Functional Premises and Skilled Professionals – FCG Gained More from Lahti than Expected
19.3.2025
The long established consultancy firm sees significant business potential in the Lahti region. Opening an office in the city centre brought FCG an unexpected but positive bonus.
FCG Finnish Consulting Group is a Finnish multidisciplinary consultancy that has served Finnish companies and the public sector for 75 years. Last spring, after more than a decade, the company once again opened an office in Lahti.
“We operate in a field where there is demand especially in major growth centres, such as Lahti, so establishing an office here made sense. Previously my main base was in Käpylä, and several consultants travelled from Lahti to Helsinki,” says Ville Nikkilä, Head of Environmental Studies.
Very quickly a unit of nearly twenty environmental, nature and climate experts has quietly formed in Lahti. In less than a year, ten new specialists have joined the original team of eight. The consultants work, among other things, on various nature, climate and impact assessments as well as environmental permit processes.
“We help companies with a wide range of matters requiring studies and planning, such as choosing suitable energy systems, preparing yard and traffic plans, conducting soil surveys, planning green investments and wastewater treatment solutions,” Nikkilä explains.
For now, most of the workload comes from outside the Lahti economic area, but Nikkilä believes this will change.
“The Lahti region has enormous potential, particularly as a hub for the green transition and circular economy.”
Taking Lahti Onboard with Help from LADEC
Lahti has turned out to be an even better location for FCG than anticipated. In addition to its excellent location, new recruitment opportunities have opened up.
“We have come across top level local experts who are not willing to commute to Helsinki. As a result, we have grown in business areas we never even expected to expand to in Lahti.”
The office location in the heart of Lahti ensures easy accessibility by public transport, bicycle, or car. In addition to the location, the Crazy Town office concept receives praise.
“The facilities and services work well, and starting in a ready made space was much easier than organising everything from cleaning to internet connections ourselves. The premises have also adapted well to our rapid growth.”
Nikkilä praises the support from LADEC in finding suitable premises.
The development company has also assisted in shaping operational models and networking with companies and local actors.
“LADEC’s team has helped us get acquainted with Lahti. They have nudged us in the right direction and acted as a facilitator, lowering our threshold to progress and providing a clearer view of the operational environment,” Nikkilä says.
Marian Vainiomäki from LADEC’s relocation services is delighted to have supported FCG in establishing and integrating into the Lahti region.
“When you consider your company’s needs – expansion, new premises, plots, partnerships – contact LADEC’s relocation services. Whatever the question or the size of your company, we will find solutions, answer your concerns, and support your business also after relocation.”
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Text: Johanna Autio
Photo: Petri Koivisto