Isku opens new store in Turku as competitor exits market

Finnish furniture retailer Isku has opened a new store in Turku, benefiting from reduced competition after rival Indoor Group, owner of Asko and Sotka, exited the market, the company’s operational director Ilari Jääskeläinen told Yle.

Indoor Group’s departure has temporarily eased market pressure, Jääskeläinen said, though he noted the long-term impact remains positive. The company, which underwent restructuring earlier this year, has also seen significant improvements in profitability.

Isku’s restructuring program, approved by Päijät-Häme District Court in February, included closing six unprofitable brick-and-mortar stores, cutting costs in facilities and staffing. The company is now negotiating for additional new retail locations.

Jääskeläinen cited multiple challenges in recent years, including the economic fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has dampened consumer spending. High interest rates, stagnant housing sales, rising fuel prices, and global security uncertainties have also weighed on furniture demand.

Some customers have questioned long delivery times for Isku products. Jääskeläinen clarified that most items are made to order, with typical lead times of 5–9 weeks, extending further during factory summer holidays.