Finnish Business & Culture in Poland 2025

FINNISH
BUSINESS
& CULTURE
Publication
2025
No4
in Poland
Over 40 interviews and articles about Finnish success stories in Poland
Calendar 2024 | Economic indicators | Maps | Photo reports
Reports from cultural events, sports and more
spondeo

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INTRODUCTION
Dear Reader,
You are now holding the fourth edition of our “Finnish
Business & Culture in Poland”. I think we have found our
unique formula for our annual publication, but every
year we also want to keep improving a bit.
This year I am particularly satisfied by the energy
section – it is currently a hot topic and offers very
attractive opportunities for Finnish companies. Overall,
the Polish economy is strong and it is already one of the
most important trade partners to Finland.
Currently, there are around 250 Finnish subsidiaries in
Poland and at least another 300 companies are doing
business via sales partners or cross-border. New
companies are entering every year and we have recently
also seen more Polish companies on the Finnish market,
or in some cases, carrying out acquisitions in Finland.
Understanding the small nuances in doing business can
sometimes be crucial. That is why this publication exists
– we sincerely want to make it easy to learn more about
Finnish-Polish businesses, success stories, lessons
learnt, events and the people behind it all. I'm sure you
can find some business tips in every article of this
publication!
Of course, in business we tend to chat a lot about
culture, people and sport. It is often fun to see that
Finnish culture is well promoted in Poland, and that
being a Finn or a Finnish company in Poland is an asset.
Lets keep the flag and targets high also in 2025!
Many thanks to our publication team – especially Anna,
Weronika and Maja – who have made this happen
again! Also thanks to our sponsors, clients and the
whole network. I hope to see you again soon!
Rok, rok,
Tuomas Asunmaa
Co-Founder & CEO of Spondeo
The patronage of our publication is
the Embassy of Finland in Warsaw
Greeting from the Ambassador of Finland
Päivi Laine
After two years as Finland’s Ambassador to Poland, I can
confidently say that Finland and Poland share a strong
and evolving relationship, grounded in mutual respect,
shared values, and strategic cooperation. Our countries
work closely on various EU-related matters, including
economic development, security, and environmental
sustainability. Finland looks forward to collaborating
with Poland during Poland’s Presidency of the EU
Council and Finland’s Chairpersonship of the OSCE
in 2025.
Our bilateral ties have strengthened in recent years, with
a focus on enhancing trade and addressing regional
security issues, particularly within the context of NATO.
Finland’s recent NATO membership has further
solidified our partnership. Economically, Poland is one
of Finland's key trading partners in Europe. Finnish
companies are active in the Polish market, especially in
sectors like technology, energy, and manufacturing,
while Polish businesses are increasing their presence
and investments in Finland, contributing to a robust
exchange. Cultural and educational exchanges
between Finland and Poland have also flourished.
The number of Finnish books translated into Polish and
the concerts of Finnish bands in Poland are just a few
examples of this vibrant cooperation.
As Head of the Finnish Mission in Poland, I hope for even
deeper diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation
in the future. I can assure you that our embassy has
ambitious plans for the years ahead, and we aim to think
outside the box to enhance creativity in our work.
The people featured in this publication are an important
part of this mission. I would like to thank you for your
invaluable contribution to strengthening the bilateral
relations between Finland and Poland. I am looking
forward to further collaboration with you. Let’s rock
on together!
H.E. Ambassador Päivi Laine
Embassy of Finland in Warsaw
Copyright © 2025
Spondeo Consulting Asunmaa.
All rights reserved.
Editor-in-chief: Tuomas Asunmaa
Content management: Spondeo
Graphic design: Anna Jędrzejewska
Website: www.spondeo.pl
Email address: office@spondeo.fi
Contact: tuomas@spondeo.fi | +48 514 615 048

4
Economic Indicators

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Finnish-Polish News - calendar 2024 ..................................................6
Economic indicators in Poland .................................................................. 8
SPCC and FTG - a partnership for Polish-Nordic
collaboration............................................................................................................10
Esko Kilpinen - the new chairman of the Finnish
Trade Guild................................................................................................................11
Business Finland - calendar 2024 and an interview
with Antti Rahikka................................................................................................ 12
Common denominators for success - tips
on starting strong in the Polish market ............................................ 14
Finnish energy companies in the Polish market ................. 15
Why understanding the energy market
in Poland is crucial for businesses
- expert insights from Fortum............................................................16
Views on the Polish energy sector
- an interview with Wärtsilä Energy’s Market
Development Director .............................................................................18
Pinja Digital entering the Polish market.....................................19
Finnish precision and Polish energy
- combining to power the future - Taaleri Energia .........20
Climate Summit of Poland
and Central-Northern Europe ...........................................................21
Biogas and biomethane technology
- how organic waste becomes a source
of energy at Biovoima ............................................................................. 22
Finnish business success stories & new
companies in the Polish market .........................................................23
Nordea in Poland - nordic spirit, local strength................. 24
Protecting the future - WithSecure’s approach
to cybersecurity............................................................................................26
From university project to global space-tech
pioneer - ICEYE ............................................................................................ 27
From zero to €100 million in four years
- Saxdor Yachts .............................................................................................28
A new Finnish brand in the Polish market - DROP..........29
Transparency and trust - EasyWhistle enters
the Polish market.........................................................................................29
Fast track to TOP 3 - Europress.......................................................30
From Kraków to Helsinki - SALESmanago
has acquired Finnish Leadoo.............................................................31
Tietoevry expands its technological capabilities
by moving to a new office in Poznań......................................... 32
Juuriharja brings first whistle to Poland ................................... 33
Ruokaboksi’s expansion into central
and Eastern European markets ...................................................... 34
Business support companies in the Polish market..........35
Spondeo’s market pulse: Recruitment in Poland.............36
Ahopelto Nordic - road to success in the global
logistics market............................................................................................. 37
Rising activity in the Polish M&A market
- insights from Ecovis ..............................................................................38
Świnoujście - Malmö - Finnlines’ new maritime
connection ........................................................................................................39
Kipinä celebrating 15 years of Finnish-Polish
workforce rental services.....................................................................40
A year of stabilization in the Polish accounting
landscape - Leinonen..............................................................................41
Pagero: Business has no boundaries, it has
responsibilities............................................................................................... 42
Polar Night Software: Trends and challenges
in the IT market ............................................................................................. 43
Poznań - city of the future................................................................... 44
Rebuild Ukraine in Warsaw 2024................................................... 45
The Lodz Special Economic Zone (LSEZ)
is buzzing with energy and innovation......................................46
HT Laser: Laser-focused leadership ..........................................48
Finnish culture & sport in Poland ..................................................... 49
Finnish innovations at the Polish Climate
Congress - a panel hosted by Spondeo .................................50
Evening with Finnish culture...............................................................51
Finnish Education Days 2024 by La Scuolla......................... 52
Kalevala - a Finnish village in the Polish mountains...... 52
Sopot by The Book Festival ............................................................... 53
Vivelo Book And Media Fair 2024 ................................................. 53
Finlandia SPOT - Finnish homes in the heart
of Poland ............................................................................................................ 54
Magical evening with a movie and Santa Claus
from Finland..................................................................................................... 54
From Finland to Europe - reflecting on
the Maustetytöt tour.................................................................................55
Books translated from Finnish to Polish in 2024...............56
Literary translations at the meeting point
of two cultures...............................................................................................58
Shedding light on Finnish-Polish history.................................59
Stories of connections you probably didn’t hear
about in history class............................................................................... 60
How Toni Hyyryläinen became part
of Polish culture.............................................................................................61
Sisu, sauna, and Santa - an interview with
Andrzej Parafiniuk - Honorary Consul ......................................62
Where diplomacy meets passion - an interview
with Marta Szewczyk from the Embassy of Finland.....63
From Lapland to the world - Maria chats with
the creator of Niko......................................................................................64
The one and only real Santa straight
from Rovaniemi to Poland ...................................................................65
Finnish athletes in Polish sports clubs.......................................66
A Finnish talent in Ekstraklasa ..........................................................67
Joona Monto - the Finnish hockey player
who found a home in Tychy ..............................................................68
Szczecin - nordic cross point............................................................69
Finnish companies & places in Poland........................................70
Map of Finnish production companies in Poland ............70
Map of Finnish IT companies, R&D and service
centers in Poland..........................................................................................71
Map of Finnish service companies and others
in Poland............................................................................................................. 72
Map of Finnish places in Poland .................................................... 73
TOP 25 Finnish companies in Poland by sales....................74
Business culture clash: Polish and Finnish
perspectives........................................................................................................... 75
Growth support from Poland: About Spondeo and
our services.............................................................................................................76
Meet our team......................................................................................................78
Economic Economic Indicators Indicators5
5

spondeo
FINNISH-POLISH NEWS
CALENDAR 2024
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
Gdynia
Poland/Finland
Kraków
Estonia
Poznań
Poland
Gdynia’s Traffic
Design team
designed a coldresistant
set of
urban furniture for
the city of Kerava
Katowice
Renta Group
acquired Polish
Scaffolding Group
Poland
Moomin Characters
and Rights & Brands
provided a trip to
Finland as a prize in
one of the auctions
for WOŚP
WOŚP - Great
Orchestra of
Christmas Charity
– is Poland's largest
non-governmental,
non-profit charity
organization
Poland
Oddlygood
launched a new Hi,
Protein! product
line in Carrefour
stores across Poland
Prague
Spondeo expanded
to the Czech market
Joonas Mäkilä
named local
partner
Warsaw
Finnish conductor
Dalia Stasevska
conducted a benefit
concert for Ukraine
at the Warsaw
Philharmonic
1.
Polish Medicalgorithmics
secured
a global software
distribution contract
with Finnish Bittium
Poland
Fortum and TVO
Nuclear Services
agreed to provide
expert services for
Poland's nuclear
power program
Poland
Wolt launched its
new Wolt for Work
service in Poland
Poland
WithSecure,
together with the
Czas Kobiet Foundation,
launched an
informational campaign
on preventing
cyberviolence
against women
Warsaw
Finnish Prime
Minister Petteri
Orpo met with his
Polish counterpart,
Donald Tusk
Warsaw
Future Board,
a Finnish group of
young company
board members,
went on an excursion
to Poland
2.
3.
YIT started selling
Portowa Zabłocie
investment, its first
project in Kraków
Online
The Czech RRF
Opportunities in
the Railway Sector
online event was
organized by the
Embassy of Finland
in Prague
Poland
Biovoima expanded
its operations to the
Polish market
Poland
Carrefour Poland
entered into cooperation
with Wolt
Warsaw
The Annual General
Meeting of Finnish
Trade Guild was
held, Esko Kilpinen
a new Chairman
Warsaw
Hesburger opened
a home delivery
kitchen in Poland
Warsaw
A panel with
Finnish companies
was organized at
the Polish Climate
Congress
Spondeo led a
panel discussion
with Baltic Sea
Action Group
(BSAG), Gasum,
Gebwell, Infrakit,
Meriaura Group,
and Wärtsilä
Wrocław
A Polish-Finnish
team achieved
a TOP 3 result
at the prestigious
'Locked Shields'
cyber defence
exercise organized
by NATO
Gdańsk
Finnish entrepreneurs
from Iitin
Yrittäjät went on an
excursion to Poland
Online
The first edition of
Finnish Education
Days was held
in Poland
Poland
The EBRD extended
a €13.7 million
loan to a Polish
subsidiary of
the Nrep Nordic
Strategies Fund IV
The loan will finance
Nrep’s first flexible
living concept
building in Poland
under its (Finnish)
brand Noli Studios
Świnoujście,
Malmö
Finnlines launched
a new daily route
between Sweden
and Poland
Wrocław
Finnair launched
a new route from
Wrocław to Helsinki
4.
Sanna Marin gave
a keynote speech
at ImpactCEE
Poznań
Spondeo and Orion
Pharma organized
a screening of the
film "Fallen Leaves"
directed by Aki
Kaurismäki
Szczecin
The 10th Scandinavian
Days was
held, with the main
theme being: "Artificial
Intelligence
and education of
the future - between
technology and social
responsibility"
Warsaw
Finland was the
guest of honor of
the VIVELO Book
and Media Fair
5.
6.
8.
Juuriharja entered
the Polish whistleblower
channel
market
Poland
Wolt expanded
to six new cities
in Poland
Tarnowskie Góry
Miilux celebrated
its 10th anniversary
in the Polish market
Warsaw
Finnish Summer
Picnic organized
by FTG
Warsaw
YIT started construction
of a new development
in Poland
– the Talarowa Park
estate
9.
10.
7. 11.
12.
The Walki Group
expanded its Polish
factory and expressed
plans to increase
employment
6 Calendar

1. Joonas Mäkilä | From the private collection of Joonas
2. “STOP cyberbullying against women” campaign | www.czaskobiet.org
3. Fortum | www.fortum.com
4. Finnlines’ new route | www.finnlines.com
5. Evening with Finnish Culture event | Photo by Spondeo
6. Vivelo Book and Media Fair | Photo by Finnish Embassy in Warsaw
7. ImpactCEE event | Photo by Spondeo
8. Ice hockey World Champion in Prague, Czechia | Photo by Spondeo
9. YIT new construction in Poland | www.yit.pl
10. 10th anniversary of Miilux in the Polish market | Photo by Millux
11. Wolt | www.wolt.com
12. Mölkky game at charity picnic in Poznań | Photo by Spondeo
13. Mika Taanila at cinema festival in Wrocław | Photo by Spondeo
14. Drop | Photo by Drop
15. Kalle Rovanperä won Rally Poland | www.thecheckeredflag.co.uk
16. Tuomas’ javelin bronze medal | From Tuomas private collection
17. EasyWhistle in Poland | Photo by EasyWhistle
18. Sopot by The Book Festival | Photo by Finnish Embassy in Poland
19. GEP acquired OpusCapita | www.prnewswire.com
20. Campus - The Future of Poland | www.olsztyn.wyborcza.pl
21. Sopot by The Book Festival | Photo by Finnish Embassy in Poland
22. Miilux stand at MSPO fair in Kielce | Photo by Spondeo
23. Tuomas & Pagero team at SPCC gala | Photo by Spondeo
24. Weronika at Nordic Business Forum | Photo by Spondeo
25. Open to Scandinavia Conference | www.warmia.mazury.pl
26. OpenOcean invested in Authologic | www.openocean.vc
27. Rebuild Ukraine fair in Warsaw | Photo by Spondeo
28. Conference code::dive by Nokia | Photo by Nokia
29. The Women of IT conference by Nokia | Photo by Nokia
30. Maustetytöt concert in Warsaw | Photo by Spondeo
31. Tuomas with Maustetytöt | Photo by Päivi Laine
32. Charity cinema event with Santa in Poznań | Photo by Spondeo
33. Santa Claus in Poland | Photo by Spondeo
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
Borowice
Olsztyn
Czech Republic
Kraków
Bydgoszcz
Poland
The 6th Kalevala
Spirit Festival
Poland
Finland’s Kalle
Rovanperä wins
Rally Poland
Poland
Spondeo entered
into cooperation
with Nordic Business
Forum and DROP
Sauna
Poland
Valmet expressed
plans to supply a
new production line
in Velvet CARE
Paper Mill
Poznań
WithSecure moves
to a new office in
Poznań
13.
Finnish Prime
Minister Sanna
Marin attended the
4th edition of the
"Campus – The
Future of Poland"
Poland
EasyWhistle expanded
to Poland
Sopot
Finnish authors
were present at
a Baltic-themed
literary festival
Toruń
GEP acquired
OpusCapita
17.
18.
Ruokaboksi entered
the Czech market
Poland
Metso opened a
digital design and
development studio
in Poland
Poznań
Vincit moved to a new
office in Poznań
Poznań
The WithSecure
CyberTrucks tour
reached Poznań
Warsaw
Visit to Poland by
the President of
Finland, Alexander
Stubb
Warsaw
The 20th Anniversary
of the SPCC
Wrocław
Test Dive Conference
by Nokia
Olsztyn
Open to Scandinavia
Conference
Poland
Solwers expanded
to Poland
Poland
Fortum announced
plans to invest
€100m in decarbonization
in Poland
Poland
OpenOcean invested
in Authologic
Warsaw
Students from
Finanssi ry (Oulu
University Business
students) had an
excursion to Warsaw
Warsaw
The Women of IT
conference was
organized by Nokia
Gdańsk
The Nordic Focus
Festival was held
Helsinki
There was a visit
by CPK to Finland
(Central Airport
project)
Poland
Polish SalesManago
acquires Finnish
Leadoo
Warsaw
ReBuild Ukraine
EXPO was held in
Warsaw with a
delegation of ~40
Finnish companies
Wrocław
code::dive conference
by Nokia
Renifer NIKO, a
Finnish animation,
hit Polish cinemas
Poland
Santa Claus was
touring in Poland
Poznań
Charity Cinema,
an event with Santa
in Poznań, was
organized by
Spondeo and
Orion Pharma
Warsaw
Maustetytöt had
a concert in Warsaw,
hosted by the
Embassy of Finland
Warsaw
Independence Day
Celebration by the
Finnish Trade Guild
30.
14.
19.
The Finnish
Embassy was a
patron at the DISE
Energy Congress
22.
The Warsaw
Security Forum
was held, with
several Finnish
speakers
Wrocław
A delegation of
SuMi (Finnish recycling
companies)
visited Wrocław
Wrocław
Finnair announced
the suspension of its
Wrocław-Helsinki
connection
27.
31.
15.
20.
23.
25.
28.
32.
16.
21.
24.
26.
29.
33.
Calendar 7

spondeo
ECONOMIC INDICATORS
IN POLAND
VAT
Tax rates
Source: www.podatki.gov.pl
CIT
38,100 2,100
40,100 1,700
29,200
1,300
8%
23%
19%
5% 9%
0%
Reduced rates, i.a.
Standard rate Reduced rates Standard rate for small taxpayers
Purchase Power
(adjusted GDP per
capita) (EUR, 2023)
in relation to 2022
Source: EUROSTAT
EU avg
Finland
Poland
Annual percentage change in GDP (%)
7.5
Source: Central Statistical Office
5.0
2.5
0.0
-2.5
*
XII 2014 XII 2016 XII 2018 XII 2020 XII 2022 XII 2024
*The consensus for the 2025 GDP estimate is 3.6% as of January 2025.
Purchasing Managers'
Index (PMI)
Source: Statista
49.2 44.5
Nov 2024 Nov 2023
Annual inflation (CPI)(%)
Source: Statista
15.0
10.0
5.0
0.0
-5.0
XII 2014 XII 2016 XII 2018 XII 2020 XII 2022 XII 2024
*
Government deficit
(% of GDP) and
public debt-to-
GDP forecasts
for 2025
5.5%
59.8%
*The consensus for the 2025 inflation estimate is 3.5% as of January 2025.
Source: Fitch Ratings
Average housing price per m² (EUR)
Euro (EUR) to Polish zloty (PLN) exchange rate
4,000
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
Warszawa
Kraków
Source: otodom.pl, 1 EUR = 4,27, December 2024
Gdynia
Gdańsk
Wrocław
Szczecin
Poznań
Katowice
Olsztyn
5.10
4.90
4.70
4.50
4.30
4.10
3.90
Source: European Central Bank
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
4,27
8.0
6.0
4.0
Reference rate (%)
Source: National Bank of Poland
*
Enterprises by size (2022)
Source: PARP
48,217 small
14,341 medium
2,283,379 micro
3,818 large
2.0
0.0
I 2023 I 2024 I 2025 I 2026
*The consensus for the 2025 reference rate estimate as of January 2025.
8 Economic indicators

billion EUR
billion EUR
FOREIGN TRADE
& INVESTMENTS
UNEMPLOYMENT
& SALARIES
Leading export partners (bn EUR, 2023)
98.6
100
75
50
0
billion EUR 25
3.0
-0.4
22.3 21.7 17.5 16.2
2.0
0.7 0.4
-0.2
2.9
Germany Czechia France UK Italy Finland
Leading import partners (bn EUR, 2023)
80
60
40
20
0
68.3
-5.1
-6.0
47.6
Germany China Italy US Netherlands Finland
Exports of goods
and services
in 2023 (% ofGDP)
Source: Central Statistical Office
16.8 15.0 13.9
0.0 0.6 0.0
58%
0.2
2.6
Source: Central Statistical Office
Source: Central Statistical Office
12.5
10.0
7.5
5.0
2.5
Annual unemployment rate (%)
0.0
2014 2016 2018 2020 2022 2024
Unemployment rate in main Polish cities (%)
4.0
2.0
0.0
Poznań
Warsaw
Kraków
Gdańsk
Wrocław
Łódź
Szczecin
Bydgoszcz
Lublin
Białystok
Katowice
Olsztyn
Number of selfemployed
people
in 2023
Source: EUROSTAT
Source: Statista
Source: Central Statistical Office, November 2024
Zielona Góra
Rzeszów
Kielce
Gorzów Wlkp.
Opole
3.2 m
Average & Minimum salary (PLN)
10,000
Source: Central Statistical Office, 1 EUR = 4,27
EUR 2,189
PLN 9,350*
EUR 1,985
PLN 8,478
Foreign Direct
Investment in
2023 (FDI) (EUR)
Source: Statista
24.6 bn
7,500
5,000
2,500
0
2016 2018 2020 2022 2024
Minimum salary EUR 1,092
from 1 Jan 2025: PLN 4,666
2026
PLN (avg salary)
PLN (min. salary)
*Assumes a forecast of 10% annual growth.
Foreign direct investments in Poland (bn EUR)
Source: Statista
Average & minimum salary (EUR)
Source: Central Statistical Office, 1 EUR = 4,27 PLN, November 2024
40
30
20
10
12.0%
1,990€ 1.095€
0
2015 2017
2019 2021 2023
Year-to-year labor
cost increase in Q3/2024
Average salary
November 2024
Minimum salary
Economic indicators 9

SPCC AND FTG
SPCC AND FTG
A PARTNERSHIP FOR POLISH-NORDIC COLLABORATION
The Finnish Trade Guild (FTG), with 66
corporate members, is an integral part
of the Scandinavian-Polish Chamber of
Commerce (SPCC) – a business association
created to support the development of
Polish-Nordic economic relations. As one
of the four National Sections of the SPCC,
the FTG serves as a hub for member
businesses operating in Poland by representing
their views and interests, organizing
cultural and networking events, fostering
cooperation with third parties, and offering
business support that enhances and complements
the benefits of SPCC membership.
The FTG’s activities include annual events
such as the Finnish Summer Picnic in June,
the Crayfish (Rapujuhlat) Party in September
and the celebration of Finnish Independence
Day in December, as well as business
Board of the Finnish Trade Guild
2024
Esko Kilpinen (Valkea)
Chairman, SPCC Board Member
Maria Onikki-Gorski (Leinonen)
Vice Chairperson, SPCC Board Member
Jon Lenck (UPM Raflatac)
SPCC Board Member
Tuomas Asunmaa (Spondeo)
FTG Board Member
Marcin Bruszewski (Fortum)
FTG Board Member
Markku Ekholm (Suomen Unipol)
FTG Board Member
Tomasz Konarski (YIT Poland)
FTG Board Member
Andrzej Pijanowski (Pagero)
FTG Board Member
Agnieszka
Dzięgielewska-Jończyk (Nordea)
FTG Board Member
Antti Rahikka (Business Finland)
FTG Board Member
breakfasts discussing crucial economic
topics. Those events offer an unique
opportunity to meet, network and
celebrate Finnish traditions with other
members of the business community.
The SPCC is a non-profit organization
created by business people. For over 20
years, the SPCC has been supporting
the development of economic relations
between Poland, Scandinavia, and the
Baltic States. They integrate and inspire the
Polish-Scandinavian business community.
As the third largest international chamber
in Poland, the SPCC has over 400 members
representing the most important economic
sectors. Working closely with the Embassies
of the Nordic countries, SPCC is jointly
supporting investors and working to develop
Polish-Scandinavian business relations.
SPCC membership gives access to knowledge,
a wide range of business meetings
and opportunities to build long-term
relationships, which play a crucial role
in Scandinavian business culture.
66
FTG members
Representatives
of major Finnish businesses
& SMEs
416 20 th
SPCC members
in total
Nordic
network
SPCC
Anniversary
And years of experience in supporting
Nordic-Polish business
Visit the website to learn more
www.spcc.pl
10 FTG & SPCC

ESKO KILPINEN
The new chairman of the Finnish Trade Guild
Esko Kilpinen is the new chairman of the Finnish Trade Guild.
He is continuing the work of the previous chairman, Tuomas Asunmaa,
who served in the position from 2022 to 2024. In fact, Esko is returning
to the position, as he was chairman in the 2000s and was also chairman
of the whole Scandinavian-Polish Chamber of Commerce for one year.
The connection goes deeper, as Tuomas used to work for Esko's company
– Valkea Media – in 2008-2011 in Warsaw. These old friends sat down
and had a chat about Esko's journey in Poland and FTG.
You have made quite a journey in Poland,
when did it all start?
I came to Poland to run KONE Elevator’s
local business in 1996. At that time, KONE
was quite a small company here
compared to today.
You moved from elevators to publishing,
which is not the most conventional move.
While I was still running KONE in Poland,
I established Poland’s first free distribution
magazine aimed at young urban people.
It was called City Magazine and was somewhat
similar to the one in Finland at that
time. I sold out very early and the magazine
was later sold to Agora. After this,
I was approached by a Finnish company
that had set up the Aktivist concept in
Finland. I joined their group from KONE
and built up their presence in eight cities
in Poland. When the internet bubble burst
and the group began to downsize, I purchased
the Polish operations and renamed
the company Valkea Media.
How was the business environment
in the early noughties?
The early 2000s were a very exciting time
because Poland, especially Warsaw, began
to change rapidly. Until then, there were
only about 50 restaurants in Warsaw and
a handful of clubs. Today, there are over
3,000 restaurants in Warsaw and numerous
venues for going out. The business scene
was very expat driven, as most foreign
companies were run by expats.
During those wild years, I assume there
were various times when locals tried to
trick you – what was the most memorable
attempt?
My most memorable times were from KONE,
where the local construction companies
tried to trick me. The best one was when
we were delayed with the project because
the construction company had not built the
elevator shaft. I told them that we cannot
start the work because there is no elevator
shaft. Their response was that it does not
say anything about the elevator shaft in
the agreement. We settled and everything
worked out OK in the end. One time,
in Aktivist, we had a very competitively
priced distribution company, but it turned
out they were simply dumping all the
papers instead of delivering them to
clubs and restaurants.
As we all know, Poland has changed
massively during the last 25 years, but
are there still some things that have not
changed?
Certainly a lot has changed. Warsaw is a
completely different city from 20 years ago.
So for anyone who knew Poland at the
beginning of the millennium, their conceptions
and understanding are very wrong,
because things have changed so much.
Or are there things that were better
in the old times?
Sure, I was twenty-five years younger. :)
I miss print media. It was a very predictable
business model and easy to run. Today’s
online media and social media is fast-moving;
ideas and trends change quickly. In news
media, the boundary between entertainment
and factual news has blurred because
business is all about clicks and views.
What practical or general advice could
you give to anyone who might be considering
opening a business in Poland?
Be prepared to fight. Poland is very
competitive and employees change
companies quickly. Have excellent
marketing material and be ready to sell,
sell, sell. There are lots of opportunities,
especially in streamlining processes like
accounting and administration.
What are the main cultural differences
between Poland and Finland?
I think in Finland, people are more
introverted, things take time, and
business relations take a long time to
build. Poland is very price-driven, with
companies changing suppliers quickly
based on price and commercial terms.
What would you bring from Poland
to Finland?
The tax schemes, an entrepreneurial
attitude, and a willingness to get
things done.
As a fresh FTG chairman, but also
one who served already back in the
noughties, how would you summarise
the chamber today and in the past?
Twenty-five years ago, the chamber was
a native Finn expat club. All the members
were Finns and the purpose was really
to have a platform to share information
on how to get things done. For example,
when I completed KONE Poland’s first
audit, PWC had 12 people in the local
office, while today they have thousands.
That meant a network of fellow Finns was
really valuable. Today, SPCC is a huge
chamber with over 400 members. Most,
if not all Finnish companies are run by
local managers. Hence the expat network
is gone. Now it is more about business,
networking and lobbying.
What strategy are you implementing
for the years to come?
The strategy is still being developed, but
in general we plan to enforce the SPCC
board and give clear areas of responsibility
to key people. The view is that the SPCC
is stronger together when we align our
interests together with the Danish,
Swedish and Norwegian
companies.
FTG & SPCC 11

BUSINESS FINLAND
BUSINESS FINLAND
CALENDAR 2024
We invite Finnish and Polish
companies to contact us to create
business opportunities together
Business Finland is a government agency responsible for promoting trade, travel and investment in Finland,
as well as providing funding for innovation. Business Finland's objective is to generate prosperity for Finland
by accelerating its customers' sustainable growth on the global stage. Business Finland forms an integral
part of the Team Finland network, working closely with Finnish embassies, consulates and other public
stakeholders to support the internationalization of Finnish companies and facilitate their entry into foreign
markets. The Business Finland office in Warsaw plays a pivotal role in supporting Finnish companies across
Poland, the broader Central and Eastern European (CEE) region, and the Baltic States. It serves as a gateway
for Finnish businesses seeking to expand their operations in these markets.
February 1-2, Helsinki
Business Finland arranged a study visit
for Polish hospital stakeholders to gain
insight into Finnish expertise in healthcare.
Based on the Polish hospital representatives’
needs, we presented Finnish strengths in
the provision of psychiatric care, senior care,
and functional hospital design. During their
two-day visit, the Polish delegation had
the opportunity to explore several prestigious
installations, including hospitals and
rehabilitation centres for the elderly.
March 1, Wrocław
Business Finland, in collaboration with the
Embassy of Finland, had the pleasure of
organizing a successful "Finnish Polish
Breakfast" on the topic of the healthcare
sector in Poland. The event was dedicated
to discussing potential cooperation with
regional hospitals in Lower Silesia.
Spring, Online
In the spring, Business Finland held
a series of webinars with our business
partners to explore opportunities in
the CEE region. On March 14, we hosted
a webinar on the potential for rail projects
in the Czech Republic. On May 22, we
held a webinar on the battery industry
ecosystem in Hungary. On June 11, we
held a webinar on the opportunities in the
automotive sector in the Czech Republic
and Slovakia.
April 10-11, Kraków
Following the success of the low-carbon
built environment RRF-related activities
by Business Finland in Warsaw last year,
the focus shifted to Kraków for a trade
mission to foster regional cooperation.
The Low-Carbon Built Environment Trade
Mission aimed to establish strong business
collaboration for Finnish companies while
creating direct connections with prospective
Polish partners and influential stakeholders.
May 28-30, Tampere
In collaboration with Business Tampere,
Business Finland organised a Trade
Mission for several key market players in
Poland from the heavy-duty machinery,
mining and battery sectors to attend the
Future Mobile Work Machine event in
Tampere. The event's primary focus was
the electrification of off-road machinery.
June 19
Business Finland supported the Embassy
of Finland in Riga and Finnish companies
in organising the Finnish Workshop on
Hospital Design in Latvia. This workshop
aimed to give some further insight into
recent examples of designing modern,
functional, and safe hospitals and to
discuss cooperation possibilities in Latvia.
August 28, Helsinki
Business Finland actively participated in
“Together to Global Growth – Healthtech
Export Day” in Helsinki. A day of knowledge
sharing, networking and collaboration
focusing on international growth was
organized for Finnish companies with
health and wellbeing technologies and
solutions already exporting or looking
to start exporting.
August 29, Helsinki
Business Finland, alongside the Ambassador
of Finland to Poland, actively participated
in Team Finland Day - an annual business
event for Finnish companies to offer the
possibility to ask local network experts for
tips on export, international trade, and
financing. Companies could make appointments
for 10-minute speed dating, stop
by the info points, and follow the stage
program.
November 12-14, Warsaw
For the second time, Business Finland
organized a delegation to the ReBuild
Ukraine fair in Warsaw, to provide active
support for reconstructing Ukraine's
infrastructure. Finnish companies engaged
in the delegation offered solutions to
Ukraine in areas such as energy, construction,
technology, engineering, architecture,
defence shelters, waste and water
management, hospitals, and schools.
November 15, Warsaw
Business Finland organized a session
on the construction market in Poland.
Our guests received an introduction to
the situation in the Polish construction
market and had the opportunity to interact
with representatives of Polish engineering
companies. The event presented the
perspectives of a market analyst, an engineering
company and a human resources
company - to understand the market
from different perspectives.
November 25-27, Helsinki
Business Finland, in collaboration with the
Finnish Embassy in Warsaw, arranged a
study tour for CPK representatives and
local authorities to Helsinki and Vantaa.
Throughout the three-day study tour, we
showcased the most effective practices
in the surrounding area of the airport,
while also introducing the relevant
Finnish offerings to CPK representatives.
December 4, Online
“Market Insights – Changes in the Polish
Hospital Market” online seminar, organized
by Business Finland with the support
of the Embassy of Finland in Warsaw, was
a terrific opportunity to gain an understanding
of the Polish hospital market.
Finnish companies had the opportunity
to hear local hospitals’ experts’ insight on
trends and opportunities for innovation
solutions as well as current EU-funding
healthcare cases. We shared broad
experiences in the Polish market.
What is in the pipeline for 2025? Business Finland's Future Hospital Poland Export Booster will start next year and has identified
a growing demand in Poland’s hospital market. This two-year initiative (2025–2026) aims to connect Finnish companies with
tangible sales opportunities and provide dedicated support to help these deals come to fruition, fostering sustainable export
growth. For more information please contact: agnieszka.wrobel@businessfinland.fi
12 Business Finland

