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Nokian Renkaat Oyj

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FY2014 Annual Report · Nokian Renkaat Oyj
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Annual Report 2014

Content 

Highlights of the year 

Letter from the President and CEO 

Nokian Tyres in 2014 and Key Figures 

Strategy 

Corporate Responsibility 

Personnel 

Business Environment 

Market areas 

Nokian Passenger Car Tyres 

R&D and testing 

New products and innovations 

Forerunner already for 80 years 

Production 

Marketing 

Customers 

Sales and distribution 

Vianor 

Nokian Heavy Tyres 

Management 

Board of Directors 

Key figures 

Consolidated Income Statement 

3

4

6

7

11

13

14

16

18

20

23

30

32

33

34

35

36

38

40

41

42

43

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position  44

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement 

Investor information 

45

46

Drive  
safely!

Our unique expertise creates the 

safest and best products and services 

for the everyday life. As a pioneer in 

the tyre industry, we want to be the 

best in everything we do!

Highlights of the year

Market leader 
in the Nordic 
countries and 
Russia

Nokian Tyres is the only tyre manufacturer in 

riences and independent test results, strong 

the world focusing on products and services that 

distribution  network,  and  good  logistics 

facilitate safe transport in Nordic conditions. Its 

competence. 

innovative tyres for passenger cars, trucks, and 

We mainly sell our products in the after-

heavy machinery are mainly marketed in areas 

market. Our group includes the Vianor tyre 

that are home to snow, forest, and demanding 

retail chain, which offers wholesale and retail 

driving conditions due to changing seasons. 

services in Nokian Tyres’ primary markets. 

The company develops its products with an 

Nokian  Tyres  has  factories  in  Finland  and 

emphasis on sustainable safety and eco-friend-

Russia. In 2005–2014, we invested more than 

liness throughout the products’ life cycle.

€1 billion in our factories, whose producti-

Nokian Hakkapeliitta is the leading winter 

vity and product quality are by far the best 

tyre brand in the Nordic countries and Russia. 

in the industry.

Nokian  Tyres’  position  as  the  market  and 

In 2014, the company’s revenue was appro-

price leader stems from the company’s key 

ximately  EUR  1,4  billion,  and  it  employed 

competitive advantages: a solid reputation 

4,200 people at the end of the year. Nokian 

for quality formed by decades of user expe-

Tyres’ stock is listed on the NASDAQ Helsinki.

Highlights of 
the year

30%

The new Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 model for 
electric cars has the world’s lowest rolling resis-
tance for a winter tyre – up to 30% lower than 
its competitors.    

93%
50+
490 new 

test 
wins

stores

93% of users who posted a product review 
would recommend Nokian tyres to others.

Nokian car tyres scored more than 50 test 
wins in the Nordic countries, Russia, and 
Central Europe

Our NAD network and the new N-Tyre 
chain grew by a total of 490 stores.

3

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Letter from CEO

The difficult financial situation in Russia impacted us 
We will return to growth through 
our strengthened product portfolio 
and extended distribution network

Dear reader,

Our activities last year were considerably affected by the financial 

situation in Russia. The weakened economy, a strong decline in oil 

prices, and the swift devaluation of the ruble led to a change in 

buyer behavior and a substantial decline in sales in Russia and the 

rest of the CIS. The financial uncertainty in the world is resuming; 

in addition to Russia, especially in Europe. The US is one of the few 

drivers of global growth, while China is seeking new ways to grow. 

Overall, Asia continues to retain substantial growth potential. 

Despite the weak market, we strengthened our market leader-

ship in Russia. The delivery volumes remained nearly at the previous 

year’s level. However, the decline in the euro value of sales was 

substantial. We were able to compensate this by improving our 

market position in Central Europe and especially in North America. 

The Central European market was negatively affected by the record-

breaking winter temperatures. In the Nordic countries, our year was 

once again successful. 

4

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Letter from CEO

The average price of our products fell  due to changes in the 

Our products dominated the winter tyre tests in the automotive 

The  Vianor  stores  owned  by  our  group  achieved  nearly  EUR 

value of a number of currencies and the development of the 

media, securing nearly all of the most important test wins in the 

315 million in revenue and turned a profit. Gradually, we will be 

sales mix in Russia and the CIS. On the other hand, the devalu-

Nordic countries and Russia. Additionally, I want to emphasize the 

increasing the share of car service in our activities, which will allow 

ation of the ruble helped us in terms of costs, as did the signifi-

Central European winter tyre tests; success in these tests paves the 

us to even out the workload over the year. Excellent customer service 

cant decrease in the prices of raw materials. However, the latter 

way for increasing our awareness and sales in these markets. Our 

combined with professional skill will support our growth and profit-

made pricing globally more challenging, and was one factor that 

new summer tyre range also increasingly scored test wins in our 

ability improvement into the future.

pulled our Average Selling Price downwards. In total, our produc-

core markets and in Central Europe in the spring of 2014. 

The heavy tyres market, which is very important to us, had a 

tion remained at the previous year’s level and the productivity of 

In September 2014, Nokian Tyres introduced five new SUV summer 

positive year. Especially the forest segment grew, and we were able 

our factories continued to increase.

tyres and renewed its van tyre range. In December, we launched a 

to strengthen our position. The winter tyre legislation is improving 

Our profits fell, but we still remained profitable and produced 

winter tyre for electric cars, the world’s first with an A class rolling 

and it now covers heavy traffic in many of our target countries. In 

strong cash flow. The company has no net liabilities and it has a 

resistance rating. The private and professional users of our products 

Finland and Russia, however, the legislators still have some work to 

strong balance. The quality of our activities is at a good level, and 

are enjoying safer driving than ever before. At the same time, their 

do. The revenue and profitability of our heavy tyres business unit 

I know we can continue to improve our market positions in 2015.

driving comfort is at a high level and less energy is being consumed. 

improved commendably during the second half of the year, since 

Looking forward,  
stronger than ever 

Our product range is now better than ever. This year, this will be seen 

we were able to start utilizing our new machine investments and 

in our customer satisfaction, sales, and market shares. 

increase our production volumes.    

