mainly reconditions parts related to mechanical transmission, such as differential gears, hubs, transfer boxes, axles, slewing gears, and engines. The latest product groups are large hydraulic cylinders and seats. “We introduce new Reman products according to our customers’ needs and the feedback received from Ponsse’s network. The range of parts also includes hydraulic components, OPTI computers and control modules, which are then reconditioned into Reman parts for Ponsse by the original supplier,” says Ville Ohukainen, the product group manager for Reman and budget parts. Ponsse also offers its customers performance packages to update older machines and make them more modern. This way it is possible to prolong

There are two recycling experts and a team leader working at the Recycling Center. Processes and facilities related to the new operating mode are still being developed in line with the needs. In the Recycling Center, the received parts are inspected and assessed carefully, after which they are sorted for reuse. “The Recycling Center receives parts, which have been dented or damaged in transportation, material processing or production, from the Vieremä factory,” says Ville Ohukainen. Parts that move slowly in the spare parts stocks of Ponsse’s subsidiaries and retailers as well as used vehicle frames, which are also considered Reman parts, are regularly returned to Ponsse’s Recycling Center. “If a part is no longer as good as new but can be reconditioned, it will be sent to the reconditioning and assembly centre, which turns it into a Reman part. Worn-out parts are delivered to recycling,” says Recycling Center team leader Mauri Kumpulainen.

part, it will be reused as a budget part. Budget parts are affordable alternatives to spare parts if the customer does not need a new part. They can be used to service an older machine or a backup machine. Budget parts are no longer as good as new but are in good operating condition. For example, a budget part may be a scratched bonnet, which is not equivalent to a new one but is fully functional. “Budget parts are the most affordable option in Ponsse’s spare part offering. It is always ensured that the customer knows that they are buying a budget part. With budget parts, we only guarantee their functionality; they don’t come with the regular spare parts warranty,” says Ohukainen.

REMAN PART

• approximately 30% more affordable than a new part • based on reconditioned used parts, environmentally friendly • quality equals that of a new part • includes factory’s spare parts warranty BUDGET PARTS

• 40–60% more affordable than new parts • functionality guaranteed PERFORMANCE PACKAGE

• 10–15% more affordable when compared to buying individual parts • ready-made solutions to upgrade forest machines and prolong their life cycle

BUDGET PARTS ARE THE MOST AFFORDABLE OPTION FOR SPARE PARTS

If it is not reasonable to recondition a

PONSSE MOMENT Ponsse’s new K101 and K111 loaders have been developed for efficient load handling in demanding conditions as well. The new loaders have a structure designed and developed by Ponsse, with special focus placed on reliability and productivity.

INNOVATION / PONSSE H7 HD EUCA HARVESTER HEAD

P O N S S E H 7 H D E U C A H A RV E S T E R H E A D

A DEBARKING HARVESTER HEAD FOR PROCESSING EUCALYPTUS TREES

onsse’s new debarking PONSSE H7 HD Euca harvester head supplements the product family alongside the previously released H8 HD Euca. ”This new harvester head has been developed with our customers, based on their feedback. We wanted to introduce an even more powerful and productive harvester head for processing eucalyptus trees that withstood even the most extreme conditions, and we succeeded in this with the H7 HD Euca harvester head,” says Janne

Loponen, harvester head product manager at Ponsse. “The H7 HD Euca harvester head can be fitted to the PONSSE Cobra, Scorpion King and Ergo harvesters, but it can also be installed in 16–22-tonne track-based base machines,” Loponen continues. The frame of the PONSSE H7 HD Euca harvester head is made of the Heavy Duty structure developed by Ponsse. It withstands even the most extreme conditions, both in forest machines and track-based machines. The geometry and technical solutions of the new harvester head

have been made to ensure maximum efficiency during debarking, feeding and sawing. The development of the harvester head has also focused on mechanical durability and the ease of maintenance. Its efficient feed rollers and debarking knives guarantee firstrate debarking results from start to finish. The solid frame and robust tilt frame give the harvester head the durability needed in debarking. Automated functions control saw movements according to the tree diameter and saw bar position, and allow trees to be cut quickly.

NETWORK / PONSSE UK LTD 25TH ANNIVERSARY

CELEBRATES ITS 25th ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR

he Ponsse Plc subsidiary witnessed its first forest machine heading into the woods in the United Kingdom in 1994, and the company has since solidified its position as a significant operator in the forest industry. Two years later, Ponsse UK opened service centres in Beattock in Scotland and Neath in Wales. As demand grew, operations were centralised in Lockerbie in Scotland. Ultimately, the need arose to centralise operations closer to customers, and the town of Annan in Scotland was finally selected as the location for a state-of-the-art service centre, which opened in 2017. Twenty-six employees work in the service centre’s repair facility. In addition to spare parts sales and storage facilities, the service centre includes training facilities for customers, operators and personnel. The facilities were designed particularly to meet the service notes of

forest machines. Gray Glendinning, managing director of Ponsse UK, says: “In the future, we hope to grow the Ponsse UK team even more to ensure we can provide even better customer service and become the leader in the forest machine market here in the UK.” Throughout the company’s 25 years of operation, personnel training and development have been key. THREE MEMBERS OF THE TEAM HAVE MORE THAN 20 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

