Finnish frequency converter manufacturer Vacon is building a 4,000m² factory alongside its existing plant in Vaasa, Finland, doubling its manufacturing area. The new building, due to be completed next autumn, will also include 1,500m² of offices.

Vacon says the expansion is needed to continue its growth and to secure its position in the global market. The company, established in 1993, has boosted its sales 15-fold in the past five years. Last year, Vacon`s income was around £26.4m, with 80% of this coming from exports. In the first half of this year, its sales were 50% up on the same period in 1999.