Nordlab launches co-determination talks with up to 38 jobs at risk

Finnish laboratory services provider Nordlab has initiated co-determination negotiations that could lead to the reduction of up to 38.5 full-time positions, the company announced on Wednesday, according to a report by Yle.

The talks involve all of Nordlab’s approximately 700 employees across its 75 locations in the Kainuu, Central Ostrobothnia, Lapland, and North Ostrobothnia well-being service regions. The company cited financial and operational reasons, pointing to a significant decline in laboratory test volumes and revenue.

CEO Anne Piikivi stated that despite previous cost-cutting measures, the company’s financial outlook for February 2026 indicates further adjustments are necessary. “Our current revenue does not cover operating costs,” Piikivi said in a company statement, stressing the need for permanent cost reductions by 2026.

The financial strain has been worsened by delays in expected savings from key development projects, including a new laboratory information system, automation upgrades, and expanded facilities at Oulu University Hospital. These projects have required higher-than-anticipated investments, increasing annual depreciation costs while older systems remain in use.

Potential changes may include new operating models, organisational restructuring, task redistribution, and service adjustments at various locations. Nordlab, with an annual turnover of around €90 million, serves four well-being service regions in northern and central Finland.