From the region – for the region

The Hamker family has an impressive history. At the heart of the family business is a castle in Feistritz, which Walter Hamker Sr. purchased in the 1960s. Today, Thomas Hamker, his wife Eva and their son Stefan continue to run the forestry business with great passion and in accordance with clear, authentic values.

The firewood comes exclusively from within a radius of around 20 kilometres, with approximately 60 per cent sourced from theirown forest and 40 per cent from regionally managed forests. In doing so, the family is making a conscious commitment to regional produce, short transport routes andsustainable localvalue creation.

The entire production chain is largely carried out in-house: From felling the timber through to processing, drying and marketing. Modern technology, including ahigh-performance log splitter, enables efficient, high-quality firewood processing. At the same time, the company relies on renewable energy from its own photovoltaic system andnatural air-drying.

Thehigh-quality beech wood is particularly prized for its high calorific value, clean combustion and pleasant scent. In addition, oak and softwood products are also available. Even by-products such as sawdust and fine kindling are put to good use and sold.

The Hamker family also prioritisessustainability and a forward-looking approach in their forest management. Whilst spruce trees used to be planted more frequently, the focus is now on native deciduous species such as beech and oak. The forest stock is complemented by numerous distinctive tree species and even a few rare exotic varieties.

Customers particularly appreciate the high quality of the timber, the meticulous craftsmanship and the great flexibility in meeting individual requirements. The timber is available in various packaging and delivery formats and is charged fairly by weight.

Since Stefan Hamker joined the business in 2010, firewood processing has increased tenfold, from around 100 to approximately 1,000 cubic metres per year. Despite rising demand, the family is not pursuing a policy of unlimited growth.