Kuomiokoski Oy to invest €3.5 million in production expansion in Mäntyharju, South Savo

Kuomiokoski Oy, the Finnish footwear manufacturer known for its Kuoma winter boots, is making a significant investment in Mäntyharju, South Savo. The company plans to expand its production facilities by 2,000 square meters, with an investment valued at €3.5 million. This expansion will include the acquisition of shoe sole machines and is expected to create an additional 5 to 10 jobs.

Antti Puttonen, CEO of Kuomiokoski Oy, expressed confidence in the continued appeal of winter boots. “This investment allows us to continue producing high-quality products,” he stated. Over half of the company’s production is sold domestically, while the remainder is exported to around twenty countries, primarily in the Nordic and Baltic regions. The flagship product remains the knee-high winter boot.

The downturn in exports to Russia has affected the demand for these boots, prompting the company to lay off some employees this year. Puttonen acknowledged the challenges faced but emphasized the importance of maintaining faith in the future.

Production currently takes place at two sites: Ristiina, which employs about 70 workers, and Mäntyharju, with around 20 employees. Construction on the new facility will begin in September, with a completion target set for next summer. The new machines are slated to commence operations in 2026.

The project will receive approximately €1 million in public funding, including €620,000 from the European Regional Development Fund. Kuomiokoski Oy is one of Finland’s oldest shoe manufacturers, having been established in 1928.