The lure and values

Kärkkäinen Oy

Kärkkäinen Oy is a Finnish family-owned company based in Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland.

During the financial year ending on January 31, 2025, the Kärkkäinen Group reported revenue of €339.7 million and a profit of €16.8 million.

Known for its extensive product range and competitive pricing, the Kärkkäinen department store chain consists of five large stores located in Ylivieska, Lahti, Oulu, Ii, and Jyväskylä. In addition, customers can shop online at www.karkkainen.com. With a selection of more than 400,000 products, Kärkkäinen offers the latest innovations as well as the most recognized brands.

The company's largest store to date was opened in Lahti in 2009. Kärkkäinen's story began in 1988 with a mobile retail store operating in Northern Ostrobothnia. Following its success, the first permanent department store was established in Ylivieska in 1991. Operations later expanded to Oulu in 1999, Ii in 2007, and Jyväskylä in 2017.

The Group also includes machinery stores, automotive service centers, fuel stations, the Lounas Majakka restaurant, FreshBurger restaurants, and Suomi Trading Oy, an import and wholesale company. Kärkkäinen's online store was launched in 2007.

Welcome to Kärkkäinen – the department store for affordable shopping.

Family-Owned Business Employing Approximately 800 People

Kärkkäinen Oy is a privately owned family company owned by Juha and Leena Kärkkäinen. One of the company's most important values is its Finnish identity – maintaining its operations and jobs within Finland. The company pays its taxes in Finland and employs approximately 800 customer service professionals across the country.

The company's headquarters are located in Ylivieska. Its five major department stores are situated in Ylivieska, Lahti, Oulu, Ii, and Jyväskylä. The company's operations also include its rapidly growing online store, www.karkkainen.com.

KauppaSuomi

The company publishes KauppaSuomi, Finland's largest free-distribution newspaper. Kärkkäinen's own advertising publication is distributed alongside it. Each issue reaches more than 369,000 households.

Suomi Trading Oy

Suomi Trading Oy specializes in wholesale operations and business-to-business sales. The company serves retailers throughout Finland with a broad product range that continues to grow in both selection and popularity.

Its wholesale product categories include tools, toys, home décor products, automotive accessories, and sporting goods, many of which are imported by the Group in large volumes.

Kärkkäinen Oy Values and Code of Ethics

The operations of Kärkkäinen Oy (hereinafter referred to as "the Company" or "Kärkkäinen Oy") are guided by three core values: efficiency, cooperation, and reliability. These values have been collectively adopted and are based on the company's traditions and collaborative corporate culture.

Kärkkäinen Oy works in cooperation and interaction with employees, customers, business partners, and other stakeholders while adhering to its values and ethical principles.

Efficiency: Always Affordable Prices

Cooperation: An Outstanding Product Selection

Reliability: Professional Customer Service

The ethical principles guide Kärkkäinen Oy and its representatives in accordance with the company's purpose and values. These principles are reflected in all company operations and development activities. Employees are expected to follow these ethical principles in their daily work and decision-making.

Ethical Principles

Compliance with Laws and Regulations

Kärkkäinen Oy complies with all applicable laws and regulations, including labor legislation, environmental legislation, consumer protection laws, and product safety regulations. Employees are expected to comply with all laws and regulations relevant to the company's operations and their duties.

Employees

Kärkkäinen Oy treats its employees equally regardless of age, ethnic background, religion, or gender, while respecting their rights. Employees are expected to remain loyal to the company and avoid situations that may create conflicts of interest between themselves, their relatives, the company, or its stakeholders.

Stakeholders

Kärkkäinen Oy treats its customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders fairly and equitably. The company actively cooperates with its stakeholders.

Confidentiality

Kärkkäinen Oy is a trustworthy business partner. The company protects confidential information and materials. Employees must not disclose confidential information to unauthorized parties. Confidential information may only be used for the purpose for which it has been entrusted to the company.

Anti-Corruption

Kärkkäinen Oy does not tolerate the giving or receiving of bribes under any circumstances. Employees are prohibited from offering or accepting bribes or engaging in any other illegal actions to promote or secure business activities.

Fair Competition

Kärkkäinen Oy competes fairly and ethically in accordance with competition laws and regulations. Employees must not participate in any illegal activities that restrict competition.

Sustainable Development

Kärkkäinen Oy strives to incorporate the principles of sustainable development into its operations. The company seeks to operate in an environmentally, economically, socially, and culturally sustainable manner, contributing to a future where coming generations can enjoy good living conditions and opportunities.

For more information:

• www.karkkainen.com • www.suomitrading.fi • Company Values PDF