Top Industries
The Jakobstad region is one of Finland’s most enterpreneurial and stable engines of growth. It is home to more than 8,300 companies, an exceptionally strong manufacturing industry, and the lowest unemployment rate in the country. With 22,200 jobs and an export value of two billion euros, the region stands on solid ground – and continues to grow.
A defining strength of the Jakobstad region is its diversity: our businesses thrive across a wide range of sectors. This breadth, combined with the sheer number of companies, creates a resilient business environment with extensive subcontracting opportunities. Below, we highlight some of the major industries that shape the Jakobstad region: industries that make it unique, competitive, and full of potential.
Paper
The Jakobstad region has a long and strong tradition in paper and pulp manufacturing. The products
are characterized by high quality and sustainability, 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.
Food
The Jakobstad region is home to both major producers of processed foods sold nationwide and
exported abroad, as well as a long tradition of agriculture and livestock farming. 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 is also rich in small producers offering
high-quality, award-winning artisanal food products.
Rubber and Plastics
The plastics industry in the Jakobstad region is diverse and includes packaging solutions for industry,
agriculture, and consumer markets. There is also a strong focus on sustainability and the use of
recycled plastics. The rubber and plastics industry employs more than 700 people in the region.
The largest company in the sector is Rani Plast.
Abrasives
The Jakobstad region holds a strong international position in the abrasives market, thanks to
Mirka’s headquarters and much 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,
which employs around 700 people.
Boats
The Jakobstad region has a boatbuilding tradition spanning several centuries, resulting in expertise
that is valued worldwide. The region produces everything from luxury yachts and sailboats to
smaller recreational boats. It is home to both subcontractors and new innovators in the industry,
and more than 800 people are employed in the sector. Among the largest companies
are Nautor Swan and Baltic Yachts.
Metal
The metal industry in the Jakobstad region is both strong and technologically advanced, with
companies supplying components and systems to international markets. The sector includes
everything from material production to the development of advanced handling and process
solutions. The industry employs more than 500 people in the region, with companies such as
Amada Automation and OSTP among the key players.
Composites
The composites industry in the Jakobstad region is characterized by high craftsmanship and
advanced material expertise. Here, customized and sustainable solutions in fiberglass and other
composite materials are developed and manufactured, with nearly limitless combinations of resins
and reinforcements. A major company in the sector is NCE.
Construction and Infrastructure
The construction industry is strong and versatile, with a pronounced entrepreneurial spirit!
In the Jakobstad region, the sector largely consists of many smaller companies offering both
versatility and specialized expertise, ranging from earthworks to fine carpentry. The industry employs
around 2,000 people, including through companies such as Sundström.
Logistics
The Jakobstad region’s strategic location has fostered a strong and versatile logistics sector.
Companies here operate across everything from smart planning and the 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.