Kris Stitt was happy to be accepted as an apprentice at Ponsse UK in 1997. After graduating from Newton Rigg College, Kris started working as a repair and a field maintenance engineer. Later, he was promoted to supervisor. Four years ago, Kris was promoted again and now works in technical maintenance support. Ian Stitt has also worked for the company since 1997. He was a spare

parts manager for 17 years before transferring to maintenance administrative tasks in 2014. Ponsse UK’s managing director Gary Glendinning also has a long and successful Ponsse career. He started as a maintenance engineer in 1997 and worked for Ponsse North America for two years. After returning to the UK, he was promoted to service manager, and in 2018, he was selected as the area director for Hungary, Romania, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Italy, Turkey and Greece. Gary is still one the leaders of the company in UK, as he was made the managing director of Ponsse UK Ltd and Ponsse Machines Ireland Ltd earlier this year. In the UK, around 18.5 million cubic metres of trees are felled each year. Around 120 forest machines are sold annually, and more than 1,300 machines are currently in active use.

PONSSE / PONSSE EXPRESS

PONSSE EXPRESS FREIGHT SERVICES

SPARE PARTS EASILY CLOSE TO THE CUSTOMER PONSSE Express is a customer-friendly freight service for delivering spare parts for forest machines. Following a standard route on every business day of the year, Ponsse’s transport vehicle delivers spare parts to agreed locations or to addresses located close to the route, according to customers’ needs. The delivery locations are Ponsse’s own service centres and delivery containers at Ponsse’s customers’ locations.

onsse is continuously developing its selection of maintenance services with its customers. Forest machine entrepreneurs and productive forest machines deserve a reliable partner that can offer solutions that support the daily business operations of its customers. “PONSSE Express freight services ensure that our customers get their important spare parts easily when they need them,” says Ponsse’s spare parts manager Olli Koljonen. The PONSSE Express freight service is a great fit for areas where distances are large, and normal transport methods are not fast enough. Express freight is the solution: ordered spare parts are delivered in the morning of the following day at the latest or in many

locations, during the following night. The first PONSSE Express freight service was launched in Northern Finland in 2017. Based on the positive customer feedback, the PONSSE Express freight service was extended to Eastern Finland in early 2020. Today, since January 2021, the PONSSE Express freight service is also available to customers in Western Finland. “Our customers in Northern and Eastern Finland have really embraced the service. Several years’ experience and positive feedback were the drivers of the extension of the service into Western Finland as well,” says Koljonen.

PONSSE SERVICES / PONSSE ACTIVE CARE

PONSSE FRAME AND CRANE CARE

FRAME AND CRANE CARE FOR PONSSE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT CUSTOMERS PONSSE Frame and Crane Care covers all the parts of a PONSSE forest machine’s frame up until 10,000 hours if a valid maintenance agreement exists for the machine. The maintenance agreement must be valid uninterrupted throughout the period, but it can be made in instalments. The new PONSSE Frame and Crane Care covers the machine’s front and rear frames, the middle pivot and articulated frames, and the crane base as well as the main, lifting and luffing booms (excluding extensions) and the pillar. The Frame and Crane Care is granted for all new forest machines covered by a maintenance agreement and manufactured in 2021 or later. PONSSE ACTIVE CARE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENTS ENSURE MAXIMUM PRODUCTIVITY

A PONSSE Active Care maintenance agreement tailored to a forest machine entrepreneur’s busi-

ness enables entrepreneurs to outsource scheduled maintenance of their machines to Ponsse’s expert staff. This means you can concentrate on your core business – efficient and productive harvesting. The purpose of the PONSSE Active Care maintenance agreement is to maximise machine availability, productivity and efficiency. Regular maintenance ensures the trouble-free operation of the machine. When a customer brings their forest machine in to an authorised PONSSE service centre, work is always conducted by Ponsse’s trained mechanics using only high-quality original parts, lubricants and filters. The maintenance history of machines covered by a maintenance agreement will also assist you in planning future maintenance procedures, which improves the machine’s trade-in value.

NETWORK / EPEC

AGILE AND GROWING

EPEC

Epec PDU. A couple of years ago, Epec decided to invest in electric and hybrid technology. In late 2020, the company introduced the Epec PDU product line of traction voltage power distribution units for heavy machinery and commercial vehicles. The PDUs plug a gap in the market and respond to the needs of machine and vehicle manufacturers. The first orders for the protype are in, and Epec will develop the component for serial production over the next two years.

Epec, a member of Ponsse Group, quickly changed its strategy and operations to meet the needs of the machine market, which is growing significantly. The last few years have been successful, and the company has been able to recruit new people extensively.