We continued expanding our distribution network in 2014 by 

Capacity increases were not required for passenger car tyres, which 

opening 149 new Vianor outlets; the total number grew to 1,355 

allowed us to keep investments at a low level. This improved our cash 

establishments in 27 countries. In Russia, the Nokian Tyres’ distri-

flow. We are also prepared to respond to market growth by quickly 

The challenges we have faced have only strengthened our deter-

bution partner network consists of 3,600 tyre and vehicle dealer-

increasing production without making large investments. 

mination to move forward. Our product range continues to receive 

ships. Our new and lighter partnership model, the Nokian Tyres 

In times of financial uncertainty, it is especially important to focus 

praise from the press and our customers, our distribution network 

Authorized Dealer (NAD) also grew; a total of 869 cooperation 

on the key issues: our customers and the further development of our 

continues to grow and our own organization further develops 

contracts have been signed in Europe and China. The number of 

personnel. I wish to thank all of our customers for their faith in us, 

every day. We believe in strong growth in North America and 

Vianor and NAD outlets will continue to grow in 2015. In Russia and 

and for the excitement that they have expressed toward our extended 

Central Europe, while strengthening our positions in the difficult 

Kazakhstan, we have launched the N-Tyre chain totaling 53 sales 

product range. I also want to thank our personnel for their excellent 

Russian and CIS markets and holding our strong position in the 

outlets. Strong distribution is one of our most important compet-

efforts in this challenging environment. We will continue our work 

Nordic countries. 

itive advantages.

in the Hakkapeliitta spirit and in very close cooperation with our 

customers. This, and the continuous improvement of our competence 

and activities, will ensure that our success story continues.

Ari Lehtoranta

5

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Nokian Tyres in 2014 and Key figures

The plunge of the ruble weakened revenue 
Positive development on 
the Western markets

Nokian Tyres improved its market share in all the 

main markets.  The company has the strongest 

brand, price position, and distribution in its core 

markets, the Nordic countries and Russia. 

The year 2014

The company’s car tyre sales volumes followed the 2013 level, 

Profitability decreased but remained on a fairly good level, with 

and the market share improved in all the main markets. In 

the operating profit percentage at 22.2%. A 16.5% decrease in raw 

Key figures, 
IFRS

EUR million

Net sales 

Operating profit

  % net sales 

Profit before tax 

  % of net sale

Return on capital employed (ROI), % 

Return on equity (ROE), % 

2014

2013 change%

1,389.1

1,521.0

-8.7

308.7

385.5*

-19.9

22.2

25.3

261.2

312.8

-16.5

18.8

19.2

16.0

20.6

21.8

13.0

Interest bearing net debt 

-164.6

-56.4

-191.9

  % of net sales 

general, the Western markets are developing positively, and 

material costs provided a benefit of EUR 64 million compared to the 

Gross investments

Nokian Tyres grew clearly in North America. In the East, the 

previous year. Margins were further supported by decreased fixed 

Russian and Ukrainian crisis, the strong decline in oil prices, 

costs and improved productivity. 

and the depreciation of local currencies in relation to the 

Nokian Tyres had a strong cash flow of EUR 458.3 million. The 

global currencies caused financial difficulties in Russia and 

company has a strong balance and it had no net liabilities at the end 

the CIS countries. The business environment was challenging, 

of the year. The dividend remained at €1.45 per share.

  % of net sales 

Net cash flow from operating 
activities

Earnings/share, EUR 

and the revenue of Nokian Tyres decreased 8.7% as a result of 

Nokian  Tyres  made  significant  improvements  to  its  product 

Cash flow per share (CFPS), EUR 

the devaluation of sales currencies, consumers’ shift towards 

offering by introducing five new SUV summer tyres and renewing its 

Shareholders equity per share, EUR 

cheaper segment B tyres in Russia, and price reductions due 

van tyre range. The company’s products had a record year in maga-

to lower raw material costs. The currencies’ negative impact 

zine tests with more than 50 wins in summer and winter tyre tests 

on our revenue was nearly EUR 100 million. 

in the Nordic countries, Russia, and Central Europe. The high quality 

The business of Vianor and Heavy Tyres developed positively. 

of the company’s products is generally recognized, which supports 

Equity ratio, % 

Personnel, average  
during the year

The company’s distribution network expanded as planned.

the positive development of its price position.

*) Incl. bad debt provision of 14.3 M€

-11.8

80.6

5.8

-0.9

125.6

-35.8

8.3

323.4

317.6

1.8

12.9

1.4

1.39

2.39

10.45

-13.1

67.6

1.56

2.43

9.07

67.5

4,272

4,194

6

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategy

Hakkapeliitta Way  
– Road to success

We exist, so that our customers could have the world’s 

safest and best-quality tyres. Our values are the basic 

foundations for all activities, and the focusing strategy 

provides a direction for the choices that we make. The 

values and strategy become the goals that we aim at, 

and that will continue to bring us international growth 

and success. We build success together by working hard 

and developing all our operations and products.

7

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Strategy

Our strategic 
focus

1. Northern conditions

2. Narrow product segments

We are the only tyre manufacturer in 
the world focusing on customer needs 
and  products  specific  to  northern 
conditions. We market our products in 
regions where there are snow, forests 
and  demanding  driving  conditions 
caused by changing seasons.

Our  special  expertise  in  northern  conditions 
creates  added  value  for  our  customers.  We 
utilise our special competence in narrow product 
segments like passenger car winter tyres and 
forestry tyres. Our other main products include 
light truck and SUV tyres, winter tyres for trucks 
as well as harbour and mining machinery tyres.

3. Replacement markets

4. Efficient distribution

All  our  Nokian-branded  passenger 
car tyres and approximately 60% of 
our heavy tyres are sold in replace-
ment markets through special tyre 
outlets, car dealers and other compa-
nies engaged in the tyre trade.

The Vianor chain is spearheading the growth of 
our company. Direct contact with the consumer 
gives us valuable information about the wishes 
and  needs  of  end-users.  Efficient  distribution 
ensures successful season management as well 
as management of possible risks. We want the 
users of our products and services to be the most 
satisfied customers in the world.

8

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Strategy

Key strategic 
objectives

Our focusing strategy creates goals that enable 

our company to be the best in the industry.

Number one in premium tyres in 
core markets

The best processes

•  Our key processes and our business network are efficient  

and represent the cutting edge in the industry

•  We are the market leader in premium tyres in the 

•  Our organization is lean and fixed costs grow slower than sales

Nordic countries, Russia and other CIS countries

•  We uphold the principles of the responsible citizen  

•  We are the forerunner in our core products and we 

in all of our activities

have a globally strong position in niche segments

Personnel satisfaction

Customer satisfaction

Shareholder satisfaction

•  Nokian Tyres is a respected and attractive employer

•  We know the end users of our tyres, their needs 

•  We are the most profitable tyre manufacturer and 

•  Our personnel are highly skilled and motivated

and wishes. We offer our customers only the best

tyre distributor in the industry with good share 

•  Our personnel have the desire to continuously develop 

•  We have the industry’s best services, the highest 

price development and dividend policy

their personal skills and our company

customer satisfaction and loyalty

•  We grow our company and profits through 

increasing sales, expanding distribution, strong 

pricing position and high productivity

9

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Strategy

Values guide  
and support  
our strategy

Our company culture is called ”Hakkapeliitta Spirit” 

which includes the following values:

Entrepreneurship = Will to win

We thirst for profit, we are quick and brave. 
We set ambitious objectives and perform our 
work with persistence and perseverance. We 
are dynamic and punctual, and we always 
make customer satisfaction our first priority.

Team spirit = Will to fight

We work in an atmosphere of genuine joy 
and action. We work as a team, relying on 
each other and supporting each other, offe-
ring constructive feedback when needed. We 
embrace differences, and we also encourage 
our team members to individually pursue 
winning performances.

Inventiveness = 
Will to survive

We have the skill to survive and excel, even 
in the most challenging circumstances. Our 
competence is based on creativity and inquisi-
tiveness, and the nerve to question the status 
quo. We are driven by a will to learn, develop 
and create something new.

10

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Sustainability

Sustainability  

Present in our 
everyday work  

The cornerstones for our actions are the high quality, 

safety, and eco-friendliness of our products as well as the 

responsible development of our company in all areas of 

business. For us, responsibility means creating safe and 

eco-friendly products, using state-of-the-art processes, 

profitable growth of our company, and the well-being 

and safety of our personnel.

In 2014, we further developed our Corporate Sustainability Report 
in accordance with the GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) guide-
lines and published the renewed report on our website. Regular 
reporting further increases the transparency and openness of our 
operation, and offers a good channel to track our activities and the 
effects of our actions on the outside world.

11

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Sustainability

Responsibility through value-based 
management

Top quality is everyone’s business

Safer work and a healthier environment

EHSQ issues – such as quality management, environmental protec-

We aim at managing the environmental impact of our products 

Throughout our company history, environmental and safety aspects 

tion, well-being at work, safety management, and protecting prop-

throughout their life cycle and addressing the safety and quality 

have been at the core of our product development, manufacture, and 

erty – are managed at the group level in our company. We use 

aspects  of  our  operations  in  a  comprehensive  and  systematic 

marketing. We take care of our personnel, customers, the economy, 

managed, effective, and carefully monitored development, procure-

manner. We strongly focus on the eco-friendliness of our products 

and environment while focusing on the safety and quality of our 

ment, and production processes for ensuring the high quality of our 

and processes. In line with the product life cycle approach, we pay 

products. In addition to adhering to the laws and regulations, we 

products. We all want to perform our duties as well as possible and 

attention to the environmental aspects all the way from raw mate-

have tried to exceed the requirements set for our activities by 

contribute to the premium quality of our products and services.

rial purchases to the utilization of used tyres. A good example of 

doing things better than required, and by simultaneously setting 

an example for the other companies in the tyre industry.

We have grouped the areas of our responsibility under five cate-

gories, which describe the main themes of managing and develo-

ping responsibility in our company

•  Hakkapeliitta Way is the theme for the principles of responsi-

bility that are seen throughout our operations. It is connected 

to our company’s strategic goals and vision.

•  World on Wheels comprises our work on product safety and 

quality as well as our impact on traffic safety and the future of 

the rubber industry via expert organizations.

•  Economy focuses on the economic impacts of our operations.

•  People form the community around us: our employees and 

subcontractors around the world.

•  Planet describes our environmental footprint.

improving our operations is the incineration plant that we installed in 

our Nokia factory at the end of the year for processing VOC emissions. 

The incineration plant processes VOC emissions from the manufacture 

of heavy tyres and retreading materials, which significantly reduces 

emissions into the atmosphere. 

We promote both product and occupational safety through risk 

management,  continuous  improvement  of  our  processes,  and 

new investments. In 2014, we continued to successfully reduce the 

amount of occupational accidents: accident frequency decreased by 

15% throughout the group compared to the previous year. We clearly 

communicate and discuss safety visibly, which has made our personnel 

more active, for example in reporting deviations at earlier stages. In 

the fall, the management carried out its first safety walk in our Nokia 

factory, making safety observations and talking to employees about 

attitudes toward safety. In the future, the management will carry out 

regular safety walks in our factories in Nokia and Vsevolozhsk. We will 

continue to develop our safety culture throughout the group in 2015.  

We build our company’s success in a responsible way together with our 

Read more about value-

based management and 

what is important to us! 

http://bit.ly/17MjaRA

In 2014, we continued our efforts to improve the quality of our 

more than 4,000 employees internationally.

products and operations even further. For example, we improved 

the traceability of individual tyres from the raw materials used until 

when the tyres are shipped out. Our objective is to record all the 

information that there is about a tyre and its production stages 

Read more about our 

thereby improving quality assurance. We use different surveys to 

environmental and responsibility 

track and anticipate the needs of our customers, and we want to 

matters in our Corporate 

provide each one an excellent customer and user experience from 

Sustainability Report online! 

every aspect.

http://bit.ly/1EmdBq3

12

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Personnel

Good leadership 
improves well-
being and gives a 
competitive edge

Employee well-being, excellent performance and 

successful business require good leadership that 

is aimed at creating a result-oriented and posi-

Working to improve activities 
and well-being

tive working community. We at Nokian Tyres use 

The renewed personnel survey achieved a response 

systematic leadership to promote the competence 

rate of 80%, which also tells us that our staff wants 

development, well-being, and equal treatment of 

to actively participate in the development of our 

our committed, motivated, and professional staff. 

working  community.  The  results  indicate  that 

During  2014,  we  clarified  human  resource 

commitment, leadership, and performance in our 

management and put more emphasis on supervisor 

company are at a higher level than in the other 

work and communication. The results from our Drive 

reference organizations. Our staff thought that the 

personnel survey acted as the basis for our devel-

values and goals of our company are worth aiming 

opment work, and our goal is to achieve a working 

for, and that our corporate social responsibility issues 

community that is even more functional and safer 

are well managed. It is also important for business 

than before and that has a higher will to win.

that our staff strongly believes in our products and 

For more information about our 

leadership, well-being, innova-

tion activities, and other personnel 

issues, please see our online corpo-

rate sustainability report. 

http://bit.ly/1EmdBq3

Read more about our  

unique Hakkapeliitta culture. 

http://bit.ly/1a3w4wm

services and considers them to be of high quality. 

The results also show that they were willing to 

recommend our company as an employer. 

The  internal  inspection  of  communications 

processes and clarifying leadership were selected 

as areas for improvement. We want to take these 

actions in order to ensure that leadership and 

supervisor work are of high quality and suited to 

our needs. At the end of the year, we started a 

development project for leadership and supervisor 

work; it will define good leadership in our company 

at the level of principles and practical activities.

