OSTP in Jakobstad, Finland, is pushing into the future through significant investments. A new production line, more space and digitalization projects are all part of what’s going on in the company.
Forward-thinking strategy
OSTP is developing to become even stronger and more sustainable, both as an employer and as a supplier of stainless steel pipes and fittings, which are used in the process industry and elsewhere.
“Our strategy leads the way in terms of productivity, flexibility and cost efficiency. Our focus is on data and digitalization, the processes around our working methods and our personnel. It is very important for us that our personnel feel good, develop and can work in a safe and secure way,” says Thomas Pettersson, Managing Director of OSTP in Jakobstad.
Room to grow – OSTP invests in new facilities
OSTP has invested in more space by buying the adjacent buildings that previously belonged to the company Japrotek.
“We are very pleased that Japrotek’s buildings will be part of OSTP’s property in the future. The need to secure more space has been present for a long time,” says Pettersson. “In addition to Japrotek’s buildings, the purchase also includes several machines that will be used within the OSTP Group. The buildings will be handed over in May.”
Pettersson continues, “Japrotek was originally part of OSTP but was sold in 1988. One could say that the circle is now closed, and it is particularly good to get back the ‘A-hall’, as it was previously called. The purchase of Japrotek’s buildings supports our strategy and allows us to optimize our operations, giving us the space we need for further growth.”
“This is a strategic investment for the future. We are therefore not in a hurry to fill the hall but will instead take enough time to plan and develop the best concept for us,” Pettersson clarifies. “The new building makes it possible to explore different scenarios to find an optimal layout that will support efficient production and logistics in the factory of the future. With an addition of over 6,000 square metres Iof production space and 8 hectares of property next to our current factory site, we are securing room for expansion in the future.”
New production line for elbows
Another major investment at OSTP in Jakobstad is the acquisition of an additional production line for stainless steel elbows.
“OSTP is already the leading producer of butt weld fittings in Europe, but with this investment we are further strengthening our position and securing opportunities for long-term growth,” Pettersson says.“The new production line will manufacture stainless steel elbows in diameters over 200 mm, an area where the current production capacity is reaching its limit. It will therefore come in handy while also opening up opportunities for further development of butt weld Fittings production.”
Development Manager Alfred Sjöholm, responsible for the implementation of the project, adds, “The project is challenging and interesting in that the level of automation will be high and provides the opportunity to develop new production technologies.”
The BEAST development project – a digital boost in a traditional industry
OSTP has also launched a comprehensive digitalization project, called Project BEAST. Introduced at the end of last year, the development means major investments in the company. The project is partly funded by Business Finland, an organization that supports the growth of businesses in Finland.
“By making data available to support integrated processes, the project means potential for improving efficiency and sustainability in our business model and operations,” says Anders Brännbacka, Operations Development Manager in Jakobstad and responsible for the entire project.
More information:
Thomas Pettersson
Managing Director, OSTP Jakobstad