“If you buy a passenger car, you can access all its features with your smart phone, or maintenance can diagnose it remotely and so on. The same telematics is now being introduced for machines as well,” says Epec’s managing director Jyri Kylä-Kaila. System developer Epec employs around 150 professionals, more than 100 of whom work in R&D as mechanical, software, system design or electronics engineers. World class expertise is at the heart of all operations. “A low level of hierarchy and fast decision making combined with well-organised work are seen by our customers as efficiency and agility. We provide solutions with the right price, the right performance and the right features,” says Kylä-Kaila about Epec’s success factors. Epec’s parent company, Ponsse Plc, mainly influences Epec’s operations through its Board of Directors. According to Kylä-Kaila, a certain level of autonomy is only sensible because of the differences in the business operations of the two companies. “We do have many joint technology development projects that are very valuable. This sets Epec apart from our closest competitors and enables our strong growth,” he says. According to Senni Huutera, Epec’s director of business development, being part of an OEM like Ponsse Plc allows Epec to test its technologies in Ponsse’s machines. The possibility for test runs and joint development are rare among Epec’s competition. “We have a deep understanding of machines and the whole industry. This is one of our strengths, which our customers also value highly. In addition to testing, we have helped Ponsse introduce new technologies in their machines. The latest example of this is the highly advanced telematics,” Huutera says.

DEMAND FOR NEW COMPETENCE IS HIGH

According to Kylä-Kaila, diesel engine manufacturers are starting to look into the potential of hydrogen and electricity. This means that they will require new suppliers with a completely new competence profile for the supply of control systems, control devices, electronics and software. “The supplier must have sufficient capacity in terms of both quality and quantity. We have taken note of this large shift and have continuously improved our operations. Auxiliary systems can make the work of operators easier and increase productivity. We bring ease-of-use and energy savings to our customers’ machines,” Kylä-Kaila says. Epec Oy specialises in smart machine control systems and advanced electronics for electrically powered machines. “We have produced many next-generation control systems that can control machines’ hydraulics and functions like steering, breaking and acceleration. In addition, we use simulation-driven development to produce electric and hybrid machines and products for them,” Kylä-Kaila summarises. Epec creates and innovates future technological solutions close to the customer. Responsible business is incorporated in Epec’s DNA because its products help reduce the carbon footprint of its customers’ machines. “We have the best occupational safety statistics in the entire Group. Our products can be serviced and repaired to ensure an extensive service life, which is good for the environment. When developing electronics, we have the ability to trace the origin of our raw materials, which is something our customers already demand,” Kylä-Kaila says.

As part of an OEM group, our comprehensive understanding on the machine industry is a great benefit, because the challenges all machine manufacturers face are very similar. Senni Huutera The title of supplier to the best companies in the world needs to be earned every day. Global competition is fierce, but we believe we can still grow and increase our market share. Jyri Kylä-Kaila

RETRO CORNER / HISTORY ROOM

History room presents Ponsse’s 50-year journey “Welcome to Ponsse’s history room,” says Juha Vidgren and leads his guests further to study items, photos, machines, and videos covering Ponsse’s 50-year history. The stunning journey from a small village forge to international logging sites has been colourful and truly worth taking. “Over the years, the old masters have created a stunning story,” says Vidgren.

ihe history room was built in Ponsse’s first hall, which was completed in the 1970s and used as storage space until autumn 2020. “We present our history in this very room. Normally, approximately 4,000 people visit Ponsse every year, and now they’re able to see how the company has changed over the decades,” says Juha Vidgren. “The space was completely renovated, and we added different kinds of functionalities and a lot of detail about Ponsse’s 50-year history. An interior designer designed the history room for their diploma work. Now it’s ready, and we love it,” says Juha-Matti Raatikainen, marketing manager at Ponsse. There is a timeline stretching from wall to wall. It

presents the company’s journey in small steps from 1970 to the 2020s. The photos show people from the past decades starting from the first pioneers. The map of the world in the cafeteria presents Ponsse’s 50-year journey and shows how the company geographically expanded from the small village of Vieremä and became a global market leader manufacturing CTL forest machines and operating in 45 countries. A whole bunch of old newspaper clippings were collected, and people can also listen to their content in different languages. “No worries, as long as you try hard” says a major headline quoting Einari Vidgren. More of Einari’s thoughts can be found in his biography.

“The story dates back to 1970 when Ponsse wasn’t even established yet. The article had to be written as proof to bank managers that business was on a firm footing and to convince them to give a loan. But it didn’t help Einari get the loan,” says Juha Vidgren. The hall also features PONSSE PAZ, Ponsse’s very first factory-made machine, which was completed in 1971. The machine is still in good condition, and it is planned that the beauty will be driven at exhibitions when the pandemic allows it. Ponsse’s first engineer Jouko Kelppe started to work in Vieremä on 1 May 1971. He was in charge of the designs of the first Ponsse machine, and they are now proudly presented in the hall, in addition to the legendary drawing board and other office furniture dating back to the 1970s. “The chairs and tables in the room were reproduced based on old photos and 3D models. Originally, they were made and welded at Ponsse for our own purposes,” says Raatikainen. Ponsse has always invested significant amounts of money in the latest equipment. The computers from the past decades now seem retro and clumsy

in the history room, but the objective to enhance operations with IT has remained unchanged. “In addition, the changes in Ponsse’s use of colours in the course of history are presented on one wall. The colour of Ponsse machines has varied from yellowish green to the different shades of grey, but the original colour was yellow, and it returned to Ponsse machines in 2005,” say Vidgren and Raatikainen. Ponsse has supported many athletes on their way to success with a long-term focus. These partnerships are presented on the second floor with the help of photos, videos, and old 8 mm films. “The history room has been designed to be a unique experience. At the same time, it’s a tribute to Ponsse employees and customers. The room is a great addition to the guest package, which includes a company presentation, factory visit and a visit to a logging site to see machines in action,” says Juha-Matti Raatikainen, expressing his thanks. “The history room means a lot to us. The best thing is that we can be in the same 330-m2 hall where Ponsse was established – the circle closes,” Juha Vidgren summarises.

