Month: August 2025

28.8.2025 09:00

Press releases

A new apprenticeship model is being piloted in the commerce sector – salary increases as degrees progress

The Finnish Commerce Federation and the Service Union United PAM have launched a pilot for the new apprenticeship model. The aim of the pilot, which takes place in technical trade, is to attract students’ interest in technical trade and, thereby, meet the sector’s demand for labour. In addition, the pilot will test whether the new salary model can inspire students to participate in apprenticeship training and encourage companies to offer apprenticeships.

18.8.2025 10:00

Press releases

The benefit of the over-the-counter medicine reform for consumers may not be realised

The Finnish Commerce Federation supports the liberalisation of the sale of over-the-counter medicines outside pharmacies, as in the other Nordic countries. However, in the model proposed by the government, the benefits for consumers threaten to be minor. The range to be liberated should be expanded and the sales operating model should be significantly corrected.

13.8.2025 12:13

Press releases

Finnish Commerce Federation: The budget session to make decisions to support growth and purchasing power

The Finnish Commerce Federation emphasises the importance of the decisions made during the budget session in strengthening economic growth and purchasing power. The government must promote private consumption and support the introduction of innovations and economic reform. In addition, effective measures are needed to combat unfair competition in e-commerce and to streamline regulations in order to secure the competitiveness and renewal of the commerce sector.

4.8.2025 14:00

Press releases

The turnaround in the growth of commerce will be postponed to next year

According to the Finnish Commerce Federation’s forecast, the growth of commerce will only start to show next year when geopolitical changes keep both consumers and wholesale trade customer companies cautious. Although the declining employment situation has increased the caution of consumers, the increasing purchasing power is gradually starting to be reflected in retail sector sales. However, the employment rate of the private sector’s by far largest employer, commerce, continues to decline. Political decision-makers should remember that significant growth in employment is difficult to achieve without vital commerce and other service sectors.