Well-being in our company consists of four 

areas: the physical, mental, cognitive, and social. 

We firmly believe that by developing our leader-

ship and activities, and by advancing the different 

issues, we can increase security, commitment, 

productivity, and well-being. The internal entre-

preneurship, collaborative understanding, and 

activity among our personnel all serve to support 

competence  development,  profitable  growth, 

and strategic implementation. In our company, 

everyone has an opportunity for further growth 

and personal development.  

13

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014 
Business Environment

Business in the 
tyre industry

The value of global tyre sales is nearly USD 190 billion. We have 

seen the strongest growth in the markets for winter tyres, summer 

tyres with a high speed rating, and SUV tyres. There is a statutory 

obligation to use winter tyres in the Nordic countries and, in recent 

years, similar regulations have spread to new geographical areas.

14

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Business Environment

The  key  factors  that  affect  the  consumer  sales 

of  passenger  car  tyres  are  the  sales  volumes  of 

new cars, development of purchasing power, and 

consumer  confidence.  Winter  tyre  sales  are  also 

affected by the weather conditions: the more wintery 

and slippery the conditions, the greater the need 

for new winter tyres. Tyre manufacturers’ sales to 

distributors are also affected by the distributors’ 

remaining tyre stock and the price of financing. 

The demand for heavy and truck tyres varies in 

cycles that follow the trends of machinery manufac-

ture and businesses’ general investments.

Tyre seasons are critical for 
succeeding in Nordic conditions 

One  special  characteristic  of  Nokian  Tyres’  core 

market is that the sales of passenger car tyres are 

strongly built around two seasons. We sell most of 

our summer tyres to consumers a few weeks before 

and after Easter. Consumer sales of winter tyres peak 

between September and November depending on 

the weather conditions: we sell some 30% of our 

winter tyres in the first 10 days after the first snow-

fall. Predicting sales and production several months 

in advance is a demanding task, as tyre manufac-

turers typically offer more than a thousand different 

combinations of tyre models and sizes. Our exten-

sive distribution network and effective logistics and 

information systems play a key role during the busy 

peak seasons. 

High utilization and productivity 
support profitability

Due to logistics and other business reasons, tyre manufac-

turers usually establish local factories in their most significant 

markets. Payroll and energy costs vary by country but raw 

material costs are generally on the same level globally. The 

most important raw materials include natural rubber, synthetic 

rubber, filler substances (such as soot), plies and cables, and 

various chemicals.

As tyre manufacturers have high fixed costs, profitability 

requires optimal utilization of the full production capacity 

while minimizing interruptions. For tyre manufacturers, contin-

uous improvement of profitability through investments and 

process developments is a prerequisite for success. 

A strong brand guarantees a 
high price position 

The tyres on the market are divided into two or three 

segments by their price depending on the market. The 

manufacturers of premium or segment A tyres empha-

size the improved road safety, comfort, and environmental 

aspects of higher quality in their marketing and communi-

cation, whereas segment B tyres are only manufactured for 

consumers looking for the lowest purchase price. Distrib-

utors typically offer their customers alternatives from all 

the price ranges.

In the tyre industry, the regional market leader is usually 

also the price leader. Pricing power is increased by a strong 

brand, product reputation, reliability of distribution, and 

success in objective tyre tests by the automotive media. 

15

30% 

of our winter tyres are sold in  
the first 10 days after  
the first snowfall

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Market areas

Select markets 
for special  
products 

Russia  
Potential as well as risks

Russia is a large market with an estimated 2.5 million new cars and 39 million 

car and van tyres sold in 2014. The factors that affect tyre demand espe-

cially in Russia are GDP development, which follows the price of oil, and the 

interest rates for car financing. The Russian economy was in turmoil in 2014 

due to the crisis in Ukraine and Crimea and the strong decline in oil prices, 

which resulted in zero GDP growth. The weakened household purchasing 

power caused a shift of sales from premium products to segment B tyres. 

Winter tyres make up two thirds of aftermarket tyre sales. There is no 

winter tyre legislation in Russia, but the climate conditions in Nokian Tyres’ 

operating region warrant the use of winter tyres during the winter months. 

Nokian Tyres is the market leader and largest manufacturer of segment A 

and B tyres in Russia. Our total sales in Russia and the CIS countries in 2014 

amounted to EUR 386.7 million, or 26% of the total sales of the Nokian 

Tyres Group. Fluctuation of the ruble exchange rates made it challenging 

for Nokian Tyres and other international companies to secure and optimize 

their financial result.

39 mill.  
sold passenger 
and van tyres 
 per year

Nokian Tyres has an extensive distribution network in Russia. By the end 

of 2014, the Hakka Guarantee network and other retail partners who work 

closely with Nokian Tyres in Russia comprised of 3,600 tyre retailers, Vianor 

outlets, car dealerships, and online stores.

The company’s strong brands, expanding distribution network, and the 

location of its factories behind Russian tariff walls give Nokian Tyres a signif-

icant competitive edge on the market.

16

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014  
Market areas

The Nordic countries  
Stable development continued

6 mill.  
sold winter 
tyres per 
year

Central Europe   
The largest winter tyre market

North America  
Focusing on the winter tyre niche

69 mill.  
sold  
winter tyres 
per year

Approximately 230 million car and van tyres were sold in 2014 

in the European market, excluding the Nordic countries. Central 

Europe is globally the largest winter tyre market – 12 times larger 

In North America, Nokian Tyres focuses on Canada and the US 

compared to the Nordic countries. Approximately 69 million winter 

snowbelt region. There, the market potential for winter tyres is 

tyres were sold in this region, and the winter tyre segment is 

twofold compared to the Nordic countries. Canadian winter tyre 

growing faster than the total market. 

legislation supports the growth of demand.

The expanding tyre markets and the adoption of winter tyre legis-

lation in more countries have made Central Europe one of the most 

important growth areas for Nokian Tyres. Nokian Tyres tailors its 

products to suit the needs of consumers in different markets. Our 

summer tyres and non-studded winter tyres that are designed for 

Approximately 10 million car and van tyres are sold each year in 

the Central and Eastern European winter conditions are considerably 

Finland, Sweden, and Norway. Some 6 million of these are winter 

different from the products that we sell in our core markets. We sell 

tyres. Generally, the market grows 1–3% per year, and there are 

tyres to 32 European countries in addition to the Nordic countries, 

approximately 80 competing brands. The legislation in these coun-

Russia, and the CIS countries. Central Europe accounted for some 

tries requires the use of winter tyres during the winter months.

24% of Nokian Tyres’ sales in 2014. 

