Top program wood at Kaufmann Oberholzer AG in Buhwil

On June 17, 2026, as part of S-WIN's Top Wood program, a company visit took place at Kaufmann Oberholzer AG in Buhwil. Around the wood competence center, which was expanded in 2025, participants were able to learn in detail about modern wood processing techniques, industrial manufacturing, and current research activities in the field of engineered wood construction.

After the welcoming remarks, the visit continued through the company's state-of-the-art production facilities. This center of excellence dedicated to wood brings together the entire value chain, from round timber to ready-to-assemble building components, all on a single site. Automated manufacturing processes, cutting-edge CNC technology, and optimized material flows enable the economical and precise production of sophisticated timber building components. Participants were thus able to see firsthand the combination of industrial efficiency and artisanal expertise.

During the presentation that followed, Rico Kaufmann, CEO and owner, outlined the development of Kaufmann Oberholzer AG. The company currently employs around 150 people at five locations in the canton of Thurgau and covers the full range of modern timber construction solutions, including engineered timber construction, glulam timber, interior finishes, windows and doors, kitchens, and KaufmannKlimahaus® homes. Emphasis was placed on the company's innovation strategy and its ongoing commitment to sustainable and resource-efficient timber construction.

The technical program concluded with a presentation by Professor Martin Lehmann (Bern University of Applied Sciences) on the research project "ReUse BSH – Evaluation of the Bond Quality of Disassembled Glulam." Methods for evaluating the quality and reusability of disassembled glulam were presented.

The event clearly illustrated how industrial production, digitalization, research, and sustainable development complement each other in modern engineered wood construction. The reception that followed allowed the more than 60 participants to further explore their impressions and exchange professional perspectives.