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\n The \u00a0Avicii Arena\u00a0 in Stockholm, where the \u00a0Ice Hockey World Championships\u00a0 took place, underwent a substantial renovation costing over \u00a090 million euros\u00a0. This extensive update included the installation of a hockey rink supplied by the Finnish company \u00a0Vepe-Icepro\u00a0, which has created job opportunities for nearly 50 employees in \u00a0Tuusula\u00a0 and \u00a0Oulais\u00a0. The company\u2019s primary factory is located in Oulais, ensuring quality and efficiency in production.<\/p>\n Kallioniemi, the current CEO of Vepe-Icepro, previously held noteworthy positions in the \u00a0SM-liiga\u00a0 and with \u00a0Lappeenrannan SaiPa\u00a0. He acknowledges the collaborative effort behind securing contracts but emphasizes the essential role of his \u00a0sales team\u00a0 in achieving these milestones.<\/p>\n Vepe-Icepro is not just a manufacturer of hockey rinks; they also produce \u00a0spectator areas\u00a0 and \u00a0changing room equipment\u00a0. The company reported a revenue of approximately \u00a012.4 million euros\u00a0 last year, reflecting a growth of over \u00a02.8 million euros\u00a0 compared to the previous year. Kallioniemi asserts that the company is on a pathway of continued growth, aimed predominantly at international markets, particularly in \u00a0North America\u00a0. Although competition is fierce, he believes that their products and customer satisfaction speak volumes.<\/p>\n Formed in June 2023, Vepe-Icepro emerged from the merger of two traditional manufacturers, \u00a0Vepe Oy\u00a0 and \u00a0Icepro Oy\u00a0. This new entity aims to leverage the strengths of both parent companies, offering a combination of rich experience and innovation in ice rink manufacturing.<\/p>\n \n An interesting aspect of Vepe-Icepro’s offering is their flagship model, which employs \u00a0LED panels\u00a0 on hockey rinks. However, these LED rinks are still scarce across the globe. For the \u00a0Avicii Arena\u00a0, a “traditional” rink was installed, complemented by suites and protective barriers commonly referred to as \u00a0plexiglass\u00a0. Kallioniemi highlights that every rink has unique requirements regarding dimensions, surrounding structures, and the access points for \u00a0ice machines\u00a0. This customization demands significant planning and project management to ensure each rink meets the specific demands of the venue.<\/p>\n Vepe-Icepro has carved out a profitable niche, achieving a profit of just over \u00a0320,000 euros\u00a0 in the last fiscal year. Kallioniemi emphasizes the importance of the company\u2019s long-standing history in the industry, proudly stating that they have been manufacturing rinks for over \u00a0fifty years\u00a0, creating more than \u00a04,000 rinks\u00a0 worldwide. However, each project presents new challenges, and proving reliability to clients remains a top priority for the firm.<\/p>\n As Kallioniemi and Vepe-Icepro move forward, they aim to not just participate but excel in the competitive landscape of sports infrastructure, particularly in \u00a0ice hockey\u00a0, showcasing the remarkable potential of Finnish innovation and craftsmanship in the global market.<\/p>\n
\n The Globen reopened in February after a renovation lasting over a year.<\/span>
\n Pasi Liesimaa<\/span>\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\nMajor Renovations and Partnerships<\/h2>\n
Growth and Expansion<\/h2>\n
A Unique Business Model<\/h2>\n
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\n Former league executive Riku Kallioniemi started his new role just over a year ago.<\/span>
\n Tomi Natri \/ AOP<\/span>\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\nAttention to Detail<\/h2>\n
A Legacy of Excellence<\/h2>\n