The Nordic countries accounted for approximately 40% of Nokian 

The Ejpovice logistics and service center serves the main markets 

The Vianor chain has 69 outlets 
in New England.

Tyres’ sales in 2014. Nokian Tyres is the market and price leader and 

around the clock. The expansion of the retail channel was spearheaded 

Nokian Tyres has a strong brand and a solid reputation for 

the only local manufacturer in the region. The company has an exten-

by Vianor, with a total of 288 partner outlets in the area by the end of 

quality in the North American regions where winter tyres are used. 

sive distribution network, including its own Vianor tyre chain that 

2014. The Nokian Tyres Authorized Dealer (NAD) network comprises 

In select areas, we make exclusive agreements with distributors. 

comprises 294 outlets.

811 outlets in 14 European countries.

The Vianor chain has 69 outlets in New England.

17

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Nokian Passenger Car Tyres

Nokian 
Passenger Car Tyres

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014

18

Nokian Passenger Car Tyres

Premium tyres  
carefully tailored for 
customers’ needs 

The Nokian Passenger Car Tyres unit develops, 

manufactures, and markets summer and winter 

tyres for passenger cars and delivery trucks as 

well as SUVs. The key products are studded and 

non-studded winter tyres and SUV tyres. These are 

the fastest growing product segments in the tyre 

industry, and also with the highest prices. Nokian 

Tyres’ most important brands are Nokian Hakkape-

liitta, Nokian Hakka, and Nokian Nordman. 

Product  development  takes  place  mainly  in 

Finland. Tyres are produced in the company’s own 

factories in Nokia, Finland and Vsevolozhsk, Russia 

and sold in the aftermarket. Our main markets are 

the Nordic countries, Russia and the other CIS coun-

tries, the rest of Europe, and North America.

NOKIAN PASSENGER CAR TYRES
Net sales, Operating profit  
and Operating profit%

Operating profit%
60

EUR mill.
1,500

1 250

1,000

750

500

250

0

10

11 12 13

14

50

40

30

20

10

0

Net sales

Operating profit

Operating profit%

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Net sales

Operating profit

Operating profit%

714.7 1,071.1 1,220.1 1,137.0 1,003.2
292.2
410.8
205.5
29.1
33.7
28.8

378.5
33.3

365.1
34.1

The problems between Russia and Ukraine affected our 2014 
revenue, but we strengthened our market position even further

With more than 50 test wins, our product range 
is more competitive than ever

The revenue of Nokian Passenger Car Tyres grew in 

grew our market share in all our main markets. 

In  the  fall  of  2014,  our  products  dominated 

Nokian Tyres’ products gained more than 50 test 

the Nordic countries and Central Europe, amounting 

Winter tyres amounted to 79% of the unit’s 2014 

the winter tyre tests in the automotive media, 

wins in 2014. In our consumer ratings, our prod-

to more than €1 billion. Tyre sales volumes followed 

sales volume.

scoring numerous test wins in the Nordic coun-

ucts received an average score of 4.6 (out of 5.0), 

the previous year’s level, but our revenue suffered 

The combined annual output of our Finnish and 

tries  and  Russia.  Our  Nordic  winter  tyre,  the 

and 93% of consumers who wrote reviews recom-

from the strong devaluation of the currencies in 

Russian factories exceeded 20 million tyres, with shift 

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8, took first place in practi-

mended Nokian-branded tyres.

Russia and the CIS countries, and from the Ukrainian 

arrangements. In 2014, we did not utilize our full 

cally every test that it participated in. The success 

In September 2014, Nokian Tyres introduced 

crisis. 

production capacity but, compared to the previous 

that Nokian Tyres achieved in Central European 

five new SUV summer tyres and renewed its van 

Nokian Tyres is the market and price leader in 

year, we improved our production volume (pc) and 

winter tyre tests is especially noteworthy. Our 

tyre range. With our special products tailored for 

the Nordic countries, Russia and the CIS countries. 

productivity (kg/mh) by 4.3% and 5.1%, respectively. 

new summer tyre range scored several test wins 

SUVs, we are targeting the fast-growing segment 

Its business is growing in the Central European 

In 2014, 80% (82%) of Nokian car tyres (pcs) were 

in motoring magazines both in our core markets 

in  our  main  markets  in  the  Nordic  countries, 

and North American premium market. In 2014, we 

manufactured in our Russian factories.

and Central Europe in the spring of 2014. All in all, 

Central Europe, and Russia.

19

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014R&D and testing

Safety 
pioneer

Unique product development 
and testing competence create 
patented solutions for the 
demanding Nordic conditions 
thereby improving safety, driving 
comfort, and performance.  

20

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014R&D and testing

Sustainable safety 

Tailored with high precision

In the company that invented the winter tyre, product development 

Nokian Tyres is known for the high quality, safety, and eco-friendliness of 

is guided by the principle of sustainable safety: the safety character-

its products, which are carefully tailored to different markets and diverse, 

istics of a tyre must remain nearly unchanged throughout its service 

demanding conditions. Product development carefully follows the movements 

life. Sustainable safety also includes developing eco-friendly products 

and changes of consumer needs and tries to anticipate the users’ wishes. We 

and production technologies. 

spend more than half of our R&D resources on testing our products. 

The quality, durability, and eco-friendliness of our products are based 

We also renew our comprehensive product range quickly: new products 

on careful structural development and testing. Our state-of-the-art 

make up at least 25% of our annual revenue. New products help the company 

testing machines allow for an even more effective comparison of the 

to strengthen its position and maintain the desired pricing and profit margins 

characteristics of rubber compounds, tread patterns, and tyre structures.

in a highly competitive market. 

Adding canola oil to rubber compounds improves the tear strength 

We work closely with the leading car manufacturers. More than 20 

of winter tyres and provides more grip on snow and ice. In summer 

quality brands have selected Nokian Tyres’ products in 

tyres, we use pine tree oil to improve wear resistance. Using natural 

their winter tyre program. Testing collaboration 

materials and developing eco-friendly products that reduce fuel 

with contractors plays a key role in 

consumption, noise, and harmful emissions are important aspects of 

the development of Nokian 

our R&D operations also in the future. Combining safety with driving 

special tyres. 

We spend more than 

 50% 

of our R&D resources 
on testing our 
products

comfort while also cutting fuel costs is a challenging task. 

In 2014, “Nordic” winter tyres with excellent grip on ice made up 

more than half (56%) of our winter tyre range. The proportion of tyres 

that reduce fuel consumption through ultra-low rolling resistance was 

76%. A total of 89% of our summer tyre products were in the very 

high wet grip category. Our top tyres in terms of low rolling 

resistance and high wet grip correspond to categories 

A, B, and C in the EU tyre label system.   

