05.08.25 • Veli-Pekka Ristola, Managing Director of SEW-EURODRIVE Oy from 1976 to 2009, shares memories from the early days of the company in Finland – a time when tools and communication methods were very different, and sales work required a strong physical presence at the customer’s site, without the support of today’s digital technologies.
The story of SEW in Finland began in the 1960s, when ENWE Oy in Lahti supplied SEW drive systems to production lines in the forest industry. At the time, Veli-Pekka Ristola worked in ENWE’s drive systems department. Later, ENWE merged with Raute Oy, and in 1975 SEW decided to establish a subsidiary in Finland – thus, SEW-EURODRIVE Oy was born.
The following year, when Veli-Pekka Ristola joined SEW-EURODRIVE Oy, the company had only a handful of employees. Sales work was intensive, involving frequent travel and customer visits. Communication with Germany was handled via telex – there were no fax machines or mobile phones yet. The first years were about survival, but gradually customers began to recognize the high quality of SEW drive systems entering the Finnish market.
In 1980, a decisive step was taken: SEW-EURODRIVE established an Drive Technology Center in Hollola. The decision was made swiftly in cooperation with Germany – a suitable plot was found in Hollola, and an architect began designing the new premises. The following spring, construction began, and by December 1981, the new Drive Technology Center was completed.
"That’s the way things work in a family business – swift and determined decision-making."
SEW-EURODRIVE’s growth in Finland was no coincidence – it was driven by several key factors. One of the most significant was the decision to establish a local Drive Technology Center. When a gearmotor could be delivered within just a few hours if needed, customer satisfaction quickly increased.
Another crucial factor was the strong and agile parent company, which provided support, resources, and placed trust in local operations. This laid a solid foundation for long-term development. Success was further accelerated by a committed and motivated team, with virtually no staff turnover. A strong sense of community and a hands-on attitude were evident in everyday work.
At the heart of it all were SEW’s excellent products. The modular concept developed as early as the 1960s enabled centralized manufacturing of components and decentralized assembly. This combination made operations fast, flexible, and customer-oriented – and became a major competitive advantage.
"To all employees, I extend my heartfelt thanks – you have done outstanding work. This remarkable 50-year journey would not have been possible without your commitment and exemplary performance."
"I want to thank the company’s stakeholders and customers for the excellent cooperation over the years."Veli-Pekka Ristola