Isku initiates change negotiations affecting 400 employees in Lahti, Finland

A furniture company in Lahti, Isku, is currently undergoing change negotiations that affect around 400 employees in Finland, primarily at its factories and headquarters in Lahti. These negotiations may result in layoffs, terminations, and alterations to job roles and employment terms. According to preliminary estimates, the need to reduce staff could be as much as 24 full-time positions.

The company has already implemented layoffs at various points over the past two years. Isku’s CEO, Mikko Hämäläinen, stated that the ongoing negotiations are aimed at improving the company’s profitability. He noted a decrease in investments from businesses and less disposable income for consumers, leading to uncertainty about future market conditions. Although a drop in interest rates and a potential market rebound are anticipated, various risks remain regarding their realization and impact on the Finnish market.

Hämäläinen refrained from providing further details on the negotiations, which are expected to continue until the end of September. He mentioned that the company’s business is highly seasonal, with peak activity during the summer and year-end. This summer has been particularly busy at the Lahti factory.

Most of Isku’s furniture is designed for public spaces such as schools, offices, healthcare facilities, and industries. On an international scale, demand has seen a slight uptick, with recent orders coming from Southeast and Central Asia, particularly for furnishing and designing private schools.