PROFILE / SERGEI SVIRIDENKO’S 70TH BIRTHDAY

PONSSE TAKES CARE OF ALL ITS EMPLOYEES

SERGEI SV IRIDENKO:

PONSSE TAKES CARE OF ALL ITS EMPLOYEES OOO Ponsse’s vice president Sergei Sviridenko celebrated his 70th birthday in January 2021. Many colleagues and partners congratulated the man who has been involved in the development of Ponsse’s operations in Russia from day one. There are hardly any customers or partners in Russia who don’t know Sergei, as he is still devoting all his energy to his work at Ponsse.

ergei Sviridenko’s distinguished career at Ponsse started in 2005. At the time, Sergei was working in an aluminium factory as an engineer specialising in tractors with extensive experience of demanding design and management duties in the industry. He was also familiar with cooperation

with Finnish companies.” ”I might have been a little too hasty in accepting Ville Siekkinen’s job offer, as you can’t really compare forest machinery to agricultural tractors. I had no experience of working in forests, so it was quite difficult at first to work with forestry professionals,” recalls Sergei Sviridenko.

Thanks to hard work, this initial awkwardness was transformed into success and an exceptional tale as OOO Ponsse’s employee. ”Sergei has worked for the company since its founding, so he’s practically the father of OOO Ponsse. His tasks have changed over the years, but the same attitude, efficiency, spirit

and work ethics remain. He’s always wanted to learn and create something new, to develop constantly,” says Jaakko Laurila, OOO Ponsse’s president and CEO, expressing his thanks. Sergei has actively participated in various projects and efforts over the last 15 years. At first, he wanted to be involved in anything that was related to OOO Ponsse’s operations in Russia. One of his first tasks was to organise servicing for Ponsse’s machinery in Karelia. BUILDING AND DEVELOPING A SERVICE NETWORK

In recent years, Sergei has been busy with various projects in building and developing a service network in Russia. According to Jaakko Laurila, these efforts have resulted in a well-functioning aftersales network in Russia and Belarus. ”The basic principle of our Russian operations is constant development. Sergei has worked tremendously hard to establish professional and modern service centres for both OOO Ponsse and our dealers,” says Jaakko Laurila. Looking back at his years full of hard work, Sergei selects a couple of his favourite memories. The first visit to Ponsse’s factory in Vieremä during the summer of 2005 was especially interesting for an engineer, as he got to see the production and technologies. ”I still remember meeting Einari Vidgren for the very first time. He was very approachable, which was a surprise to me.” ”Our trip to Mount Elbrus at 5642 metres to celebrate Ponsse’s 40th anniversary was also very memorable. Our expedition of four reached the summit in ten days. It truly tested our resolve, but we were ultimately able to reach the summit.” Sergei graduated in 1974 from the Leningrad Shipbuilding Institu-

te, majoring in engines in shipbuilding. His professional experience of 30 years between graduation and starting at Ponsse gives him a perspective to analyse the aspects guiding work at Ponsse. ”First, everyone at Ponsse follows the principles set by the company’s founder, Einari Vidgren. The most important of these are working together, honesty and respect for customers. Ponsse treats all employees openly, and every member of the community is looked after.” Sergei is also grateful for the company’s stable and systematic development. ”For example, despite the difficulties due to Covid-19 in 2020, Jaakko Laurila was able to convince Ponsse’s senior management of the importance of continuing investments in developing service operations in Russia. This proved a great decision, as the prices of construction materials and components have increased dramatically this year.” HUGE RESPECT FOR COLLEAGUES

During his 16-year career, Sergei says that he has above all learned to value his colleagues. At OOO Ponsse, the average age of employees is 36, and almost everyone has a university degree or technical education. Everyone is an expert in their own tasks, and the competence of each team member complements the competence of others.

”In my view, optimal performance is only achieved in work communities of likeminded people. The One Ponsse programme helps us develop communality and take responsibility for given work. Our employees’ excellent expertise builds a solid foundation for the company’s success in international markets.” Colleagues often ask Sergei, who is still working full time, what the secret of his great health is. One explanation is swimming, skiing and biking regularly. As his greatest achievement, Sergei mentions his family, children and grandchildren, with whom he and his wife, Tatyana, try to spend as much time as possible. ”Ponsse is a family company, and I value good family relationships. This is another reason for my long career at Ponsse,” says Sergei. Speaking of achievements, OOO Ponsse’s president and CEO Jaakko Laurila emphasises Sergei’s position as an excellent example and role model for Ponsse’s younger employees in Russia. ”Sergei is fully committed to every task and achieves great results. The most interesting tasks and those that bring responsibility are always at the top of his wish list,” says Laurila.