21

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014 
R&D and testing

Testing under extreme conditions

We test our products under authentic conditions around the world. In our own test 

laboratory in Ivalo, Finnish Lapland we develop test winner tyres that consumers 

around the world can rely on. Creating a test-winning tyre requires immense exper-

tise and millions of test kilometers.

We annually expand our Ivalo Testing Center “White Hell”, which simulates the 

extreme winter driving conditions from November to May, day and night. Our versa-

tile testing center in Nokia provides flexible and unique conditions for utilizing high-

speed photography and testing the slush-planing properties of tyres, for example. 

To achieve comprehensive results, we also test our 

tyres on several international tracks. In addition to our 

own tests, taxi businesses from the Nordic countries also 

take part in durability testing and the development of 

new tyre models. The development of an entirely new 

passenger car tyre takes 2 to 4 years.

Read more: bit.ly/1EV9SRy

We test more than 
20,000 
winter tyres
in Ivalo throughout the 
winter season.

Continuous renewal

Continual investments in new products, versatile testing, and advanced instruments enable the 

company to develop test-winning products with unique innovations year after year. One of our 

newest inventions is the Nokian Aramid Sidewall technology, which provides SUV tyres with 

added protection against impacts and cuts. 

Intensive laboratory and field testing, a thorough understanding 

of the seasons together with the elements and characteristics of our 

products all work to serve the ultimate goal of product development 

– road safety in demanding and varying conditions.

Read more: bit.ly/1KIqLxq

22

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014New products and innovations

Tailored safety 
for varying conditions

Different markets 

require their own 

tailored products and 

precision innovations.

23

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014New products and innovations

As a winter tyre pioneer, we expanded our compre-

hensive winter product range with new special prod-

ucts. The new studded Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV repre-

sents the new Hakkapeliitta winter tyre generation that 

tackles the extremes of Nordic winter with completely 

new innovations. The state-of-the-art stud technology 

provides never before seen grip on ice and snow. Our 

new van tyres, the studded Nokian Hakkapeliitta C3 and 

non-studded Nokian CR3 provide winter grip and driving 

comfort for demanding professional use. 

Another  interesting  addition  is  the  robust  Nokian 

Hakkapeliitta  LT2  AT35  special  tyre.  The  experts  of 

extreme  conditions,  Nokian  Tyres  and  Arctic  Trucks 

teamed up enabling special 4x4 vehicle owners to handle 

the most demanding winter conditions in the world. 

The new Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT2 AT35 is the largest 

Hakkapeliitta winter tyre designed for heavy-duty 4x4 

vehicles. In the future, you might encounter this giant 

Hakkapeliitta in the regions near the North or South Pole.

24

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014New products and innovations

The new summer 
tyre range is 
built to last

In the spring of 2015, Nokian Tyres offers a wider 

summer tyre range than ever before. The company 

launched 8 new premium summer tyres for its core 

markets in the fall of 2014. We introduced three new 

products to the Nokian Hakka summer tyre family, 

which is tailored for rough roads and the varying 

Northern summer. Nokian Hakka Black SUV and 

Nokian Hakka Blue SUV are designed for varied use 

on sports utility vehicles. 

With the precise handling and unique durability of the sporty Nokian 

Hakka Black SUV, drivers of powerful SUVs can enjoy the full perfor-

mance of their vehicle with exceptional driving comfort.

The new Nokian Hakka Blue SUV is a comfortable charmer and a 

high performer that cuts fuel costs. It is the right choice for the driver 

who values safe and powerful performance but wants to enjoy the 

features of his or her SUV on dirt roads and urban environments alike. 

The sturdy Nokian Hakka C2 van tyre brings controlled stability and 

durability for heavier loads. 

Nokian zLine SUV and Nokian Line SUV targeted especially for Central 

European markets are convincing performers with a comfortable driving 

feel. The new Nokian cLine van tyre provides durability and safety for 

demanding professional use.

  View the video of Nokian Hakka Black SUV: http://youtu.be/u00rU28qq98

  View the video of Nokian Hakka Blue SUV: http://youtu.be/JS8tJoBGlvo

  View the video of Nokian zLine SUV: http://youtu.be/sYHyUmczeS4

  View the video of Nokian Line SUV : http://youtu.be/kOD9prmIPEQ

25

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014New products and innovations

Special products 
for demanding 
heavy use

The versatile Nokian Rotiiva AT Plus is espe-

The new Nokian NTR 52 front tyre is a reli-

cially designed for heavy-duty use on light 

able performer even as the kilometers add up. 

trucks  and  pick-ups.  For  light  trucks,  large 

The new structure and tread compound give the 

SUVs, and pick-ups, we developed the Nokian 

new tyre excellent durability and high grip under 

Rotiiva HT, which performs reliably on asphalt 

main road conditions. The tyre is designed for 

as well as gravel.   

trucks and buses for medium and long distance 

The  world’s  first  winter  tyre  for  tractor 

use,  and  it  meets  the  EURO  6  load  carrying 

contracting,  Nokian  Hakkapeliitta  TRI  is  a 

capacity requirements. Nokian NTR 52 also has 

unique winter specialist. This special product 

the M+S label, and it is well suited for all-season 

by Nokian Heavy Tyres provides superior trac-

use. 

tion and winter grip for snow clearing and 

heavy-duty contracting. 

Nokian  Hakka  Truck  844  is  designed  for 

all-season long and medium distance trans-

Nokian truck tyres  

  View the video: http://youtu.be/iX54JZNF3Rc

port, and it provides excellent grip even under 

Hakkapeliitta Test Experience 

winter conditions. It is the first trailer tyre of 

this size (385/55R22.5) on the market that has 

both the M+S label and the snowflake symbol, 

which indicates official winter tyre approval. 

  View the video: http://youtu.be/SSGI1MIr5F4

Nokian Hakkapeliitta TRI  
– Innovations to beat winter 

  View the video: http://youtu.be/vr3nFdmUJSM

26

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014New products and innovations

Green winter tyre technology for electric cars

The most energy efficient 
winter tyre model in the 
automotive industry

Nokian Tyres developed the world’s first winter tyre with an A class rolling resistance rating. 

The new Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 is a non-studded winter tyre designed for BMW’s unique 

i3 electric car. The genuine Hakkapeliitta winter tyre is tailored for the Nordic winter, and 

it combines ultra-low rolling resistance with excellent grip and driving comfort. With the 

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2, electric car drivers can enjoy up to 30% lower rolling resistance 

compared to other winter tyres on the market. The new model is the world’s first winter 

tyre to achieve an A class rolling resistance rating in the EU tyre label system. Low rolling 

resistance saves energy, thereby extending the range of the car.

