The Helsinki-based supplier of raw materials and chemicals will add a new storage facility in Loviisa, slated for opening this year, and new tank capacity in Kokkola (2027).
In the Port of Kokkola's Deep Harbour, Berner Industries will erect two sodium hydroxide storage tanks linked to a liquid terminal.
"In its environmental permit application, the company states that up to 230,000 tonnes of sodium hydroxide will be stored in Kokkola each year. The product will be imported by ship from the EU and the United States. Sodium hydroxide is used in sectors such as the chemical and metal industries as well as the pulp and paper industry," the Port of Kokkola shared on its LinkedIn profile.
Olli-Pekka Taivalmaa, Sales Support Director at Berner Industries, added, "Thanks to its central location, we are able to serve several industrial sectors in Finland from Kokkola using tank truck and rail transport. As a company, we also aim to expand our presence in the Kokkola region, which is why we acquired Voda Nordic, a manufacturer of water treatment chemicals located in Kokkola Industrial Park, last summer."
His company is already present in the Port of Pori's Tahkoluoto Harbour, where it has two tanks for the storage of various liquid chemicals. "Automation and process systems have been further developed to ensure that logistics within the port area run smoothly and reliably 24/7, every day of the year," Taivalmaa highlighted.
The Loviisa-Kokkola investments will increase Berner Industries' storage capacity from 25,000 to 45,000 m3. "Through these investments, we are strengthening our ability to serve our customers even better and more flexibly. The expanded tank capacity, combined with the strategic locations of our ports, supports both industrial supply security and sustainable growth," said Mika Pirhonen, EVP, Berner Industries.
Photo: Port of Kokkola