As his greatest achievement, Sergei mentions his family, children and grandchildren.

LOGGING NEWS / 2021

LOGGING NEWS Ponsse AB’s new service centres: Kil and Uddevalla PONSSE AB OPENED A SERVICE CENTRE IN UDDEVALLA Ponsse’s investment in the Uddevalla service centre was part of the company’s strategy to open new outlets. Preparations for the investment already started a few years ago. Kasebergsvägen acts as a base in Uddevalla, when one of the world’s leading manufacturer of forest machines is developing its maintenance operations in the region. The service center also benefits the company’s maintenance buses. The full-range service centre will include a customer service area, shop, repair facilities and a spare parts warehouse. The customer service area will be made as comfortable as possible, the repair facilities will receive more equipment, and the warehouse will be fully stocked. The more than 430 square metre repair facilities offer plenty of space and height. Other facilities total nearly 300 square metres on two floors. The company has a long history of extensive operations in the region, for example, through Linnarsson i Blidsberg AB, which will continue as a provider of maintenance services.

PONSSE AB OPENED A SERVICE CENTRE IN KIL TOGETHER WITH WEBES Shared interest in forests and machinery is what sparked the partnership between Ponsse AB and Webes in Kil, Sweden. This partnership strengthens Ponsse’s maintenance operations in the very important forestry markets in Sweden. The new service centre has given Ponsse more repair space and new service engineers. Ponsse AB has tripled its net sales in Sweden in five years. Therefore, there was a proper motive for the company’s strategy to invest in service centres. “Our partnership with Webes helps us to strengthen our operations, while giving us additional resources,” says Carl-Henrik Hammar, managing director of Ponsse AB. Webes, officially Wermlands Betning & Service AB, specialises in the chemical surface treatment of stainless steel. The company also has extensive expertise in the repair of forest, construction

and crushing machinery. In addition to Kil, Ponsse AB has seven full-range service centres and 19 Service Vans across the country. It also has 20 external service partners.

SCORPION’S FUTURE CABIN WINS THE ESTEEMED RED DOT PRODUCT DESIGN AWARD

PONSSE Scorpion’s Future Cabin has won a product design award in the internationally acclaimed Red Dot design competition. The award in question was the Best of the Best award in the Product Design category, given for the cabin’s innovative design. This is the highest recognition that can be achieved in the competition, given to the best products of the various award categories.

“The design of the cabin once again started from the forest machine operator. The workspace was modified to make it more practical and to develop it into a quiet workplace with a view to support the operator’s comfort and wellbeing. The operator’s wellbeing during work is key to the machine’s productive operation. Thanks for this award go to our customers, partners, and all Ponsse employees,” says Juha Inberg, Technology and R&D Director.

Ponsse received the same product design award in 2015 for the previous generation’s Scorpion harvester.

2020 DEALER OF THE YEAR: FAMILY-OWNED WAHLERS FORSTTECHNIK The German Wahlers Forsttechnik GmbH has been selected as Dealer of the Year for the fifth time. The PONSSE forest machine dealer was previously granted the award in 2016 (2014, 2011 and 2008). Wahlers Forsttechnik GmbH had a successful year both in terms of new machine and spare parts sales. Other factors taken into consideration are active development of services and positive reviews of administrative, financial and service performance. Wahlers’ operations remained very strong and reliable throughout the year overshadowed by the coronavirus pandemic. In addition, it had a strong market share in Germany in 2020. Established in 1935, the family-owned company has been a Ponsse dealer in Germany since 1993 and has also operated in Austria since 2019 through their own subsidiary.

LOGGING NEWS / 2021

LOGGING NEWS

A NEW PONSSE RETAILER IN POLAND

CDN Ergo SP. z o.o has started as a Ponsse dealer in Poland and is responsible for the sales and services of PONSSE forest machines and spare parts services in Poland. The new deaker aims to strengthen Ponsse’s sales, customer service and availability of after sales services in Poland. CDN Ergo SP. z o.o. is headed by Witold Urbaniak, Robert Zdanowski and Marzena Barbara Kafarska, all of whom have ample experience of PONSSE forest machines and collaborating with forest industry companies. “There are already around 600 PONSSE forest machines in operation in Poland. Our customers require after sales services and training, and we can now meet that need. I think this change will increase our activity and benefit our operations in Poland. We’re very happy to continue working with these experts, with who we are already familiar. We’ve already been working with them for several years and have seen just how committed they are to the promotion of the PONSSE forest machine business in Poland,” says Tarmo Saks, Ponsse Plc’s area director for Poland. CDN Ergo SP. z o.o.’s head office is in Czarnków, where a modern service centre is currently being built. The centre will significantly improve work safety, customer experience and the quality of maintenance. The new service centre will also include a PONSSE Collection shop, spare parts sales, and training and office spaces.