Read more: http://bit.ly/12QOkog

27

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014New products and innovations

Top innovations  
Peace of mind, precision, and safety 

Improved durability

Nokian Aramid Sidewall technology

The test-winning Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV winter tyre features the unique Nokian Aramid Sidewall techno-

logy, which is now also used in the sidewall compound of new SUV tyres. The sidewall compound contains 

the extremely strong aramid staple fiber and provides exceptional protection against wear and cuts. The 

same material is utilized by the aerospace and defense industries. The aramid fiber stiffens and reinforces 

the sidewall to withstand external impacts and pressing against the wheel flange.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV   |    Nokian Hakka Black SUV   |   Nokian Hakka Blue SUV 

Nokian zLine SUV   |   Nokian Line SUV

  Learn more about the Nokian Aramid Sidewall concept: http://youtu.be/N5LvBke-UqY

  View the video: http://youtu.be/AtA3xCcYc4A

Better winter grip and driving comfort  

Nokian Eco Stud 8 concept

A new-generation, multi-faceted anchor stud, flange design that reduces stud impact, and the patented 

Eco Stud cushion that improves the operation of the stud and softens the road contact.

•  190 studs (size 205/55 R16) with computer-optimized stud distribution.

•  A single stud weighs under 1 g.

•  On average, 12% lower road wear effect than required by the Nordic stud legislation.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8   |    Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV

  Nokian Eco Stud 8 concept: http://bit.ly/1uzDpg2

28

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014New products and innovations

First-class winter grip, 
more precise handling

Improved range, 
excellent winter grip

Safety on 
wet roads

Effective 
anti-aquaplaning

Nokian Cryo Crystal concept

Nokian Intelligent eSilica rubber compound 

Blade groove 

Trumpet grooves

Grip on ice is improved with diamond-

The rubber compound we use in electric car tyres 

Aggressive blade grooves cut through the ribs 

The shoulder areas have trumpet grooves, bullet-

tough crystal-like grip particles in the rubber 

performs  well  over  an  extended  temperature 

in the center area, effectively storing water and 

type indentations that store water from between 

compound that grab onto the driving surface. 

range, maximizing low rolling resistance and winter 

guiding it towards the longitudinal grooves. 

the tyre and the road, accelerating its flow from 

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV 

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV

Nokian Hakkapeliitta CR3

grip. Together with the silica particles, the mole-

the main grooves towards the transverse grooves 

cular chains of the tread compound form a strong, 

Nokian Hakka Black SUV

and maximizing grip even on wet roads. 

yet flexible combination. The sipes, or grooves, on 

Nokian zLine SUV

the symmetrical tread model work actively regard-

less of variations in grip level and temperature.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 – BMW i3 ja BMW i8

Nokian Hakka Blue SUV

Nokian Line SUV

29

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Forerunner already 80 years

A tyre 
technology 
pioneer   

1898 

Suomen Gummitehdas 
Osakeyhtiö is established.

1932 

Passenger car tyre 
production starts 
in Nokia.

1934 

“Kelirengas”, the first 
winter tyre in the world.

1936 

The legendary  
Hakkapeliitta  
winter tyre is born.

2014

2014

2014

The Hakkapeliitta winter tyre range 
expands. The studded Nokian 
Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV and the van 
tyres Nokian Hakkapeliitta C3 and 
Nokian Hakkapeliitta CR3. 

The world’s first winter tyre 
with retractable studs. Nokian 
Hakkapeliitta concept tyre. 

New Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 
– the world’s first winter tyre 
with an A class rolling resis-
tance rating designed for 
electric cars.

30

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Kelirengas. World’s first winter tyre in 1934.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8.  

Multiple test winner in 2014.

Forerunner already 80 years

First since 
1934

Already in 1934, Nokian Tyres developed and 

manufactured the world’s first winter tyre to 

match the winter frost. Two years later, the 

Northern winter witnessed the birth of Nokian 

Hakkapeliitta, the legendary snow road cham-

pion designed for passenger cars. 

The Kelirengas was designed for trucks; together with buses, 

they formed most of the road traffic in the 1930s. The strong 

tread made the Kelirengas a winter tyre, as its transverse 

grooves gripped the snow like a cog wheel. The tread pattern 

was loose and it could clean itself well while driving, which 

in turn improved the grip. The entire concept of the tyre was 

based on a good grip surface. As the advertisement stated, 

“braking is more effective, and sliding sideways in corners and 

turns is entirely eliminated”.

80 years since the invention of 

the winter tyre: Nokian Kelirengas 

mastered safe turns in snowy weather

This is how the winter tyre has changed – 

comparing the world’s first winter tyre to the 

state-of-the-art non-studded winter tyre

http://bit.ly/18fIVem

http://bit.ly/17MuahV

31

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Production

Keeping 
busy

Aiming for the high utilization of production 
capacity and improved productivity

Nokian Tyres’ production facilities are located in Finland and 

company is capable of responding to market growth by quickly 

Russia. Product development and the manufacture of proto-

increasing production without making large investments. In 

types and test batches take place in Nokia, in connection 

2014 the capacity was not fully utilized, but production output 

with the company’s head office. The Nokia factory manu-

(pcs) increased by 4.3% and productivity (kg/mh) improved 

factures passenger car tyres, heavy tyres, and retreading 

by 5.1% year-over-year.

materials for truck tyres.

In Russia, the production costs of tyres are clearly lower than 

The state-of-the-art factory in Vsevolozhsk, near St. Peters-

in Finland or other Western countries. The operation in Russia 

burg, manufactured approximately 80% of company’s passenger 

has been supported by tax agreements based on the amount of 

car tyres. From Vsevolozhsk, tyres are supplied to more than 40 

investments and the location of the factory behind tariff walls.  

countries making Nokian Tyres the largest exporter of consumer 

In addition to its own production facilities, the company 

goods in Russia. The company’s investments in the Russian 

uses contract manufacturing in factories whose level of 

production facilities exceed 800 million.

quality meets Nokian Tyres’ high standards. In 2014, contract 

The annualized capacity of the Finnish and Russian factories 

manufacturing accounted for approximately 3% of the compa-

amounts to over 20 million tyres, with shift arrangements. The 

ny’s total tyre sales.

over 20 mill.

Production both in Nokia and 
Vsevolozhsk in 2014 was 
over 20 million tyres.  

32

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Marketing

We focus on the 
customer  

The main markets of Nokian Tyres are 

served by the group’s own sales companies 

or a representative with its own sales 

organization. Our typical customers include 

regional tyre wholesalers, tyre retail chains, 

car dealership chains and, as the latest 

addition, online stores. As the sale of Nokian-

branded tyres is important for our customers’ 

business, they are willing and well prepared 

to support and build the Nokian brand. 