POLAND AS A KEY MARKET
Interview with Antti Rahikka from Business Finland
Antti Rahikka is an international business and management expert with
over 20 years of experience in the markets of Europe, the Middle East, Asia,
and Africa. He has worked in the IT, telecommunications, and energy
industries, overseeing company operations across three continents.
Currently, Antti works as Director, Central & East Europe (ICT, Bio & Circ,
General Market Advice) at Business Finland. Tuomas spoke with him about
his work in Poland, the market’s potential, key sectors for cooperation,
and plans for the region.
Antti Rahikka (Director)
antti.rahikka@businessfinland.fi
How has your first year in Poland been
so far? Apart from the weather compared
to Dubai, have there been any other
surprises or adjustments?
I moved to Poland in February and it
felt like coming home, back to Europe.
Of course, Dubai is designed for expats,
which makes life there very easy. I didn’t
have any prior experience of Poland,
having visited only once, the previous
October, to check out the place before
signing. Otherwise, Poland has been
like a blue ocean to me.
Does Business Finland have a strong
team in Poland and wide responsibilities?
Yes, we have a team of 6 + 1 people here.
It is indeed an excellent team, with diverse
responsibilities and skills. In principle, we
manage 20 countries plus Poland from
the Warsaw office. Of course, many of
these countries are small, like Kosovo or
Albania. Poland is the only country in the
CEE region with a Business Finland office;
the next closest one is in Turkey if you go
straight down on the map. Warsaw serves
as an important hub for covering the
CEE region.
I didn’t realize that before, but it's
interesting and indeed a big territory.
How do you manage your time? You
probably focus mostly in Poland.
Yes, Poland takes about one-third or a bit
more of my time. Czechia and Slovakia
are also important, naturally.
Based on your experience in the
market, what trends or hot topics are
you currently seeing in Poland?
Well, there are so many factors that it
would be almost an oversimplification
to try to mention just a few. Poland is
a large European country with strong
internal demand and good connections
to European supply chains. Consumer
demand is rising and is a key driver for
growth. I am slightly pessimistic about the
growth projections for 2025, as there are
many uncertainties in the world at the
moment.
What sector is the biggest area of focus
for your work?
Of the individual sectors, the energy sector
is the area where we allocate most of our
time. The green transition has not yet
happened, but it will. We try to support
Finnish companies as much as possible,
as market opportunities are not yet
well-known or fully achieved in Finland.
For example, in commercial projects such
as the use of waste energy, low-carbon
district heating, etc, there are massive
opportunities. Finnish companies,
especially SMEs, have great potential to
contribute to this transition. The medical
sector also has many interesting
opportunities.
From a Finnish perspective, is Poland
well-known enough by Finnish export
companies?
No. I always tell everyone that there is
definitely a lack of knowledge about
Poland in Finland, and I see that as one
of our priority tasks. We are addressing
this in cooperation with the embassies
and other organizations. Poland is not yet
widely recognized in Finland. However,
in 1H25, Poland will have its spotlight in
the media due to having EU presidency.
Poland is not in the first-tier of countries
when it comes to Finnish companies'
export markets, but maybe it is in the
second tier?
Naturally, Sweden and Estonia will remain
the closest and easiest markets for expansion,
and they are the most utilized,
along with Germany. However, Poland will
follow closely behind. When it comes to
export funding, it is very useful to allocate
resources to CEE markets because Finland
simply has less experience in connection
with these markets.
Why is Poland not that well-known?
Any theories?
The image of a place changes more
slowly than the country itself. We hope
to cooperate with PAIH (Polish Investment
and Trade Agency) on this matter as well.
Your team is very active locally. Can you
share some highlights from this year's
events or delegations?
We have been especially active with topics
related to energy and healthcare. There are
good opportunities in large projects, and
Finland has a strong reputation to leverage.
Of course, Poland is, and will continue to be,
a gateway to Ukraine, so last week's Rebuild
Ukraine event was definitely a highlight.
Commercial visits also occur regularly.
Is the ReBuild Ukraine topic getting
more traction?
Yes, it has certainly been on our agenda.
Coming to Poland is also a step closer to
the Ukrainian market, so it can be a good
strategy as Polish companies will play
a significant role in this.
Any tips for Finns exploring the potential
of the Polish market?
My advice is simply to come here. Seeing
is believing, in both directions. As with any
destination, be prepared – research some
key facts before your visit. We are both
Baltic Sea countries, part of Northern Europe.
You don’t need an in-depth understanding
of cultural nuances; just come and proactively
experience the local reality.
Have you made any observations
regarding cultural differences?
Poles are sometimes a bit theoretical and
process-oriented, and they value authority
more than Finnish culture does.
What is your master plan for 2025?
We plan to organize more events and
activities, with focused efforts in priority
sectors such as energy and healthcare,
as well as increased information sharing.
Additionally, Business Finland will be
going through some changes.
What would you like to bring with you
after your years in Dubai?
A high level of ambition and a tendency
to think big are often evident there.
And, of course, the attractive
tax policies :)
Business Finland
Business Finland 13

spondeo
COMMON DENOMINATORS
FOR SUCCESS
Tips on starting strong in the Polish market
Spondeo turned 10 in 2024. During the past decade, we have acted in hundreds of
projects and have obviously seen both successes and failures. Below are a few of
my findings, but more important are the articles in this publication. There you will
find business or business culture tips from experts on the market in every article.
Tuomas Asunmaa
Photo by Anna Jędrzejewska
If you'd like to dive deeper into the
Polish market, or discuss potential
opportunities, feel free to reach
out via email: tuomas@spondeo.fi
Common surprises
in Poland
Tough competition and very
competent local players
Contact persons are not
publicly available, reaching
right person takes time
Prices are getting closer
to Finnish level and (net)
salaries sometimes
even above
Speed and dynamics -
when things move they
move fast
Business culture is not as
relaxed as in Finland
1. Willingness to understand
the market
This means curiosity, humility, and the
ability to accept the fact that some things
work differently here. Understanding the
soul of a local customer is important –
simply because you need to convince
them to change their existing buying
habits. I suggest you take all possible
meetings, even those that might not
sound the most perfect. You will always
learn something, have a chance to ask
questions and, in the best case, you will
be recommended or given new contacts.
While Poles and Finns get along well and
are often quite similar, there are obviously
some differences in business culture.
2. Fieldwork
Be there, be loud, sell and promote your
offer hard. Unfortunately, we still see
cases where a company wants to expand
to Poland without visiting the country.
Face-to-face meetings and personal
relationships really matter in Poland, and
that cannot be done remotely. A good
way to get to know the market and industry
professionals is to participate in a trade
fair or industry-specific conference.
3. Localization
If competitors are operating locally, that
practice should be followed. Website and
marketing materials should be available
in Polish, and the sales happen, in most
cases, in Polish. The Polish market is large
and very competitive, therefore ensuring
your materials and support are accessible
will not only enhance credibility, but also
demonstrate your commitment to
meeting local expectations.
4. Commitment
If there is a board decision, budget,
resources and timeline for expanding
to country X, or the decision to pick up
the next expansion countries by investing
in market understanding, the chances
of success are higher. Retrospectively
looking at many projects, often the costs
were underestimated and revenues
overestimated, and success came more
slowly than anticipated and perhaps
required changing the strategy.
However, where there was a commitment,
success often followed.
5. Well-selected first people
& daily management
Changing the sales partner or local personnel
is a request that we receive too
often. All too frequently we heard the
story was that the first person met was
hired. Sometimes, recruiting a country
lead or sales partner can take up to half
a year. In that case, it is crucial to spend
time with the team regularly in Poland
(not managing by email) and implement
rather strict processes to follow and
monitor. Unfortunately, fraud does still
happen, so healthy control is crucial - also
to ensure that fieldwork is done properly.
6. Sisu, patience and focus
Rare are the cases that did not have
disappointments before the success.
For example, reaching people is not as
easy as in Finland, simply because the
contact details are in most cases not
publicly available. Sales negotiations can
start anything up to three years after the
first contact - export is a long-distance
sport and requires a tough skin. The Polish
market is by population bigger than seven
other CEE countries, therefore the budget
and focus should be adjusted accordingly.
Often it is worth identifying the most
attractive market pocket and
focusing on that.
14 Common denominators for success

SECTION 1
FINNISH ENERGY
COMPANIES
IN THE POLISH MARKET
Poland's dynamic energy market presents huge opportunities
for Finnish companies looking to develop their innovative
solutions and expertise. From renewable energy technologies
to advanced energy management systems, Finnish companies
are having a significant impact on the development of the
sector. In this section, you'll learn more about the energy
industry, through companies like Wärtsilä, Fortum, Pinja,
Suomen Biovoima, Taaleri, and others, all of which showcase
Finland's dedication to sustainability, innovation, and
building strong partnerships in Poland's rapidly
evolving energy landscape.
MAGAZYN BIOMASA
Magazyn Biomasa has been promoting topics related
to RES since 2014, with a focus on the biogas, pellet,
and biomass industries, as well as CCUS technologies.
Magazyn Biomasa is the no. 1 source for biomass
industry news, trends and statistics.
All our magazines are available online at
www.magazynbiomasa.pl. Our publishing activities
are complemented by organizing conferences,
workshops (both in-person and online). We inform,
educate, connect the industry and facilitate
business relationships.
Interested? Contact us:
redakcja@magazynbiomasa.pl, +48 790 439 216
In 2025, we invite you to join our events:
• Biomethane Congress, May, Poznań
– an event combining a conference and
a trade fair for the biogas/biomethane industry;
• Pellet Forum, June, Gdynia – the largest
gathering of the pellet industry in Poland,
this year organized in collaboration with
the European Pellet Council;
• Biomass and Alternative Fuels in Heating
Sector, October, Biała Podlaska
– a conference addressed to the energy
and district heating sectors;
• Biogas Congress, December, Warsaw
– the 10th edition of the largest biogas industry
event in Poland and one of the biggest in Europe.
Finnish Energy Companies 15

Visit the website to learn more
www.fortum.pl
WHY UNDERSTANDING THE ENERGY MARKET
IN POLAND IS CRUCIAL FOR BUSINESSES
Expert insights from Fortum
Fortum is a Nordic energy company
that has been active in the Polish
market since 2003. The company
initially focused on district heating
operations and later expanded its
presence in Poland by investing in
energy production, including combined
heat and power (CHP) plants.
Fortum has since become a significant
player in the Polish energy
sector, providing sustainable energy
solutions and electricity. In a conversation
with Tuomas Asunmaa,
Łukasz Mordasiewicz, Senior Business
Manager Medium and Large
Enterprise Solutions, shares his insights
on the current market situation
and compares Poland with
other EU countries. He also mentions
opportunities and recommendations
forinvestors, keytrends in the industry
and how EU funds may affect the
future of the energy sector in Poland.
How would you summarize the Polish
energy market and key trends in 2024?
I think 2024 has been a year
of certain stabilization. This is
a pleasant change after the
enormous volatility the market has faced
over the past three years (two years of
dynamic growth followed by a year of
declines). To illustrate the unpredictable
situation for energy consumers, imagine
being a business customer who needs to
know energy costs for the next year and
wants to sign a contract with a supplier
a year in advance. In the past three years,
price fluctuations were so significant that,
depending on when the decision was
made, the cost difference could be double.
This makes budget planning and risk
management extremely difficult. Not to
mention the problem of product competitiveness.
This year, the volatility is four
times as low, which, combined with the
fact that prices have returned to 2021
levels, brings more peace to the company’s
purchasing processes.
However, it is worth mentioning that the
price freeze mechanism for micro, small
and medium-sized enterprises, introduced
in 2022 and then extended, has effectively
discouraged many consumers from
engaging with the energy market.
As of today, the maximum price of PLN
693/MWh ends at the end of this year.
If consumers do not take any action (do
not sign any offers with their suppliers or
do not approach new ones), they will end
up on standard price lists where they will
face significant increases. This is completely
unnecessary, as today every consumer
can secure a price significantly lower
than the statutory maximum price.
I encourage everyone
to spend some time
on this topic as it can
have a significant
financial impact
on companies.
The issue may seem obvious, but we
must remember that, since the beginning
of the liberalization of the energy market
in Poland in 2007, only 18% of business
consumers and less than 5% of house-
holds have ever changed their supplier.
It is clear that, as an energy sector, we
have serious educational and promotional
challenges ahead of us.
Compared to other EU countries, where
does Poland stand in terms of production?
The share of renewable energy sources
(RES) in the Polish power system is
growing dynamically. While in 2021 it was
15%, by 2023 it had already reached 27%
(in 2024 it is likely to be 32%). The largest
increase in capacity occurred in solar
power plants. We are seeing this at every
level, both in households, industrial
installations installed behind company
meters and at large-scale PV farms.
However, this does not change the fact
that Poland, with an emissions level of
666 kg CO2/MWh (in 2022), is an infamous
leader in this ranking. For comparison,
the German economy has values almost
half that, while Finland’s is 8-9 times lower.
This is, of course, the result of 63% of
energy still being produced in coal-fired
power plants, and another 10% from gas.
What would be your advice to foreign
investors when they are planning or
budgeting energy costs, what are the
key points they need to understand
about the market dynamics here?
The specific energy mix in Poland, still
heavily based on fossil fuels, is also
reflected in prices. On this year’s SPOT
market (the price determined daily for
the next day), energy in Poland has
16 Finnish Energy Companies

been 30% higher than in Germany, and
over 70% more than prices in the Finnish
system. Unfortunately, everything
indicates that this trend will stay with
us for a long time. Looking at current
energy contract quotations, we see that
the difference between the price in
Poland and Germany will widen in the
coming years, from about 18% next year
to as much as 40% in 2027. Of course, this
is a scenario priced by the market today.
We will see what the future brings.
Energy costs are not just the price of
energy from the exchange. Distribution
costs (energy delivery) and additional
fees are also important. In this aspect,
Poland does not significantly deviate from
the EU average for business consumers.
If I were to suggest anything to business
consumers, it would be:
• To optimize distribution costs
as there is great potential here.
The proper selection of ordered
capacity, tariff group or reactive
power compensation can generate
significant and repeatable savings.
• There are many cooperation models
with energy suppliers available in the
market. Certainly everyone will be
able to find something that meets
their needs in this regard. It is not
worth compromising out of fear
of changing suppliers. It is always
a simple and safe, and often also
profitable move.
• It is worth taking some time to take
an interest in the market. Both prices
and broadly understood energy
transformation issues. These issues
have gained such cost and environmental
importance that they simply
cannot be ignored.
Transition towards cleaner energy is
a massive move in Poland - what would
be your message to Finnish companies
who often have very good technology
in this industry?
Poland, as a member of the European
Union and a signatory of the Paris Agreement,
is aiming to reach climate neutrality.
The path to achieving this is, of course,
slightly different due to the level from
which we are starting. However, the
issue of reducing the carbon footprint
is important on the government’s
agenda in Poland, but also among
businesses. This is due to the obligation
to report on ESG areas, which in the
coming years will expand to more
groups of companies. It is worth knowing
that, despite the high emissions in the
economy as a whole, as mentioned above,
there are mechanisms available in Poland
to effectively reduce it. Guarantees of
origin (GoO) are available and function in
the same way as on other markets.
In addition, their price is similar to the
European market (despite Poland not
being a member of the AiB association).
Many companies provide services for
installing their own RES (especially PV)
in various financing models. The cPPA
market is developing dynamically,
with contracts concluded directly with
renewable energy sources. Last but not
least, we have energy companies offering
flexible products to support these areas
and package them into a convenient and
attractive product for customers.
How will upcoming EU funding shape
the Polish energy markets?
It seems that the priorities in the National
Recovery Plan (KPO) will include support
for energy efficiency and the development
of RES in enterprises. We are already
seeing programs dedicated to these
areas. Another topic worthy of attention
will be energy storage, which will also be
able to count on significant financial
support. It is worth using this time for
energy transformation.
What events or forums would you
suggest participating in?
In my opinion, the problem today is not
the lack of access to information, but
rather too much information and the
difficulty of verifying its credibility.
I always encourage everyone to take
the time to meet with professionals in
a given field and exchange thoughts
and opinions with them.
Any tips on how to follow the market,
prices, and forecasts?
Access to knowledge about wholesale
energy prices is very simple – you can
always check them directly on the
website of the Polish Power Exchange
(www.tge.pl/otf). This month we
launched a newsletter summarizing
important events in the energy market,
which you may find it valuable. We are
also available on LinkedIn, commenting
on current observations and curiosities
that may be interesting to consumers.
Łukasz Mordasiewicz
Senior Business Manager Medium
and Large Enterprise Solutions
Lukasz.Mordasiewicz@fortum.com
www.fortum.pl
SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER
Educational activities
Fortum has actively engaged in numerous
events, fostering closer ties with local
communities while promoting education
on ecology and district heating. Fortum
participated in 12 events across three
cities, resulting in 8,000 interactions with
residents. From family picnics to open days
at the combined heat and power plant, each
of these gatherings has been a step
towards building stronger relationships and
advocating for sustainable practices.
“Family picnics provided an excellent
opportunity for direct interaction with
residents. Our booths featured attractions
for all age groups, from coloring zones for
children to the popular ‘Wheel of Fortune’,
which educated participants about district
heating and energy in a fun way. Events
in neighborhoods like Tysiąclecia and
Zawodzie Dąbie attracted many residents,
and our collaboration with local authorities
contributed to the success of these events.
During these picnics, we distributed 500
heathers as part of our recycling campaign,
encouraging participants to exchange
recyclable materials for plants.
One of the most interesting events was the
open day at our combined heat and power
plant in Częstochowa, which had around
200 participants. As the plant is usually
closed to the public, residents had a unique
opportunity to see how it operates. Visitors
learned about the entire process of energy
and heat production, from fuel unloading to
combustion and distribution. This event not
only facilitated education but also
strengthened our presence in the local
community as a company committed to
transparency and sustainable development.
Additionally, we collected loads of
recyclable materials during our ‘Exchange
Waste for Heather’ campaign, further
promoting environmental awareness and
responsibility,” said Jacek Lawrecki.
Jacek Lawrecki
Head of Communications, Poland
Jacek.Lawrecki@fortum.com
Finnish Energy Companies 17

Visit the website to learn more
www. wartsila.com
VIEWS ON THE POLISH
ENERGY SECTOR
Interview with
Wärtsilä Energy’s
Market Development
Director
Wärtsilä is one of Finland's
industrial giants, a global leader
in the marine and energy
sectors with a 190-year history.
The company employs over
19,000 people and operates
in more than 80 countries, with
branches in Gdynia and Gdańsk
in Poland. In recent years, it has
held a global market share of
nearly 70% for large engines
used in energy applications.
Tuomas Asunmaa spoke with Igor
Petryk, the Market Development
Director at Wärtsilä.
Wärtsilä has been in Poland for quite
a while, how would you summarize
the journey and where are you today?
Wärtsilä is the Finnish engineering concern
that is the world leader in two areas: Marine
and Energy. Our global presence spans
more than 80 countries. In Poland, we are
represented by the Marine division, which
has offices in Gdańsk and Gdynia, as well
as a services workshop in Gdańsk.
With a total headcount of 370 people,
the Polish affiliate is an important element
of our engineering and global services
network. The pool of highly qualified Polish
engineers participates in the commissioning
and execution of projects around the world,
including our power plant and battery
energy storage installations.
The Energy division is currently represented
by just one market analyst hired locally,
and this reflects the stage of our development
– we are starting our journey on a
new market by studying its needs. It may
seem as if Wärtsilä is lagging behind
other companies from the same business
sector, but at the end of the day the actual
result is what matters. According to
an S&P report, over the last five years,
Wärtsilä has had a 69% global market
share in the category of large heavy-duty
engines for energy application.
You have been on two special missions
to Poland, each for six months. What
was your main target in Poland?
To understand the market dynamics,
uncover its future needs and develop
a value proposition for Polish customers.
Behind these dry words, there was an
exciting process of speaking to hundreds
of people from many different backgrounds:
CEOs of state corporations, accountants,
civil engineers and businessmen, operators
of boiler houses and members of parliament.
Apart from that fieldwork, we did lots of
homework too. Based on the market data,
we developed a mathematical model of
the Polish power system that allowed us
to review various scenarios of the Polish
energy sector development for the next
10 years.
You traveled a lot in Poland, what visits
and events were most memorable?
During the first six-month assignment,
I was driving all over Poland trying to
collect first-hand information and see
the real business life with my own eyes.
This allowed me to create a complete
picture, like building a puzzle from
individual elements. I was also able to
see the differences and commonalities
between those pieces. Now, when my
Finnish colleagues come to Poland, I can
tell them that difference. And it’s not only
Igor Petryk
LinkedIn account
about the geographical split: the Polish
business environment is multi-dimensional.
What I would highlight as common features,
is the high level of professionalism
at least in the energy sector, and the
friendliness of people.
Did you ever have time to visit places
as a regular tourist? If so, what are
your favorites?
The absolute favorite is the open-air
Chopin concert program in Warsaw’s
Lazienki Park, which offers two free
concerts each Sunday during the summer.
Then there are a bunch of other great
places that are difficult to rank: from
a windy beach in Sopot to the trails
in Zakopane.
Have you encountered any surprises
about Poland's energy sector?
A positive surprise was, as I have already
mentioned, the professionalism of Polish
engineers and managers. On the negative
side, I would have to share my impression
that the Polish energy sector is still insufficiently
integrated into the European
context. I mean that not only in physical
terms, not only as a part of the common
market, but also mentally. There is an “us
and them” attitude at times. For example,
you can feel this just by visiting one of the
numerous energy conferences, let alone
the sector’s lower-level gatherings like
seminars. You will find ambassadors and
honorary guests from abroad, but there
are almost no foreign experts representing
Polish companies. This demonstrates the
high professional level of Poles, but in
a competitive international environment,
an exchange of human capital is also
important.
18 Finnish Energy Companies

How would you see the near future
developments, are there any trends
worth following?
Poland is one of the fastest-growing
economies in the EU. This brings both
opportunities and challenges. The rising
cost of labor and a potential deficit
of qualified personnel may disappoint
investors in many sectors, but in energy
the trend is very positive. Electricity
consumption is set to continue growing,
renewables will be replacing fossil fuel,
and in the heating sector there is a huge
change ahead with new technologies
replacing coal. Wärtsilä is well-positioned
to play an important role in this formation.
There are many small and midsize
companies in the energy sector from
Finland, how would you describe the
market potential in Poland for them?
I have not studied the market from this
perspective, but believe the market is
large enough to offer sizable opportunities
for various Finnish businesses. I see a very
positive attitude towards Finland in Polish
society, as opposed to certain other
neighbors, so an active company with
a competitive offering has a good
chance of success.
Do you have any recommendations on
where to start and what is important to
make business work in Poland?
It’s a tough question. There is no universal
answer to it, but in any case it is worth
starting by learning about the market, so
a good local advisor would be very handy.
Spondeo does a great job supporting
both countries in creating stronger ties.
Does Wärtsilä have any masterplan
in Poland that you can reveal?
Our modeling, which I mentioned above,
identified the best combination of generating
capacities in Poland for the coming
years. This study has been published and
is in the public domain so I will not be
revealing any secret if I tell you that our
technology can play a key role in energy
transition, both in the power sector and in
district heating. Ultimately, we are talking
about a couple of billion Euro in the long run.
You are not a Finn, so I am interested
in how you compare the business
culture and relations between Finland
and Poland?
Part of the answer is already above. I would
probably add a Polish feature that puzzled
me in the beginning and then irritated me
a lot. People just ignore you and your
emails if they are not interested in you.
You may think you just had a great meeting
with excellent prospects for continuation,
but that’s it. Having said that, I must admit
that in a lucky case, relations are usually
more “intimate” than in Finland. This is
probably no huge discovery, as the Finnish
culture is famous for its “emotionless reliability”.
Is there anything Finns can learn from
Poland or the Polish people?
I have the impression that Poles not only
enjoy vacation time, but also many other
days all year round, typically attached
to school holidays and public days off.
December, for example, is not a good month
to hold meetings, because Christmas is
just around the corner. Ok, I’m just kidding,
I do not recommend copying this.
Do you plan to stay in Finland, or have
you already chosen your next destination?
My role in the company is to discover new
opportunities and new markets in Europe.
Central and East Europe seem to offer
many new business opportunities thanks
to the energy transition process. Wärtsilä
is leading this process and I am happy to
be at the forefront in this historical time.
PINJA DIGITAL
ENTERING THE
POLISH MARKET
Pinja is a leader in industrial digital
transformation, offering cloud
solutions improving operational
efficiency, reducing costs, and
minimizing costly disruptions.
Specializing in supply chain management
and industrial production,
Pinja provides versatile solutions
tailored to the needs of businesses
acrossvarious industries and regions.
Operating in 30 countries, Pinja
has a dedicated team of 550 professionals,
renowned for delivering
high-quality services and fostering
long-term growth for clients. Pinja
has more than 30 years experience
in the bioenergy sector, particularly
in the Nordic region, where it
has helped companies enhance
operational efficiency and meet
business requirements.
Tuomas Asunmaa: What triggered you
to consider entering the Polish market,
where do you see the potential?
Marko Kiippa, Director: As Poland plans
to increase its share of renewable energy
under EU mandates, bioenergy (biomass
and biogas) is central to this transition.
Pinja provides tools and solid experience
to enable Polish companies to navigate
the shift from non-renewable to renewable
fuels by optimizing supply chain processes,
ensuring efficient delivery management
and compliance with EU regulations, and
by having comprehensive reporting capabilities
through digitalization. As Poland's
bioenergy sector grows, Pinja’s solutions
will drive improvements in supply chain
management, reducing costs, and providing
real-time data for better decision-making.
Over 2024, you visited several events
and conferences related to the energy
transition, what are your observations
from the market?
Pinja has engaged with stakeholders
of the energy sector and sees growing
demand for technologies that help in the
changing bioenergy market. By enabling
agile, transparent, and efficient
operations, Pinja’s digital solutions can
offer companies a competitive edge
in Poland’s bioenergy sector.
What plans do you have for 2025?
In the coming year, Pinja aims to solidify
its role as a trusted partner, supporting
Poland’s renewable energy goals while
driving sustainability and operational
excellence in the bioenergy industry.
Finnish Energy Companies 19

Visit the website to learn more
www.taalerienergia.com
FINNISH PRECISION
AND POLISH ENERGY
Combining to power
the future
Tomasz Janas (Head of Legal)
tomasz.janas@taaleri.com
Taaleri Energia is a Finnish wind
and solar developer and renewable
energy funds manager;
it is currently raising its sixth fund.
With one of the largest wind and
solar investment teams in Europe,
the company stands as Finland’s
leading wind power producer,
holding a 7% market share. As part
of the Taaleri Group – listed on
Nasdaq Helsinki and managing
€2.6 billion in assets – Taaleri
Energia focuses on large-scale
onshore wind farms, solar parks,
and battery storage facilities,
primarily across Europe and the
US. One of the company's biggest
goals is supporting the transition
to renewable energy to promote
sustainable development.
Tuomas had a conversation
with Tomasz Janas, Head of Legal,
who discussed the challenges
of entering Poland’s renewable
market, but highlighted its
strong potential.
How was the journey to realizing the investment
in Poland? Was it a long process?
Poland has always been an important
market for us, but it wasn’t
a particularly easy journey as
there were various challenges along the
way, such as regulatory issues, permitting
hurdles, and local market dynamics.
However, despite these obstacles,
Poland’s potential has always stood out.
With attractive electricity prices and
a growing demand for renewables, it’s
a market worth the effort. Today, together
with our JV partner, we have two operational
wind farms and more than 1 GW
of wind and solar projects in the pipeline
in Poland, so we’re thrilled to see the hard
work paying off. It was not a quick process,
but good things sometimes have to wait.
The investment was announced shortly
after the elections and the change of
government in Poland. Did that affect
market conditions?
Last year’s election (October 15, 2024) brought
a wave of optimism for renewables in
Photo by Taaleri Energia
Poland, including among investors. The current
government seems to be more aligned
with EU climate goals, which could significantly
boost confidence in the market. That
said, Poland's potential was clear even before
these political changes. Renewables are the
way forward, regardless of who’s in power.
The wind power market in Poland
was stagnant for a long time.
How are things now?
I wouldn’t say that the market was completely
stagnant, as you could see a number
of wind projects being built. However,
given Poland’s needs in terms of building
new renewable capacity, this was not
enough. After some years of slow down
due to restrictive policies like the “10H”
rule (a 2016 law requiring the distance
between wind turbines and residential
buildings or protected areas to be at least
10 x the height of the turbine), we’re now
seeing better progress. The amendment
to the 10H rule has provided the sector
with a much-needed boost. Further changes
are still pending, as the government
aims to finalize new legislation. Once these
barriers are fully lifted, the wind energy
market could truly take off. Even under
the current conditions, more projects are
advancing and investor interest is on the
rise. The market’s potential is enormous,
making this an exciting time for Polish
wind energy.
How important is wind power to Poland’s
energy mix now and in the future?
Wind power is absolutely essential for
Poland’s energy transition. The country
is still heavily reliant on coal, which is not
sustainable in the long run. Wind, alongside
solar, has the potential to take a significant
share of the energy mix as new projects
come online. In the future, wind energy
will be key to meeting EU climate goals
and ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable
energy system for Poland.
Is Poland’s legislation and infrastructure
ready for further expansion?
Poland has made some progress, but
there’s still much to be done. Relaxing the
10H rule was a good start, but permitting
processes and grid access remain significant
challenges. In particular, the grid
requires substantial upgrades to accommodate
the expected growth in renewables.
The good news is that EU policies, such
as RED III (Renewable Energy Directive
III), are likely to drive these improvements.
While we’re optimistic about the future,
continued efforts in both policy and infrastructure
are crucial for further expansion.
Are you looking at other types of
investments, like solar power?
Definitely. While wind remains a major
focus for us, solar is equally important.
In Poland, nearly half of our development
portfolio consists of solar projects.
Wind and solar complement each other
well – they balance energy generation
across different conditions. Diversifying
across both technologies is a key part of
our strategy, and we’re fully committed
to expanding our solar portfolio
alongside wind.
There’s a lot of interest among Finnish
energy sector companies in the Polish
market. What advice would you give
them when considering entering
the local market?
My advice would be to thoroughly understand
the local regulatory and permitting
processes before entering the Polish market.
20 Finnish Energy Companies