LONG-AWAITED OUTDOOR EVENT

Ponsse North America’s dealer Equipment Linc hosted a demonstration organised in Grove Hill, Alabama. In the southern parts of the United States, the tree length method is still mainstream, but companies are also starting to adopt CTL forest machines. Ponsse dealer Equipment Linc opened a new service centre in Grove Hill, around 170 kilometres south of the company’s head office. Grove Hill is known as the heart of the local forest industry. Sunny weather made the event a success, and people were excited to the see the machines close up. The PONSSE Ergo harvester and the PONSSE Buffalo forwarder were presented during the event.

PONSSE RUSSIA AND BELARUS: STEADY GROWTH AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Ponsse Plc’s subsidiary OOO Ponsse was established more than 15 years ago in St Petersburg. Demand for PONSSE forest machines in Russia’s market was growing quickly, which created a solid foundation for the company’s growth strategy. Ponsse’s facilities in St Petersburg currently comprise two buildings and a field for training operators. In 2019, a grand opening ceremony was held when a new service centre opened in the city. Currently, the building also includes some administrative functions and the Ponsse Academy training center. The service centre employs 18 professional service mechanics, and the 1,480-m2 area has facilities to service three machines simultaneously. Last year, the St Petersburg service centre was awarded five stars in the Ponsse ESW auditing system. Despite the pandemic, Ponsse has continued its regional growth in Russia. A new service centre will be opened in the city of Tomsk in Western Siberia in H2 of 2021. Ponsse has a strong market position in Tomsk and elsewhere in Siberia, and the new investment will provide support for this important market area and its further development. More and more forest industry operators in the area have chosen Ponsse’s CTL machines. The new service centre will have a surface area of 1,500 m2, and the facilities to service three machines simultaneously. Twenty-three professionals work at Ponsse’s Tomsk office. “We always develop our operations according to the close-to-the-customer principle. Our service centre network will soon be expanded with two smaller local service centres as well. They are strategically significant and located in Segezha and Tver,” says OOO Ponsse’s managing director Jaakko Laurila. Tver is an ancient Russian city located between Moscow and St Petersburg. It is surrounded by the large forests of

Central Russia. The Tver centre will have a surface area of 570 m2, facilities for refurbishing machines and a spare parts storage with its inventory tailored for the area. Extra manpower is always close at hand in the St Petersburg office when needed. “The Segezha service centre is located on the Karelian Isthmus near one of our large customers, and our facility primarily focuses on that customer. The centre’s task is to ensure that our customer’s work can continue uninterrupted and enable the achievement of their ambitious performance-related objectives,” says Laurila. The service centre has a surface area of 616.3 m2 and 11 employees working in servicing. “All these service centres also function as logistics centres, and all include a local spare parts storage. They all also have customer premises, compliant with our standards, where customers can freshen up, drink a cup of coffee or tea, and find out about new PONSSE products,” Laurila continues. OOO Ponsse dealers play a significant part in extending Ponsse’s service centre network to the CIS area. Our partner OOO DMI Services is planning to open a new large service centre in the city of Bratsk in the Itrusk Oblast in the coming

months. OOO Kostroma Servis-Ponsse will open a new service centre in Sharya in the Kostroma Oblast, and OOO Part Servis will open a centre in Sovetsk in the Ural Oblast (Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug). In Belarus, Ponsse dealer ODO Udarnik has significantly expanded their facilities and acquired a 2,000-m2 area for the construction of a new service and logistics centre. Ponsse’s uniform operating principles will be complied with in the new facilities. “It’s very important to us that all employees working for Ponsse comply with Ponsse’s operating standards, and truly share the One Ponsse values and principles. We value this very highly,” says Laurila. 2020 SUBSIDIARY OF THE YEAR: OOO PONSSE

The criteria for selecting the Subsidiary of the Year include profitability of the company’s operations and business growth compared to the previous year. In addition to financial criteria, a strong market share and extensive and systematic development of their after sales services and retailer network were also highlighted when selecting OOO Ponsse as the recipient of the award. Moreover, job satisfaction among OOO Ponsse personnel is high in Russia.

LOGGING NEWS / 2021

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN BUSINESS IS TRUST

“In 1984, I started working for Tehdaspuu in a region where two of Einari’s machine chains were operating. I probably got the job thanks to Einari’s recommendation. They didn’t ask for any papers. We just had a little chat and then they told me that I was hired, and they asked when I could start.” Sometimes the work took Hannu to Nilsiä. Hannu began to work for Einari at the beginning of the 21st century. “I guess Einari thought that if I was able to sell timber, I could also sell machines,” says Hannu and smiles. Hannu sold his first new Ponsse to Unto Jauhiainen in Iisalmi. Later, there was a change of generation at Metsäkone Jauhiaiset Oy, but they have always been loyal to the Ponsse brand. “Unto’s son is getting his new Ponsse machine in June. And they’ll deliver machines I’ve sold to customers in 2022 as well.” A MAN OF HIS WORD

“It’s been a privilege to meet so many people,” says Hannu Eloranta, who is retiring after having an extensive career at Ponsse. Now that he is no longer busy selling machines, he can concentrate on horses, his museum lorry and forestry chores. Hannu Eloranta, regional sales manager for Northern Savonia, looks back in good spirits when retiring at the beginning of May. More than 40 years in sales have flown by fast. Hannu has worked for Ponsse since 2003 selling machines. He feels that it was the perfect job for him. He has good memories of customers, in particular. Some customer relationships even turned into friendship and often lasted from one generation to another. “I’ve been there from our customers’ weddings to their funerals. It’s been great to see how small boys have grown into professionals and next-generation of forest machine entrepreneurs.” Hannu began his career in 1978 as a while-collar employee in a timber company, where he worked in wood procurement. In the autumn of 1978, he met Einari Vidgren at the logging sites in Savonia. After Having worked in Kainuu for a couple of years, Hannu returned to Savonia and started cooperating with Einari more closely.

