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Finnish quartet receive internationalisation recognition
Forest Joensuu was recognised for fostering innovation in the forest industry, with a focus on addressing global challenges such as biodiversity loss, wildfires, and climate change.
Forest JoensuuUnikie, Konecranes, ABB Finland and Forest Joensuu have been announced as the recipients of Finland’s 2024 Internationalisation Awards.
The President of the Republic of Finland bestows the awards annually on internationally successful companies and organisations after evaluating factors such as competitiveness, profitability, commitment to corporate responsibility, and contributions to employment, knowhow and the investment environment.
Unikie, a Tampere-headquartered software firm with a staff of 600, received the award in the newcomer category. Its solutions enable the incorporation of smart features, such as autonomous mobility, into machines, vehicles and industrial solutions, helping clients to optimise operations and energy efficiency.
Tampere-based software firm Unikie received the newcomer category award for its smart, energy-efficient industrial and mobility solutions, with over 50 per cent of its revenue derived from exports.
UnikieCEO Juha Ala-Laurila stated that, since its founding in 2015, the firm has boldly set its sight on becoming a leading global company with the help of top-notch software experts and technological innovations.
“International clients have spurred our growth, and more than 50 per cent of our revenue comes from exports,” he said.
Konecranes, a Finnish provider of cargo-handling equipment and maintenance services, was recognised in the growth category in what is its 30th year in operation. With a staff of roughly 16 500 posted across 50 countries, the company generated more than four billion euros in revenue in 2023.
“Our success is founded on internationalisation and close relationships with clients, which is crucial for our sustainable solutions and carbon dioxide emission reductions,” said Anders Svensson, CEO of Konecranes.
Finnish company Konecranes, a leader in cargo-handling equipment and maintenance, celebrated 30 years in operation and was recognised for its global presence and commitment to sustainability.
ABB Finland was granted the award for investing an average of 55 million euros a year for the past decade in its production capacity in Finland. The supplier of automation and electrification solutions is one of the largest corporate tax contributors and industrial employers in the country with a staff of roughly 5 500 across 20 localities.
“Our skilled staff and substantial R&D investments in cutting-edge technology are at the core of our success,” stated CEO Pekka Tiitinen.
Forest Joensuu, a regional network bringing together some 600 companies from a wide range of fields, was recognised for its commitment to advancing the forest industry by accelerating the development of solutions that mitigate and prevent wildfires, biodiversity loss and the climate emergency.
ABB Finland was honoured for investing around 55 million euros annually in production, being a major employer, and advancing cutting-edge technology through R&D.
ABBJoensuu, a roughly 80 000-resident town in North Karelia, markets itself as the forest capital of Europe. Mayor Jere Penttilä told that forest and photonic solutions developed in the town are exported to Asia and the Americas.
“Dozens of international delegations have admired the communal spirit at Forest Joensuu,” he added.
Recipients of the Internationalisation Awards are nominated by companies, organisations and industry experts. The final proposal on the recipients is presented to the president by Team Finland, a network made up of Business Finland, ELY Centres, Finnvera and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs.