Through environmentally friendly processes and sustainable quality development, high-quality wood from nature is transformed into creative toys. This is managed under the leadership of Mr. Sinchai Leesuravanich, Managing Director of Premier Wood Marketing Co., Ltd., who shares insights on their business journey and collaboration with PlanToys.
Learning Together for Quality Wood Preparation and Community Support
Premier Wood Marketing Co., Ltd. has been a leader in the sawmill business for over 20 years. Their philosophy focuses on quality improvement and sustainable production. They continuously study the nature of wood and improve machinery and processes to ensure the highest quality products while being environmentally responsible. This aligns with PlanToys' principles of providing valuable experiences to children through safe and eco-friendly play. This collaboration elevates production standards and emphasizes the mutual commitment to efficient resource use.
Business Philosophy and Transformation Over Time
The company has operated sawmills for over 20 years, starting before 1997. Their first sawmill was located about 10 kilometers from my hometown, marking the beginning of their dedication to quality wood production. After 4-5 years, they expanded to another sawmill 60 kilometers away to meet increasing demand.
Initially supported by the BOI with ISO standard requirements, we continuously improved our processes to meet high-quality standards. From focusing on quality, we have expanded to include business sustainability, aiming to produce the best quality products. This ensures we can better meet customer needs and sustain long-term business growth.
Product Quality Development and Sustainability
Improving product quality starts with understanding rubberwood and enhancing traditional processes like transformation, chemical treatment, and drying. Despite being ancient technologies, they aim to maximize efficiency by meticulously studying each step, from felling and cutting to processing, ensuring the highest quality wood. They adjust saw tables, sharpen saws, and develop machinery to ensure smooth and high-quality production. Besides product quality, sustainability is crucial. Selecting high-quality wood from the start allows customers to use the wood fully, minimizing waste. They commit to eco-friendly processes and studying and improving methods to reduce environmental impact.
Optimal Age for Rubberwood Processing
Older rubberwood is preferred for processing due to its strength and quality. However, wood over 35 years old may start hollowing at the base. Proper planning and management, like timely tapping and bark care, extend rubberwood’s lifespan. Though most market rubberwood is around 20 years old, proper care can lengthen its usability. Felling younger trees, around 15 years old, is possible, but allowing them to mature ensures higher quality and adds value.
PlanToys’ Requirement: No chemical-treated Wood
Producing no chemical-treated wood or untreated wood per PlanToys' requirements is challenging. If kiln-dried wood doesn't meet standards, it cannot be used or sold, unlike chemically treated wood, which may be repurposed. Untreated wood processing demands meticulousness and strict quality control, from selecting the right wood sizes to careful planning to reduce waste and maximize usable yield.
Managing Unusable or Damaged Wood
Wood that isn’t overly warped can be retreated, though this is complex and risks further damage. Severely warped wood is used as fuel in boilers, maximizing utility and minimizing waste.
Impact of Switching to Oil Palm Cultivation on Sawmills
If farmers shift to oil palm cultivation, the supply of rubberwood will decrease, affecting sawmills. However, competitiveness is key to business survival. Profitability ensures continued operation despite rising wood costs, as effective management and profitability maintain business viability.
Sourcing and Sustainability Standards
Customers increasingly demand assurance of sustainable wood sources, like FSC or EUDR standards. Meeting FSC criteria, such as not using tractors for felling or burning leftover wood, is challenging, but the company remains committed to not sourcing from protected forests and ensuring clear land ownership. While adhering to FSC standards is difficult, they prioritize sustainable practices to assure customers of their wood sources.
Sustainability and Community Development Projects
For 20-30 years, the company has supported sustainability and community initiatives, providing scholarships annually and ensuring minimal environmental impact during wood operations. They focus on local employment and training skilled workers to produce high-quality wood, which fosters community development and business sustainability.
Working with PlanToys
Collaborating with PlanToys has expanded our product range, leading to valuable learning and improvements in production methods. This partnership has been crucial for ongoing organizational development, enhancing product quality, and proces