These can be complex, time-consuming,
and sometimes challenging to handle, so
having a solid understanding upfront is
crucial. Partnering with reliable local experts
and stakeholders is also essential – they
can provide invaluable insights and help
build strong connections within the market.
The Polish energy market moves quickly
and is highly competitive, so adaptability is
key. While challenges such as bureaucracy
and permitting delays can be frustrating,
the opportunities are well worth the effort.
Poland’s growing demand for renewable
energy, combined with high electricity
prices, makes it an attractive market for
long-term investments. Finally, I would
encourage Finnish companies to embrace
the openness and flexibility of Polish business
culture. Relationships are important
in Poland and collaboration often leads to
the best outcomes. Patience, persistence,
and a willingness to adapt will go a long
way to ensuring success.
Now for a more personal question:
as a Pole who migrated to Finland,
how do you feel about living there?
I feel comfortable living in Finland, a country
that offers an excellent work-life balance.
I value the local work culture, which is
based on organization, efficiency, and
trust, as well as clear communication that
facilitates smooth cooperation. Outside
of work, I’ve grown fond of the Finnish
lifestyle, the closeness to nature, and
the appreciation of simple pleasures.
Finns are reliable – they keep their word,
which builds trust and stability. In these
uncertain times, Finland and other Nordic
countries should be Poland’s natural
allies. The Polish government’s decision to
strengthen relations with the Nordic-Baltic
countries was the right one, as stronger
ties with partners like Finland will be
crucial for the stability of the region.
Are there any cultural differences in the
office or outside that you’d like to share?
In Finnish workplaces, the emphasis on
autonomy and trust is striking. People
Photo by Taaleri Energia
have considerable freedom to carry out
their tasks without micromanagement,
which fosters creativity and responsibility.
Outside the office, Finns communicate
in a direct and concise manner, avoiding
unnecessary formalities. Their conversational
style is more thoughtful – they listen
carefully and allow space for meaningful,
naturally evolving discussions. I truly appreciate
this mindfulness and calm approach.
What would you bring from Poland
to Finland, and vice versa?
From Poland to Finland, I would bring the
warmth and spontaneity of Polish social
life. In Poland, hospitality is at the heart
of our culture. People love gathering with
friends and family around a table, sharing
meals, conversations, and laughter. This
vibrant, community-oriented way of connecting
could add even more richness to
Finnish culture, where social interactions
tend to be more reserved. From Finland
to Poland, I would bring the Finnish approach
to work-life balance and their exceptional
ability to plan and stay organized.
Finns excel at maintaining productivity
without sacrificing personal time, fostering
a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
This balance is something I believe many
cultures, including Poland, could greatly
benefit from.
A UNIFIED STRATEGY FOR GREEN TRANSFORMATION
Climate Summit of Poland and Central-Northern Europe
Visit the website to learn more
www.cneclimate.com
The upcoming Climate Summit of Poland
and Central-Northern Europe will take
place on March 25–26, 2025, in Warsaw.
These two days will feature thematic
sessions, meetings, panels, presentations,
business networking opportunities, and
accompanying events. The Congress will
address current investment trends in the
context of the European climate strategy.
One of the highlights will be the “Leaders
of Energy Transition 2025” gala.
Participation in the event offers an opportunity
to gain up-to-date knowledge and
build valuable connections. The Congress
agenda includes two days of debates
focused on investments, business opportunities,
and the operational management
of green transformation. The Program
Council of the Climate Summit of Poland
and Central-Northern Europe, chaired by
Senator Adam Szejnfeld and including top
officials like Minister Marzena Czarnecka
and executives from Orlen, Enea, and
others, outlined a program focused on
a joint government-business strategy
for green transformation.
Remarks from the Minister of Industry,
Marzena Czarnecka:
“I am pleased that such events focusing
on the transformation from a business
perspective are being held. I was also
curious to hear your viewpoints. I appreciate
the emphasis on the energy mix, but equally
important are financing and cost-related
issues - how much will it cost, and who
will bear those costs? I was particularly
intrigued by topics such as engaging
private funds to improve energy efficiency
in the public sector and financing nuclear
energy through foreign capital. However,
I feel there is a lack of defined timelines
and a short-term approach - what actions
need to be undertaken in the short,
medium, and long term. We need to
dedicate more attention to using nuclear
energy and hydrogen. The EU offers
substantial funding for model projects,
with hydrogen investments eligible for up
to 70% funding from various sources. Yet,
there is a lack of projects. Additionally,
natural gas is critical for the transition.
The approach to coal and transforming
coal-dependent areas - not just in Silesia
- is a key issue for local governments.
We also have SMRs (Small Modular
Reactors), which should be included in
the agenda due to their significant impact
on energy policy. For energy-intensive
enterprises and heavy industries, we all
understand their critical role in the transformation.
In my view, it is essential to
present concrete solutions ‘on a silver
platter’ and structure panel discussions
around these specific ideas”.
Finnish Energy Companies 21

Visit the website to learn more
www.biovoima.com
BIOGAS AND BIOMETHANE TECHNOLOGY
How organic waste becomes a source of energy
In March 2024, Biovoima
published its decision to expand
operations into the Polish market,
responding to the growing
demand. Biovoima already
operated in Finland, Norway and
the Baltic States. Tuomas spoke
with Mikko Ronkainen and Jani
Kangasaho about the expansion
onto the Polish biomethane
market and the motivation
behind this decision.
Biomethane production
Biomethane, produced by removing
carbon dioxide from biogas, results
in a final product chemically similar
to natural gas. Biogas itself can be
generated from organic waste,
agricultural manure, by-products,
food-related bio waste, and sludge
from wastewater treatment plants.
What triggered you to enter the
Polish market?
Poland has one of the highest
biomethane potentials of all the
EU Member States and is a significant
economy in Europe. Due to geopolitical
circumstances, there is an urgent need
in Poland to invest in domestic biogas production,
especially in producing biomethane
for industrial applications and heavy transportation.
Historically, Poland has relied
heavily on natural gas imports from Russia.
Is the number of biogas plants in Poland
still low?
Yes, there are fewer than 200 biogas plants
in Poland, which is less than in Finland
and significantly less than in Germany,
where there are over 9000 biogas plants.
How is the expansion going on, and
what are the key successes so far?
Our work in Poland has started actively and
successfully, with the help of two Polish
Biovoima Professionals – Przemysław
Kowalski and Agnieszka Wiktorowicz.
Several negotiations are going on regarding
upgrading to biogas and also on complete
biogas and biomethane plants. The demand
is high, although investment decisions
and permissions are taking time.
What is your master plan for the
Polish market?
We plan to focus on technologies for
upgrading biogas to biomethane and on
utilizing solutions such as grid injection
and gas pressure reduction.
How would you summarize the Polish
energy market right now, what are the
main trends?
The green transition has significantly
increased demand for Biovoima’s
products and services, as Poland actively
seeks alternatives to coal in favor of more
environmentally friendly and sustainable
energy production methods. Additionally,
stricter emissions regulations in sectors
such as agriculture are driving further
demand for biogas and biomethane
production.
How would you compare Finnish and
Polish markets in your sector?
Poland has a lot of large farms whereas
Finland has much smaller farms. The biogas
and Biomethane production in Finland
started much earlier than in Poland, but
the Polish market is in a completely
different league with a population of
about 38 million, compared to Finland´s
less than 6 million.
22 Finnish Energy Companies

SECTION 2
FINNISH BUSINESS
SUCCESS STORIES
& NEW COMPANIES
IN THE POLISH MARKET
This section features success stories of Finnish
companies that have thrived in Poland for decades,
along with news articles covering recent market entries
or other significant investments in the Polish market.
While every case is unique, in all of these stories there
are valuable lessons that can prove useful in your own
business endeavors. Delve into the experiences of other
Finnish companies and discover key takeaways to guide
you on the path to success.
Pinja is a leader in industrial digital transformation,
offering cloud solutions improving operational
efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing costly
disruptions. Specializing in supply chain
management and industrial production, Pinja
provides versatile solutions tailored to the needs
of businesses across various industries and
regions. Operating in 30 countries, Pinja has
a dedicated team of 550 professionals, renowned
for delivering high-quality service and fostering
long-term growth for clients. Pinja has more than
30 years experience in the bioenergy sector,
particularly in the Nordic region, where it has
helped companies enhance operational
efficiency and meet business requirements.
www.pinja.com
PINJA

Visit the website to learn more
www.nordea.com/en
NORDEA IN POLAND
Nordic spirit, local strength
Nordea is one of the largest
financial groups in the Nordic
countries, offering a wide range
of banking and investment
services. Nordea Poland, with
branches in Łódź, the Tricity and
Warsaw, acts as a key operational
and technology centre, supporting
Nordic business units and developing
processes and technologies
in the spirit of Nordic values.
Tuomas sat down with Paweł
Jemioł, Head of Operations,
to discuss Nordea's continued
growth in Poland, the unique
hiring process that fosters
international teams, cultural
influences from Nordic values,
and the significance of collaboration
with local universities
to nurture talent and innovation.
www.nordea.com/en
www.nordea.com/en/careers/poland
www.instagram.com/nordea_polska
www.facebook.com/KarierawNordea
www.linkedin.com/company/nordea
How is Nordea today in Poland, you have
well above 5000 people here and are
still growing?
We have somewhere around 5600-5700
people and have grown steadily, though
not according to any centralized Shared
Service Plan, which is quite unique. When
Nordea needs talent, we open a recruitment
process centrally, meaning that we
will hire the right person wherever they
may be. This helps create truly international
teams. We are happy to hire here, and it is
very important for our people to see that
perceived ceilings are being broken.
Many people are not aware that we are
part of the Nordic banking value chain.
We have tens of leaders in Poland who
are managing teams in Nordic countries.
You have teams in three locations in
Poland, are they somehow different
to each other?
Łódź is the original place so to speak.
We have roughly 3000 people there and
the strong universities mean we hire lots
of young talent to their first jobs, especially
to positions available in Operations. Gdańsk
and Gdynia are especially for tech hires,
there is a strong education background
and a large labor pool for that. There are
also Nordic studies in Gdańsk, with roughly
60 people graduating every year. We have
now slightly less than 2000 people in Tricity
in two locations. Warsaw is the place
where local and international banks have
their headquarters, meaning you can find
people with strong banking experience
there in positions like risk, compliance,
banking cybersecurity and so on.
And in every city you probably have
certain employer branding strategies?
We know and adapt to the local
competition. Although we sometimes
compete with Nordic companies, we are
mostly competing with global giants in
every city. We can offer a less competitive
and more wellbeing-oriented workplace.
In addition, we are part of one of the
leading banks in Europe, which is
attractive for hiring. In the banking sector,
we have a good position thanks to our
Nordic values, whereas the local Polish
banking sector involves lots of politics
and other issues, such as the ongoing
Swiss franc cases.
Do you feel that being a Nordic
company still adds value when hiring?
Absolutely. Being a Nordic employer still
adds around 10 extra points, although
others are catching up of course. Finland
has consistently ranked as one of the
happiest countries in the world, according
to various happiness and well-being
indices such as the World Happiness
Report. There are several elements
brought from Finnish culture to Nordea:
work-life balance, admiring nature and
the environment as well as community
and social connections. With Nordea,
a major financial services group in the
Nordic region, having its headquarters
in Finland adds to the company’s
attractiveness as a place to work.
Poland is probably still an attractive
location to hire?
Naturally the salary gap still exists,
especially in non-managerial positions,
the ongoing development and investment
in the Polish workforce, particularly
in technology, suggest that the gap is
gradually closing. As companies continue
to recognise Poland’s potential as a talent
hub, the attractiveness of the locations
for hiring is likely to grow even further.
How was the labor market in 2024?
It was a more stable and comfortable
year from my employer's perspective.
Our employee turnover rate was below
4%, which was an all-time-low and
a reason to be proud. Of course, there
are also less opportunities in the market
and so people are job-hopping less.
We ask our people on a quarterly basis
how they feel, and we can see good
results. From my perspective, it is much
better than other companies I have
seen closely.
24 Finnish Success Stories
| Sponsored article

Has anything changed in hiring, or in
the importance of employee benefits?
Not really. Salary and the work are the
main thing, with benefits as an extra,
important seasoning on the top.
What are your favorite "Nordic inspired"
values that you follow at Nordea?
Nordea has the least internal competition
between teams and units I have ever seen
anywhere, people can truly switch jobs
inside the company without any issues.
It is unique! Another thing I experienced
this week in Norway, there was a merger
of the local Danske unit to Nordea and
the way the local office greeted 300 new
employees with standing applause was
really inspiring.
Are there any Nordic habits you have
brought to the Polish offices?
Any celebration comes with cinnamon
rolls. If we would have Polish “pączki”, we
would probably hear a lot about how
unhealthy they are :D
Do you cooperate with many universities?
At Nordea, we believe in the power of
education to transform lives and communities.
Our branches in Poland have been
actively involved in initiatives aimed at
supporting structural education across
the country, from Łódź to Tricity and
Warsaw. For example, with the University
of Łódź, we have also partnered with
other external companies to launch postgraduate
studies in "AML Analysis - Anti
Money Laundering" at UŁ. This initiative
aims to equip students with the necessary
skills to excel in the field of anti-money
laundering. Furthermore, Nordea actively
participates in the Ideathon and “Młodzi
w Łodzi” programmes, fostering innovation
and providing students with platforms
to showcase their ideas. We also work with
Gdańsk University of Technology, where
our specialists have delivered guest lectures
on various topics, such as "Transactions
Monitoring and Sanctions". I was also
involved in giving a lecture titled "Behind
the Scenes of Business" which allowed
me to return to the university in a new
role. Gdańsk University of Technology has
a financial crime major and we want to
strengthen cooperation with the Nordic
faculty. In Warsaw, we supported the
Brave Camp, a startup bootcamp initiated
by the University of Warsaw. We provided
mentors, workshops, gadgets, and financial
support, while also raising awareness
about Nordea among students.
If we go back a few years, Nordea Polska
was once the 10th largest consumer
bank, before it was sold to PKO. Do you
still see or feel this heritage?
Quite recently was the 14th anniversary of
Nordea in Poland. Of course the growth
started with consumer banking in 2001,
but we still have people who have been
in the company for over 20 years and
they get nostalgic about the good old
days. We are proud of long careers in the
company. The history of the Nordea brand
in Poland is quite interesting. Nordea Bank
Polska S.A. was a bank based in Gdynia,
operating from 2001 to 2014. On 31 October
2014, the bank was legally merged with
PKO Bank Polski. But this wasn’t the end
of the Nordea brand in Poland. Despite
the sale, this Nordic group, with more than
200 years of tradition, still has a presence
in Poland. In 2010, Nordea Bank Abp SA
Branch in Poland was registered, which
included an operations center based in
Łódź, handling back-office processes for
the bank's Scandinavian business units,
and an IT department located in Tricity,
where we opened our Gdańsk office in
2017, and then in 2018 also in Warsaw.
You work with people from many Nordic
countries, have you Poles spotted some
differences between Finns, Swedes
and Danes?
Cultural differences in our bank enrich
cooperation and foster collective success.
Danes enjoy informal gatherings like
communal breakfasts, while Poles prefer
well-organized events. Swedes value
cozy fika meetings, and Finns embrace
silence during business discussions for
reflection, contrasting with the Poles'
eagerness to share ideas. Swedes focus
on inclusivity and consensus, while
Norwegians emphasize modesty and flat
hierarchies. Scandinavians favor shortterm
strategies and prioritize work-life
balance with shorter hours and longer
holidays. Together, these diverse approaches
build a strong, collaborative culture
essential for achieving shared goals.
In work culture and outside of the
office, how would you compare and
contrast Finns and Poles?
In Poland, we work relatively longer,
while in the Nordic countries, family life
and contact with nature are a priority,
which means that you usually do not
answer phone calls or respond to
emails after working hours. Most Finnish
employees take longer holidays, which
can be frustrating for those who are used
to working all the time, but it shows that
such a system also works effectively.
Any advice for Nordic business people
who are considering establishing
a BPO or IT team in Poland?
What things should they pay
special attention to?
Establishing a BPO or IT team in Poland
can be a strategic move for Nordic
businesses looking to leverage the
country’s skilled workforce and
competitive costs. It is very important
to understand the market landscape
and identify locations depending on
what type of talent you are looking for.
There are a lot of different aspects that
need to be taken into consideration,
like legal and regulatory compliance,
technology and infrastructure, but also
considering the cultural fit of potential
hires and looking for candidates who
align with the company values and
understand the Nordic work culture.
Sponsored article |
Finnish Success Stories 25

Visit the website to learn more
www.withsecure.com
PROTECTING THE FUTURE
WithSecure's approach to cybersecurity
biuro@withsecure.com
The Finnish cyber security
company WithSecure, which
employs a team of 90 people in
Poland, has established Poznań
as a key center for product
development and management.
The company has been operating
in the market since 2015, and
in June 2024 moved to new
premises at the Andersia Center
in Poznań, where it also organizes
various cyber security events.
We had the opportunity to talk
to Leszek Tasiemski about their
presence in the Polish market
and the valuable cyber security
education and support they
provide to local communities.
WithSecure has been highly visible in
Poland this year, with various events
and community initiatives. Can you give
us a brief overview of your recent
activities?
One good example is our WithSecure
truck, which recently made a stop at the
Stary Browar yard in Poznań. The truck is
a mobile meeting space equipped with
an educational game that helps our
customers understand cybersecurity
in a fun, hands-on way. It travels across
Europe, spreading awareness. With our
new Poznań office, we are ready to be
hosting a range of events for businesses,
communities and social circles. Another
long-standing initiative is our CyberHero
program (Cyfrowy Bohater), where we
visit schools to conduct training sessions
and work-shops for students, teachers,
and parents, teaching online safety practices
to keep kids safe on the internet.
The program is particularly active in
Poznań, but we also offer online sessions
nationwide. We have team members
specializing in different age groups to
ensure that these sessions are engaging
and age appropriate. Over the past
couple of years of this project, we have
visited numerous schools and trained
thousands of kids and adults. And we’re
also involved in some NGO activities.
We actively work with local Fundacja
Czas Kobiet on topics related with
cyber violence.
Are education and digital security
initiatives an important part of the
company's strategy?
Absolutely, they’re a natural fit for our
strategy. While we are a commercial
company, we’re also dedicated to
improving societal safety, especially in
the digital space. Our team’s expertise
can make a real difference in the
community, so offering this support is
rewarding. It’s not just about business;
it’s about making a positive impact.
Do you also work with local universities?
Yes, we have an active partnership with
the Poznan University of Technology and
the University of Economics in Poznań.
I was surprised to find that the University
of Economics in Poznań has a very high
quality faculty of information science,
including cybersecurity. Although this
program doesn’t give an engineering title,
students can still gain engineering-level
skills and come fully prepared to work
in the field. Many students at these
universities have a strong background
in technical fields, so we are glad to have
technical specialists from the University
of Economics in Poznań on our team.
It sounds like Poznań has a solid talent
pool for cybersecurity. How do you view
the local labor market?
Yes, both universities are excellent,
and there are also private institutions.
The labor pool is strong and Poznań
deserves its label as the “city of Knowhow”.
Of course, we are seeing a shift in
the labor market; it was a total employee
market two years ago, and now the
situation is somewhat the opposite.
How long has the company been in
operation and how many people are
on the Poznan team?
WithSecure was originally part of F-Secure,
which started in Poznan in 2015, when it
acquired N-Sense. The two companies
officially split in 2022. Our Poznan team
is quite international, with 90 people and
members from countries such as the UK,
Ukraine,Vietnam, Italy, France and Tunisia.
We have people associated with the
Poznań office spread around Poland.
How are your sales in Poland at present?
Poland is not our main market, but it is
stable, which is important to us. Compared
to other markets, Poland is relatively small
in the whole group. For this reason, our
office in Poznań focuses exclusively on
product development, though we have
a sales presence in Poland. This strategy
allows us to make better use of our
resources to improve our offerings and
tailor them to customers' needs. It can
help us increase our presence on this
market in the future.
You mentioned partnerships with NGOs
earlier. Could you tell us more about it?
We partner with a local Poznań nongovernmental
organization – the Fundacja
“Czas Kobiet” which supports
women facing various forms of violence.
WithSecure specifically addresses cyber
violence, which often involves cases
where a woman’s current or former
partner tries to monitor, harass, or impersonate
her online. We offer practical
assistance, along with publications and
educational materials. It’s important to
raise awareness that violence doesn’t
have to be physical to be harmful.
Unfortunately, some outdated attitudes
still dismiss invisible forms of abuse.
The old mentality that “if there is no
blood, there is no violence” still exists.
Of course, this varies from police station
to police station, but sometimes it still
happens. That's why we try to raise
awareness that violence doesn't have to
be visible. Through WithSecure’s support,
we can use our enterprise-grade Elements
software to protect affected women
free of charge.
Thank you for this interesting conversation
and we look forward to the
10-year party!
Thank you!
26 Finnish Success Stories

Visit the website to learn more
www.iceye.com
FROM UNIVERSITY PROJECT TO
GLOBAL SPACE-TECH PIONEER
ICEYE is a company specializing in
delivering data and services based
on Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)
satellite constellation, providing
persistent monitoring capabilities
for various sectors. They open up
access to entirely new levels of data
for continuous monitoring of large
and smalllocations around theworld:
every few hours, day and night, in
all weather. Tuomas had the opportunity
to talk to Natalia Gomez – the
Marketing Director, Data & Missions
–abouttheoriginsofICEYE,itsgrowth
journey, the contributions of Polish
engineers, and the company's impact
on space defense capabilities,
including its support for Ukraine.
What was the beginning of the story,
and what elements enabled the start
of ICEYE?
The ICEYE team originated from
the Aalto-1 university nanosatellite
group. A joint course organized
by Aalto Business School and Stanford
University's Technology Ventures program
brought together co-founders, Rafal Modrzewski
and Pekka Laurila. In September
2015, ICEYE announced it had been granted
€2.4 million from the SME Instrument of
the EU's Horizon 2020 program, followed
by Series A funding for R&D in November
2015. To date, ICEYE has raised approximately
$440 million. ICEYE's first proof-of-concept
microsatellite mission with a SAR sensor
payload was launched on January 12, 2018
– the world's first SAR satellite under 100
kg, enabling radar imaging of the Earth
through clouds and in total darkness.
What is the origin of the name?
As I mentioned, ICEYE originated from a
university nanosatellite group. The original
idea was to monitor the movement of sea
ice in the Arctic, hence the name "ICEYE,"
derived from "ice-eye".
How has ICEYE expanded its operations
in Poland over the years?
Rafał Modrzewski founded the company
and Witold Witkowicz took on the task of
establishing ICEYE Polska shortly thereafter.
This was around 2016, starting as a small
operation with just a few team members.
Over the years, the company steadily grew,
moving from one office location to another
as the team expanded. By 2019, with the
satellite constellation growing to about five
satellites, the Polish office had scaled to
roughly 30 to 50 employees. Around 2020,
as the Polish office began handling its own
sales operations, the need for more staff in
commercial roles increased. Today, ICEYE
Polska employs over 100 people, working
across two floors in a modern office
located in Warsaw’s central business
district, and it is still growing dynamically.
What is the growth plan in Poland in
terms of headcount, investments,
cooperation etc?
As mentioned earlier, the headcount in
Poland has surpassed 100, with significant
growth occurring over the past two years.
This trend is expected to continue in the
coming years, driven by local demand
for space-based capabilities in defense,
intelligence, and other regional projects.
Investments are also being made to expand
and enhance the laboratories at the Warsaw
office, including the ongoing development
of a fully equipped cleanroom to enable
the integration of complete satellite systems.
ICEYE Poland has ambitious growth plans,
further solidifying its position as a market
leader in the country.
Have you witnessed any new startups
following your path?
There is immense talent in both Finland
and Poland, so it wouldn’t surprise me if
future ICEYEs are already in the making.
We were fortunate to miniaturize SAR
technology at a time when space was
becoming more accessible and the demand
for truth-based, data-driven insights
was rapidly growing. Several satellite
integrators in Poland, along with other
Finnish NewSpace companies, are at
the early stages of their journeys. Given
the current geopolitical environment,
I’m excited to see how the market
evolves in the coming years.
How are Polish engineers contributing
to the company’s development?
Polish engineers have been integral to the
company’s development from the very
beginning. Since Pekka Laurila and Rafał
Modrzewski (a Polish engineer) miniaturized
the SAR antenna, Polish engineers have
played a key role at every stage of the
company’s growth. Today, many of the
satellite’s core subsystems, such as the
ADCS (Attitude Determination and Control
System), the ICU (Integrated Computing
Unit), and the radio, were developed by
Polish engineers, often funded by grants
from the Polish government. Additionally,
numerous patents have been registered
by Polish engineers while working for ICEYE.
How would you describe the educational
landscape and labor pool in Poland
in your branch? And how has it been
developing over recent years?
The educational landscape has changed
consistently in Poland, alongside steady
growth and strong development over the
last 25 years. A cultural passion for discovery
and a history of scientific research instilled
in Polish citizens (Copernicus, M-C Skłodowska,
Stefan Banach) served as a great
foundation for millennials to obtain more
and more STEM-related degrees, while
Gen-Z is seeing even more of that, combined
with an even greater representation
of women in STEM fields. This allows
ICEYE Poland to have an ever-growing
pool of candidates to recruit from, while
also serving as an entity retaining STEM
talent in Poland, reducing the country’s
‘brain drain’ as an added benefit for
Poland’s economy.
How has ICEYE contributed to supporting
Ukraine's space defense capabilities?
ICEYE has been working closely with the
Ukrainian Ministry of Defense from day
one to support and assist Ukraine in building
its space defense capabilities. We take
pride in our efforts to provide objective,
actionable data and technological
support to Ukraine.
Personally, I find it fascinating to think
about what could be discovered with
satellites. Have you encountered any
surprises on our planet, like tribes in
the Amazon, meteorites, or unknown
places?
ICEYE’s SAR satellites provide a unique
perspective of the Earth’s surface, enabling
near real-time monitoring of changes.
We can observe both manmade and
natural events as they occur, such as
volcanic eruptions, floods, glacier
movements, deforestation, maritime
activity, and border dynamics. ICEYE’s
SAR data has been utilized to locate
missing vessels, support tactical decisionmaking
to protect nation-states, and aid
in response and rescue efforts following
natural disasters (including in Finland and
Poland). While these discoveries may not
be surprising in themselves, the scale and
range of applications for SAR technology
are undeniably impressive.
Finnish Success Stories 27

Visit the website to learn more
www.saxdoryachts.com
Saxdor is a Finnish private yacht
manufacturer that has rapidly
gained recognition on the international
market and currently
employs nearly 600 people.
The main production site is located
in Ełk, in northeastern Poland.
The company was founded in 2019,
production started in the spring
of 2020, and sales are expected
to exceed €100 million in 2024.
Tuomas met Erna Rusi, Saxdor
CEO, and spoke about the business,
Poland, and the company's
unprecedented success story.
What is the current state of Saxdor in
Poland, and what factors influenced
your choice of Ełk as the location?
We have nearly 10,000 m² of
production facilities in Ełk and
we currently employ over 500
people in Poland. The Ełk area has a long
history of shipbuilding, so the local labor
pool influenced our decision to establish
production there.
You started just four years ago, during
the first wave of the pandemic, and
your growth is impressive. It's quite
a unique success, isn't it?
I suppose so. In 2022, we had €38 million
of sales, in 2023 €74 million, and this year
(2024) sales are expected to exceed €100
million. Our demand is really strong, we
could even triple the production capacity.
Your yachts are indeed impressive.
Do most of your clients come from
the European region?
There are certainly a lot of clients from
Europe and the Mediterranean, but Asia
and the Americas are also growing very
fast. We also have many interesting
clients, well-known names, royal families,
etc. Sometimes we have to catch our
breath and think, "Wow, where are we?"
During the summer 2024, you announced
that your next production facility
will be located in Finland. Why did you
decide to expand in Finland rather
than Poland?
We had the option to enlarge the factory
in Poland, but it turned out that the new
building project in Ełk would have taken
much longer and we needed new capacity
really fast. Additionally, just like in Ełk, the
area around the new Larsmo factory has
a long shipbuilding tradition and is known
for its craftsmanship.
How about rising costs in Poland?
Did it have any impact?
Of course, we notice it all the time.
Not only are salaries growing rapidly,
but sometimes subcontracting is even
more expensive than in Finland. If this
trend continues, Poland will soon catch
up to Finland.
In the Ełk region, you also have the
Saxdor Academy, could you tell us
a bit more about it?
We partner with a local technical school
and have a special program to train
students as shipbuilders. With 80 students
currently enrolled, our program has
drawn strong local interest and even visits
from government officials. This initiative
aims to bolster Poland’s shipbuilding
workforce, offering programs for both
youth and adults.
Finally, what would you bring from
Poland to Finland?
When Polish workers start working,
they really put in a lot of effort to get
things done. They don’t complain about
overtime, the working morale is great and
they genuinely want to succeed. On the
other hand, sometimes there is a cultural
difference when it comes to proactivity
and taking responsibility.
28 Finnish Success Stories

A NEW FINNISH BRAND IN THE POLISH MARKET - DROP
DROP
Visit the website to learn more
www.drop.fi
A new Finnish brand in the Polish market
DROP designs and manufactures
innovative wellness solutions,
offering a wide range of products
such as spas, hot tubs, saunas,
and more. It aims to provide
customers with the highest
quality equipment that improves
comfort and health through
relaxation and regeneration.
In 2024, Drop decided to move up
a gear with its European expansion.
In Poland, the company’s strategy
has been to recruit a network of
local premium-style resellers
around the country. By October
2024, Drop had signed cooperation
agreements with three
new resellers in Poland.
What was the inspiration behind
establishing DROP?
Petteri Menna, CEO: Nearly a decade ago,
Nikolai Ruola designed the first Drop pool,
inspired by Finnish nature. The original model,
Pisara (Drop), remains in production with
significant upgrades. Its minimalist design
earned the "Design of the Year" award from
the Finnish Federation of Work in 2015.
DROP has also won other prestigious awards,
including the Golden Wave Award 2022
and A'Design Award for Saunas 2024.
Is Poland an attractive market for DROP?
Poland's fast-growing economy, rising GDP,
central location in Europe, and the good
purchasing power of the middle class do
certainly attract businesses. Polish consumers
are becoming increasingly brandconscious
and open to innovative, highquality
products and services, creating stable
growth and attractive business opportunities.
Where can Poles buy your products
here, do you have local outlets?
We have a well-serviced retail network with
centers in Kraków and Warsaw. But we can
already operate throughout Poland.
In the future, we will spread a little
more geographically.
What is your strategy for entering the
Polish market?
We picked retail as our approach to the Polish
market, offering unique, designer products
that stand out from the competition. We
provide marketing and sales support on a
regional level. We don't want to be a “faceless
boss” who just pushes aggressive
sales forward, but much more, we want to
develop an iconic product family in the EU
that has a long continuum in the market.
We work with Spondeo, which supports
us with legal issues and market entry.
Do you have any plans to introduce new
products soon?
We have recently introduced saunas and
chalets, which stand out for their quality
and could revolutionize the modular sauna
market. Our outdoor hot tubs are constantly
being improved in terms of energy efficiency
and design, and a new user interface
will be launched at the end of 2024.
TRANSPARENCY
AND TRUST
EasyWhistle enters
the Polish market
EasyWhistle was founded in 2020
with the idea of helping companies
of all sizes comply with the
EU’s Whistleblower Directive
(2019/1937). The goal was to
provide a secure, easy-to-use
system that is affordable and
quick to implement, to ease the
headache this new directive was
causing HR departments across
Europe. We spoke with Matti
Timonen, CEO of EasyWhistle,
to learn more about the company’s
expansion to Poland, the
challenges faced and future plans.
Visit the website to learn more
www.easywhistle.com
You entered the Polish market in the
summer of 2024. Were there any
experiences from the Finnish market
that encouraged you to expand?
In Finland, we saw that many companies
were waiting until the last moment before
trying to implement a whistleblowing channel,
as required by national law. When an
equivalent law regarding whistleblower
protection was passed in Poland in the
summer of 2024, it signaled the right time for
us to bring our solution to the Polish market.
What differences have you noticed
in how the market functions here?
What we learned during the process was
that Polish companies operate very differently
from Finnish companies. One signifi-
cant difference is the widespread practice
of using email as the whistleblowing
channel, which makes complying with
the GDPR more challenging and reporting
incidents anonymously much harder.
As every market has its nuances, we
are committed to learning and growing
alongside the businesses we support.
What are your plans for Poland?
We aim to establish ourselves as a trusted
provider of whistleblowing channels in
Poland. Since the channel is our main
product, our goal is to offer companies
a reliable and cost-effective alternative
to the heavier solutions offered by betterknown
companies as part of their broader
software suites.
Finnish Success Stories 29