Hannu says that he has always been involved in the sales with the idea that the most important thing is that the customer and the salesperson trust each other. Both parties should always keep their promises. Hannu’s other principle is that you are allowed and you should speak highly of your own products, but you do not say bad things about competitors’ products. “Salespersons must also understand the customers’ circumstances. I was familiar with the field because I’d worked as a forestry employee. My technical skills weren’t great at first, but when I followed how skilled mechanics worked in Iisalmi, I automatically learned more.” During his extensive career in forestry, Hannu has seen how the forestry business and forest machines have developed. “For example, measuring devices for forest machines were once a huge innovation. Ponsse and Kajaanin Automatiikka had innovative employees, who started developing them.” “The role of machine entrepreneur has also changed and expanded. Previously, it was enough just to know how to drive a machine, but now you must know how to use electronic tools and have financial knowledge to make a company succeed.” Hannu is retiring with positive feelings, because there is not a single deal or other situation with customers that he would regret. Ponsse is a strong house that enables salespersons to thrive. After sales and a comprehensive maintenance network, they are Ponsse’s most important strengths and help to build trust in customers. In the event of problems, if their machine can be fixed and returned to duty rapidly, the customer will be satisfied.”

SIMULATORS TO SUPPORT TRAINING A simulator is a cost-effective and safe environment for training new operators, forest machine professionals and service mechanics. In Finland, simulators have been used to support training for more than two decades. Recently, PONSSE simulators have been adopted by several education institutions in Hungary. Ponsse is responding to the need for the development of forest industry training by modernising its simulator product range. As its name suggests, the new PONSSE Full Simulator is a full-range simulator system. Its realistic forest environment and detailed graphics create a perfect platform for professional training. “The Full Simulator forms a training environment around the user that is as close to a real forest machine environment as possible. State-of-the-art digital technology makes simulator training easy and enjoyable,” promises Jussi Jurvanen, Ponsse’s simulator expert. In addition to the new PONSSE Full Simulator, the product range consists of the PONSSE Basic and PONSSE Compact simulators. All three offer a modern learning environment for harvester, forwarder and PONSSE Opti information system training (except Basic, which does not have the Opti system). “The genuine PONSSE Opti information system for harvesters and forwarders, combined with excellent ergonomics for the operator, makes simulator training not only motivating, but also fun,” Jurvanen says. The simulator’s harvester section allows actual harvesting tasks to be practised, different thematic exercises to be performed as well as getting familiar with the operation of a machine’s control and measuring system. In the forwarder section, it is possible to practise how

to operate and load a forwarder and control a crane in realistic conditions. The PONSSE Full and PONSSE Compact simulators are also ideal for training maintenance employees. “Sim Trainer, the simulator’s training management system, has levels for advancement as new skills are acquired. Right from the start, the safe, efficient and productive operation of forest machines is taught,” Jurvanen says. SAFE AND COST-EFFECTIVE TRAINING

In Finland, simulators have an established status as a core part of forest industry training. They can be used to train new students in the basics of safe and cost-effective machine operation and best working techniques. As their skills increase, more elements can be introduced to the training, such as the effect of the machine’s adjustments on working efficiency and work ergonomics. These also help operators cope better at work. “The new features of our simulators, such as calibration and adjustment of measuring devices, make learning faster and easier. When a process can first be practised in a simulator, the skills can be put in practice more quickly, and it’s easier to understand how results should be assessed, and what adjustments may need to be made, for example,” says Pekka Parta, a teacher in the South Savo Vocational College in Mikkeli.

INNOVATION / SIMULATORS

In Hungary, good use of PONSSE simulators has been made in forest industry vocational training.

Simulators have a lot to give to seasoned professionals as well. “The machines, technology and features are constantly developing, so even a skilled operator should reflect on and update their competence. Ponsse’s PRO1 training package guides professional operators in planning their work to be safe, cost-effective, ergonomic and productive,” says Jurvanen. SIMULATOR TRAINING BECOMING POPULAR IN HUNGARY

