Mikkeliläinen yritys wins bid for Kouvola ski resort

A Mikkeli-based company, Hupi Ski Oy, has been selected as the new operator for the Mielakka ski resort in Kouvola, following a competitive tender process.

The city of Kouvola launched the tender in spring to find a successor for the resort after its previous operator, Mielakan rinnekeskus Oy, filed for bankruptcy in November 2025 due to financial difficulties, including high water and electricity costs, uncertain winter seasons, and outdated equipment. The resort remained closed last winter.

Three companies submitted bids: Hupi Ski Oy, Ruokolahti’s Free Ski, and Sveitsin Hiihtokeskus from Hyvinkää, co-owned by Matias Petäistö, known from the TV series Erikoisjoukot. Sveitsin Hiihtokeskus placed last in the competition.

Hupi Ski Oy, which manages the Tornimäki ski resort in Mikkeli, previously acquired ski lifts, snow grooming equipment, and rental gear from Mielakka’s bankruptcy estate. The city aims to sign a 10-year lease agreement with Hupi Ski, starting as early as October 1. The estimated annual turnover for the operator is €400,000–500,000, with the city paying an annual fee of approximately €120,900.