The Jakobstad region is one of Finland’s most entrepreneurial and stable growth engines. More than 8,300 companies operate here, alongside an exceptionally strong manufacturing sector and the country’s lowest unemployment rate. With 22,200 jobs and an export value of two billion euros, the region stands firm – and continues to grow.
Below, we highlight some of the industries that make the Jakobstad region unique, competitive, and full of opportunities.
The Jakobstad region has a long and strong tradition in paper and pulp manufacturing. The products are characterized by high quality and durability, with a clear connection to the region’s forest resources. The paper industry employs around 700 people in the region. UPM, Walki, and Billerud are examples of major companies in this sector.
The Jakobstad region is home to both large companies producing processed foods sold nationwide and exported abroad, as well as a long-standing tradition of agriculture and animal husbandry. The food industry is the region’s largest employer, with over 1,800 jobs and a significant export value. Leading companies include Snellman and Fresh Servant, but the region also has many small producers creating high-quality, award-winning food products.
The plastics industry in the Jakobstad region is diverse, offering packaging solutions for industry, agriculture, and consumers. There is also a strong focus on sustainability and recycled plastics. The rubber and plastics industry employs over 700 people in the region. The largest company in the sector is Rani Plast.
The Jakobstad region holds a strong international position in the abrasives market, thanks to Mirka’s headquarters and a large part of its production being located here. The high level of innovation and focus on quality has fostered a strong industry for non-metallic mineral products, employing around 700 people.
The Jakobstad region has a boatbuilding tradition spanning several hundred years, which has created expertise appreciated worldwide. The region produces everything from luxury yachts and sailing boats to smaller recreational vessels. It is home to both subcontractors and new innovators in the industry, which employs over 800 people. Among the largest companies are Nautor Swan and Baltic Yachts.
The metal industry in the Jakobstad region is both strong and technologically advanced, with companies supplying components and systems to international markets. The sector encompasses everything from material production to the development of advanced handling and processing solutions. The industry employs over 500 people in the region, including companies such as Amada Automation and OSTP.
The composites industry in the Jakobstad region is characterized by high craftsmanship and advanced material expertise. The region develops and manufactures customized, sustainable solutions in fiberglass and other composite materials, with nearly limitless combinations of resins and reinforcements. A major player in the industry is NCE.
The construction industry is strong and diverse, and the entrepreneurial spirit is thriving! The construction sector in the Jakobstad region largely consists of many smaller companies with both versatility and specialized expertise, ranging from earthworks to fine carpentry. The industry employs around 2,000 people, including companies such as Sundström.
The Jakobstad region’s strategic location has fostered a strong and versatile logistics sector. Companies operate in everything from smart planning and development of transport solutions to direct transportation services. Companies such as Ekeri, known for its world-leading side-opening trailers, demonstrate the high level of innovation that characterizes the area.
