VTT and KCL sign a letter of intent to integrate the research and laboratory operations of KCL to VTT

06-Feb-2009 - Finland

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and KCL (Oy Keskuslaboratorio – Centrallaboratorium Ab) have signed a letter of intent to combine their research and laboratory operations. The letter of intent includes a review of the possibilities of integrating the research and laboratory functions of KCL into VTT's research and service operations. For KCL, the letter of intent applies to approximately 160 employees, 110 of which work in research and development and 50 in laboratory operations. The objective is that the personnel transfer to VTT as existing employees. The final agreement will be signed in May 2009.

The intended reorganisation relates to the development of the research organisation of the entire forest industry. The integration aims at creating a strong, efficiently networked innovation centre for the new forest industry. The solid knowledge of the forest industry that KCL already possesses will be extended to new areas of growth, such as bioenergy and biorefineries, printed intelligent products and new material technologies. VTT's extensive technological know-how and the ability to combine various competencies create excellent prerequisites for expanding operations. Integration of the KCL research operations and laboratory services into VTT will also strengthen VTT's research and service resources on areas of strategic importance, as well as create an opportunity for growth.

The rest of KCL will remain an independent company, continuing operations as the owner of its Otaniemi facilities and pilot plant as well as the owner of Kymen Laboratorio Oy. Approximately 90 people will continue to be employed by KCL.

The full implementation of the project will require funding from the Finnish government and the approval of the Ministry of Employment and the Economy as well as VTT's Board of Directors.

https://www.bionity.com/en/news/95906/vtt-and-kcl-sign-a-letter-of-intent-to-integrate-the-research-and-laboratory-operations-of-kcl-to-vtt.html