Page 74 - Port of Kokkola Handbook & Directory

INDuSTRY & COMMERCEKewatec AluBoat Oy AbAluminium boat builder, Kewatec AluBoat, with premises on the edge of the port of Kokkola, has become the number one manufacturer in its sector. Founded almost 20 years ago and now employing 50 staff at its 3,000 m2 site and with a turnover of nearly €10 million, Kewatec specialises in building quality boats for the most demanding conditions. Its customers include pilotage companies, rescue departments, shipping organisations and entrepreneurs from across Europe and – more recently, Asia.material per hour and can be used for almost any product. It is expected to cost in the region of €500,000.Hannu Sarja, its Managing Director. By the mid-2000s staff numbers had risen to 14 personnel and a further six by 2017. The company is now seeking four more bright new mechanical design and engineering experts to join the organisation, bringing staff numbers to 24.Jens Ahlskog, Chief Executive, Kewatec AluBoat Oy AbMerius is also involved in a warehouse modernisation programme aimed at refurbishing some of Kokkola’s older structures in all three ports using steel to reinforce the buildings and extend their working life for another 30 years or more.Merius’ clients include process, bio- energy, product and food manufacturing companies plus others based in the Kokkola Industrial Park including Yara, Woikoski, Neste Oil, Rauanheimo, Freeport Cobalt and Europe’s second largest zinc smelter operated by Boliden Kokkola. lThe company’s branch of industry includes plant design, mechanical design, 3D measuring, surveying and project management services. When Merius first began trading in 2003 there was just one member of staff –The majority of all boats built in Finland are constructed in the Ostrobothnia region and about 75% of those boats are exported. The number of boat design and production companies in the Kokkola region is huge, including part manufacturers, sub-suppliers, design offices and specialised maritime expertise. Being an active part of this network has been one of the reasons for Kewatec AluBoat’s success.72One third of the company’s sales are to commercial organisations ordering work boats, passenger vessels and leisure yachts but public procurementPORT OF KOKKOLA HANDBOOK & DIRECTORYMerius Oy