The South Ostrobothnia Entrepreneurs Association awarded the 2022 Regional Entrepreneur of the Year award to Jaana and Esko Hjelt.
Lapuan Kankurit, a family-run company led by the Hjelt family, has carried on Finnish weaving traditions for over a century. Founded in 1917 by Juho Annala, the company initially produced felt slippers and later expanded to weaving. By the 1930s, the company was producing high-quality textiles like wool felt for the military, and in 1973, Esko Hjelt’s parents established the company in its modern form.
Despite early struggles, including a severe downturn in the 1990s, Esko and his wife Jaana focused on creating specialty products using Jacquard weaving, which set their textiles apart. This shift helped them survive financial crises and expand their market reach, eventually building a strong presence internationally.
By the 2000s, their export business grew significantly, especially after securing design rights for Dora Jung’s textiles. This partnership marked a turning point, introducing them to new techniques and markets, including Paris and Tokyo. Lapuan Kankurit continues to focus on innovation, collaborating with institutions like Aalto University to nurture new talent.
The company’s focus is on sustainability, passing knowledge to future generations, and revitalizing Finnish textile education. Despite facing challenges such as the shortage of skilled workers, the company’s success is rooted in creativity, expertise, and a commitment to high-quality production. Esko and Jaana emphasize the importance of taking risks, building an authentic brand, and venturing beyond one’s comfort zone—lessons that have contributed to their growing success.