Visit the website to learn more
www.europresspoland.com
FAST TRACK TO TOP3
Europress
Marko Aaltio
Marko.Aaltio@europress.fi
Europress, founded in 1977 and based in Finland, is a leading provider of
advanced waste management solutions. The company specializes in balers
and compactors, with a focus on sustainability and efficiency in waste
management. Tuomas spoke with Marko Aaltio – Business Development
Director & Partner in Europress about how the company decided to expand
into the Polish market, how its partnership has developed and what factors
have contributed to it quickly becoming the second-largest player
in its segment in Poland.
to turn discussions into action, Poland is a
dynamic market where change can happen
quickly. Additionally, the presence of numerous
Nordic companies has accelerated
the adoption of ESG standards locally.
What led to your decision to expand
in the Polish market, and how has the
partnership developed over the years?
When Europress began working
with a production partner in northern
Poland back in 2015, we
didn’t initially consider a full-scale market
entry. However, as we got to know the
company and its owners, it became clear
that they shared our values and standards.
The idea of establishing a local sales presence
gradually took shape, and we agreed
to proceed together if the right sales leader
emerged. Two years later, in 2018, our
partner introduced us to a highly qualified
candidate, marking the beginning of a new
chapter in our Polish journey. This led to a
joint venture in which Europress became
the majority shareholder, while our new
Country Manager and the production
company’s CEO held minority shares.
How did you manage to gain such a high
position in the Polish market so quickly?
Today, we are the second-largest player
in our segment in Poland, a position we
achieved faster than expected. Last year,
we were third, but this year we have
climbed higher. We have two major
competitors and several smaller ones,
both local and international. Entering
the market as number two in five years
is more than we had planned. This was
made possible by hiring great specialists,
having a strong understanding of local
demand, and creating a strong product
portfolio based on local production.
In addition, timing has worked in our
favor, and the market has also changed.
And then you acquired your subcontractor
partner?
We attempted to acquire them several
times, finally succeeding two years ago.
The primary owner retained a minority
share, giving him an interest in both companies
and a strong incentive in developing
them and keeping them competitive.
How is your organization structured?
We have around 100 people in production
in the Kashubia region, along with an eight
-person sales team. Poland contributes
approximately 10% of our group’s total
sales, and with exports to 15 countries,
it is one of our most significant markets.
Is the Polish market saturated?
Not at all. I’ve been in this industry since the
1990s and have seen significant regulatory
changes and rising costs, particularly due
to landfill closures. With the demand for
waste management technology naturally
increasing, we believe the potential market
in Poland could multiply. We estimate that
the Polish market is about 20 years behind
the Nordics; for instance, Norway, with 6
million people, supports a 30-person team.
In a decade, I believe that the Polish market
can easily match the Nordics.
How is environmental, social, and
governance (ESG) awareness in Poland?
It’s becoming a significant topic in Poland,
similar to how it was in Finland about
a decade ago. Although it will take time
How would you advise Finnish newcomers
to Poland to copy your success?
My main advice would be to hire competent
local employees. Business customs
in Poland differ from those in Finland, with
the language barrier, especially in sales,
posing a significant challenge. Understanding
the local culture and history is
key, as it will help establish relationships
and conduct business successfully in this
dynamic market.
How important is local presence?
It’s critical. I’ve spent significant time here
meeting current and prospective clients.
Building relationships and following up
after sales are essential. I also believe clients
value visits from the Finnish team as a way
to show they are prioritized. Since 2019,
we’ve had several cases where it took
multiple visits to secure a sale. Sales here
require patience, though occasionally,
we’ve been fortunate when competitors
underperformed, creating openings for us.
What are the characteristics of the Polish
market that can create opportunities for
new companies?
One interesting aspect is that many Polish
companies focus on exports, often neglecting
the local market. This situation has
created numerous opportunities for us.
The key is to serve every client.
When will Europress be number one
in Poland?
Good question! My target is to achieve
that within three years. Reaching that
position will require us to grow our
organization, increase competitiveness,
and engage in a great deal of fieldwork!
30 Finnish Success Stories

Visit the website to learn more
www.salesmanago.pl
FROM KRAKÓW TO HELSINKI
SALESmanago has acquired Finnish Leadoo
SALESmanago, founded in Kraków in 2012, has long been a gem of the
European martech scene. Backed by prominent investors Perwyn and
SilverTree, the company has built a powerful customer engagement
platform that now drives over 158 billion customer transactions per month.
We had the chance to speak with the company's recently appointed CEO,
Brian Plackis-Cheng, who has more than 20 years of experience and is now
leading an ambitious expansion strategy. He told us about the acquisition
of the Finnish company Leadoo.
Congratulations on the purchase! What
can you say about the journey that led to
the acquisition, was it a lengthy process?
The journey to acquiring Leadoo
was a strategic process where
we evaluated numerous options.
We were looking for a company that not
only complements our vision, but also
brings a unique set of capabilities to
strengthen our Customer Engagement
Platform (CEP). Leadoo’s specialization
in web conversion and engagement
perfectly aligns with our goals to support
mid-market eCommerce brands. Leadoo
follows a business strategy that supports
SALESmanago’s eCommerce customer
growth objective and is strong in identifying,
activating, nurturing and converting
website visitors to become buyers and
personalising existing customer engagement.
The partnership will leverage
existing synergies to build an unparalleled
customer engagement platform offer in
the industry, helping customer acquisition
and growth for our combined portfolio of
3,000 clients. This acquisition accelerates
our mission to provide a comprehensive,
yet simple, mid-market CEP, and is
a significant step on our journey to
becoming Europe’s number one
CEP platform.
Did you learn much about Finnish
business culture during the way?
Finnish business culture is known for its
directness, clarity, and focus on efficiency,
which made our collaboration with
Leadoo very smooth. The team’s
approach to building strong, personal
relationships with clients and maintaining
a high level of service really resonated
with our own values. We also appreciated
the Finnish emphasis on quality and
long-term sustainability, which aligns
perfectly with our mission to build
a platform that delivers lasting value
to customers.
How would you describe the companies
and their cultures, lots of similarities
and some differences?
Both SALESmanago and Leadoo share a
deep commitment to customer-centricity
and innovation. Like SALESmanago,
Leadoo has been driven by a mission
to empower businesses with better tools
for growth, personalization, and customer
engagement. We both believe in leveraging
technology to drive real business
results. However, Leadoo brings a strong
focus on web conversion and engaging
visitors at the top of the funnel, while
SALESmanago has built expertise around
personalization, retention, and omnichannel
engagement. These complementary
focuses allow us to create
a more comprehensive offering for our
customers. Culturally, there are similarities
in our values of collaboration, transparency,
and a forward-thinking approach, with
Leadoo’s Finnish roots adding a unique
efficiency and pragmatism to the mix.
Over the years, many Polish IT companies
have been acquired by Finnish ones.
I don't recall any other remarkable
transactions this way – do you feel it
might be the start of a trend, seeing
that many Polish software companies
are making acquisitions abroad?
It’s certainly an interesting development.
Finland and Poland have shared strong
economic ties, and the tech ecosystems
in both countries are rapidly evolving.
While we haven’t seen many Polish
companies acquiring Finnish firms, we
believe this acquisition could be a sign
of the growing recognition of Poland as
a hub for innovation and tech talent.
As the market matures, I believe we will
see more cross-border acquisitions and
partnerships, especially in the rapidly
growing martech space. It’s an exciting
time, and we’re proud to be part of
this shift.
As for SALESmanago, was Finland
significant or a target, or a well-known
market for you before?
Finland, along with the Nordics in general,
has always been an important region
for SALESmanago, but this acquisition
significantly accelerates our presence
there. While we had been gradually
expanding in the region, the acquisition
of Leadoo gives us a much stronger
foothold in Finland and neighboring
countries. In addition, there is a UK
presence to strengthen our position.
What do you expect from the first kickoff
party with the Leadoo teams? Or did
you already have a traditional Finnish
"pikkujoulu" (Little Christmas company
party) with them?
We’re thrilled to have Kraków hosting
this year’s first joint Christmas party, so it’s
going to be all about Polish traditions and
food. But don’t worry, we’re just as excited
to dive into Finnish celebrations in the
future. There’s a lot to look forward to
as we combine the best of both cultures,
and we can’t wait to learn from Leadoo’s
team and create lasting memories
together.
Finnish Success Stories 31

TIETOEVRY EXPANDS
ITS TECHNOLOGICAL
CAPABILITIES BY
MOVING TO A NEW
OFFICE IN POZNAŃ
Tietoevry, a leading Nordic technology
company, has expanded its
footprint in Poland by moving to
a new office in Poznań. Since its
inception in 2022, the Poznań
office has been instrumental
in advancing next-generation
telecommunications technologies,
notably in 5G and CloudRAN,
while exemplifying the company's
commitment to innovation and
nurturing local talent.
Visit the website to learn more
www.tietoevry.com
Originally, Poznań was chosen due to its
dynamic talent pool and strong educational
infrastructure; it now plays a significant role
in the company’s European operations.
Poznań represents one
of the key business
hubs in Poland,
offering a vibrant
educational ecosystem
that aligns with our
technological goals,
stated Michał Mariański, Tietoevry's
Director of Software Engineering.
As operations and the team have grown,
Tietoevry has now relocated to the iconic
Okrąglak Building, reflecting the office's
steady expansion. Looking ahead, the
company plans to secure an even larger
space by 2025, to accommodate its growing
team of experts. The Poznań office is a
cornerstone of Tietoevry’s broader strategy
in Poland, where the company operates
in nine cities and employs 1200 professionals.
During its first year, in Poznań,
Tietoevry employed 20 people, mainly
C developers, DevOps and Testers.
FORWARD
24-25 September 2025 - Helsinki
Europe’s Largest
Business & Leadership Event
At Nordic Business Forum 2025, you’ll join 6,500
business leaders from 40+ countries for two days of
inspiration, knowledge, and connections.
With a focus on foresight, growth, and culture, this is
your chance to gain the tools to lead yourself and your
company forward.
6,500+
Expected
Guests
69%
Senior
Decision Makers
98%
Recommend
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32 Finnish Success Stories
Info & Tickets: nbforum.com/2025

JUURIHARJA BRINGS FIRST
WHISTLE TO POLAND
Ethical Leadership Meets
Practical Solutions
Juuriharja, a dynamic Finnish company,
is making waves in ethical business
practices and leadership development.
With a focus on helping organizations
achieve sustainable success, Juuriharja
expertly combines consulting,
leadership development, and policy
advisory services with innovative SaaS
solutions. Among its standout offerings
is First Whistle, a state-of-the-art
whistleblowing channel that helps
companies create safe, ethical,
and transparent workplaces.
With a unique blend of consulting services
and innovative SaaS solutions, Juuriharja
has become a leading expert in ethical
business practices in Finland. This expertise,
along with their forward-thinking solutions,
is now setting its sights in the Polish
market. To explore this exciting expansion,
Tuomas Asunmaa sat down with Erika
Heiskanen, CEO of Juuriharja, to discuss
why Poland stood out, the opportunities
and challenges of combining consulting
and SaaS, and what the future holds.
Why Poland?
Poland emerged as a natural
choice after a detailed analysis
of European markets. The country
offers a promising landscape for our whistleblowing
channel, First Whistle, as organizations
here are increasingly focused
on strengthening compliance and transparency.
Additionally, many of our Finnish
clients already operate in Poland and
we have always had warm memories
of collaborating with Polish professionals.
Was entering the Polish market
surprising in any way?
Our first focus was building relationships
with local partners to help us get started.
We were impressed by the ambitious
and professional people we met here.
They were open, knowledgeable, and
eager to collaborate. It is exactly the kind
of energy and expertise we hoped to find.
Your business combines consulting
and software. Isn’t that a challenge?
Blending consulting with SaaS is no
easy task, but we saw it as a necessary
evolution. Building ethical business
practices requires more than policies
– it requires a strong foundation in culture
and leadership. For example, a whistleblowing
channel like First Whistle sends
a clear signal that a company takes its
code of conduct seriously. This combination
– tools and cultural transformation – helps
our clients create a robust ethical core.
Many advised us against combining
consulting and software because of the
different business logics. But at Juuriharja,
we love to simplify complexity. It is not
always easy, but we are fast learners.
Simplicity requires deep thinking, trial and
error, and constant improvement – but
that’s exactly what we thrive on.
What’s next for Juuriharja and First
Whistle in Poland?
Our goal is to grow our presence on the
Polish B2B market and help businesses
create more transparent and ethical
workplaces. Whistleblowing is still a
relatively new concept here, so we’re
excited to share the experience we have
built in Finland and learn from our Polish
clients as we go. It is a journey we are
really looking forward to. In addition,
Juuriharja’s unique approach and
innovative solutions like First Whistle
are already available in Poland.
Visit the website to learn more
www.juuriharja.fi
Sponsored article |
Finnish Success Stories3333

Visit the website to learn more
www.ruokaboksi.fi
RUOKABOKSI'S EXPANSION INTO CENTRAL
AND EASTERN EUROPEAN MARKETS
Yummy in the Czech Republic
info@yummybox.cz
Ruokaboksi is a meal kit delivery service currently operating on three markets:
Finland, the Czech Republic (under the name Yummy), and Estonia (Clean Kitchen).
The company simplifies everyday cooking for customers, making it easy and
stress-free. You choose what you want to cook and Ruokaboksi will deliver fresh,
precisely measured, premium-quality ingredients directly to your home, along
with easy-to-follow recipes. Tuomas's interview with Juhana Rintala, Co-Founder
and CEO at Ruokaboksi, discusses the reasons for entering the Czech market,
the challenges and importance of logistics, and offers recommendations for
companies thinking of entering Central and Eastern European markets.
What factors led you to consider the
Czech market as a potential area for
expansion?
We explored markets with welldeveloped
food and grocery
e-commerce, but without
a significant presence of recipe kits.
The Czech market offers a wide range
of online food services, including Wolt
and Foodora for home delivery, as well
as over 20 ready-to-heat meal kit ventures.
However, we noticed a clear gap in largescale
recipe kit offerings, which presented
an opportunity for expansion.
Did you consider other markets before
deciding to expand into the Czech
Republic?
Yes, we considered both Poland and the
Czech Republic as potential destinations
for our first expansion in Central and
Eastern Europe. Ultimately, we chose
the Czech Republic due to its more
manageable size for our first organic
expansion. Another advantage was the
highly developed e-commerce ecosystem
in the Czech Republic, which is one of
the most advanced in Europe.
Could you say more about the logistics
and e-commerce ecosystem?
The Czech e-commerce ecosystem is
highly developed with excellent order
fulfillment and delivery services. We are
fortunate to work with companies such
as Mailstep, our warehouse partner, and
Prorozvoz, responsible for deliveries.
Both companies stand out for their
dynamism, entrepreneurialism, and
modern technological approach, which
provides us with the flexibility we look
for in our logistics partners.
There are already recipe kit initiatives
emerging in some markets in the region,
but there is still a lack of strong, recognizable
brands operating on a larger scale
in Central and Eastern Europe. This creates
space to enter the market and fill the gap,
which is a big growth opportunity for us
in this part of Europe.
What surprised you the most about the
local market?
We conducted a detailed market analysis
and engaged a local team and partners
to successfully execute our launch plans.
So far, we have not encountered too
many surprises, but we are aware that
various challenges may arise in the
future. This is part of the exciting
journey ahead of us.
Are the recipes the same for the
Czech market?
We have mostly international recipes, but
of course, there will be special, seasonal
local recipes coming up!
What recommendations or tips do you
have for those considering entering the
Czech or Central and Eastern European
markets?
Central and Eastern Europe presents
tremendous opportunities for companies
in many industries. Markets are growing
rapidly, with steadily increasing demand in
the B2C and B2B sectors. Additionally, the
region has a high-quality workforce and a
friendly environment conducive to growth.
As with any new market, the key is to surround
yourself with good local partners
and key personnel, which can greatly facilitate
the process of adaptation and growth.
If everything goes as it does in Strömsö
(i.e. if everything goes perfectly), where
will Ruokaboksi be in this region
in five years?
In five years, we plan to expand Ruokaboksi
into several markets in Central and
Eastern Europe, where our brand will
become synonymous with facilitated
everyday cooking. We want consumers
to associate us with high-quality service,
eager to recommend our offerings to
family and friends. Our strategy is based
on sustainable development, which
benefits not only us but also our
partners who share in our success.
Do you see Central and Eastern Europe
as a ‘blue ocean’ full of opportunities,
or rather as a highly competitive market?
Yummy is a meal-kit service that makes everyday cooking easy. Yummy delivers fresh, pre-portioned,
high-quality ingredients directly to customers' doors, along with easy-to-follow recipes | Photo by Ruokaboksi
34 Finnish Success Stories

SECTION 3
BUSINESS SUPPORT
COMPANIES
IN THE POLISH MARKET
When Spondeo asked for advice for Finnish companies that
might be thinking about entering the Polish market, several
managers of Finnish-Polish businesses emphasized the
importance of having a strong support network in Poland.
This section comprises articles and interviews with experts
boasting years of experience in helping Nordic companies
to enter and expand in the Polish market. The provided
insights cover a wide array of industries, including logistics,
law, recruitment, accounting, finance, software development
and production.
ELOMATIC
Elomatic’s strengths include expertise in low-carbon
energy solutions, plants and processes development
and scaling, as well as machinery & equipment
design. Elomatic serves companies ranging from
start-ups to established operators. The company
invests in hydrogen economy solutions, which will
play a key role in a clean future.
Our employees are technologists who understand
the needs of industrial production. Our solid
expertise in factory and plant design is a key pillar
of our operations. In Poland, Elomatic specializes
in the industry sector at its office in Łódź, and
in the marine sector from its office in Gdańsk.
lodz.office@elomatic.com | +48 606 839 638
Business Support 35

spondeo
SPONDEO’S MARKET PULSE:
RECRUITMENT IN POLAND
Recruitment trends by headhunter Weronika Gidel-Asunmaa
2024 was a year of contrasts
on Poland’s recruitment market.
On the surface, unemployment
remained among the lowest in
Europe, but behind the scenes,
companies were hiring more
cautiously, with fewer job offers
and rising employee retention
costs reshaping the landscape.
It was a time when employers
were rethinking what it takes
to attract and keep great talent.
So, as we move into 2025, the
question arises: how do businesses
find the right people in
a changing world? We asked
Spondeo headhunter and coowner
Weronika Gidel-Asunmaa
about recruitment trends.
Employment Trends and Salary Changes
Poland continues to have one of the
lowest unemployment rates in Europe
(standing at around 5% as of 4Q24) and
the demand for specialists remains
strong. However, many sectors, including
technical fields, engineering, healthcare,
and automation, are still lacking qualified
professionals.
The minimum wage increased twice
in 2024, which has again influenced the
market. I expect only one increase in 2025,
starting from January 1. Despite it being
an election year, and the presidential
election to be exact, I do not think there
will be a second increase.
This year, there has definitely been a shift
to an employer’s market. Many companies
have downsized staff and the number of
new jobs has also decreased. In addition
to publicly announced layoffs, companies
have also silently cut jobs, as seen in the
latest employment figures, which have
dropped, with statistics showing that
40,000 jobs have been lost.
Salaries continued to rise by double digits
in 2024. I predict a moderation in salary
increases through 2025, with growth
slowing down, meaning companies
will hire more carefully.
Hybrid Work and Employee Benefits
Hybrid work is an interesting topic as
companies have managed to get more
people back to the office this year.
However, research confirms that 67%
of Polish employees are prioritizing
flexible work models when considering
job offers! At Spondeo, we’ve seen how
hybrid roles can expand the talent pool,
especially for IT and digital jobs.
Employee benefits have been shifting
towards being selectable, with new
offerings, such as mental health support,
becoming more common, while traditional
perks like multisport cards and
private healthcare remaining essential.
Some people who prefer remote work
might not need any benefits.
Recruitment Trends in 2024
Artificial Intelligence in recruitment is a hot
topic. We use AI a bit when it comes to
ideas for headhunting and optimizing job
postings. However, we very much rely on
Human Intelligence. We hire key staff and
candidates would simply get annoyed
if they notice they are dealing with bots;
candidates value fast, friendly, and
professional communication.
In some sectors, there are many good
candidates available. Spondeo has received
many messages from past candidates
who are now free. We've also observed
an increase in professionals available
for roles such as Export Managers and
Marketing experts. Additionally, it is much
easier to hire in IT, but the best candidates
can always pick and choose their next
career move.
Diversity and inclusivity initiatives
have been more on the table this year,
especially by larger companies in big
cities. Additionally, ESG is a hot topic and
female leadership within organizations
is gaining more traction.
Looking ahead, salary transparency laws,
set to take effect in 2026, will mandate
open salary disclosures, mainly in large
companies. Additionally, a new whistleblowing
law introduced has not turned
out to be such a big deal (yet).
If you would like to talk more about the Polish market or your recruitment
needs, feel free to send email: weronika@spondeo.fi
36 Business Support

AHOPELTO NORDIC - ROAD TO SUCCESS
IN THE GLOBAL LOGISTICS MARKET
Henri Ahopelto (CEO)
henri@ahopeltonordic.com / +358 44 076 9193
Ahopelto Nordic was established in 2021 in the Czech Republic, expanded
to Finland in 2022 and currently has 10 employees in three countries, with its
headquarters in Helsinki. The company specializes in international freight
forwarding and efficient cargo management across all key modes of transport:
Road, Air, Sea, and Rail. Tuomas spoke with Henri Ahopelto – CEO at Ahopelto
Nordic – Transporting for Results. They spoke about his journey from a logistics
professional to an entrepreneur, the rapid growth of his company, and plans
for expanding operations in Poland while coping with the challenges
of the local market.
You have extensive experience in
the logistics sector and CEE markets,
and you finally established your own
company in 2021. How was the road
to becoming an entrepreneur?
I have been in logistics since
2007. Initially I worked as
a logistics coordinator and
manager in the Czech Republic, Slovakia,
and Poland. Later in my career, I established
and ramped up three logistics
companies in the region, and finally,
in 2021, I started my own company.
I never actually dreamed of becoming
an entrepreneur, it’s not something that
runs in our family, I just wanted to do
things on my own and be independent.
I am the only shareholder, and the company
has mostly been financed out of
my own pocket.
Given that your company is just slightly
more than two years old (as of November
2024), you have quite a success story.
Did everything happen according to
plan, or did the speed surprise you?
I had a clear vision when I started,
and I’ve sometimes been pleasantly
surprised by how smoothly things have
developed. So yes, everything went
according to plan, or even a bit better
than I expected.
Do you have any targets for 2025?
Well, we expect 2024 turnover to be
around 8-9 million euros. If we don’t
double it in 2025, I’d say a target revenue
of at least 15 million euros is reasonable.
You are now expanding to the Polish
market. What is your master plan
for Poland?
We have hired our first employee from
Poland and will open a local subsidiary
and potentially hire more people in 2025.
We want to serve our Polish customers
in their language and be local, as that is
important in our business. Of course,
Poland is a large country, so it will be
an important market for our group.
What does the Polish logistics market
look like from your perspective, and how
does it differ from the Czech market?
The Polish market is very price-driven.
Companies tend to ask for quotes from
many sources and choose based on
the price, even if the difference is small.
In the Czech Republic, the market seems
to operate more traditionally, where
long-term relationships matter, and it is
generally more important to make
personal connections.
What about the logistics traffic between
Finland and the Czech Republic/Poland?
How is the balance there?
From a Finnish perspective, imports to
Finland are obviously much larger than
exports. I’d say the ratio is 60/40 or even
more, which is also reflected in the prices,
meaning that prices from Finland to the
CEE are cheaper. In addition, generalising
only slightly, it can be said that Finnish
exports to Poland are mostly related to
paper and metal products, while imports
from Poland and the Czech Republic
cover a much wider range of products,
including construction materials etc.
If a Finnish production company with
a factory in Poland is analyzing their
logistics costs and the market, what
details should they pay the most
attention to?
Obviously, price is one factor, but I’d say
the service level of the logistics partner is
crucial for long-term business. We actually
work a lot with start-up companies and
newcomers, and we like to support
them in their growth.
What is your team's superpower?
We are a small company and team, but
a highly experienced and competent one.
We can offer high-quality service, even to
smaller companies. We have cases where
clients may only transport one pallet per
month, but that pallet is extremely important
to them. And these clients are
important to us.
Do you see any trends in the market
for 2025?
If the economy doesn't improve significantly
or gets worse, the number of
bankruptcies will increase. Currently,
there is a lot of overcapacity, especially
in large companies, so there is visible
price competition on the market. We will
see whether this continues, or whether
there will be asset sales or other moves.
Can you say anything about the pricing
of logistics between Finland and Poland?
It depends on very many factors, but
I promise that, during office hours, you
will receive a quote from us within two
hours of sending the request. Personally,
my target time is 15 minutes if I am online,
but I can't always meet it!
What are the most common surprises
in the market for someone who starts
to investigate or deal with it?
Bureaucracy and old-school administrative
procedures are one thing that
might come as a surprise. Another
difference between our countries is trust.
We Finns have it by default with each
other, but in Poland, you need to earn it,
and that can take some time.
Visit the website to learn more
www.ahopeltonordic.com
Sponsored article |
Business Support 37

Visit the website to learn more
www.ecovislegal.pl
RISING ACTIVITY IN THE POLISH M&A MARKET
Insights from Ecovis
Looking at M&A transactions from
the perspective of the last 10 years,
we have witnessed a significant
increase in interest from foreign
buyers - says Nikodem Multan,
one of the partners of Ecovis Legal
Poland. International transactions
are steadily increasing, thanks to
the prosperous countries of Central
and Eastern Europe offering a
relatively cheap but well-qualified
workforce. Moreover, several
countries in Central and Eastern
Europe (CEE), despite being
Member States of the European
Union and hence the participants
of a vast market, have still not
adopted the Euro as their national
currency. “This is one reason why
the M&A market is particularly
attractive for foreign buyers from
countries with strong currencies,
as the valuation results in a lower
price compared to the investors’
home markets” highlights Nikodem.
Ecovis Legal Poland is a wellestablished
law firm with more
than 20 years of history. In recent
years, Ecovis Legal Poland has
worked on various multi-millionzloty
Finnish investments involving
production activities as well as
mergers and acquisitions. They
have assisted more than 50 Finnish
companies starting to conduct
business in Poland. Take a look
at how the company views the
M&A market in Poland.
Ecovis Legal Poland Multan, Pruś & Partners
Law and Tax Firm
Bobrowiecka 8, II piętro, 00-728 Warszawa
+48 690 050 632
warsaw-law@ecovis.pl
www.ecovis.com / www.ecovislegal.pl
How does the mergers and acquisitions
market look in Poland right now?
Are there any emerging trends?
The Spanish newspaper El Economista
recently noted that the
Polish economy “resembles a
steamroller” and is close to overtaking
Spain, with the potential to catch up with
Italy by the end of the decade. This is an
optimistic realistic scenario. Rapid economic
growth and the migration of businesses
from Ukraine to Poland are driving dynamic
development in the mergers and acquisitions
(M&A) market. Both buyers and sellers
are showing significant activity. An additional
factor is that the owners of companies
established in the 1990s are now approaching
retirement age, often without successors,
leading to the sale of their businesses.
This marks a period of heightened activity
on the M&A market.
What types of companies are attracting
buyers from Nordic countries?
Primarily those that are ready to invest in
Poland and believe in the further development
of their business in our country.
Ideally, they should have a well-thoughtout
strategy, though we can assist with
that. It is worth noting that the M&A boom
encompasses many sectors, so we are not
limited to just a few industries. The greatest
activity is coming from sectors such as
healthcare, IT, manufacturing (particularly
furniture), transport and logistics.
What specific features of the Polish M&A
market might surprise foreign firms?
Unfortunately, the Polish market still has
many badly prepared advisors. The M&A
process is complex, requiring expertise in
economics, law, taxation and management,
but not everyone possesses the necessary
skills. This can result in transactions being
delayed, or even failing altogether. It is
crucial to work with experienced professionals.
On a positive note, Poles are open,
friendly and value relationships, which
means that the M&A process does not
have to be difficult if approached correctly.
What has been the most interesting or
unusual situation you have encountered
during an M&A process?
One of the more intriguing stories involved
a company for which we spent six months
searching for an investor, without much
success. During one meeting, the client
mentioned that someone from Company
Y had tried to contact him. To our surprise,
it turned out to be an acquaintance and
a neighbour, who we had not considered
due to industry differences. Their interest
was genuine and the transaction proceeded
swiftly and smoothly. Typically, however,
you cannot rely on such luck.
Another example involved the sale of
a large manufacturing company undergoing
restructuring. This process always
involves a race against time and a certain
dependence on courts and creditors.
Although we managed to find an investor
– a restructuring fund – everything was
going well until one of the key directors
began spreading false information. Despite
our efforts to correct his statements,
the transaction ultimately fell through.
This just goes to show that people often
represent the weakest link in the process.
What general recommendations can
you offer concerning negotiations?
Polish entrepreneurs place great value on
professionalism, honesty and openness.
This makes it unwise to engage in strategic
games or conceal your true objectives
- once revealed, it could jeopardise the
transaction. In Poland, trust and open
communication are paramount. Prolonging
terms to your advantage, which may be
seen as a negotiation art in some cultures,
is frowned upon here. The satisfaction
of both parties significantly influences
ongoing relationships, and Poles are
relationship-oriented, which can greatly
affect the success of the entire process.
Do you have any advice on how to
negotiate with local sellers or buyers?
Yes, as I mentioned, it’s crucial to conduct
negotiations openly and transparently,
respecting both parties' interests. This approach
consistently brings the best results.
Are we currently dealing with a seller’s
or a buyer’s market?
The market in Poland is very dynamic on
both sides, with many sellers and buyers.
It is difficult to definitively identify which
side is dominant, though each has its
specific characteristics and challenges.
What is your best reference project?
a) A manufacturing company from outside
Poland that decided to invest in a Polish
firm within its own or a complementary
industry; b) The expansion of foreign service
companies into the Polish market – particularly
in the IT sector (Polish programmers
enjoy an excellent reputation) and in the
rapidly growing healthcare industry.
38 Business Support
| Sponsored article

