Suolahti faces factory closures as Metsä Group and Valtra announce job cuts in Central Finland

The small town of Suolahti in Central Finland is facing significant challenges as it confronts two major blows within two days. On Thursday, Metsä Group announced the closure of its veneer factory, a cornerstone of the community for over a century, putting 370 jobs at risk. The following day, tractor manufacturer Valtra revealed plans to possibly cut up to 60 jobs at its Suolahti facility.

Local resident Seppo Virtanen expressed concern over the impact on his family, with both his sons employed at the affected companies. One son has worked at the veneer factory for years and faces an uncertain future. The other had previously been laid off from Valtra and was in temporary employment.

Despite plans for a new particle board factory in nearby Äänekoski, Virtanen is skeptical about promises of job opportunities. “We’ve heard similar assurances before, but ultimately only a small number find employment,” he said.

Tuukka Lampinen, a 21-year-old lifelong resident of Suolahti, feels the community’s future appears bleak. Many local services have moved ten kilometers away to Äänekoski since Suolahti’s annexation to the larger city in 2007. “We’re facing losses, even with other factories around,” he commented.

Irene Nahkala, also from Suolahti, noted the emotional toll of the factory closures on the community, revealing that many family members, including her father and brother, have worked in the industry. She hopes for new job opportunities in the town.

Mayor Matti Tuononen remains optimistic, stating that the city is actively pursuing funding and collaborating with various organizations to address the economic fallout. He emphasized the urgency of supporting the 430 workers affected by the factory closures and expressed determination to navigate these challenges quickly.