Promoting the Use of Finnish Potato Technologies in Northwest Russia
Funded by Euregio Karelia Neighbourhood Programme 2001-2006

Objective of the project

The goal of the project was to promote the export of Finnish potato technology in Northwest Russia. More specifically, this would be achieved by strengthening the position of Pohjoisen Kantaperuna Oy, its 37 contract farmers and 22 packaging facilities in the Northwest Russia potato-technology market. In addition, the goal was to increase and support the export activities of North Ostrobothnian companies to the Russian areas close to Finland.

Main activities

• Acquirement of IT equipment, data management system and farming planning software for all farms producing seed potatoes, • Acquirement of two weather stations for data collection for the information system, • Organisation of training regarding the acquired software, strategy training for the management, • Development of marketing by creating a Russian website and other sales support material such as offer letters and brochures, • Participation in potato seminars and exhibitions within the nearby areas, • Creation of a Russian sales agent network, researching market opportunities for Finnish food potatoes and supporting cooperation between officials by creating contacts.

Achievements

IT equipment purchases were made under the investment section of the project. In addition to this equipment, a data management system for the company office, contract packaging facilities and farms of the company’s contract growers were acquired. Farming planning software for all farms producing seed potatoes was also purchased. The software systems were intended to improve profitability and the qualitative and quantitative levels of production and to secure seed potato handling, production, storage, market preparation and delivery to customers in Finland and in export markets. The purchases were used to improve data collection, handling, and planning and its associated documentation. The operational section of the project supported the use of the acquired software through training. In addition, strategy training was completed for management and personnel were encouraged to actively engage in learning. To support the marketing, a Russian website was created along with other sales support material, and these were utilised during the project. For example, the project was responsible for mailing offer letters and brochures in order to increase Finnish potato knowledge, and potato seminars and exhibitions were participated in within the nearby area. The project also focused on creating a Russian sales agent network, researching market opportunities for Finnish food potatoes and supporting cooperation between officials by creating contacts. Communication with officials in Russia has also been active. The project goals were mostly achieved, although company reorganisation created difficulties in managing the project and illustrated new development needs, which caused the project focus to change slightly. Essential functions for the company could be completed and goals achieved using the project’s support. The activities of the project continued as a part of normal company operations. In addition, a new quality project for the company and its contract facilities was started.