Page 71 - Port of Kokkola Handbook & Directory

Luke targets infrastructure co- operation to utilise each other’s equipment, and will network with students and researchers,” she adds.Kokkola Industrial ParkECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTOlli-Matti Airiola, Executive Manager, KIP Service OYAccording Ms. Buchert, locating Luke in Kokkola opens many possibilities for the region. “Our resources are not just locally in the province, but Luke will roll in to help the business life and enterprises of the region with the strength and know-how of an organisation of 1,300 people. We firmly believe that Finland will be a global winner in bioeconomy with the help of research. When research networks work tightly with business, winning formulas are born.” lKokkola Industrial Park (KIP) is the largest chemistry cluster in the Nordic countries and one of Europe’s key inorganic production sites. Thanks to its well-developed logistical connections, synergy and positive atmosphere for industry, some of the world’s top chemical industries have chosen to relocate to KIP.Originally founded in 1945 as a site for two major companies – aluminium company Outokumpu and chemical company Kemira – the structure and ownership of the companies has changed and today more than 80enterprises are active in the area, directly employing 2,200 staff on a 700-hectare site. A further 70 hectaresHANDBOOK & DIRECTORY PORT OF KOKKOLA 69KIP