ŚWINOUJŚCIE – MALMÖ
Visit the website to learn more
www.finnlines.com
Finnlines has established a new daily
maritime connection between Sweden and Poland
Finnlines, part of the Grimaldi Group, entered the Polish market in 1998 and
has operated under the Finnlines brand since 2007. The company currently
operates two routes from Poland to Sweden: a daily Świnoujście-Malmö service
and a Gdynia-Hanko route three times a week. Tuomas met with Rafał Kwapisz,
Managing Director of Finnlines Poland, to discuss the sea logistics market.
Congratulations on launching the
Świnoujście-Malmö route this year.
It is very impressive. Could you tell us
more about it?
Thank you. After seven years
of hard work, we successfully
launched the route to Sweden
and are now operating the Świnoujście-
Malmö route daily. This is a new concept
for us, as passenger traffic has become
part of our strategy. The market response
has been positive.
The process of securing permissions
took some time. What were the biggest
challenges and barriers?
We started to plan this route in 2017
and applied several times for permission
to operate from a publicly owned terminal
in Świnoujście. Unfortunately, each time
we were blocked by the authorities,
who found one reason or another
to deny us access, claiming there was
no room for Finnlines at the terminal.
What were the main causes of the
obstacles you faced?
The challenges we encountered mainly
originated from the policy of the previous
Ministry of Infrastructure, which focused
on protecting state-owned carriers.
This didn't just apply to local issues
in Szczecin or Świnoujście. Let’s say
it was purely a political issue.
In terms of politics, did the change of
government have any significant effect
on your ability to open this new route?
What has changed in this respect?
The new government introduced
significant changes that enabled us to
start operating from a private terminal.
We now operate from Euroterminal,
which is owned by a Norwegian company
that has invested in port infrastructure.
As a result, we can proudly say that the
new route has been successfully
launched and we are gaining
recognition on this market.
Rafał Kwapisz (Managing Director)
sales.pl@finnlines.com
Wow, that's a really interesting story!
The Gdynia-Hanko route is a traditional
part of your business. What types of
cargo do you typically carry on this route?
We operate a roll-on/roll-off vessel with
trailers making up about 75% of the cargo.
An important part of our business is
long-term clients from Finland who
transport paper products to Poland.
We also transport tractors, machinery
and liquid goods. From Poland, we mostly
ship machinery, steel and steel products.
Trade is relatively balanced in both
directions.
Do you have any plans to expand your
network with new connections in Poland?
We’re currently exploring ways to expand
our network, including connections to
Western European ports such as the UK,
Belgium, and Spain, while also developing
our global reach. As a sea connection,
we aim to play a crucial role in helping
reduce our clients' carbon emissions.
We view Poland as a very important part
of our strategy, a place for growth and
we are pleased with the progress we
are making here!
Can you tell us more about Finnlines'
approach to sustainability? What is
the strategy regarding emissions
and biofuels?
At a practical level, our approach varies
depending on the vessels we operate.
For instance, we achieve zero emissions
in port by utilizing energy from solar
panelbased storage systems and we are
committed to incorporating innovative
technologies. As part of our sustainability
efforts, we are also introducing biofuels,
aiming for significant reductions in emissions
and carbon neutrality. At a group level,
we recently completed a €500 million
investment plan that includes the construction
of five new vessels for Finnlines.
Are there other trends shaping the
market in Poland and in general?
First of all, vessels are getting bigger and
wider, which means that the infrastructure
at Polish ports must be improved.
For example, when the width grows from
27m to 34m, ramps and terminals need
to be adapted. At a European level,
we note the importance of economies
of scale. Clients are no longer focused
on one particular area; they are joining
forces, as seen with takeovers like DSV
and Schenker. We often find that we
have many of the same clients in our
Mediterranean services as we do in the
Baltics. Our focus is on building strong
relationships with them to improve our
services. As for economic trends, we’re
definitely hoping to see a rebound
in growth soon.
Back to the Gdynia-Hanko route, are
your ships able to carry cars, vans,
and passengers?
Yes, traveling with us is possible!
We offer the option of taking several
passengers, although you must be
prepared to spend 20 hours at sea on
a cargo ship. By law, we can accommodate
a maximum of 12 passengers, for
whom we provide comfortable cabins,
beds, and meals. Unfortunately, we only
offer reservations by phone, not online,
but I can reassure passengers that time
flies when you’re on board!
Thank you for the interesting
conversation. We look forward
to Finnlines' future connections!
Thank you too!
Sponsored article |
Business Support 39

CELEBRATING
15 YEARS OF
FINNISH-POLISH
WORKFORCE
RENTAL SERVICES
Kipinä team
Photo by Kipinä
The employment agency Kipinä Oy
was established in 2010. Throughout
its existence, it has primarily focused
on providing foreign workforce to
Finland and other Nordic countries.
In addition to its headquarters in
Finland, Kipinä has its own recruitment
and employment agencies
in Poland, Bulgaria, and Romania,
as well as partners in Slovakia, India,
and Latvia. Kipinä specializes in
recruiting and leasing blue-collar
workers across all sectors. We had
an opportunity to speak with Juha
Kivimäki – CEO of Kipinä, who told
us about his company’s operations
in Poland, their international recruitment
efforts, and his opinion on
the evolving labor market.
Juha Kivimäki (CEO, Owner)
+358 400 403 242
juha.kivimaki@kipinahrm.fi
Visit the website to learn more
www.kipinahrm.eu
What is your story in Poland so far?
We operate in Poland under
the name Ilves, with more than
15 years of experience as a local
employment agency. We currently employ
workers in Poland across the production,
warehouse, and service sectors – from
industrial painters, welders, assemblers
and electricians, to cashiers and shop
assistants. Our people work not only
in factories and warehouses but also
in shipyards, food production, and
even grocery stores.
Do you also employ Polish workers
in Finland?
Yes, that is our core business: hiring
foreign workers for Finland. We have
people working across the country,
from Helsinki to Lapland, in a variety
of typical blue-collar positions, such as
welding and pavement stone assembly.
In addition to the countries where we
have our own offices or partners, we hire
people from Asia and Africa. We also
have projects in other European countries,
such as Norway and Ireland.
How is the labor market currently?
Unemployment is low in most countries,
not only in Poland but also in Romania
and Bulgaria. The lack of qualified workers
sometimes forces employers to hire less
experienced candidates, and this is where
we focus on the selection process. We are
proud of our service quality and the low
number of terminated contracts. We take
full responsibility for selecting the best
candidates, managing the recruitment
process from A to Z. This enables us to
quickly, efficiently, and seamlessly match
the right employee to the job.
Has the market changed during the last
few years?
It has been quite dynamic in recent years,
first due to the pandemic and many
companies closing as a result. Then
came the war and high inflation. Salaries
are still rising quickly in the CEE area, but
overall, this has been a more stable year.
Are there any memorable recruitment
projects you'd like to share?
One case in Poland was hiring 120
production workers at once for a single
client! That was quite a project, but
a successful one.
You have special Finnish names for your
companies, Kipinä and Ilves – what is
the story behind them?
Are you asking a Tampere guy why Ilves?
Of course, Ilves is the local ice hockey
team, as everyone knows. Kipinä’s history
goes back a long time, to when I read
a survey that said orange is the most
attractive color to have in a logo.
I started thinking about what is orange
and came up with fire, and then sparks.
In Finland, we have the idea of having
“a spark for work,” meaning being
passionate. That’s how Kipinä was
chosen. Ilves came from our original
Polish CEO. She used to stay at Hotel
Ilves in Tampere and thought the name
sounded wonderful. Naturally, as an Ilves
hockey club fan, I had no objection.
Kipinä team
Photo by Kipinä
40 Business Support
| Sponsored article

Visit the website to learn more
www.leinonen.eu/pol
Maria Onikki-Górski
maria.onikki-gorski@leinonen.pl
A YEAR OF STABILIZATION
IN THE POLISH ACCOUNTING
LANDSCAPE
Leinonen Poland, a subdivision of the Leinonen Group, provides
accounting, tax, payroll management, and other services to foreignowned
businesses, facilitating their integration into the Polish market.
The group operates in 11 countries and recently celebrated 15 years
in Poland. We spoke with Maria Onikki-Górski, Managing Director of
Leinonen Poland, about accounting trends in 2025.
First of all, you have been in Poland for
quite a long time – do you feel more
Finnish or Polish?
I have around 25 years of
experience working in finance
and performing accounting
tasks in Poland. But I am still Maria from
Finland! Only my mother-in-law calls me
Marysia here in Poland.
Last year, you mentioned that accounting
and tax rules were changing so fast
that you felt like the head of a detective
agency. How is it now?
Things have definitely calmed down after
the elections, and no major changes have
occurred this year. It's a good situation
right now. Hurriedly prepared regulatory
changes are challenging as there are
many small details to resolve. At times,
it felt like no one really had any answers
about the specifics of the new accounting
principles.
Are there any major trends or changes
in the pipeline?
Nothing major seems to be happening
at the moment. The KSeF project – the
electronic invoicing mandate – is now
scheduled for 2026. Along with a few other
Nordic companies, we participated in
a roundtable discussion with the Ministry
of Finance, which gave us the chance to
share our views. The Scandinavian-Polish
Chamber of Commerce organized the event.
It seems that the regulatory side is
calm. How has business been this year,
and how is the team doing?
We now have over 30 accountants and
payroll professionals, with clients ranging
from small one-person entities to large
corporations. Finnish clients naturally
make up a significant part of our portfolio,
but recently we've seen an interesting
increase in new clients from the Baltic
States, especially IT and SaaS companies.
They seem to be entering the Polish market.
The Polish accounting sphere has
some local nuances. Do clients usually
implement their own ERP systems
in Poland, or do they rely on yours?
I’d say that 25% of our clients choose to use
their own ERP systems in Poland, with the
rest operating on our platform. Poland
has its own accounting rules, which means
that implementing a group ERP requires
localization packages. Some ERPs,
like those from Microsoft, have robust
packages and support, allowing partners
to implement the projects effectively.
Of course, there are also some ERPs
where the Polish implementation can
be a very complex project.
Yes, there are several factors to consider
during onboarding, such as month-end
close scheduling issues. Does this
require a lot of special attention?
We always ask the client about the
required schedules, as Polish accounting
is heavily focused on closing the month
around the 20th day of the following
month. In most cases, we end up closing
during the first working week.
Do you see many differences compared
to Finland?
Of course, there are plenty of small differences
in accounting rules. Additionally,
the way organizations operate differs;
in Poland, it is still quite hierarchical. In our
case, it can be difficult to reach people in
the tax offices and ZUS to ask for advice,
at least compared to the Finnish tax office.
There are probably also a lot of tax
inspections.
Yes, there are always tax inspections going
on, and this is quite standard. For example,
the first VAT refund application always
triggers a tax inspection. Of course, it is
mostly routine work.
Any advice for newcomers from your
perspective?
Healthy checks are important. Make sure
there are proper principles for approving
invoices, salaries, and costs, as well
as checks on approving payments.
Overall, the system works well, and
digitalization is improving year by year.
It is also crucial to plan the expansion
carefully from all angles.
5
Differences
from the Finnish
Accounting
System
The PLN/EUR exchange
rate is from the National
Bank of Poland, not from
the ECB.
Sales invoices must
have three dates and
they do not have
a standard layout.
Corporate Income Tax
is generally paid on
a monthly basis.
The payroll system is
rather complicated.
There are split payments
for VAT.
Sponsored article |
Business Support 41

Visit the website to learn more
www.pagero.com/pl
BUSINESS HAS NO BOUNDARIES,
IT HAS RESPONSIBILITIES
“The Grid. A digital frontier. I tried to picture clusters of information as they
moved through the computer. What do they look like? Ships? Motorcycles?
Were the circuits like freeways? I kept dreaming of a world I thought
I’d never see. And then, one day, I got in…”
From the movie TRON: Legacy (2010)
Pagero connects buyers and suppliers
globally through a secure,
compliant, and fully automated
solution for exchanging e-invoices
and other business documents.
Thanks to its Pagero Network
platform, companies have the
power to automate and optimize
their processes. Imagine a world
where global business operates
seamlessly, regulations are
straightforward, and adaptation
is effortless.
Andrzej Pijanowski (Country Manager)
andrzej.pijanowski@pagero.com
READ THE REPORT
IDC MarketScape: European Compliant
e-Invoicing 2024 Vendor Assessment
Imagine a world where global business
operates freely, regulations are not complex
and adaptation is no longer a challenge.
A world where financial processes are so
automated that companies can focus on
growth instead of bureaucracy.
The Grid – Better Connected
Picture the scene: the user is working in
his familiar system, where an extensive
global infrastructure is running in the
background that automatically connects
tools, data and companies from other
countries. Without needing to log in
separately, the user has a comprehensive
view of all transactions - from e-invoices
to orders - consolidated into a single,
coherent interface. This is not a vision
of the future, but a reality made possible
by the addition of Pagero to the Thomson
Reuters family earlier this year. The result
is ONESOURCE Pagero, an innovative,
flexible platform that provides international
companies with local e-invoicing and VAT
compliance through advanced technology
and advisory support.
Digital Frontier – CTC Compliance
The year 2024 was a landmark year for us
as we were recognised as fully compliant
with e-invoicing in Europe (IDC MarketScape:
European Compliant e-Invoicing 2024
Vendor Assessment), which happened
even before Pagero joined Thomson
Reuters. The IDC MarketScape report
offers a detailed analysis of e-invoicing
compliance providers in the European
market. Analysing the activities of Pagero,
IDC writes: ‘By harnessing its connections
and distilling very complex e-invoicing and
CTC mandates, Pagero can play a key role
as a trusted advisor for customers and
partners.’ The report points to the rapid
growth of e-invoicing in Europe and increasing
regulations affecting international
transactions. Companies are increasingly
integrating solutions on a single platform.
This approach is a leap towards optimizing
processes and costs and reducing
administrative activities.
Ships? Motorcycles? – ViDA i KSeF
Mandatory e-invoicing in Europe is no
longer just a trend – it’s a reality. Many
European countries have already implemented
it or plan to do so in the coming
years. A key initiative in this context is the
ViDA (VAT in the Digital Age) package
proposed by the European Commission,
which has undergone significant changes
in recent months. Meanwhile, in Poland,
businesses continue to grapple with the
National System of e-Invoicing (KSeF),
a hot topic for the past several years.
After multiple delays, it is set to take
effect in 2026 – starting in February for
larger entities (with sales exceeding PLN
200 million in the previous tax year) and
in April for others. The year 2025 will be
critical for businesses to prepare for these
changes. Global companies should focus
on scalable solutions to keep up with
evolving trends. Instead of making local
adjustments, it is worth choosing an
integrated platform that automatically
accounts for regulatory changes.
Looking towards a digitalized future
– 2025
Beyond regulatory compliance, companies
are increasingly transforming their
Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable,
and broader TAX Compliance processes.
This trend is set to grow. Our global network
continues to expand, fueled by
businesses consciously integrating their
partners, enabling even greater data exchange
and integration. Shifting the focus
from manual processes to automationdriven
digitalization is becoming a top
priority for the largest market players.
We are entering an era of eco-systembuilding
through partnerships and integrations,
which, in practice, means flexibility
and interoperability for companies. In short,
it will become a true digital highway.
42 Business Support
| Sponsored article

Visit the website to learn more
www.polarnightsoftware.com
TRENDS AND CHALLENGES
IN THE IT MARKET
How Polar Night Software Adapts
Polar Night Software offers software development
nearshoring services. PNS currently employs
around 20 people. One team member focuses
on sales and account management from Finland,
while the rest are based in Poland. The team is
highly experienced, with an average experience
of approximately 8-10 years. The team's technological
expertise includes popular technologies
such as JavaScript, C#/.Net, React, Angular,
Vue, TypeScript, Python, Node.js, Java, and React
Native. Tuomas spoke to Henri Jääskeläinen –
CEO of Polar Night Software – who discussed the
transition from an employee-driven market to
an employer-driven one in 2024.
From a totally employee market to a
somewhat employer market in 2024 –
do you agree with this phenomenon?
I would say that the market is
certainly heading in that direction,
but slowly, not very rapidly.
The number of applications for open
positions has skyrocketed compared to
2022, and even 2023. A large proportion
of the applicants are juniors, who we
cannot hire at the moment. Personally,
I feel bad for them - it's a tough time to
start a career. However, there are also
many more talented mid- to senior-level
candidates available.
Have you noticed any differences in
salaries, pay rises, or other conditions?
The salary race has been on pause for
a while. Many candidates are now willing
to accept more reasonable offers compared
to a year or two ago. In addition,
people seem to be a bit more flexible.
They are no longer chasing the hottest
opportunities, but are instead seeking
a good employer and "interesting
enough" projects are acceptable.
Is Poland now also attracting IT talent
from abroad?
The changes in the market have affected
many countries, which is reflected in
applications from abroad as well.
However, we currently hire only people
living in Poland, so we have to skip most
of these applications.
What scenarios could
you predict if the war
in Ukraine ends?
Would it affect the
Polish IT market?
If the war ends, we hope
to start working with
Ukrainian developers,
but it's too early to make
any specific plans.
In general, the market
will warm up and, if the war ends, there
will be enough business for Ukrainian
companies too, even with more developers
returning to normal work. So, I don't expect
any significant effects on the Polish IT
market directly.
AI hype has been booming since 2023.
Are your clients curious about it?
AI has already moved from hype to practice
in many areas. For example, we have
implemented AI-related developments
for several customers. For one AI-focused
start-up, we built their core system, which
uses sentiment analysis, AI summarization
features, and similar tools to support sales
in analyzing their customer interactions.
You have carried out some AI projects.
Could you share a few examples,
including any internal ones?
Internally, we have transitioned from fun
experiments to supporting sales activities
with our own tool. This tool identifies
and analyzes potential companies within
our target group. Once the tool selects
companies with the help of AI, the sales
team takes over and contacts them.
What trends are shaping the current
IT market?
Companies have expanded their internal
development teams as the labor market
has become more favorable for hiring.
We’ve had to work harder to demonstrate
our value, offering risk-free starts with
money-back guarantees. Data science,
engineering, and other data-related fields
are growing rapidly, and a portion of the
software development market will likely
shift toward data-focused work. We’ve
also provided data experts to customers.
Startup funding is slowly recovering,
though many VCs still face challenges
with exits. Overall, I expect 2025 to be
better for IT, with stronger growth in the
second half of the year.
How is the current job market affecting
developers' preferences?
Right now, developers everywhere are
less picky. For sure, long-term opportunities
are tempting in these times of
increased insecurity, even on a global
level. I bet the public sector is more
attractive too, but I haven't seen this
myself because we work only in the
private sector at the moment. The global
experience that developers have is a big
plus for us. It means our customers notice
that they are getting up to speed more
quickly, and the environment feels familiar.
Mostly, they are more international than
most Finnish developers.
What other benefits do they have?
The B2B model is common and people
are ready to work, maybe even a bit harder
than in the Nordics. Cultural differences
exist, but mostly they are small and
usually don't show in working life.
What was the most memorable
moment in 2024?
The most memorable moment in 2024 was
definitely closing a deal with a very international
company with a Finnish background,
after working hard to find new long-term
customers. We had to navigate several
challenges and invest a lot of effort into
understanding the unique needs of this
company, but the outcome was
incredibly rewarding.
Sponsored article |
Business Support 43

Visit the website to learn more
www.poznan.pl
POZNAŃ - CITY OF THE FUTURE
Challenges, successes and future plans
Jacek Jaśkowiak, an economist and
social activist, has been mayor of
Poznań since 2014. During his term
of office, the city has gained, among
other things, modern transport
solutions and a significant
improvement in the quality of life
of its residents. We spoke with the
mayor, who spoke about the city's
successes, including ‘The City of the
Year’ and ‘Best City to Live in Poland’
awards, as well as key investments
like the revitalisation of the Old
Market Square, the development
of green energy, and support
for the IT sector.
How would you summarize 2024
for Poznań?
A year full of challenges and
successes is behind us. Despite
the global economic difficulties,
our city has maintained its position as
a leader in business and innovation in
Poland. The city of Poznań consistently
supports investment, ensuring the
highest standards of performance.
Poznań won several awards recently,
could you tell us about the journey to
such success?
All the awards that Poznań has won are the
result of many years of systematic and consistent
work. Our priority is to continually improve
the quality of life of residents and to
create an environment conducive to development
of business. We invest both in infrastructure
and urban space, as well as in
comprehensive support for investors. Distinctions
such as the "City of the Year" award
from Europa Property or the title of "The
Best City to Live in Poland", awarded by
Business Insider Polska, confirm that Poznań
is a friendly place to both live and invest in.
What are the projects or investments
that you are the most proud of?
There are many projects and investments
of which we are particularly proud. One of
the key undertakings was the comprehensive
revitalisation of the Old Market Square,
which not only restored the place to its
former glory, but also improved its functionality
and accessibility. The influx of companies
such as Volkswagen, SKF and Lisner
is also pleasing. These companies not only
create new jobs, but also strengthen Poznań's
position as a business-friendly city.
Every year we host Impact CEE in Poznań
– one of the most important meetings for
business, science and political leaders in
Europe. The conference fits perfectly with
our strategy to promote innovation and
support key sectors of the economy.
The energy sector is especially
interesting for Finnish companies, what
is the latest news from that sector?
Poznań is a pioneer in innovative energy
solutions in Poland. The city offers subsidies
for the replacement of heat sources
and supports residents in switching to
greener and more energy-efficient solutions.
The heat recovered from the Volkswagen
Poznań foundry makes it possible to heat
thousands of homes in the city. Similar
measures will be applied to Beyond.pl's
data centres. A photovoltaic farm has been
set up at Poznań Ławica Airport, significantly
reducing electricity consumption.
We have been intensively developing
environmentally friendly urban transport
for years, and the introduction of hydrogen
buses is another step towards even more
sustainable transport, helping to further
reduce emissions and noise in the city.
What are the strengths of Poznań
for new investors? Do you promote
some sectors in particular,
like BPO/IT or R&D?
Poznań offers investors a wide range of
opportunities thanks to its diversified economy.
We are committed to the development
of modern technologies, including
numerous data centres. Companies such
as Nordcloud are an example of how
investment in IT and cloud computing is
helping to strengthen the city as a centre
for technology and innovation. The city is
home to advanced process centres such
as BPO and R&D, offering high-quality
services and research and development
in a wide range of industries. At the same
time, we continue to focus on the creative
sector, which has great potential for
development in Poznań.
What is your target for 2025 and onwards
and what Poznań will look like in 2030?
Our goal for 2025 and the years to come
is to continue to develop Poznań as a
modern, sustainable city. A key step in this
direction is the ongoing update of the City
of Poznań Development Strategy 2020+.
We will continue to focus on improving
the quality of life, sustainability and increasing
the population. In 2030, Poznań
will be an even more modern, green and
open city. We will strive to meet the
highest European standards.
As we know, you are a big fan of crosscountry
skiing – when will you visit
Lapland to practise the sport there?
The season there lasts longer than
in Poznań, from October to mid-May.
I intend to train intensively this season to
compete in the Bieg Piastów Race. Next
year I plan to compete in the Vasa Race
and Finlandia Hiihto. I have completed 50
WorldLopped ski marathons in my life,
but Hiihto is by far my favourite. I have
run it many times and I am always happy
to return there. For me it is the most
enjoyable marathon, not because
of the level of difficulty of the route,
but because of the most welcoming
atmosphere and the wonderful fans.
44 Business Support
| Sponsored article

Visit the website to learn more
www.rebuildukraine.in.ua
REBUILD UKRAINE
IN WARSAW 2024
How Finland is supporting Ukraine
The ReBuild Ukraine Warsaw Expo, held on November
13–14, 2024, featured 60+ Finnish companies presenting
infrastructure, energy efficiency, and sustainability
solutions. We met with Oskari Laukkanen, Counsellor,
Trade & Investment from Ministry of Foreign Affairs
of Finland, and discussed Finland's role
in Ukraine's reconstruction.
Rebuild Ukraine 2025
13-14 November 2025
You had the opportunity to attend the
Rebuild Ukraine event this year. How do
you rate the event, and what caught
your attention the most?
I would rate this year’s event a solid nine
out of ten. It featured an impressive 500
exhibitors from over 30 countries, alongside
hundreds of visiting companies.
Finland participated for the second time
in this fair held in Warsaw, the most
natural gateway to the Ukrainian market.
Our delegation was again one of the
largest, with around 60 Finnish companies,
mainly from the energy and construction
sectors, joining under Business Finland’s
organization. The event largely met
expectations, with both the delegation
and the side programs being excellently
managed. Key players in Team Finland,
including the MFA, Finnvera, Finnfund,
the Confederation of Industries, EastCham
Finland, ELY Centers, regional development
companies, and NEFCO, all provided
active support throughout the program.
What surprised or impressed you
the most during the event? Did you
encounter any challenges?
This year, Ukraine demonstrated both
high-level and broad participation, with
ministries, municipalities, and representatives
of public and private companies overcoming
strict travel restrictions in order to attend.
This was a significant improvement from
last year. Finnish companies’ awareness
of Ukraine and European funding capabilities
for projects has also grown.
The European Commission played a key
role, organizing the EU-Ukraine investment
conference, networking events, and
launching an open call for €50+ million
investment projects under the €9.3 billion
Ukraine Investment Framework. This direct
engagement with companies is unprecedented.
However, challenges certainly
remain, including language barriers,
adaptation to European standards, and
a shortage of skilled experts. Efficient
reconstruction will require European
business consortiums and project financing,
involving Export Credit Agencies (ECAs).
For Finland, supporting Ukraine through
education, knowledge transfer, and
strengthening administrative capacity
remains crucial. This is achieved via
development cooperation funds, programs
like ICI and Finnpartnership, as well as
support from Finnvera and Finnfund.
Close collaboration with the European
Commission on reconstruction funding
also continues.
Do you and your delegation plan to
attend the further editions of this event?
We will certainly consider participating
again next year. The feedback from businesses
was very positive. The extent of
Finland’s involvement will be discussed
in the upcoming spring.
What are currently the key activities of
Finnish companies and your support for
these companies in the reconstruction
of Ukraine?
Finnish companies continue to explore
the Ukrainian market and establish contacts
with Ukrainian and international
partners operating there. This dialogue
often involves us, as Finnish companies
frequently offer strategic solutions that
align with Ukraine's needs. These areas
include critical energy and digital infrastructure,
scalable prefabricated construction,
environmental restoration, civil
defense shelters, and defense and dualuse
solutions. Our national activities focus
on several key objectives. First, we promote
Finnish solutions to public and private
Ukrainian decision-makers, international
financial institutions, the European Commission,
and other relevant stakeholders.
Second, we communicate Ukraine's
reconstruction needs, opportunities,
and changes in the Ukrainian business
landscape and regulatory environment
to companies through webinars. Third,
we aim to organize trade missions for
Finnish companies, including visits to
Ukraine as the situation permits. Fourth,
we continue our strong cooperation with
the European Commission on the EU-
Ukraine Investment Framework and
inform and connect Finnish and Nordic
financial institutions and companies,
where applicable, to relevant EU
funding opportunities.
How do you see Finland’s involvement
in helping Ukraine, compared to other
European countries?
Finland’s support to Ukraine’s independence,
sovereignty and territorial integrity
is unshakable. We continue to stand with
Ukraine as long as needed. In addition
to our political support, our other support
continues. Since February 2022, Finland’s
total support to Ukraine amounts to
3.2 billion euros. A large part, 2.3 billion
euros, has been defense material.
Finland is one of the biggest supporters
of Ukraine when compared to our GDP.
Ukraine is also Finland’s biggest development
cooperation partner and largest
recipient of humanitarian aid. As stated
in our Government Programme, we have
drawn up a two-part plan for Finland’s
participation in the reconstruction of
Ukraine. The first part, published a year
ago, focused on financing and advisory
services relevant to Finnish companies.
On December 12, Finland published
the second part (in Finnish) of the
Reconstruction of Ukraine, Finland’s
national plan – covering the participation
of Finland’s central government and various
stakeholders in the reconstruction of
Ukraine in more detail, along with the use
of Finland’s development cooperation
funds in Ukraine. The plan extends to
2027. The English version of the plan
will be published in January.
Business Support 45

Visit the website to learn more
www.sse.lodz.pl
THE LODZ SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE (LSEZ)
IS BUZZING WITH ENERGY AND INNOVATION
The Lodz Special Economic Zone
(LSEZ) is a prime hub for economic
growth, attracting investors with
its central location in Poland’s
transport network. Offering tax
incentives, skilled labor, and
administrative support, the LSEZ
blends industrial tradition with
modern innovation, fostering
business and development through
collaboration with universities and
advanced technologies. We had the
pleasure of speaking with Tomasz
Sadzyński – CEO of the LSEZ – who
shared details on how the LSEZ has
evolved into a hub of innovation,
sustainability, and high-tech
industries.
Łódź Special Economic Zone has been
described as one of Europe’s most
dynamic zones. What is the key to
its success?
The Lodz Special Economic Zone thrives
on reinvention and adaptability. A decade
ago, our focus was mostly on attracting
large-scale manufacturing facilities.
Today, the landscape has shifted.
We now attract projects that are more
specialized, sustainable, and innovative,
such as high-tech logistics hubs and
advanced production facilities. Companies
see Łódź as not just a competitive base
in Europe, but also a hub of innovation
and sustainability.
Could you share an example of this
transformation?
Sure, a standout example is DAIKIN
Manufacturing’s investment of PLN 1.5
billion, or EUR 338 million. This project
showcases advanced manufacturing
capabilities and underscores our appeal
to global leaders. Another notable name
is Miele, a German leader in high-end
domestic appliances. Their presence has
diversified our industrial landscape and
significantly contributed to regional
economic growth.
How do micro, small, and medium
enterprises (MSMEs) fit into this picture?
MSMEs are becoming increasingly vital
to our ecosystem. They bring agility,
innovation, and niche expertise that
complement the larger players. We’ve
witnessed a noticeable rise in MSMEs
leveraging our location and support
systems to scale. They benefit from easy
access to European markets and a wide
range of services tailored to their needs.
Speaking
of services,
what makes
Łódź SEZ
stand out
for investors
beyond tax
incentives?
Beyond the
core benefits
like CIT and
PIT exemptions,
we
offer extensive
additional
support.
For example, our Digital Hub, recognized
as a European Digital Innovation Hub
(EDIH), provides comprehensive resources
for startups and tech companies to drive
digital transformation. We also prioritize
workforce development, co-financing
training programs, and even establishing
a Technical School of Automation and
Robotics to address the growing demand
for skilled technicians and engineers.
High-tech industries seem to have
a significant presence. Could you say
more about it?
Absolutely. High-tech companies such as
Ericsson and Fujitsu have found a home
here. Ericsson focuses on research and
development, while Fujitsu leverages
our strategic location for core operations.
Additionally, our logistics capabilities are
unmatched, attracting companies like
DP World, Katoen Natie, and Jeronimo
Martins. Their operations showcase our
agility and ability to handle complex,
high-volume needs.
Łódź is also known for its business
process outsourcing (BPO) sector. How
does this work with the Zone's strategy?
The BPO sector is booming here, thanks
to Łódź’s multilingual talent pool and robust
business support. Companies like Infosys
and Alorica have established operations
and we continue to attract new players.
Our infrastructure and business-friendly
environment make us an ideal choice for
BPO firms looking to start quickly and
efficiently.
LSEZ has partnerships with Finnish
companies. Could you tell us more
about that?
Finnish companies appreciate our
transparent and eco-conscious environment.
Nordkalk, for instance, has invested
more than PLN 20 million (around EUR
4.7 million) in our region. Their focus on
sustainable limestone extraction aligns
perfectly with our commitment to ecofriendly
growth. We see this as the
beginning of deeper cooperation with
Finnish and other Nordic companies.
What’s next for LSEZ?
Our priority is to foster sustainable growth
and drive digital transformation. We aim
to support investors of all sizes – whether
it’s a tech startup, a growing enterprise, or
a global manufacturer. Łódź SEZ is more
than just a location; it’s a launchpad for
innovation and global impact.
46 Business Support
| Sponsored article

