AB Hilmer Andersson was established in the 1920s when Hilmer Andersson from Lässerud built his first sawmill. The saw blades were powered by a wood fuelled locomobile. Hilmer lived long enough to witness the emergence of the barking machine, forklift trucks and the timber drier. During his life the sawmill developed into one of the largest in Värmland.

His son, Yngve Andersson, modernised the sawmill in several stages and doubled the capacity of the sawmill more then once.

Yngve Andersson

His son, Yngve Andersson, modernised the saw mill in several steps and doubled the saw mill capacity more than once.

Well known for his deep interest in all things technical, Yngve experienced the computerisation of the sawmill industry and was always among the first to adopt new technical solutions. He predicted the importance of computerisation in forest management at an early stage.

Per Andersson

In 1994, the grand son Per Andersson, assumed responsibility of the family business.  He continued to improve operations towards even greater customer benefits. According to him, it was about developing and enhancing the forest to the raw material that best meets the needs of the customers, both in the immediate market and as an export product. During his years as CEO, the company grew rapidly and large investments, including a new refinement plant, were carried out. All to stay ahead, to meet customer demands and to respond to a changing market. He lived and acted according to the decree, "either development or liquidation".

A good first impression is important and Per let renovate and expand the office. An entrance dressed with unshaded wood paneling, slate floor and large windows, welcomes the visitor, transmitting a sense of proximity to nature and anchoring in authenticity and quality.

Per was faithful to his native area and made sure to appreciate and support the local sports associations and businesses.

Kari, Karl and Nils Andersson

Today, the company is run by the fourth generation – Per’s three children. Kari holds the role of Managing Director, Nils is Production Manager and Chairman of the Board, while Karl is CEO of the subsidiary XL Bygg Hilmer. With the same responsibility for continuity, local anchoring and future trust, the steps lead to future generations.

Nils, Kari and Karl. 

The other families

AB Hilmer Andersson is a family owned business in more than one way. Among the employees it is not hard to find three generations in older and current pay rolls. The father of the planing machine supervisor was a sawing machine setter for close to 40 years at the Hilmer Andersson saw mill, and there are more examples.  

This means that the tradition and experience lies not only within the owner family, but also among many employees. It creates occupational pride, a sense of quality and shared responsibility for the future of the company.