Hungary has enthusiastically adopted PONSSE simulators for use in vocational training. An established Hungarian forest industry education institution received three PONSSE Full Simulators thanks to the non-profit Herman Ottó Institute. The harvester and forwarder simulators are the first simulators in Hungary intended for the use of future forest machine operators. Previously, only the Faculty of Forestry of the University of Sopron had similar equipment. “The number of forest machines is continuously increasing, so well-trained operators are increasingly needed as well. Institutions providing forest industry training have noticed this need, and this made it possible to acquire simulators for three different units,” says András Balint, Forest Power Kft, Hungary. Forest Power Kft is Ponsse´s official dealer in Hungary. The Herman Ottó Institute’s simulator acquisition was sig-

nificant, because as the technology in the forest sector advances, the mechanisation and automation of processes become increasingly important too. Students in vocational training are now provided with the skills they need in the use of modern technology. The education institutions also use the simulators they received for vocational adult education. The North ASZC Mátra Forestry Technical School teaches students from all over Hungary to succeed in their chosen profession. The institute’s students include forest technicians, forest and harvesting industry professionals, and people interested in the Mátra region, forests, and game propagation. The institute has nearly 500 postgraduate students, who study part-time or in the evening. The Ferenc Kiss Forestry Technical School has been producing forest technicians since 1955. Most of the institute’s students apply to the Faculty of Forestry of the University of Sopron after graduation, but the Gödöllő University of Agricultural Sciences and the Faculty of Horticulture in Kecskemet are also popular choices. Many alumni also work for large stateowned forest sector companies like KEFAG, DÁLERD, Gemenc and NYÍRERDŐ. The Roth Gyula Agricultural Technical School is part of the Kisalföld Agricultural Vocational Training Center. The school trains foresters, forest technicians and environmentalists. The five-year studies are divided into two study paths: the forestry path and the silviculture and environment path. Of the school’s 450 students, 12 percent are women, most of whom are participating in further training in environmental protection. The training programme for forest technicians is currently being developed to ensure the students find work in their field. It is important to know how harvesters, forwarders and drones are operated, so having those skills is a significant benefit for the students on the job market.

”DREAMING OF MY OWN TRACTOR” 32

You only need some coloured pencils and an open mind!

Juho Kemppainen is an 11-year-old young man from Hoikka village in Hyrynsalmi, Finland. Living in the countryside, Juho has been working on farms and in forests despite his young age. Juho has a dream of having a tractor of his own, which he at once started to make come true. Juho and his family had seen that wooden torches used and sold in Finland in winter needed some improvement. After thinking about it for a while, they realised that they could do better ones themselves and started making torches on their own backyard. They had shortly made up to a thousand torches and, after their efforts

received publicity, orders soon started to flow in. This is how the story of Jätkä-Juho’s traditional handmade wood torches began in Kainuu. Juho offers his help in the large undertaking to earn funds to make his dream come true, i.e. buy his own tractor. In the future, Juho hopes to follow in his father’s footsteps on a contractor’s path and help him in tractor operations. Ponsse and Juho Kemppainen have started a partnership to watch how the young man’s life revolves around forests, nature, hobbies and work, and life on a farm. Read more about Juho’s journey in the next issue of Ponsse News.

PAZ T-SHIRT

NEW SCORPION T-SHIRT

WORLD MAP T-SHIRT

Product number 1552, sizes XS–4XL

Product number 1488, sizes XS–4XL

Product number 1553, sizes XS–4XL

Black Scorpion-themed t-shirt.

Material: 100% organic Fairtrade cotton, 155 g/m2.

Natural white Paz-themed T-shirt. Material: 100% organic Fairtrade cotton, 155 g/m2. Certifications: GOTS, EU Ecolabel, Fairtrade, SA8000, Oeko-Tex and Neutral Responsibility.

Material: 100% organic Fairtrade cotton, 155 g/m2. Certifications: GOTS, EU Ecolabel, Fairtrade, SA8000, Oeko-Tex and Neutral Responsibility.

Black world map-themed T-shirt.

Certifications: GOTS, EU Ecolabel, Fairtrade, SA8000, Oeko-Tex and Neutral Responsibility.

SUMMER CAP

PONSSE CAP

Product number 1563

Product number 1567

A fashionable cap with Ponsse embroidery on the front and a woven logo on the seam behind. The back of the cap is made with mesh.

A simple and stylish basic cap. Ponsse logos embroidered on the front and back. Material: 100% recycled polyester

Material: 100% polyester

C E R T I F I C AT I O N S :

We are continuously developing the Ponsse Collection clothing line to be more sustainable. Learn more about the materials used for the clothes and the certificates related to their manufacturing.

GOTS

health, climate and natural resources.

and social sustainability.

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a textile processing standard with ecological and social criteria. The standard covers the entire life cycle of a product, from raw material cultivation to the final product. The certification is supervised by an independent party.

The EU Ecolabel provides neutral information on a product’s environmental friendliness, safety and quality. It steers consumers and companies towards sustainable and environmentally conscious consumption.

Ponsse News 1/2021, EN

Articles inside

PONSSE COLLECTION

SIMULATORS TO SUPPORT TRAINING

PONSSE KIDS

LOGGING NEWS

PONSSE FRAME & CRANE CARE

SERGEI SVIRIDENKO 70 YEARS

RETRO CORNER

AGILE AND GROWING EPEC

PONSSE EXPRESS FREIGHT SERVICES

PURPOSE – MISSION – VISION

PONSSE REMAN AND RECYCLING

PONSSE MOMENT

VIRTUAL LAUNCH EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS

PONSSE SCORPION

PONSSE H7 HD EUCA HARVESTER HEAD

PONSSE UK LTD 25 YEARS

CUSTOMER FEEDBACK HELPS TO CON