Business Support 47

Visit the website to learn more
www.htlaser.fi
Juha Savolainen (CEO)
juha.savolainen@htlaser.fi
LASER-FOCUSED LEADERSHIP
Juha Savolainen on industry trends and adaptation
HT Laser Sp. z o.o. is a system and component supplier for global machine
building companies and a flexible subcontracting partner for forest, paper,
energy, marine, mining, and other industries. The team consists of 50+
technology professionals and ~90% of their production is exported to
Scandinavian countries, Germany and the UK. HT Laser offers laser cutting,
bending, welding, laser welding, machining, assembly and related R&D
services. All operations are managed by certified quality and environmental
systems built according to ISO:9001 and ISO:14001 standards. Tuomas
Asunmaa spoke with Juha Savolainen – CEO of the company – about the
evolving labor market, the challenges of maintaining high standards in
recruitment, and the importance of adaptability in both staff management
and business strategy.
Is it a temporary phenomenon?
It is somewhat understandable, but it is
not a sustainable solution. It also requires
some “moral flexibility” from the buyer.
Especially when they know they are
getting the product at below cost price.
You have been so long in the industry,
what would your prediction be for
next year?
My crystal ball has been a little foggy
lately, but I’m sure there will be light at
the end of the tunnel. To know the future,
I should have been born two years earlier.
Seriously speaking, we should be a little
braver now, when planning bigger
investments for the future. I still believe
in Buzz Lightyear’s slogan "To infinity
and beyond."
Last year and the year before it was
challenging to find good people for
production jobs, now the situation is
easier. When did you realise this change?
We noticed this trend strengthening
about a year ago. There
are so many more candidates
right now. I receive more unsolicited CVs
now than for an advertised position
a couple of years ago!
That’s quite a turn. But are some
positions still difficult to fill?
I wouldn’t say it’s difficult anymore, but
I could say it is sometimes challenging.
This is because we are working to very
high standards, namely EN 15085-1 railway
standard, which means high demands on
the employees being hired. You must be
a real pro to fit in.
Have you noticed any decrease in salary
expectations or other conditions?
Not really. Every year it is more or less the
same song we are singing. Expectations
are expectations, but the reality is a different
story. However, I think stability and
good working conditions are valued more
today than maybe a couple of years ago.
When you came to Poland, the culture
of having rented staff at factories was
just starting and has become more
common over the years. What is the
situation now?
I experienced the same challenge in
Finland about two decades ago. In the
beginning, you need to fight against
various prejudices and misconceptions,
especially when employees come from
different nationalities. Things will get
better with time. We started using rental
staff here about seven years ago. Some
of the “originals” are still with us.
If you could give advice to someone who
is considering staff rental in Poland, what
would it be? Are there any bottlenecks
or things that are very difficult for Finland?
“Just do it”, like Nike says. Rental labor
is an important resource for a company.
Not only for smoothing out production
peaks, but also for increasing capacity
more quickly.
Jumping to the economy, the Polish
export sector is facing challenges;
in particular, exports to Germany are
not developing well. Have you seen
this in your business?
Unfortunately, this decline is clearly
visible in our industry, but we are still
doing just fine with our direct customers
in Germany. I can imagine the pain with
tier 2 suppliers to German automotive
customers. And yes… honestly speaking
there are less RFQs in my mailbox from
Germany, but I am sure I am not alone
with that statement.
Do you see customers getting more
price-sensitive or willing to change
suppliers?
Our long-term customers are always very
price-sensitive, but still very demanding
when it comes to quality. They are not
willing to waste a single euro, regardless
of the total cost, if you know what I mean.
At the moment, I can see signs of some
kind of auction market philosophy going
on at the market. The cheapest offer
wins, regardless of anything else.
In your industry, the sales process can
be very special, do you participate
in sales?
We don’t have a typical way of getting new
clients. In fact, we do not have any active
sales in Poland at all. We are found by
customers in many ways. By that I mean
exhibitions, old contacts within the industry,
the HT Laser website, jungle drum etc.
Of course, I participate in all of those.
Yeah, inbounds can come from various
sources.
Every now and then we get a new customer
or a new product from an old customer
due to our competitors' quality issues.
This happens more often than you’d think.
Many of our customers are also HT Laser
Finland customers. Typically, they are
more international customers who have
global activities. And lately, our sales in
Sweden have increased thanks to our
sales managers there.
You have been in Poznań for eight years
now and are one of the very few Finnish
factory managers in Poland. How has
the market changed over that time?
I have witnessed a huge change in the
economy, but also on a micro level in the
subcontracting business. For example,
employee roles are no longer “one man,
one job type”, but have become more
diverse. Multitasking may be the word I’m
looking for. This applies from production
to the office.
Were there any new initiatives in 2024?
Our Star Wars Jedi knights in production
have been joining forces with our IWE
and R&D to create more laser-welded
products for our customers!
48 Business Support
| Sponsored article

SECTION 4
FINNISH CULTURE
& SPORT
IN POLAND
Finnish influences in Poland reach far beyond the world of
business. If you look closely, you will find a touch of Finland
in literature, photography, sport, heavy metal, Mölkky and,
of course, Santa Claus. In this section, you can explore how
shared cultural interests contribute to strengthening
Finnish-Polish relations.
SAND VALLEY GOLF RESORT
Sand Valley Golf Resort - The Best Golf Course
in Poland
Sand Valley Golf Resort was awarded the title
of the Best Golf Course in Poland during the World
Golf Awards gala. This prestigious award highlights
the uniqueness and high standards of this destination,
which is recognized nationally and internationally.
The resort, managed by Finnish CEO Antti Pohjonen,
is just an hour away from Gdańsk Airport, making it
an excellent choice for international golf enthusiasts.
In 2023, Sand Valley was ranked 69th in the
esteemed Golf World UK listing of the Best Golf
Courses in Continental Europe, attracting golfers
from all over the world.
It's not only the course's design and stunning
landscapes that draw attention; Sand Valley also
offers exceptional accommodation and unique
service. Guests can enjoy private jacuzzis, saunas,
and swimming pools. In 2023, Sand Valley hosted
prestigious golf tournaments such as the ECCO Tour
and the ESGA Championship. More than 100 players
participated there in the 13th edition of the Heikki
Kovalainen Open, proving that Sand Valley is not just
a golf course but a true hub for golfing competition.
Sand Valley Golf Resort, Sand Valley 23, Pasłęk
www.sandvalley.pl
Culture & Sport 49

spondeo
EVENT OVERVIEW 2024
FINNISH INSPIRATION IN POLAND
“
GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM THE NORTH.
SHOWCASING SELECTED FORERUNNERS
FROM DIFFERENT ENERGY SECTORS”
FINNISH INNOVATIONS AT THE
POLISH CLIMATE CONGRESS
A panel hosted by Spondeo
The Climate Congress took place in Warsaw
in March 2024, with nearly 1,200 people
participating in more than 20 panel discussions
on climate change in various
fields. Spondeo had the honor of hosting
one of the panels. Given Nordic companies'
strong leadership in climate innovation,
we invited representatives from six Finnish
companies to present their sustainable
solutions and innovative ideas at the
‘Green Solutions from the North’ panel,
moderated by Tuomas.
Have you ever wondered how innovative
solutions can help reduce your carbon
footprint? For example, the company
Meriaura collects used cooking oil and
produces biofuel from it, which is then
used on their ships, reducing the carbon
footprint by 97.7% compared to fossil fuels.
Wärtsilä's research indicates that Poland
could reduce its carbon footprint in the
power and heating sectors by 57% over
the next 10 years, resulting in savings of
€3.8 billion. We also learned that
Finnish transportation companies
and their clients have shown
a strong willingness to pay up
to 15% more for carbon-free,
sustainable energy.
Gaining new knowledge
The Climate Congress aimed to
create a forum for exchanging
experiences and practices that
connect public interest with
business activities. The participants
emphasized that attending this
event was primarily an excellent
opportunity to expand their
knowledge and establish
valuable connections.
Energy transformation
“The energy transition in Poland is
‘on hold’ due to the lack of a clear
vision for the sector’s future. While
government subsidies reduce current
costs, uncertainty around future
energy prices and operating costs
for equipment such as heat pumps
is hampering progress. A clear,
forward-looking strategy is essential.”
Dariusz Wellenger, Gebwell Polska
50 Culture & Sport

EVENING WITH FINNISH CULTURE
EVENING WITH FINNISH CULTURE
Spondeo supports Finnish cultural events in Poland
Blending business with cultural experiences
is at the core of Spondeo’s values
– for us it means supporting and promoting
Finnish cultural events in Poland, as well
as organizing events ourselves. We also
like to add a charitable element to our
events whenever possible.
In May 2024, in cooperation with Orion
Pharma, Spondeo organized an “evening
with Finnish culture” in the famous
cultural center in Poznan – CK Zamek
(the castle). The main part of the evening
was a screening of Aki Kaurismäki’s
critically acclaimed film “Fallen Leaves”
for the local audience, many of whom
were having their first Finnish movie
experience. The film screening was
preceded by an interview conducted
by Weronika Gidel-Asunmaa with Adam
Sandach, a translator of Finnish literature,
who shared engaging and insightful
nuances of a translator's work and
introduced the audience to the world
of Aki Kaurismäki's cinema. Adam also
shared his insights about his latest work,
translating Patim Statovci’s award-winning
book “Bolla” into Polish.
Since the event was free of charge, thanks
to the main sponsor, Orion Pharma, we
introduced a voluntary exit-contribution
for guests to donate for a worthy cause,
presented by Stanisław Bogacki, president
of the Lions Club Poznań Rotunda, to the
Niesiemy Nadzieję Foundation.
Over the years, we have been involved
in various interesting events and projects,
for example stand-up shows by Roman
Schatz in Warsaw and Poznan, supported
by Finnish music performed by Paula
Wolski. We have organized a Finnish event
at a Warta Poznań football match, a club
with close ties to Finland, and each year
we welcome a very special guest to
Poznań – Santa Claus himself. In 2022,
at the first EthnoPort festival after the
pandemic, Spondeo was a sponsor of
concerts by Maija Kauhanen and Okra
Playground (and maybe lobbied them
a bit too). We also proudly contributed
to the Mannerheim book project of Jukka
and Anna Soisalon-Soininen by acquiring
sponsors for the Polish edition. Whenever
it is possible, Spondeo team will support
Finnish-Polish cultural events, as well as
projects such as Finnish Education Days
in Poland.
The story continued in December 2024
with a screening of the new Niko the
reindeer film for Poznań families, together
with the appearance of Santa Claus himself.
Have you ever wondered what
Finnish cinema is like?
Although Poland and Finland share some
common features due to their geographical
location in Europe, their film traditions reflect
different cultural, social and historical
experiences. Polish cinema is heavily
influenced by the country’s turbulent 20thcentury
history, often dealing with themes
of war, resistance, oppression, and identity.
Directors like Andrzej Wajda and Krzysztof
Kieślowski create emotionally intense,
symbolic films that explore moral and
existential dilemmas. By contrast, Finnish
cinema is known for its minimalism, deadpan
humor, and focus on individual psychology.
Directors like Aki Kaurismäki often portray
isolated, quirky characters and rural life, with
a slower pace and understated tone. While
Polish films tend to engage with collective
trauma and historical narratives, Finnish
cinema explores the quiet struggles
of daily life and human connection.
Weronika Gidel-Asunmaa
Photo by Anna Jędrzejewska
Centrum Kultury Zamek w Poznaniu
Photos by Anna Jędrzejewska
About director Aki Kaurismäki
Aki Kaurismäki is a Finnish film director,
screenwriter, and producer. Before becoming
a director, he worked as a postman and film
critic, among other jobs. He began his film
career in the 1980s as a screenwriter and
actor in his brother's productions, and his
feature-length debut was the 1983
adaptation of Dostoevsky's “Crime and
Punishment". Aki Kaurismäki's films often tell
the stories of simple people, outsiders and
marginalized people, showing their struggles
with everyday life. Kaurismäki has won
international acclaim for his original approach
to cinema, with films characterized by
sparse dialogue, carefully composed
frames and reflective narration.
Culture & Sport 51

FINNISH EDUCATION DAYS 2024
By La Scuolla
The Finnish Education Days brought
together almost 300 participants and
was designed to highlight proven Finnish
solutions, such as outdoor education,
modern assessment methods and also
explored the Finnish approach to school
space design and education-business
collaboration. We had a chance to talk to
the organiser, Agnieszka Becler, who told
us more about the Finnish education system.
What do you think are
the biggest differences
between Polish and
Finnish education?
There are quite a few
differences, surprisingly,
all stemming from
Finland's approach
to education and the
goals it has adopted.
One of that is Finland’s
focus on teacher
autonomy and
adaptability. They
are trained to work
independently and
collaboratively, adjusting their methods
to fit the needs of students and local
communities. Teacher training in Finland
is demanding and based on research,
with only the best candidates accepted.
The Finnish education system stands out
for its focus on homemaking, entrepreneurial
attitudes, and sustainability, reinforced
by subjects like 'Home Economics'
and extensive outdoor education.
How do you see the future of Polish
schools? Is our system, over the years,
able to come close to the system in Finland?
Yes! As EU members and Finland's neighbors,
we can draw on Finnish educational
expertise, which is a key export. The fastest
way - by developing staff directly
in the institutions and changing the idea
of school, getting closer to Finnish pedagogical
thinking. In parallel - by changing
the academic offer and creating studies
inspired by the Finnish model. Then, in just
5-6 years, we could have a first wave of
well-prepared, work-ready teachers.
Partners:
Spondeo, ISKU Poland, Kalevala
Content partners:
Polar Partners, Learning Scoop, Eduten
Honorary patronage:
Finnish Embassy in Poland
www.lascuolla.com
KALEVALA
A Finnish village
in the Polish
mountains
Kalevala is a Finnish Village
Project Established in Poland's
Karkonosze Mountains
in 2017 to Celebrate
the 100th Anniversary of
Finland's Independence.
Kalevala offers accommodation, tours
and educational workshops through its
Kalevala Academy.
Children from across Poland participate
in Finnish School activities from Monday
to Friday. These workshops, lasting up to
three hours, are grounded in the principles
of Finnish education. Students often go on
forest walks with teachers, look after Kalevala's
resident husky dogs, fire up saunas,
or learn to identify local plants and animals.
The lessons are conducted by the village
owners, who are trained educators.
In 2024, the Finnish village of Borowice
co-organised the first Finnish Education
Days in Poland. Beyond its educational
activities, Kalevala also hosts an annual
music festival – the Kalevala Spirit Festival.
The idea behind the festival is simple: artists
perform in front of the village owners’ home,
with open-air concerts featuring musicians
such as Apocalyptica, Ida Elina, Jon Henrik
Fjällgren, and Ralph Kaminski.
As a result of these initiatives, Kalevala
has become a dynamic cultural and
educational center.
www.kalevala.pl
Borowice, Poland
52 Culture & Sport

SOPOT BY THE BOOK FESTIVAL
Finnish authors, book launches and unforgettable conversations about
The Sopot by The Book Festival celebrated
its 13th edition in August 2024, continuing
its tradition of presenting a wide selection
of writers and global literature. This year
highlighted authors from the Baltic region,
including Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia,
Finland, Denmark, and Sweden. We spoke
to Magdalena Jarzębińska, Communications
and Promotion Advisor at the Finnish Embassy,
who attended and shared insights into
Finland’s literature and culture at the festival.
What role did the Finnish Embassy
play during the festival?
The embassy was delighted to
grant honorary patronage to the
Baltic edition of the Sopot by The
Book Festival. From the very
start, we noticed strong interest
from Finnish writers eager to
participate and visit Sopot. We
advised the organizers, helped
establish connections with Finnish
institutions and recommended
translators. Finally, I had the chance
to personally represent the Embassy
and witness firsthand how
the festivalis received byattendees.
Which writers performed at
the event?
We can be proud that Finland
was the best represented foreign
country at this year's festival.
Sopot hosted four Finnish authors:
Juhani Karila, Rosa Liksom, Laura
Lindstedt and Pajtim Statovci,
who met with readers and signed
books. There was also the premiere
of Arto Paasilinna's book
"The Forest of the Hanging Foxes".
What interested visitors most during
Sopot by The Book?
The festival offered events for every literature
lover – from author meetings to
performances, readings, radio plays, film
screenings, workshops for children and
outdoor events. The meetings with Finnish
authors attracted full rooms and I very much
enjoyed the conversation with J. Karila
about his book “Fishing for the Little Pike”,
and I’m sure those who hadn’t read the
book immediately reached for it afterward.
Do you have any favorite Finnish books?
Yes I have two: a historical novel that is
already a classic: “The Egyptian” by Mika
Waltari, and the contemporary Finlandia
Prize-winning novel “They Know Not
What They Do” by Jussi Valtonen.
What sets this event apart from other
similar initiatives?
No doubt the fact that the activities are
held outdoors in various parts of the city.
Despite the heat, people chose the literary
festival over the beach. The perks are
free admission, sign language translation,
a festival newsletter and interviews with
Finnish authors available online.
VIVELO BOOK AND MEDIA FAIR 2024
Finnish culture full of surprises
The VIVELO Book and Media Fair, which took place in Warsaw in May,
offered a great opportunity to explore Finnish literature and their
world-famous educational practices. Participants were able to
experience a sample Finnish classroom and engage in discussions
on key topics like outdoor education and digital learning. Maja Korniłowicz
interviewed Marta Szewczyk, Economic and Marketing Advisor,
about the event and the surprises that awaited the audience.
How do you think the popularity of Nordic
crime novels in Poland influenced your
selection of authors for this event?
From Finland, we had one crime fiction
author – Antti Tuomainen. In addition to
attracting fans of Finnish literature, we
wanted to engage those who might not
be familiar with Finnish authors. Nordic
crime novels are very popular in Poland,
so we hoped this would be an appealing
topic for Polish readers. It turned out that
Antti has quite a following in Poland
and his personality and friendly attitude
definitely won over the hearts of all
the attendees.
What inspired the decision to invite
Janne Ahonen and how did the
audience receive him?
We had four literary guests at the fair:
Aki Ollikainen, Antti Tuomainen, Selja
Ahava and Janne Ahonen. You might be
wondering why a ski jumper was included.
Two years earlier, his biography was
published in Poland, making it a perfect
opportunity to invite him to Warsaw.
Janne, one of the most recognizable
Finns in Poland, attracted large crowds
and the queue for autographs was much
longer than expected, jeopardizing the
time for signatures.
Were there any other unique attractions
or special highlights at the event?
Yes! A major hit was the live cooking area,
where the Ambassador of Finland, Päivi
Laine, along with Matteo Brunetti and
Volodymyr Testardi, prepared lohikeitto,
a traditional Finnish salmon soup.
Participants in the cooking lesson had
the chance to taste the soup served
with Finnish bread, as well as enjoy
korvapuusti, the famous cinnamon buns.
Another highlight was that the Finnish
cooking demonstration was led by three
foreigners conversing in Polish, which
added a charming touch to the event.
Culture & Sport 53

FINLANDIA SPOT
Finnish homes in the heart of Poland
Finlandia SPOT is a truly Finnish
place located in the heart of
Poland. It operates in the areas
of education, outdoor education
and rural tourism. It is in the
Wielkopolska region, in the quiet
village of Kliny, near Poznań and
right next to the Zielonka Forest.
Finlandia SPOT is a complex of
Finnish wooden log buildings set
within a large educational garden
with around 120 plant species,
including Finnish species. It is
run by Finhome Ltd. – a Finnish
-Polish family-run company
established in 2016.
Finaldia SPOT is an ideal place for intimate
meetings and training sessions for organized
groups of up to 25 people. The main clients
are business groups, educational groups,
families and friends. It can be rented directly
via Facebook or Airbnb.com and offers:
• accommodation in a 120 m² wooden
Finnish cottage, including a large
meeting room with fireplace and free
WiFi, 8 beds, 2 toilets (one with bathroom),
kitchen, access to the sauna
building, jacuzzi and barbecue area,
• other services, such as a sauna in
a separate building (with showers
and an additional changing room),
a jacuzzi, as well as a barbecue hut
(grillikota),
• training programmes led by a team
of experts and covering topics such
as outdoor education, teamwork,
team communication and project
management.
At Finlandia SPOT, all guests can relax
in nature and feel at home.
Our team represents an understanding
of Finnish and Polish educational, cultural
and business needs and works with a multilevel
network of experts and business
support organizations in Finland and Poland.
The team has over 18 years of experience
in running international projects, matchmaking
events and training programmes
for educational groups.
Outdoor Education – promoting this
type of education is our mission.
The Finlandia Spot team of experts also
organizes training for Polish and Finnish
teachers in outdoor education, outdoor
adventure education, environmental and
ecological education in Finland and Poland.
Our trainers are well known for promoting
outdoor education and implementing it
into the education system.
www.finlandiaspot.pl
www.facebook.com/finlandiaspot
Kliny, Miła 14, 62-004 Czerwonak
MAGICAL EVENING WITH A MOVIE AND
SANTA CLAUS FROM FINLAND
Showcasing Finnish traditions
and for a worthy cause
Another year and another Spondeo
event bringing together Finnish
culture and business in an unique
way! This December, the spotlight
was on a Magical Evening with
a Movie and Santa from Finland,
held at CK Zamek in Poznań, hosted
by Weronika and Tuomas.
The gathering was held with the support of
Orion Pharma Poland and Artur Iglinski
Law Firm and every złoty collected went
to the Bread Of Life Foundation to support
their ‘Under Wings’ project. Handicrafts
made by primary school children were
available for purchase before the movie
and were very popular.
The packed cinema became a place for a
magical meeting with the real Santa Claus,
straight from Lapland. The children asked
him lots of questions, including some rather
tricky ones – like how Santa gets into houses
without chimneys. The answer surprised
everyone: he also enters through windows
and doors! And what about alarms? It turned
out that the elves equipped Santa with a
universal code that allowed him to deliver
presents unhindered.
During the event, the audience also had
an opportunity to watch the movie ‘Niko the
Reindeer and Santa's Lost Sleigh’ before
its official premiere in Poland!
54 Culture & Sport

Visit Maustetytöt’s
Instagram profile
FROM FINLAND TO EUROPE
Reflecting on the Maustetytöt tour
The European tour is now complete,
as is the last gig of 2024 (in Warsaw!).
How do you feel now, and what was the
reception like in Germany and Paris?
The feeling is one of tiredness but
gratitude. We never even dreamed
that we could tour outside of Finland.
We’re not aiming for global fame, but
we’re happy to be doing what we love.
The reception in Germany and Paris was
great once again. We’re still amazed that so
many people came to see a Finnish band
singing in Finnish.
With so many gigs, there must’ve been
some memorable moments. Did anyone
or anything in particular stand out?
There were over 160 concerts on this tour,
so honestly, it’s hard to remember each
one in detail. What I really remember from
abroad are the gig venues and everything
that happened outside the gigs.
After the hustle and bustle of Europe,
is Helsinki feeling okay now, or do you
feel like retreating to the peace of
the North?
It’s nice to be home. What I’m looking
forward to most is sleeping in the same
bed every night and having weekends off.
Winter in southern Finland is what it is, so
I’m sure I’ll spend some time escaping it
in the north.
When you said on stage that the gigs
are done and new music is on the way,
I have to ask whether these European
trips will inspire your lyrics.
Inspiration can come from anywhere. None
of our songs are strictly autobiographical,
but everything we’ve seen and experienced
serves as material for the writer.
Our team is curious – would you ever
write a song in English, or is it strictly
Finnish for you?
I’m not currently interested in writing
in English. I believe the best lyrics come
from your native language. Only in your
own language can you endlessly draw
inspiration.
Back to Warsaw – how did Poland treat
you? Were there any surprises?
Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to see
much of Warsaw beyond the airport, the
venue, and the hotel. On these trips, you
have to capture the scenery in your memory
from the window of the airport taxi. The venue
and its courtyard had a bohemian vibe.
I noticed how the audience reacted to
what you were saying between songs.
Was it different from back home?
Honestly, since it was the last show of the
tour, I don’t remember exactly how the
audience in Warsaw reacted. There were
a huge number of Finns present, because
it was an embassy Independence Day
party. In general, audiences abroad are
livelier than in Finland.
I’ve often noticed at heavy metal gigs
that lyrics are interpreted in completely
different ways in Europe compared to
Finland. Have you encountered this,
or do fans abroad have a different
attitude towards the lyrics?
Definitely! In Finland, people often
perceive our lyrics as sadder than we
do. Abroad, we’re not sure how much the
audience understands, though some fans
do translate them. A German fan once
told us that, after translating the lyrics,
he thought it’s probably better that most
Germans don’t know what they mean!
Many in the audience have said they can
feel the emotions of the songs, even if
they don’t understand the words.
Many Finnish students abroad have
chosen to study Finnish because of
some musical inspiration. Have you
ever heard of someone falling in love
with Finland or our language through
your art?
Yes! It’s amazing to hear. We’ve met fans
in so many countries who’ve told us that.
And finally, what do you think about the
fact that you've been on the local Radio
357's list for 39 weeks, longer than any
other foreign artist this year? Is it a bit
confusing, or is it a completely
planned thing?
At first, I was like, "What the hell?
This can’t be real". It’s strange, but also
really cool!
Maustetytöt is a Finnish music
duo formed by sisters Kaisa and
Anna Karjalainen. Their style combines
melancholic lyrics with simple
but catchy melodies, and they
describe their music as inspired
by everyday life and black humor.
Maustetytöt achieved international
fame when they appeared in Aki
Kaurismäki's 2023 film “Fallen
Leaves”. This year, the ambassador
of Finland – H.E. Päivi Laine –
personally invited Maustetytöt
to play a concert in Warsaw to
celebrate Finnish Independence
Day. We had the pleasure of
speaking with Kaisa Karjalainen,
who shared with us details about
the band's European tour, their
experiences in Germany, Paris,
and Warsaw, and how the journey
has inspired them both personally
and musically.
Culture & Sport 55

CULTURE
BOOKS TRANSLATED
FROM FINNISH TO POLISH
IN 2024
About Kirja
Kirja Translators Collective was founded in 2019 by participants at Finnish literature
translation workshops. It promotes Finnish literature in Poland. Members of the
collective read, review, and translate Finnish works, closely following literary trends
and regularly attending book fairs and events. Through their blog and social media,
they share insights with a dedicated audience of fans of Nordic literature and Polish
publishers, bridging the gap between Finnish literature and Polish readers.
www.kolektywtlumaczykirja.com
#Fiction
BOLLA
Statovci, Pajtim; August
Niewidzialni
Transl. Sandach, Adam
Publisher: Pauza, Warszawa
In 1995, Albanian student Arsim
meets Serb Milos, sparking an affair
that changes their lives. As war
erupts, Arsim’s family flees, and
Milos spirals into darkness. Years
later, Arsim returns to a shattered
reality. Their story, intertwined with
the myth of the serpent Bolla,
explores love, war, and loss.
#Crime
HILDUR
Rämö, Satu; September
Hildur
Transl. Wojciechowska, Karolina
Publisher: HarperCollins Polska,
Warszawa
In this nordic noir with a mystical
Icelandic twist, detective Hildur
Rúnarsdóttir, haunted by childhood
trauma, and Finnish trainee Jakob
Johanson, fleeing a troubled life,
uncover a web of dark secrets
in remote Iceland. Amid haunting
mysteries, they question if revenge
can truly bring resolution.
#Crime
THE MOOSE
PARADOX
Tuomainen, Antti; October
Hirvikaava
Czynnik królika. 2, Paradoks łosia
Transl. Kojro, Bożena
Publisher: Albatros, Warszawa
Absurdly funny, heartwarming, and
nerve-wracking - this is the second
book in Finnish authorAntti Tuomainen’s
crime trilogy, soon to be adapted by
Amazon Studios starring Steve Carell.
A meticulous insurance mathematician’s
orderly life unravels when he quits his
job and unexpectedly inherits an
adventure park, with a lot of challenges.
#Fiction
THE FOREST OF
THE HANGED
FOXES
Paasilinna, Arto; August
Hirtettyjen kettujen metsä
Las powieszonych lisów
Transl. Wojciechowska, Karolina
Publisher: Książkowe Klimaty,
Wrocław
Gangster Oiva Juntunen, hoarding
stolen gold from a heist, escapes
to Lapland to avoid sharing it with
his partners. There, he meets Major
Remes, a liqueur-addicted drifter.
Arto Paasilinna’s absurd, humorfilled
tale unfolds with colorful
characters, including a tame fox
and a fugitive 90-year-old, all set
in rugged, mosquito-filled Lapland.
#Fiction
BEFORE
MY HUSBAND
DISAPPEARS
Ahava, Selja; February
Ennen kuin mieheni katoaa
Zanim mój mąż zniknie
Transl. Polanowska, Justyna;
Wróblewska, Aleksandra
Publisher: Relacja
#Children #Youth
CONCRETE!
Savolainen, Salla; April
Betonia!
Beton!
Transl. Kojro, Bożena
Publisher: Czarna Owca,
Warszawa
#Fiction
A PASTORAL
Ollikainen, Aki; February
Pastoraali
Sielanka
Transl. Polanowska, Justyna
Publisher: ArtRage, Warszawa
#Children #Youth
ASPHALT!
Savolainen, Salla; April
Asfalttia!
Asfalt!
Transl. Kojro, Bożena
Publisher: Czarna Owca,
Warszawa
#Children #Youth
MISSION NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE
1. THE MARKED CHILD
Parvela, Timo; May
Melkein mahdoton tehtävä. 1, Merkitty lapsi
Misja prawie niemożliwa. 1, Naznaczone dziecko
Transl. Musielak, Sebastian
Publisher: Dwukropek, Kielce
#Children #Youth
MISSION NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE
2: INTO THIN AIR
Parvela, Timo; November
Melkein mahdoton tehtävä. 2, Savuna ilmaan
Misja Prawie Niemożliwa. 2, Zgliszcza
Transl. Musielak, Sebastian
Publisher: Dwukropek, Kielce
56 Culture & Sport

#Crime
MURDER ON THE ISLE
OF BLISS
Loukko, Eeva; August
Onnellisten saari
Morderstwo na Wyspie Szczęścia
Transl. Kyntäjä, Dorota
Publisher: Czwarta Strona, Poznań
#Poetry
THE SINGER’S
PAPERS
Erämaja, Anja; January
Laulajan paperit
Zapiski śpiewaczki
Transl. Szal, Katarzyna
Publisher: Instytut Kultury
Miejskiej, Gdańsk
#Children #Youth
SHADOWS: BOOK 2. AURORIA
Parvela, Timo; September
Varjot 2. Auroria
Cienie. 2, Auroria
Transl. Musielak, Sebastian
Publisher: Dwukropek, Kielce
#Non-fiction
HOW FINLAND SURVIVED
STALIN: FROM WINTER WAR
TO COLD WAR, 1939-1950
Rentola, Kimmo; September
#Children #Youth
LITTLE MOUSE
WELCOMES SPRING
Ahava, Selja; March
Pikku hiiri ja hiirenkorvat
Myszonek wita wiosnę
Transl. Kiuru, Iwona
Publisher: Filia, Poznań
#Children #Youth
LITTLE
MOUSE'S
HOLIDAY
Jäntti, Riikka; September
Pikku hiiren puolukkamatka
Myszonek jedzie na
wycieczkę
Transl. Kiuru, Iwona
Publisher: Frajda, Poznań
#Comics
FUTURE
Musturi, Tommi; January
Future
Future
Transl. Paczkowski, Piotr
Publisher: Timof i cisi
wspólnicy, Warszawa
Suomi Stalinin liipasimella. Miten Suomi pelastui
kolme kertaa?
Finlandia kontra Stalin. Od wojny zimowej do zimnej
wojny, 1939‒1950
Transl. Szkudliński, Jan
Publisher: Dom Wydawniczy Rebis, Poznań
#Children #Youth
LITTLE
MOUSE'S
SUMMER
Jäntti, Riikka; June
Pikku hiiren hellekesä
Upalne lato Myszonka
Transl. Kiuru, Iwona
Publisher: Filia, Poznań
#Fiction #Children #Youth
THE SAGE
Mikama, Anniina; February
Myrrys
Czarownik
Transl. Musielak, Sebastian
Publisher: Dwukropek, Kielce
The 19th century, Finnish countryside:
fifteen-year-old Niilo, an orphan, works
hard for his employer. His only possession
is a bear tooth necklace from
his mother, meant to protect him.
He learns healing and magic from a
local healer suspected of dark arts,
who becomes his mentor, guiding
him to discover his roots. A magical
tale about friendship and self-discovery.
#Fiction #Children #Youth
TATU AND
PATU’S FANTASY
ADVENTURE
Havukainen, Aino; Toivonen,
Sami; May
Tatun ja Patun fantasiaseikkailu
Tatu i Patu : fantastyczna przygoda
Transl. Kiuru, Iwona
Publisher: Bona, Kraków
Tatu and Patu adore The Legend of
the Ruler of Avathor, having read it
over thirty times! When they discover
a magical portal in their bathroom
cabinet, they set off on an adventure.
Armed with bathroom items, these
quirky heroes show how much can
be achieved with cotton swabs,
toothpaste, and toilet paper.
#Memoirs
THE WOMEN
I THINK ABOUT
AT NIGHT
Kankimäki, Mia; May
Naiset joita ajattelen öisin
Kobiety, o których myślę nocą
Transl. Kiuru, Iwona
Publisher: Wydawnictwo
Poznańskie, Poznań
This book introduces Mia, a writer feeling
stuck after her first publication. Determined
to make a bold change, she quits
her job, sells her apartment, and embarks
on a journey inspired by night
women -bold artists, and rebels like
Danish author Karen Blixen, Japanese
performer Yayoi Kusama, or Renaissance
painter Sofonisba Anguissola.
#Fiction
ROOTS
Nousiainen, Miika; May
Juurihoito
Korzenie
Transl. Musielak, Sebastian
Publisher: Książkowe Klimaty,
Wrocław
A man with a toothache visits a private
dental clinic, only to be treated by
a dentist with the same last name.
The two men turn out to be brothers
who share a father but were raised
apart: Pekka, a copywriter, was raised
by their mother, while Esko, a dentist,
grew up in foster care. They decide
to search for their father, embarking
on an exciting journey together.
#Crime
THE BEAVER
THEORY
Tuomainen, Antti; May
Majavateoria
Czynnik królika. 3, Teoria bobra
Transl. Kojro, Bożena
Publisher: Albatros, Warszawa
Sunday Times Comedy Thriller
of the Year.
The triumphant finale of Finland's
funniest crime novelist's bestselling
trilogy. Henri Koskinen dives into the
deep waters of family life, navigating
treacherous icebergs of professional
pitfalls along the way.
#Fiction
SÖMNÖ
Kännö, Heikki; November
Sömnö
Wyspa cieni
Transl. Bobotek, Artur
Publisher: Państwowy Instytut
Wydawniczy, Warszawa
Heikki Kännö, a leading Finnish
author, in The Island of Dreams talks
about exorcising the demons of the
past through writing. Izaak Severin
documents the lives of the Berger
family - artists and adventurers.
His journey through mystical and
tragic events blurs the line between
reality and imagination, creating
a Runeberg Prize-winning work.
Culture & Sport 57

