Finnish investors acquire Helsinki Arena with plans for major renovations

A group of Finnish investors has acquired the Helsinki Arena, with Trevian Kasvu LP serving as the purchasing entity. This firm is a real estate investment company created by Trevian Asset Management to handle the arena’s acquisition and ownership. One of the key investors is Heikki Viitikko, who holds over 50% of the interest through his company, River Estate Oy. He and Reima Södervall, who leads Trevian Asset Management, are pivotal figures in this transaction.

Viitikko, a former owner of the Mikkelin Jukurit hockey team, aims to make the arena profitable by hosting up to 140 events each year, targeting around one million visitors annually. While the approval process for the deal could take months, he hopes to reopen the venue by next spring or early summer, referring to it as Finland’s Madison Square Garden.

Viitikko has extensive experience in both real estate investment and hockey business, recognizing that successful ventures require factors beyond just financial gain. He emphasizes the satisfaction that comes from seeing vibrant events and activities at such venues.

Södervall, another key player involved in the sale, launched Trevian Asset Management in 2012 and has a solid background in real estate spanning nearly thirty years. He envisions the arena not only hosting large events but also accommodating smaller activities, including junior hockey practices.

The exact purchase price remains confidential, with both Viitikko and Södervall disclosing that the group includes both domestic and foreign investors. They are committed to investing at least ten million euros into renovations to ensure the arena remains in excellent condition.