LITERARY TRANSLATIONS AT THE MEETING POINT OF TWO CULTURES
An interview with Adam Sandach, translator of Finnish books into Polish
Your translation of “Bolla” by Pajtim
Statovci was published in Poland
in August 2024. Can you give us a
glimpse into what makes this novel
so significant?
“Bolla” is a powerful novel set between
1995 and 2005, weaving together Albanian
mythology with themes of identity, trauma,
and the struggles of living in a society
that doesn’t let you be yourself. It follows
the lives of two men, an Albanian and
a Serbian, who meet in Pristina and fall
in love with each other. Their relationship
must remain hidden, as homosexuality is
not accepted, and this secrecy impacts
them deeply. One of the men is married
with a family; both have been shaped by
the trauma of war and the pressures of
societal expectations.
What elements of “Bolla” do you think
most attract Polish readers?
From what I’ve seen, Polish readers are
attracted to the emotional depth of the
story. The language in “Bolla” is literary
and sometimes poetic, which appeals
to the audience. I also think that Albanian
mythology and cultural elements are
interesting for Polish readers, because
they give an insight into a world that
rarely appears in Polish literature.
Translating “Bolla” seems particularly
challenging, with its rich cultural and
mythological references. Did you
collaborate with any experts or have
direct conversations with Pajtim
Statovci during the process?
Definitely. Translating “Bolla” involved
thorough fact-checking, particularly with
cultural references that were unfamiliar to
me. I worked with a translator specializing
in Albanian and consulted with Pajtim
Statovci, who was incredibly helpful and
open to answering my questions.
Adam Sandach is an enthusiast of
Finnish literature and a translator
of books from Finnish into Polish.
Working with Kirja, he has
completed his latest project
– the novel “Bolla” by Pajtim
Statovci. This translation stands
out for its subtle exploration of
complex themes such as love, war,
and identity. In a conversation with
Weronika, Adam shares his
experiences, discusses the
challenges of working between
two distinct languages and
cultures, and lets us into his world
of the nuanced art of translation.
Adam Sandach
sandachadam@gmail.com
How did you first discover your passion
for translating Finnish literature?
My interest in translation started during
my studies, when I realized that translating
Finnish literature into Polish could help
bridge the two cultures. After university,
I had the opportunity to translate my first
book, a detective story. It was the perfect
introduction to the world of translation –
simple language and an engaging storyline.
What is the most challenging part of
translating Finnish literature into Polish?
The structure of the Finnish language can
sometimes be difficult, as certain phrases
and expressions do not have a simple
equivalent in Polish. This requires
adapting them to preserve the original
meaning and tone. For example, long,
complex Finnish sentences sometimes
need to be divided into shorter ones in
Polish to ensure fluency.
What is the step-by-step process of
translating a book, and what are the
key stages from first draft to the final
refinement?
I always start by reading the entire book
to get a sense of its themes, style, and
tone. Next, I move on to the first draft,
translating sentence by sentence to ensure
accuracy. Once that’s done, I review it
again to refine the language and ensure
that everything makes sense in Polish.
I also look for recurring words or motifs to
maintain consistency throughout the text.
The final step is more of a refinement,
where I address small details like
punctuation and phrasing.
Sopot Literary Festival
From the left: Adam, author Pajtim Statovci,
publisher Anita Musioł
From the private collection of Adam
Do you rely solely on your skills as a
translator, or does someone check your
texts once they have been completed?
As a translator, I do most of the work
myself, but during the translation of “Bolla”
I worked closely with my mentor, Sebastian
Musielak, who gave me valuable feedback.
More experienced translators like him
usually work completely alone. The editor
also plays an important role, correcting
errors and fine-tuning the translation to
make it accurate.
How has translation influenced your
perception of Polish and Finnish culture?
It has been truly eye-opening. Working
closely with both languages helps you
notice subtleties and nuances that might
otherwise go unnoticed. Sometimes, I’ll
come across a Polish word that doesn’t
mean exactly what I initially thought, or I’ll
encounter Finnish words with no direct
equivalent in Polish, forcing me to get creative.
It’s a constant learning process that
deepens my understanding of both cultures.
What’s next on your translation horizon?
Are there any exciting new projects
you're considering?
I’m fortunate to be able to choose my
next project, which feels like a privilege.
I haven’t made a final decision yet, but
once I do, I’ll be happy to share it with you!
It’s been great hearing about your
experiences and the passion you bring
to your translation work, Adam.
Thank you for sharing!
Thank you, Weronika. It was a pleasure!
58 Culture & Sport

SHEDDING LIGHT ON FINNISH-POLISH HISTORY
A conversation with Toni Stenström about his upcoming book
Last year, we wrote about your
Belarusian history book.
What experiences have that book
brought you over the past year?
I have participated in numerous international
conferences and podcasts on
the situation in Belarus. I also interviewed
volunteers of the Belarusian Kalinovsky
Regiment in Ukraine and I had the
opportunity to meet with Mrs. Svetlana
Tikhanouska and other representatives
of the Belarusian opposition.
The book has also been translated into
English. How has it been received?
The English version of the book was
published in July 2024 and has received
a positive reception. Prior to its publication,
there was very little literature on the subject,
making it a valuable resource for both
researchers and the wider public.
And now you have started a new project?
Yes, I am working on a new book about
Polish-Finnish relations. The last historical
publication about Poland was published
in Finnish more than twenty years ago,
and the world has changed a lot since
then. We are now close allies of Poland,
so I think it is the perfect time to look at
our relations in the past and future. I hope
the book will shed new light on the shared
experiences of Poland and Finland and
what they mean for the future.
What is your new book about, and what
surprised you the most during your
research?
The book focuses on
Finnish-Polish relations
from the early 1920s to the
early 2000s. I am surprised
and partially shocked
by how many historical
analogies we can find
between these periods.
Many travel diaries about
Poland were published
in the 1920s, including
accounts such as "My Trip
from Estonia to Poland",
as well as those by Ilmari
Kianto and Santeri Alkio.
During your research,
did you come across any
interesting stories about
these journeys?
The funniest story
I discovered concerned
Kianto's arrival in Kraków.
In the 1920s, nationalist ideologies were
on the rise throughout Europe, which was
also evident in the linguistic theories of
the time. Some Finnish scholars, such as
Sigurd Wettenhovi-Aspa, ridiculed these
theories, putting forward the hypothesis
that virtually all European and Middle
Eastern toponyms had Finnish roots.
Kianto applied Wettenhovi-Aspa’s
intuitive permutation method to Kraków.
The city's name was, of course, derived
from “kraak kraak”, which is what Finnish
crows like to shout to each other. This
humorous interpretation shows how
diverse approaches to linguistic and
cultural analysis can be.
How is the process of gathering source
material going? As someone who collects
Finnish books about Poland, I’ve only
found one published between the 1940s
and 1970s. Have you had better results?
Collecting source material from the Cold
War period can be a challenge because
it is relatively rare. The best sources turn
out to be mainly reports by Finnish
journalists and diplomats.
A particularly valuable
contemporary source
is Tapani Ruokanen's
memoirs, published in
September 2024, which
shed interesting light on
the events of the 1970s
and 1980s in Poland,
as seen through the eyes
of a Finnish journalist.
Toni Stenström, best known for
his book “Belarus – A Silenced
History”, the first Finnishlanguage
publication on
Belarus, which was translated
into English in July, spoke with
Tuomas Asunmaa about his
latest project. He is currently
working on a book about
Finnish-Polish relations, with
around 25% of it completed so
far. To deepen his research and
access rare historical sources,
Toni plans to move to Poland in
2025, where he aims to fully
focus on the project and speed
up the writing process.
Toni Stenström
stenstrom.toni@gmail.com
+358 505 439 508
How do you plan to structure your book
in terms of organization and content?
I intend to divide my book into four distinct
parts. The first three parts analyze the
following historical periods: 1) the interwar
period, 2) the Cold War, and 3) the post-
Cold War world order. Each of these
periods highlights unique events and
developments that have influenced our
contemporary realities. The fourth part
takes the reader on a journey through
today's Poland, demonstrating how
history shapes our present.
What changes have you noticed
in Finnish attitudes towards Central
and Eastern Europe in recent years?
Is there anything that comes to mind?
I believe the Finns have finally started
to recognize our geographical position
and identify who our true friends are.
Our attitude toward Central and Eastern
Europe has shifted to a more positive
one. Poland, in particular, has become
a major center for Finnish business and
tourism, opening up new opportunities
for cooperation and cultural exchange.
Culture & Sport 59

STORIES OF CONNECTIONS YOU
PROBABLY DIDN’T HEAR ABOUT
IN HISTORY CLASS
And how the book “Mannerheim: The Polish Years”
came to the Polish market
History is full of surprising connections
that often go unnoticed,
linking people and places in
unexpected ways. One such story
revolves around Carl Gustaf Emil
Mannerheim, a Finnish military
leader, statesman, and President
of Finland, whose formative years
in Poland remain an intriguing yet
lesser-known chapter of his life.
The book “Mannerheim: The Polish
Years” has been published in both
Finnish and Polish. Plans are
already in motion to release
a Swedish edition as well. Given
that Mannerheim belonged to
Finland’s Swedish-speaking
minority, it is only natural to
publish the book in his mother
tongue. Additionally, part of the
Mannerheim family still resides
in Sweden, making this edition
especially relevant.
The Polish edition owes much to
the efforts of FTG during Tuomas
Asunmaa’s presidency. Securing
advance orders was crucial to
moving the project forward.
The publisher, Muzeum Ziemi
Mińskiej w Mińsku Mazowieckim,
stepped in after discussions
with several publishers who
questioned the book’s potential
success, claiming “nobody”
in Poland knew of Mannerheim.
However, for the museum,
the project made perfect sense.
The Polish edition closely follows
the Finnish version, but includes
several additional articles tailored
for a Polish audience, providing
greater insight into Finnish history.
Among these newarticles is a piece
on Finland’s Jewish community
during World War II, highlighting
how Finnish Jews were not
handed over to Nazi Germany.
When producing the Polish version,
a remarkable discovery was made,
including an account of a Finnish
Red Cross military hospital for the
Russian army, operating in Warsaw
from October 1914 to August 1915.
This hospital, located in the Royal
Castle, was a revelation even to
the castle’s current director.
One of the book’s articles, “Niespodziewany
list z Polski” (“An Unexpected
Letter from Poland”), explores the
story of Lucyna Messal, a renowned
operetta and tango singer. Before
World War I, she performed at
Mannerheim’s residence in Warsaw.
Interestingly, a recent meeting with
some of Mannerheim’s relatives
in Helsinki revealed his fondness
for dancing tango - but only with
Polish women!
However, the most interesting
information the authors received
while researching the book was
from a former member of the
Finnish Parliament, Ilkka-Christian
Björklund. His grandfather’s cousin
was Colonel Alexander Björklund
who served in the lejb-guardia
Litewska in Warsaw in the 20 years
before WWI. Björklund was counted
among the friends of Mannerheim,
with Count Adam Zamoyski
a common friend for them.
Colonel Björklund stayed in Warsaw
after the war and he was in service
of Finnish and Swedish business
there. He belonged to the committee
that, in the summer of 1919,
established the Scandinavian-Polish
Chamber of Commerce. That same
year, in December, Björklund
organized a banquet in Hotel Bristol
in honor of Mannerheim, who was
visiting Warsaw. There is a picture
with Björklund, Mannerheim and
Adam Zamoyski standing together
in the middle.
The colonel lived in Warsaw until
the uprising in August 1944. There
was one frightening incident when
the family saw soldiers with Russian
fur hats outside and believed the
Soviet ”liberator” was there. However,
what they saw were Russian POWs
recruited from German camps under
the SS-division of General Heinz
Reinefarth and let loose on the city,
killing and destroying. They even
came to the Björklund residence,
where they seized the colonel’s
granddaughter Ingrid. Fortunately,
her mother managed to get her
daughter back in exchange for a bottle
of vodka. With help from the Swedish
Embassy in Berlin, the family was
evacuated to Sweden, from where
they moved to Switzerland after the war.
By the 1960s, little Ingrid had
grown into a beautiful young lady.
In Switzerland, she met another
refugee, namely Prince Jan Leon
Lubomirski, and married him. Ingrid
later moved back to Poland and is
buried in Warsaw.
Some relatives of Björklund from
Lausanne provided very interesting
material. There is a letter from
Mannerheim to Colonel Björklund
in which Mannerheim thanks the
colonel for a letter he received in
1948 from the Zamoyski family from
England. The colonel personally
delivered the letter to Mannerheim.
Jukka Soisalon-Soininen
jukka.soisalonsoininen@gmail.com
60 Culture & Sport

HOW TONI HYYRYLÄINEN BECAME PART OF POLISH CULTURE
Bilingualism as a key to success
Toni Hyyryläinen was one of the
leading stars of the amazingly
popular TV show “Europe can be
liked!” that aired on TVP2 channel
during 2003-2008, and was hosted
by Monika Richardson. Tuomas
spoke to Toni, whose story is
an inspiring example of where
you can just end up from
a bilingual background.
Advertisements with Toni Hyyryläinen
From the private collection of Toni
Let’s go back to the very beginning,
are you from a Finnish-Polish family?
Yes, I was born and raised in Finland,
but my roots on my mother’s side are
in Świnoujście, in north-western Poland.
Poland has always felt like a second
homeland to me and Polish is my mother
tongue. I’ve always spent a lot of time
in Poland, especially during holidays,
which has given me a deep connection
to the country.
So, was that when you made the move
to Poland to start your career?
Almost. I eventually moved to Warsaw,
where I started working for the Sampo
Group. It was 2001 and Poland was a young,
rapidly developing market economy that
was becoming an increasingly attractive
location for Finnish companies. With my
knowledge of the language and culture,
as well as a business education, it was
the perfect time and context for me.
That must have been a good start to
your career.
It was a very interesting experience.
Of course, I received a better job, more
challenging tasks and benefits than I would
have had as a young man in Finland.
The CEO hired me directly, allowing me
to see things from the perspective of top
management. At that time, Henki-Sampo
made an acquisition in Poland, but quickly
withdrew due to strong competition on
the insurance market. Part of the business
was sold to Nordea and I continued my
work at IF (part of the Sampo Group)
in Helsinki, starting in 2004.
So, how did you end up on TV?
It was during my time at Sampo, a total
coincidence. They called me and pre-
sented the idea of having Polish-speaking
foreigners on the TV show. They asked
me to audition and I said 'no' a few times.
Then I agreed to have lunch at Woronicza,
which turned out to be an audition in front
of cameras. They told me they wanted
me and then it just happened.
It was one of the top shows at the time.
I remember being in Wrocław in 2005
and hearing someone on TV saying
'ilo ilman viinaa on teeskentelyä'
(joy without alcohol is pretending).
Yeah, it was an entertaining show with
some stereotypes like that. Part of it was
scripted and we practiced a lot. It was
also a time before social media, so
everyone watched TV. It was a primetime
show for many years. At its peak,
we had 6-7 million viewers every week.
In 2019, we even did shows to celebrate
the 15th anniversary of Poland in the EU.
Being a celebrity in Poland, it must
have been some sort of relief to live
in Finland during that time. Did it feel
like living in two different realities?
Absolutely. Education and work have
always been important for me, but that
time was certainly quite a rumba and we
were flying high. It was lots of fun, of course.
We even had stand-up tours in Poland
and got lots of invitations. For some of
the cast, it was perhaps too much.
Were there any particularly memorable
invitations you received?
Of course, the meetings with presidents
were among the most memorable.
I was invited to a dinner when President
Kaczyński visited Finland to meet Tarja
Halonen, and also in Warsaw with
Presidents Komorowski and Niinistö.
How did it happen that at one point your
face was on every corner in Poland?
It was at the beginning of Nordea’s
presence in Poland. Their marketing
department wanted to associate their
then-unknown brand with the Nordics,
so they needed a face for their campaigns.
It was also professionally interesting,
as they constantly had surveys and data
related to values, images, and other
aspects of the campaigns, including
information about me. I also learned how
marketing, production, and other nuances
work at a large corporation. It was certainly
something I would never have learned
at university.
Did it last a long time?
Yes, right up until the end, when Nordea
Bank was sold to PKO in 2013. At that time,
Nordea was the 10th largest consumer
bank in Poland.
Are you still ready to roll up your
sleeves in Poland?
It’s actually a very serious topic. My interest
and love for Poland have not faded and
I’m not ready to leave just yet. Poland is
in my heart and soul. I also appreciate
the dynamic nature of the country.
Do people still recognize you on the
streets when you're in Poland?
Yes, it happens regularly.
In the end, what would you bring from
Poland to Finland?
I admire the level of ambition there, which
can be seen, for example, in the success
of clothing brands in a very tough market.
It is also worth noting how long Poland’s
history is, and that can be seen
everywhere.
Culture & Sport 61

SISU, SAUNA, AND SANTA
An interview with Andrzej Parafiniuk
– Honorary Consul
Andrzej Parafiniuk, the Honorary Consul of Finland in Poland, is a very active and
well-known consul, deeply engaged in supporting both cultural and business
relations between Poland and Finland. He also places great importance on
promoting Finnish values in Poland. We had the opportunity to speak with him
about his journey to becoming a consul, the challenges and successes he has
encountered, and what he values most about Finland.
What prompted you to become a consul?
Did you have any connections with Finland
or Finns before taking on this role?
For several years before my
appointment as consul, while
running the Regional Development
Agency, I managed many international
projects. Frequent partners in these projects
included institutions and organizations from
Finland, and it was through this primary
professional relationship that I became
more connected to the country. However,
from the start, I felt a deep connection to
Finland, which made my transition to the
role of consul feel quite natural.
In what ways is Finland represented in
your region? Are there any particular
cultural or business connections?
From a business perspective, it can be
said that Finland is represented by one
company located in the special economic
zone in Suwałki. While there are various representative
offices of Finnish companies,
there is not much to be pleased about
in this area, which is somewhat strange,
especially considering that the geographical
and economic structures and leading
industries are quite similar on both sides.
Culturally, Finland has made its mark over
the past decade, as Finnish bands frequently
participate in our Orthodox music festival
and other local events.
Do you organize any special events or
gatherings in your region that celebrate
Finland or foster relationships with the
Finnish community?
Santa Claus visits from Rovaniemi, as part
of the Entrepreneurs for Children campaign,
which has been a traditional event since
the consulate’s inception. We have already
visited more than 10,000 children with
presents. Without any promotion, the now
traditional meeting at the market square
in Białystok is attended by several thousand
residents. I also take many opportunities
throughout the year to showcase Finland’s
reputation as the happiest country in the
world through various presentations.
At universities and schools, I present the
world’s best Finnish education system at
various conferences. In business societies,
I introduce the peculiarities and ethics of
the Finnish and Nordic approaches to business,
as well as the barriers that must be
overcome to develop business cooperation.
What aspects of Finland do you enjoy
the most? Do you have a favorite Finnish
joke, drink, region, or cultural trait that
you like the most?
Actually, after these years of proximity to
Finland, there are no aspects that I don’t
like. It feels like my second homeland.
I really appreciate the aloof and sublime
level of wit and humor. I love the taste of
everything the Finns prepare from fish, such
as lohikeitto (the famous Finnish salmon
soup) and the excellent cinnamon buns
called korvapuusti. After many years,
I have also become a Finnish coffee
drinker (ha ha ha). What I admire most
about the Finns, however, is their respect
for rules, their unparalleled mutual trust,
their calmness, and their SISU.
How do your experiences
working with Poles differ
from those with Finns?
As I mentioned earlier,
we have many similarities
geographically or economically.
Of course, we are not
as innovative as the Finns, but
we are slowly bridging the gap.
We often have the notion of
‘doing something yesterday’,
whereas the Finns have a very
pragmatic approach to what
they do. We often call it
slowness, to use another term.
They simply prefer a calm
but effective approach. On the
other hand, quite deep cultural
differences often hinder the development
of cooperation. Very often the obstacle on
our side is a general lack of trust. On the
other hand, whenever difficulties arise, we
immediately look for an excuse not to do
something. And here is the fundamental
difference - the Finns have one of the
highest rates of universal trust in the world
and their sisu, which is the drive to achieve
a goal regardless of obstacles.
What changes can be observed over the
years in Poles' perception of Finland?
Let me conclude with a story like this.
When I took up the post of honorary consul,
at my request, students of the sociology
department of the University of Białystok
conducted a social survey with a simple
question: ‘what do you associate Finland
with?’ The answer of the vast majority was
one thing of liquid consistency, but I won’t
quote it here because I think everyone
knows... On a much smaller scale further
on came Nokia, forests, a sauna and even
somewhere at the end Santa Claus from
Rovaniemi. A year ago, on the 10th
anniversary of the Białystok consulate,
I conducted a similar survey. Santa Claus
came first, education second, sauna third,
and it was a wonderful qualitative change,
to which I had the honour of contributing
a little.
Andrzej Parafiniuk
www.parafiniuk.online / konsul@parafiniuk.online
62 Culture & Sport

WHERE DIPLOMACY MEETS PASSION
An interview with Marta Szewczyk - Economic
and Marketing Advisor at the Embassy of Finland
For nearly eight years, Marta Szewczyk has successfully combined
her professional responsibilities with a passion for Finnish culture
and language. In a conversation with Maja Korniłowicz, she shares
her experiences from her studies and work in Finland, as well as her
time at the embassy, discussing the cultural differences and what
she has learned about working in a Finnish and Polish environment.
Working at the Finnish Embassy is an
important part of your career. Could you
tell us what personally attracted you
to diplomacy?
The Finnish language and culture have
been my passion for years, and studying
them has only deepened my commitment
to this path. When the opportunity to work
at the Finnish Embassy came up, it felt
like the perfect fit. It’s a job where I can
share my passion, speak Finnish, promote
Finland to Poles, and discuss Finland’s
innovative solutions.
What aspects of the Finnish approach to
diplomacy do you find most refreshing,
considering your experience working
with Finns?
I think Finns stand out for their honesty -
they are not afraid to admit mistakes and
openly share both successes and failures,
which is very valuable. I also appreciate
their stability; the strategies they develop
are long-term and independent of political
divisions. This ensures that the established
partnerships will be strong and endure,
which is very important to me.
What do you find most satisfying
about working in a Finnish
environment?
Like anyone, I need to feel my voice
matters. Finnish workplaces have flat
hierarchies that foster trust. I value
openness, inclusiveness and respect
for work life balance, as well as an
understanding that this aids wellbeing
and helps good performance.
Participation in events
Ambassador Juha Ottman,
Marta Szewczyk, and
Magdalena Jarzębińska
participated in the Equality
Parade in Warsaw in 2022.
In 2024, Ambassador Päivi
Laine and Marta Szewczyk took
part in the Nordic bike ride
through Warsaw's Praga district.
Photos by the Finnish Embassy
“Among this year's projects, one
that stands out for me is the
Embassy's participation in the
VIVELO Book and Media Fair,
held at the PGE Narodowy
(National Stadium), where
Finland was the guest of honor.
I believe it was a significant
success for our entire team.
We were also fortunate to invite
former ski jumper Janne
Ahonen, who was pleasantly
surprised by how much
recognition he enjoys
in Poland.”
Marta Szewczyk
Marta.Szewczyk@gov.fi
Work-life balance
Regional visit to Szczecin
in 2022. Left photo, from left
to right: the Mayor of Szczecin,
Piotr Krzystek, Marta Szewczyk,
and Ambassador Juha
Ottman. Right photo shows
Marta Szewczyk during her
expedition to Halti, the highest
point in Finland, in 2022.
Photo by City of Szczecin and
from the private collection of Marta
You had the opportunity to study
in Helsinki. What was the biggest
challenge related to moving there?
Moving to Finland for my studies wasn’t
difficult, as I had already spent some
time living there. The real challenge
came during my first trip, when I joined
a student summer program after two
years of studying. I found myself in the
Finnish countryside, looking after four
children in a household where no one
spoke English. I only spoke a little Finnish
and I had no experience with childcare.
To add to the challenge, I had to cook for
eight people, using a Finnish cookbook
I could barely understand. After that,
moving to the capital for my studies
felt much easier.
Do you notice any differences in
work-life balance between Finland
and Poland?
My experience with Finns has shown me
that they place a high value on work-life
balance. We often joke that everything
needs to be wrapped up before July,
as that’s when the Finns head to their
summer cottages to unwind, enjoying
saunas and nature without their work
phones. I also try to implement this
balance in my own life. In Poland, I have
noticed that the younger generations are
increasingly placing greater emphasis
on work-life balance as well.
Culture & Sport 63

FROM LAPLAND
TO THE WORLD
Maria chats with
the creator of Niko
Niko is a little reindeer who
discovers the courage to save
Christmas. He dreams of joining
Santa's legendary team of flying
reindeer. He has various adventures,
always full of challenges and
excitement. The conversation
was conducted by our youngest
reporter, nine-year-old Maria
Asunmaa, daughter of Weronika
and Tuomas, who has previously
assisted with other interviews
published here. This time, Maria
spoke with Antti Haikala, the
producer of well-known films such
as ”Niko” and “Lego Star Wars”.
FROM THE PRODUCERS OF
NIKO AND THE WAY TO THE STARS,
OOOPS! NOAH IS GONE...
and THE AMAZING MAURICE
Where did the idea to make a film
about Niko the reindeer come from?
We wanted to create something deeply
rooted in Finnish culture, but with the
potential for international success. Christmas
and Santa Claus were a natural starting point.
However, while we were looking for an
element that would make our story stand
out, we came up with the idea of having
the main character in the film be a reindeer
boy, with a human name and personality.
Where exactly is the film set?
The film is set in the heart of Lapland, around
Korvatunturi, which is not a coincidence –
it is one of the most recognizable symbols
of the region, known for its unspoiled nature.
We wanted to find a place untouched by
man, where every scene captures the
beauty of nature.
What is the story behind Niko’s name?
Choosing a name for the main character
was a long process. At first, we considered
the name Pietu, but it didn’t work in English.
We wanted a universal name, easy to
pronounce. In the end, we decided on Niko
– it seems to sound international and is
easy to remember. I think it also works
in Poland, doesn’t it?
Yes,we have Nikodem. Does Niko get older?
That's a really good question. The first film
was made in 2008, so Niko as a reindeer
should be quite old by now. However, time
passes differently in our world; the passage
of time is evident in each new film, Niko is
not yet an adult, but he gets more mature,
which is evident in his behavior.
How many people worked on the movie?
It is difficult to pinpoint the exact number,
but the project involved around 400
people at various stages of production.
How long does it take to make a movie?
Producing a film is a long process, taking
between four and ten years. The key
stages are having the idea, raising finance,
and creating a version of the script, which
can take a considerable amount of time.
Once these stages are complete,
the production itself usually takes
less than two years.
So the whole process of making a film
about Niko took 10 years?
Yes, the concept was already in my head
in 2014, and in 2019 I presented it to my
friend Hannu Tuomainen, who produced
the film with me, and Kari, the director.
This is how it started.
What animation techniques were used
to bring Niko to life?
Niko is a 3D animation created using
software called Maya. But the software
itself is not as important as the key role
played by the designer and modeler who
creates the characters. All of this combined
perfectly to give Niko a unique personality.
Has Niko been a sales success?
Yes, definitely! The film has sold in more
than 100 countries, which is a huge
success. We are delighted with the
positive reception of Niko by audiences
around the world.
Is there a book planned?
Yes, there is currently a third book coming
and I hope it will also be published in
Poland. I'm happy that the story we
created has gained so much interest that
it has lived to see not only a continuation
on screen, but also in literary form.
When you were nine years old, did you
want to make films?
Yes! When I was little, my grandmother
took me to see a Disney animation,
which turned out to be a very inspiring
experience for me. That’s what started my
fascination with the world of animation
and I wanted to make my own films.
Have you done anything other than Niko?
Actually, yes! We are in the middle
of a different project at the moment
- a family movie called Fleak.
We’re partnering with the Polish studio
Animoon and we are hoping to have
it ready for release next year.
Thank you for a very interesting
interview.
Thank you too, for the opportunity
to introduce Niko's world better.
Antti Haikala
antti.haikala@anima.fi
64 Culture & Sport

THE ONE AND ONLY REAL SANTA,
STRAIGHT FROM ROVANIEMI TO POLAND
We spoke to Santa before his 2024 magical tour of Polish cities
Santa Claus, you usually travel around
Poland before Christmas, then you spend
Christmas Eve distributing presents with
the help of your reindeer. What places
are regular stops on your Christmas tour?
First, I have to mention Olsztyn, where the
tradition of visits from Santa is one of the
longest in Poland, as it is in Warsaw. I also
always visit Poznań, where friends of Finland
and a growing group of Finnish businesses
gather to ensure that as many kids
as possible in the region have the chance
to meet me. The Honorary Consul in Białystok
invites new cities every year, so we
have, if I remember rightly: Kraków, Wrocław,
Kalisz, Toruń, Łódź, Gdańsk, Szczecin,
Mińsk Mazowiecki, Płock, Pruszków and
Niepołomice. And I also often visit smaller
towns, especially if schools, orphanages
or hospitals invite me. Traditionally, I start
my annual tour with a meeting at the
Finnish embassy in Warsaw, which is filled
with a festive atmosphere, singing children
and the smell of gingerbread. This year,
however, the building is being renovated,
so we’ll see where we can meet. But on
Christmas Eve, I will certainly visit all the
children waiting for me!
What has been your most unforgettable
visit in Poland so far?
The first visit, no doubt, though it took
place hundreds of years ago. I also
remember well my visit to Białystok, ten
years ago, where a crowd unexpectedly
filled the square and my small stage
was barely big enough. Each encounter
is unique: in Łódź, rickshaw pullers
spontaneously snatched me for a ride,
and in Kraków, patients at a psychiatric
hospital whispered their dreams to me.
I am always deeply moved by visits to
integrated schools, orphanages and
hospitals. I also recently discovered
the Lapland village of Kalevala in the
Karkonosze mountains. My visit from
Rovaniemi usually start with me landing
at Warsaw’s Chopin airport, where
I attract large crowds, even bigger
than when Adam Małysz returned from
Finland with his first gold medal for ski
jumping. Today, my elves in charge of
logistics are working out various unusual
means of transport. They are even
working on a teleportation programme,
whatever that means, but my dream is
to travel in a balloon.
Kids all around the world
ask lots of questions.
What questions do Polish
children typically ask?
Children always want to
know if my beard is real.
They are also curious
about my age, although
I’m not really sure myself.
I always answer that I am
older than the forest but
younger than the mountain.
They often want to
make sure they will get
what they asked for in
their letters. I typically
reply that they have to
wait to see what their
dream gift will be. And
sometimes they simply
ask if they can hold my
hand or hug me – both
children and adults ask this.
How do people react to
you? Has this changed
over the years?
I don't know why, but when
people see me they smile,
and this never changes.
SANTA’S CALENDAR BEFORE
CHRISTMAS 2024
29-30 November
Kalevala
1-2 December
Poznań
5-6 December
Kalisz
8-9 December
Białystok
10 December
Łomża
12-14 December
Olsztyn
15 December
Giżycko
17 December
Augustów
18 December
Białowieża
What are your plans for upcoming visits
to Poland?
My calendar is filling up quickly with
invitations – some cities are already
booking in May for a visit in December.
I will come to Poland in November,
starting with Kalevala Village, where I will
meet the children affected by this year's
flood. I already have Poznań, Kalisz,
Białystok, Olsztyn and Giżycko on my
itinerary, and the invitations keep coming.
Since we assume you have a Finnish
passport, do you find Polish people like
Finnish, are there any stereotypes or
typical assumptions?
My home is in Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi,
but I don't really need any papers because
everyone recognizes me anyway. What do
Poles know about Finland? Well, of course
me, the Moomins, Mannerheim, Nokia,
a white liquid called Finlandia, as well as
Finnish ski jumpers, rally drivers, hockey
players and excellent education standards.
Although children and adults often think
that Finland always has winter, they don't
realize that in summer the country is green
and in the north, the temperature reaches
30°C when the sun shines continuously.
I don't know if you know, but I love to
spend my summers paddling, swimming
and picking berries, having plenty of time
because of the very short nights.
Santa Claus Main Post Office
Tähtikuja 1, 96930 Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi
joulupukinpaaposti@posti.fi
Culture & Sport 65

SPORT
FINNISH ATHLETES
IN POLISH SPORTS CLUBS
#Ekstraklasa
FOOTBALL
#Polska_Hokej_Liga
ICE-HOCKEY
#PlusLiga
VOLLEYBALL
FKS Stal Mielec
Pyry Hannola
KS Cracovia
Arttu Hoskonen
Benjamin Källman
Lech Poznań
Daniel Håkans
Raków Częstochowa
David Ezeh
#Futsal_Ekstraklasa
FUTSAL
GKS Katowice
Albin Runesson
Aleksi Varttinen
Marcus Kallionkieli
Miro Lehtimäki
Santeri Koponen
GKS Tychy
Aapo Ahola
Joona Monto
Mark Viitanen
Matias Lehtonen
Olli Kaskinen
Olli-Petteri Viinikainen
Pekka Tirkkonen (coach)
Rasmus Heljanko
Valtteri Kakkonen
Indykpol AZS Olsztyn
Eemi Tervaportti
Barkom-Każany Lwów
Santeri Valimaa
Asseco Resovia Rzeszów
Tuomas Sammelvuo
(Head coach)
Trefl Gdańsk
Voitto Köykkä
BSF ABJ Bochnia
Tuukka Pikkarainen
GI Malepszy Arth Soft Leszno
Antti Koivumäki
Unia Oświęcim
Erik Ahopelto
Henry Karjalainen
Jere Vertanen
Joonas Uimonen
Kalle Valtola
Ville Heikkinen
JKH GKS Jastrzębie
Aleksi Mäkelä
Hannu Kuru
Niki Blomberg
Taneli Ronkainen
Teemu Pulkkinen
Zagłębie Sosnowiec
Jesperi Viikilä
KH Energa Toruń
Jesper Henriksson
Juha Nurminen (coach)
Julius Vähätalo
STS Sanok
Aatu Luusuaniemi
Aku Alho
Dominik Salama
Elmo Aittola (coach)
Kristian Tamminen
Lauri Huhdanpää
Mark Viitanen
Saku Kivinen
Sami Tamminen
66 Culture & Sport

A FINNISH TALENT IN EKSTRAKLASA
National team player moves from Vaasa
to Lech Poznań
Welcome to Poznań – how did your
journey with Lech Poznań begin?
Thanks! After the end of last season,
our team in Norway was unfortunately
relegated from the main league,
meaning that I had to look for new
opportunities. I wanted to continue
playing at the highest possible level,
and Lech Poznań was one of several
European teams that expressed an
interest. Their offer seemed the most
promising, which is why I decided on
this club.
Indeed, Lech Poznań is one of the TOP
three clubs here in Poland. How did
your season start? Have you scored
any goals this season?
The new season has started really
promisingly. Unfortunately, I had a minor
injury that took me out of the game for
a while, but luckily it is nothing serious.
I am working intensively to get back to
full fitness and all indications are that
I will be able to return to regular training
and playing in a few weeks. I am looking
forward to that. I haven’t scored any
goals yet, but I did get an assist.
The goals will come soon!
Did you know anything about Poland
before?
Honestly, Poznań as a city and Poland as
a country are new to me. However, I was
aware that Poland is a significant country
for sports, especially football. So far, I’ve
been very positively surprised by my
experiences!
How do matches in Norway compare
to those in Poland?
In Poznań, we can definitely count on
much bigger crowds and the stadium
is bigger than the one in Norway.
Of course, we had a lot of dedicated
fans in Norway too, and Vålerenga was
one of the best clubs there. I have to
admit that I am really looking forward
to the match against Legia to see how
crazy it will be!
How was your move to Poznań and
what do you think of Polish cuisine?
The move went really well and I'm
delighted to be here! The club has
helped me a lot and I feel great here.
I haven't delved into Polish cuisine yet,
but I've noticed that the locals often start
their meal with soup. I keep still going
directly to pasta.
Do you use Polish during training
sessions?
Not really. Our head coach is from
Denmark and our assistant coach is
Norwegian, so we primarily communicate
in English. Additionally, with seven or
eight Scandinavian players in the team,
we often use Swedish as well. I have to
admit that Polish seems quite challenging!
Have you played for the Finnish
national team?
Yes, I played in the Euro qualifiers and
scored four goals, so it couldn’t have
been much better! Joining Lech was
a great move from that perspective,
as playing for a bigger team should be
a valuable experience. When I arrived
here, I noticed that the entire city is
passionate about Lech and lives and
breathes football.
That’s quite a big deal, especially with
the team colors reflecting the Finnish
flag! Have you been recognized on
the streets yet?
Yes, actually! I’ve been recognized
several times, especially by younger
fans who come up to ask for photos
and autographs. It’s a great feeling to
connect with the supporters like that!
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I hope to be playing in one of the top
five leagues and representing my national
team in many matches! However, by then,
I’ll be 34 years old, so it’s possible that
I might even be considering retirement
around that time.
Thank you for the conversation, Daniel,
and best of luck in the upcoming season!
Thank you too!
KKS Lech Poznań
ENEA Stadion
17 Bułgarska Street, 60-320 Poznań
(061) 886-30-00
Lech Poznań, founded in August
1920 in Dębiec, is one of Poland's
oldest and most successful clubs.
Competing in the Ekstraklasa, it
boasts eight Polish Championship
titles, five Polish Cup victories,
and six Super Cups, ranking fifth
in the all-time Ekstraklasa table.
Two famous Finnish players,
Kasper Hämäläinen and Paulus
Arajuuri, have represented Lech
during the last decade, highlighting
the strong football ties
between the two countries.
Daniel Håkans, who recently
debuted for the Finnish national
team, joined Lech Poznań in
summer 2024 from Vålerenga.
We met with him at Inea Stadium
in Poznań to discuss how he
dashed off to Poland and get
his impressions of the new club.
Culture & Sport 67

JOONA MONTO
The Finnish hockey player
who found a home in Tychy
Tyski Sport S.A.
Edukacji 7 Street, 43-100 Tychy
+48 (32) 227 50 45
Joona Monto (born 22 June 1994
in Hyvinkää, Finland) is a Finnish
ice hockey player who plays as
a center forward. He began his
career at Jää-Ahmat and later
developed in the youth teams of
Hämeenlinnan Pallokerho (HPK).
In his senior career, he played for
various teams in Finland, including
Heinolan Peliitat, Turun Toverit
(TuTo), Savonlinnan Pallokerho
(SaPKo), and Kiekko-Vantaa. He
also represented HPK in Finland’s
top professional league, SM-Liiga.
In 2018, he played for Jokerit
Helsinki in the KHL competition.
From 2021 he represented the
colours of GKS Katowice in the
Polish Hockey League, winning
the Polish championship with
the club in 2022 and 2023.
In May 2024, he joined GKS Tychy.
Tuomas spoke with Joona, who
told him about the early start of
his passion for ice hockey, and
how he ended up playing
in Poland.
When did you become interested
in ice hockey?
I developed a love for hockey almost as
soon as I started walking. I also played
football for a long time, but at some point
I had to choose one of the sports, so ice
hockey was an easy choice for me.
And how did you end up in Poland,
was it a planned move?
It happened by accident. I had a colleague
in Katowice and they contacted
me as there were already quite a few
Finns there, so I thought why not?
You’ve been in Poland for more than
three years now. When you first joined
the Polish league, what were the
biggest challenges you faced in
adapting to hockey here? And what
do you enjoy the most about playing
in this league?
I came to play and live in Poland for
the first time with very few expectations.
Honestly speaking, I didn’t know much
about the country. But I was really surprised
at how good the players are in
Poland, and there are also really impressive
foreign players here. The most pleasant
thing in this league is definitely the fan
culture in the clubs.
You’ve played in various leagues, both
in Finland and in Poland. Are there
specific goals you still wish to achieve
in your career?
Surely all young people who play hockey
dream of the NHL. My dream was always
to play in the Finnish league and I was
lucky enough to have experienced
that; I have great memories from there.
The Polish league has also been an
amazing experience and I've had a really
fantastic time here. Now everything is
going well, so I’m taking it year by year,
as I still have plenty of good years left!
Team dynamics often vary across countries.
What are the biggest differences
in playing Finnish vs Polish hockey?
The biggest difference is certainly that
training in Finland is really high-quality
nowadays from a young age. In Finland,
the game is also much more organized.
And now you are playing in Tychy, which
is like a real hockey city in Poland!
Yes, I think the fan culture here is the
best in Poland, they are crazy. Home
games are great, with usually a couple
of thousand people at matches and the
whole hall is cheering.
Have you had any memorable
situations with fans?
If I had to choose just one, it would
definitely be when we won the second
consecutive championship in Katowice
and in front of the fans at home.
There are quite a few Finns in your team
and league, which might be surprising
to many. Have you had a chance to
teach the locals some Finnish habits?
Yeah, our team has eight Finns and
a coach, and in the whole league there
are something like 30 Finnish players and
three coaches. Well, we are trying to get
locals to go to the sauna, but it is not
working that well, it seems to be too
hot for them.
Have you had the chance to explore
Poland outside of hockey? Are there
any Polish traditions, places, or foods
that you enjoy?
I've been to several different cities in Poland
and there are lots of really nice places
here and the food here is so good. Kraków
and Zakopane have been my favorites.
Is there any place in Poland that feels
special to you? Where do you go to
relax or spend time when you’re not
on the ice?
I lived in Katowice for the first three years,
so that feels special to me. I usually relax
at home when we have free time and
I like to cook good food there.
What would you bring from Finland
to Poland, and vice versa?
When I'm here, I always miss family and
friends, so I would choose them. Living
in Poland is cheaper, so I could take that
to Finland.
68 Culture & Sport

Visit the website to learn more
www.zewpolnocy.pl
SZCZECIN
Nordic cross point
If I were asked which city in Poland could be
described as “the most Scandinavian”, I would
immediately answer: Szczecin. Although its main
rivals are Gdańsk or the entire Tricity, I think the
capital of West Pomerania – a region with close ties
to Scandinavia – takes the top spot. This is not only
due to the historical and cultural links, but also by
the dynamically developing economic cooperation
with its Nordic neighbors.
Text by:
Marcin Jakubowski
„Zew Północy” Nordic Magazine
When visitors from Skåne – a Swedish
region with a Danish past – come to Szczecin,
they may notice something familiar in
the city’s coat of arms: a red griffin with
a golden crown, similar to Malmö’s flag.
In the Middle Ages, Szczecin was part
of Denmark for a time, and from 1637
to 1720 it was under Swedish rule.
Szczecin’s environment also has much
in common with the North. The Szczecin
Lagoon and the Oder River floodplains
are a paradise for sailors, canoeists, and
bird watchers. Picturesque hills formed
by a Scandinavian glacier surround these
waters, making the area perfect for
tourism and recreation.
What makes Szczecin particularly
interesting, however, is its location: on
a route connecting northern Europe with
the south of the continent, marked by the
S3 expressway to the Czech border and
the S6/A6 on the Koszalin-Szczecin-Berlin
axis. A window to that world is the harbor,
which for centuries has been a point of
contact with Scandinavia. It is worth mentioning
the Helsinki-Tallinn-Szczecin passenger
line, on which the Finnish ships S/S
“Wellamo”, S/S “Ilmatar” and the famous
S/S “Ariadne” sailed from 1924 to the spring
of 1939. Today, the ferry routes from nearby
Świnoujście to Ystad, Trelleborg and
Malmö – operated by Polferries, Unity Line,
TT-Line and Finnlines – form a Baltic Sea
highway between Poland and Sweden.
Just perfect for business.
This proximity has attracted a lot of Scandinavian
capital. A notable recent example
was the visit of Frederick X in early 2024,
his first official visit abroad. The king of
Denmark laid the foundation stone for
a Vestas wind turbine factory (2026) that
will employ 1,000 people and establish
Szczecin as the hub of Poland’s offshore
industry. In 2024, more than 500 companies
with Nordic capital were active in West
Pomerania – 290 from Denmark, representing
20% of all Danish companies in
Poland; 100 each from Norway and Sweden;
and 12 from Finland, including Tieto,
Cargotec and Unikie. In Szczecin alone,
there are around 160 Nordic-related
companies. Scandinavian capital accounts
for more than 75% of all foreign investment
in West Pomerania and Danish investments
make up half of all foreign capital – this is
a record in Poland.This strong integration
of Nordic and Polish businesses is why
the Scandinavian-Polish Chamber of
Commerce has its representation in Szczecin.
Scandinavia also plays an important role
in Szczecin’s international contacts.
The twin cities of Esbjerg
in Denmark and Malmö in
Sweden highlight these ties.
Szczecin also hosts the
consulates of Denmark,
Sweden, Norway and, since
2014, Finland – with Mr Adolf
Wysocki as Honorary Consul.
In addition, there is a Scandinavian
House, promoting
Scandinavian business,
culture and Polish-Scandinavian
cooperation.
Another key factor for
attracting Scandinavian
investment is Szczecin’s
strong academic background.
The West Pomeranian
University of Technology
specializes in ‘green’ technologies,
while the University of
Szczecin offers courses in Norwegian
philology and Baltic studies. One of
the main areas of focus of the Maritime
University is on offshore wind energy
and the Pomeranian Medical University
attracts hundreds of students from Nordic
countries, including the Faroe Islands.
They probably form the largest community
of Scandinavian students in Poland.
In addition, cultural links to Scandinavia
are evident. For the past eight years, Rune
Bergmann from Norway has been the
artistic director of Szczecin`s Philharmonic.
The city hosts the Scandinavian Days,
an annual event promoting Nordic business
and culture, with participation from
Nordic embassies. The Nordic Cross Point
– an event of a similar nature – was also
organized here. Just outside Szczecin there
is Wolin – legendary Viking`s town Jomsborg
– which hosts Europe’s largest Viking and
Slav festival, with over 2,500 participants
from 20 countries. Further afield, in Darłowo
– the town where Erik of Pomerania, ruler
of Scandinavia was born and buried – the
Scandinavian Film Festival is held every
year. Szczecin also has military ties to
Scandinavia: Danish soldiers are present
here as part of NATOs Multinational Corps
Northeast. Its first commander was Danish
General Henrik Ekmann. These soldiers,
along with their families, contribute to
local Scandinavian traditions, such as the
Saint Lucia celebrations. Szczecin is also
the home of Zew Północy, the only Polish
magazine devoted to the Nordic region.
And no wonder – we are the closest
to Scandinavia after all.
Culture & Sport 69

MAPS & INFOGRAPHICS
MAP OF FINNISH PRODUCTION COMPANIES IN POLAND
FINNISH COMPANIES
IN POLAND BY INDUSTRY
BASED ON OUR OWN RESEARCH ON FINNISH COMPANIES REGISTERED
IN POLAND AS BRANCHES OR SUBSIDIARIES
AROUND
250
300
FINNISH DAUGHTER
AROUND
COMPANIES
FINNISH COMPANIES
OPERATING THROUGH
SALES PARTNERS
PRODUCTION
PKC Group
DRAWSKO
POMORSKIE
SZCZECIN
FSP Steel Painting
HK Scan
Hydroline
Cargotec
Alteams
Fiskars
LĘBORK
PKC Group
Termex Fiber
BIAŁOGARD
Purmo
WAŁCZ
Seaking
CZARNKÓW
Seaking Europress
BYTÓW
Arnon
Darekon
Gebwell
Promeco
Wartsila
YIT
TRÓJMIASTO
Lapp Connecto
GRUDZIĄDZ
ŚWIECIE
Kemira
Katko
NIDZICA
Stora Enso
OSTROŁĘKA
Axopar Boats
Saxdor Yachts
VA Varuste
XO Boats
AUGUSTÓW
JELENIA GÓRA
Koskisen
TOPORÓW
ŻARY
Valmet Technologies
and Services
spondeo
70 Maps & Infographics
Valmet Automotive
WROCŁAW
Fortaco
Fortum
Teknoware
UPM Raflatac
Walki
GNIEZNO
POZNAŃ
HT Laser
Kera Awak
Nordec
Prevex
Reka Rubber
Ruukki
Stofix
ViskoTeepak
Scanclimber
Eltete
Metsä Tissue
ORAS Olesno
Wipak
OPOLE
GÓRNY ŚLĄSK
Fortum
Heatmasters
Huhtamaki
Lammi Fundament
Miilux
Outokumpu
Purmo
Scanfil
Konvertia
Stalatube
Scanfil
Uponor Infra
ŁÓDŹ
Fortum
CZĘSTOCHOWA
U-Cont
YIT
KRAKÓW
WARSZAWA
Amerplast
Fibox
Teknos
YIT
Walki
PKC Group
STARACHOWICE
Tikkurila
RZESZÓW

spondeo
TOP 10 FINNISH FASTEST-GROWING COMPANIES IN POLAND
BY SALES GROWTH FROM 2022 TO 2023, BASED ON AN ANALYSIS OF COMPANIES WITH SALES
EXCEEDING PLN 15 MILLION IN POLAND. SOURCE: KRS
Saxdor
Wolt
Etteplan
Va Varuste
Renta
Arnon
Miilux
Unikie
Stofix
Iceye
41%
38%
46%
58%
57%
53%
64%
71%
70%
0 20 40 60 80
80%
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT), R&D AND SERVICE CENTERS
SZCZECIN
Siili Solutions
Tieto
Unikie
WROCŁAW
Etteplan
Dunning Kruger & Associates
Nokia
Siili Solutions
Solteq
Tieto
Unikie
UPM
POZNAŃ
Dynamico.ai
Etteplan
Withsecure
Nordcloud
Solita
Vincit
Nokia
GÓRNY ŚLĄSK
Barona ICT
Etteplan
Tieto
TRÓJMIASTO
Avaus Marketing Innovations
Frends
Kemira
Metsä Group
Nordea
BYDGOSZCZ
TORUŃ
Nokia
Nomentia
ŁÓDŹ
Digital Workforce
Eficode
ePassi
Nordea
Polar Night Software
KRAKÓW
Efecte
Iceye
Nokia
Nordea (IT)
Sofigate
Swappie
Teleste
Tieto
Wolt
WARSZAWA
Efecte
LUBLIN
Metso Digital Design and Development Studio
Nokia
Nortal
Tieto
UPM HR Service Center
Maps & Infographics 71

MAPS & INFOGRAPHICS
TOP 10 LARGEST FINNISH EMPLOYERS IN POLAND
BY HEADCOUNT IN 2023, ON THE BASIS OF OUR OWN RESEARCH
Nokia
Nordea
PKC Group
Stora Enso
Cargotec
Scanfil
UPM and UPM Raflatac
Tietoevry
Onninen
Purmo
SERVICES & OTHER
Ramirent
SZCZECIN
0 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000
+ 2,000
+ 2,000
+ 1,300
+ 1,300
+ 1,200
+ 1,200
+/- 1,000
+ 800
Europress
Spondeo
POZNAŃ
Allstars Engineering
Beweship
Deltamarin
Ensto
Finnlines
Kipina
Konecranes
Lago Logistics
Peikko
Pesmel
Tecwill
Ukkone
TRÓJMIASTO
Norian Accounting
TORUŃ
Rivakka
KAROLEW
+ 5,600
Ahlstrom-Munksjo
Ahola Transport
Biovoima
Fazer
Geobear
Halton
Hesburger
HRX
ISKU
Kemppi
Kiilto
Kone
Leinonen
Lindstrom
Lumon
Martela
Metso
Neles
Nokian Tyres
Noli Studios
Nowa Era (SANOMA)
Onninen
Orion Pharma
Pellon
Produal
Raisio
Rex Nordic
Telko
Valkea Media
WARSZAWA
+ 7,250
BHM Technology
Comatec
Molok
Vilpe
WROCŁAW
Signal Solutions
OPOLE
ŁÓDŹ
AFRY
Elomatic
GÓRNY ŚLĄSK
Caverion
Lago Logistics
Renta
Tamtron
Amer Sports
Tactic Games
KRAKÓW
spondeo
72 Maps & Infographics

spondeo
DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM FINLAND TO POLAND
ON THE BASIS OF OUR OWN RESEARCH
FINNAIR
Helsinki (HEL) - Gdańsk (GDN) | 2 hours and 10 minutes
Helsinki (HEL) - Kraków (KRK) | 2 hours
Helsinki (HEL) - Warsaw (WAW) | 1 hour and 40 minutes
RYANAIR
Helsinki (HEL) - Warsaw/Modlin (WMI) | 1 hour and 55 minutes
WIZZAIR
Turku (TKU) - Gdańsk (GDN) | 1 hour and 30 minutes
FINNISH PLACES IN POLAND
SZCZECIN
Honorary Consulate
of Finland
BOROWICE
Kalevala
SŁUPSK
Sibelius Street
Finhome
KLINY
POZNAŃ
TRÓJMIASTO
Honorary Consulate of Finland
Finnish studies at Adam
Mickiewicz University
Padel Court
WROCŁAW
Honorary Consulate
of Finland
Honorary Consulate of Finland
Sibelius Street
Finnish studies at University
of Gdańsk
TORUŃ
Sand Valley Golf Resort
PASŁĘK
Honorary Consulate
of Finland
KRAKÓW
OLSZTYN
Honorary Consulate
of Finland
WARSZAWA
Honorary Consulate
of Finland
BIAŁYSTOK
Honorary Consulate
of Finland
Embassy of Finland in Poland
Open Jazdów
POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews
designed by Lahdelma & Mahlamäki
Finnish studies at University of Warsaw
Finnish School of Warsaw
Finlandzka Street and Sibelius Street
Obelisk in memory of Marshal
Carl Mannerheim
Vistula Sauna
KIELCE
Honorary Consulate
of Finland
Maps & Infographics 73

spondeo
TOP 25 FINNISH COMPANIES
IN POLAND, BY SALES (M EUR IN 2023)
BASED ON OUR OWN RESEARCH
EUR 1=PLN 4,27
Company name
Cargotec
Nokia
Stora Enso
Onninen
Scanfil
UPM Raflatac
Fortum
PKC Group
Purmo
Huhtamäki
Axopar Boats
Tikkurila
Ruukki
Outokumpu
Nowa Era (Sanoma)
Valmet Automotive
Metsä Tissue
Fiskars
HK Foods
KONE
Valmet
Ramirent
Saxdor Yachts
Fortaco
Uponor
Sales (m EUR)
180
162
143
140
140
135
130
119
117
95
88
83
79
77
77
74
69
364
356
345
341
329
474
697
772
0 EUR 200 m EUR 400 m EUR 600 m EUR 800 m EUR
74 Maps & Infographics

v
spondeo
BUSINESS CULTURE CLASH: POLISH AND FINNISH PERSPECTIVES
UNDERSTANDING STEREOTYPES THAT SHAPE PROFESSIONAL INTERACTIONS IN POLAND AND FINLAND
ON THE BASIS OF OUR OWN EXPERIENCE
POLISH
Formal
Hierarchical
Contract
Talk & communicate
Confirm the orders and tasks
Emotional
Want to be 100% sure
Long answers
Glass half empty
Feedback really important
FINNISH
Informal
Flat
Handshake or email
Email
Say things once
Hide feelings
95% is enough
“Ok sure”
Full glass
Feedback once per year
lub.neste.com
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Overcome Finnish extremes
to get you everywhere
High-quality Neste lubricants are developed
and tested in Finland. Neste engine oils are
the perfect choice for demanding year-round
use, from freezing winter temperatures to
scorching summer heat.
As they can overcome Nordic extremes, they can
overcome extremes anywhere. Neste engine oils
provide reliable OEM-approved performance,
maximize engine drive, and boost power.
Advanced Technology by Neste.

spondeo
GROWTH SUPPORT
FROM POLAND
ABOUT SPONDEO AND OUR SERVICES
Spondeo is a Finnish-Polish family
business established in 2014 in Poznań,
Poland, to help others enter and conduct
business on the Polish and CEE market.
We currently have 10 team members
able to carry out projects on a pan-
European scale.
Our core values include transparency,
flexibility, and an openness to people
and ideas. Our clients range from
manufacturing and engineering to IT
and startups to the top companies.
In 2024, we assisted nearly 70 clients
from six countries, including ten listed
companies. We publish a free, monthly
newsletter on the Polish market,
delivered to almost 2,000 subscribers,
and provide regular information and
updates via our LinkedIn account.
RECRUITMENT
& HEADHUNTING
Full cycle
recruitment
Headhunting
& direct search
Recruiter Team
as a Service
HR Consulting
SALES
& STRATEGIES
Sales strategies
in Poland & CEE
New client & RFQ
acquisition
Sales partner
network building
Events, fairs
& study trips
Sales Manager
leasing
GO-TO-MARKET
PROJECTS
& ADVISORY
Market research
& analysis
Business partner
search
Early phase kick-off
& study trips
Project management
& subcontracting
WWW.SPONDEO.PL
FIND US ON
SOCIAL MEDIA
WEBSITE
LINKEDIN
INSTAGRAM
PUBLICATIONS
NEWSLETTER (PL)
NEWSLETTER (UA)
76 Spondeo

5 th I n t e r n a t i o n a L e x h i b i t i o n | c o n f e r e n c e
C O N S T R U C T I O N & E N E R G Y
1 3 - 1 4
n o v e m b e r
2 0 2 5
E X P O X X i , W a r s a w , p o l a n d
rebuildukraine.in.ua
UKRAINE
is BECOMING
the biggest
in the world!
construction site
Organiser:

spondeo
MEET OUR TEAM
AND GET TO KNOW US AND OUR WORK
TUOMAS
ASUNMAA
Co-Founder & CEO
WERONIKA
GIDEL-ASUNMAA
Co-Founder & Headhunter
ANDRZEJ
WIŚNIEWSKI
Senior Business Advisor
Tuomas Asunmaa, the captain and coowner
of Spondeo, is a hands-on entrepreneur
dedicated to helping businesses
expand in Poland and Central Eastern
Europe. A true enthusiast of music, printed
books and magazines, and sports. Tuomas
reached new heights in 2024, earning
a bronze medal in the Javelin Masters
(M40) in Włocławek, with plans to win gold
in this year’s competition. He is also a fan
of Lapland’s magical winters and recently,
Duolingo. He might surprise you with
Polish language knowledge in 2025 ;)
Weronika Gidel-Asunmaa is the co-founder
of Spondeo and a headhunting professional.
She specializes in connecting Finnish
clients with top talent from Poland.
The year 2024 marked an interesting shift
in her focus, as she became involved in
cross-border projects. She also oversees
the company’s Newsletter and LinkedIn
content. Weronika discovered a passion
for public speaking, so you will meet her at
Spondeo’s events. Outside of work, she is
a proud mom to her daughter, Maria, and
an aspiring cross-country skier.
Andrzej joined Spondeo in 2016 with only a
basic understanding of Finns and Finland.
Over the years, he has come to admire their
moral character, originality, and dry sense
of humor. His work in cross-border business
development and market entry projects
fuels his passion for fostering intercultural
understanding and cooperation. Actionoriented
and agile, Andrzej seeks practical
and creative solutions. Outside work, he
enjoys sports, hiking in Polish mountains,
and relaxing in a Finnish sauna.
ANNA
JĘDRZEJEWSKA
Recruitment & Design
TANIA SEN
Talent Sourcer
PIOTR GIDEL
Consultant
Anna joined Spondeo in June 2021. She
has an analytical yet creative mind, with
a strong appreciation for the aesthetics
of graphics, photography, design - and,
oddly enough, the satisfying order of
Excel sheets. She enjoys taking on
projects that involve thorough research,
sharing insights, and designing visuals.
She feels just as comfortable in the
peaceful landscapes of Lapland as she
does in the lively streets of Dubai. Always
eager to learn and explore.
Tania holds a bachelor's degree in English
Language. She has a background as a
language tutor and has contributed to
creative projects at the Lviv Regional Youth
Center. Her passion for helping individuals
discover their ideal career paths led her to
the role of Talent Acquisition Specialist at
Spondeo. Tania indulges in clay sculpting,
film photography, and watercolor painting.
Her favorite show is "How To With John
Wilson" because it resonates with her
passion for creative writing, street photography
and wholesome human nature.
Piotr joined Spondeo in 2022. He is
a graduate of the Department of Law
at the University of Wrocław. Most of his
professional career Piotr has worked in
broadly understood HR, from recruitment
and retention to human resources
management - with each and every
project closely related to Finnish market.
At work always goal-oriented and
scrupulous yet not headstrong to the
limits. Loves to travel and meet new
people. Big fan of Finnish sauna, northern
lights and rye chips.
ANNA
GOLIŃCZAK
Senior Sales Advisor
Anna joined Spondeo in 2024 as senior
sales advisor with over 22 years of experience
in the international environment,
various industries, focused on business
development, sales & communication.
Intercultural management as her interest
and consulting activities. Constant learner,
especially foreign languages. Economic
(Executive MBA in Poznan University of
Economics and Georgia State University),
PR, literature and art universities background.
Her favourite sport: books, interior
design, cats & plants. Core values: freedom,
independence, critical thinking & ethics.
MAJA
KORNIŁOWICZ
Marketing Strategies
Specialist and Business
Maja recently graduated with a master's
degree in management from the
University of Economics in Poznan and
had the opportunity to study a year of
digital marketing in Madrid at the ESIC
Marketing & Business school. She joined
Spondeo in 2024 and is mainly
responsible for marketing, helping with
consulting projects and market research.
She is passionate about planning her own
travels and discovering new places. She is
not keen on sitting in one place - she leads
an active lifestyle in which sport plays an
important role.
JOONAS MÄKILÄ
Partner for the Czech Market
Joonas, a seasoned business professional
situated in Prague, boasts two decades of
expertise in the FMCG and hospitality
sectors, spanning local and international
markets. His career encompasses roles
within multinational corporations,
as well as contributions to private
equity-backed and entrepreneurial
ventures. Presently, Joonas serves as
the founder of the Bohemian Growth
Company, dedicated to assisting
companies in unlocking their full
growth potential.
78 Spondeo

OUR SOCIAL MEDIA
Company Website
WWW.SPONDEO.PL
Company LinkedIn account
WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/SPONDEOPOLAND
Company Instagram account
WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/SPONDEO_PL
Our publications
WWW.YUMPU.COM/USER/SPONDEO
Newsletter (Poland)
WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/SPONDEOPOLAND
Newsletter (Ukraine)
WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/SPONDEOPOLAND

Special thanks to the patron of the publication, the Embassy of Finland in Warsaw,
and all the following companies for their support