Developing the consumer relationship 
strengthens the brand 
For the purposes of product development and improving quality, it 

is important for tyre manufacturers and developers to learn about 

actual user experiences and receive feedback from the end users. In 

recent years, the spread of social media has significantly improved 

the possibilities of directly contacting consumers. As online services 

become increasingly community oriented, consumers are clearly 

more committed to brands and more willing to share product 

recommendations.

Valuing retail experts

Consumers often find tyre purchase to be complicated and difficult. 

Studies of buyer behavior show that tyre salespersons have a crucial 

Everyday interaction and joint development projects as well as 

role in the buying decision process. It is, therefore, very important 

surveys and interviews keep us in touch with our customers’ 

for both tyre manufacturers and consumers that the salespersons 

needs. Most of their wishes are related to the different stages 

are professionals who know their products thoroughly and can help 

of our partnership processes, such as logistics or marketing and 

consumers choose the right product for their needs. In addition to 

product support. Nokian Tyres’ strength is in its flat organization 

training sessions and personal guidance, Nokian Tyres has developed 

and its ability to quickly respond to customer needs and changes 

an online learning system that enables tyre retailers around the world 

in the market. We have personal, long-lasting relationships with 

to improve their competence any time, anywhere. Furthermore, our 

many of our customers, reinforced by a sense of belonging to the 

technical customer service helps and advises distributors, consumers, 

same Hakkapeliitta family.

professional users, and other interest groups in the selection and use 

of tyres as well as in problematic situations. 

facebook.com/nokiantyres

youtube.com/NokianTyresCom

twitter.com/nokiantyrescom

linkedin.com/company/nokian-tyres-plc

33

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Customers

We are 
part of your 
everyday life

Vaihteeks radan ulkopuolella #toyota #hilux 
#arctictrucks #nokiantyres #offroad #northproof

#nokiahakkapeliitta #talvivanne

@mikkoau   |  Helsinki, Finland

We  are  part  of  your  everyday  life  in  all 

weathers and on all roads. Our job is to help 

people reach their destination safely. Through 

social media, our customers’ satisfaction, user 

experiences, and the feelings associated with 

driving are communicated around the world. 

Safe driving lets you feel the joy of skiing trips 

in the winter, the relief of avoiding dangers 

in traffic, and the comfort of your morning 

commute  even  in  difficult  weather  condi-

tions. Time after time, successful journeys on 

our tyres earn us the trust of our customers. 

That trust is put to the test when it is time to 

replace your worn tyres with a new set. That 

is when you want to take a look at Instagram, 

Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube to see how the 

other moms and dads feel about driving on 

Nokian tyres.

@krikidikrisse  |   Jyväskylä, Finland

@bmw1200gs   |  Thessaloniki, Greece
picture taken at Bansko ski resort, Bulgar

@emilwerner1   |   Östersund, Sweden

34

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Sales and distribution

Sales and distribution

approx. 3,600

In Russia a network of  
approx. 3,600 tyreshops

Nokian tyres   
were sold in

61

countries

Russia, Finland,  
Germany, Sweden and 
Norway made up

 70% 

of sales

Vianor

1,355

stores in 27 countries

Target markets

Vianor

Nokian Tyres Authorized Dealers 

Russia

In 2014, Nokian tyres were sold 

A total of 1,355 outlets in 27 countries (189 

In the review period, our Nokian Tyres 

The Hakka Guarantee retailers and other retail partners 

in 61 countries. Russia, Finland, 

own outlets and 1,166 franchising and 

Authorized Dealer (NAD) partner 

who work closely with Nokian Tyres in Russia form a 

Germany, Sweden, and Norway 

partner outlets). 329 outlets in the Nordic 

network grew by 437 contracts and 

network of some 3,600 locations, including tyre retai-

made up 70% of our product sales.

and Baltic countries, 633 in Russia and the 

now totals 869 locations in 14 Central 

lers, Vianor outlets, car dealerships, and online stores. 

CIS countries, 294 in Central and Eastern 

European countries and China.

Furthermore, our new N-Tyre partner network comp-

Europe, and 69 in the United States.

rises 53 outlets in Russia and Kazakhstan.

35

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Vianor

Vianor

36

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Vianor

The most comfortable 
way to buy Nokian 
Hakkapeliittas?

Vianor offers tyres for all common vehicles: passenger 

cars, vans, trucks, and heavy machinery. In addition 

to Nokian-branded tyres, the chain sells other leading 

tyre brands and a variety of motoring products, such 

as rims, batteries, and shock absorbers. 

Apart from retail sales, Vianor conducts whole-

sale and fleet customer sales. The heavy seasonal 

fluctuations in tyre retail sales poses challenges 

for the year-round profitability of traditional tyre 

outlets. Therefore, Vianor’s services include tyre 

changes and mounting as well as oil changes, car 

VIANOR

Net sales, Operating result  
and Operating result%

servicing, and tyre storage, depending on the loca-

tion. The goal is to make servicing a more signifi-

EUR mill.
400

Operating result%
4

cant part of Vianor’s growth and profitability.

The Vianor tyre chain operates in markets that 

are strategically important to Nokian Tyres, where 

it builds a foundation for permanent market shares 

for the group’s products. In 2014, Vianor offered 

the best network for the wholesale and retail of 

Nokian Tyres’ products in the group’s core markets. 

Vianor also improved its winter tyre market share 

and continued to grow its service sales. Developing 

the outlets’ operating model from tyre sales toward 

full car servicing was continued with investments 

and local acquisitions of car service shops. By the 

end of 2014, the chain had purchased a total of 56 

businesses and integrated their car servicing oper-

ations into existing Vianor outlets.

300

200

100

0

-100

10
Net sales

11 12 13
Operating result

3

2

1

0

-1

14

Operating result%

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Net sales

Operating result

Operating result%

307.9
4.0
1.3

298.4
2.3
0.8

315.3
0.0
0.0

312.5
-1.8
-0.6

314.8
2.1
0.7

37

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Nokian Heavy Tyres

Nokian 
Heavy Tyres

38

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Nokian Heavy Tyres

The leader in 
forestry tyres

Nokian  Heavy  Tyres  focuses  on  high-quality 

use the Nordic CTL (Cut-to-length) method. Today, 

tured at our factory in Nokia. A restructuring of 

euros. Due to the challenging pricing environ-

special tyres. The key product groups are forestry 

it is the global market leader in this field with over 

the Heavy Tyres operation to include also the 

ment, the average price fell when compared to 

tyres, harbor and mining tyres, special agricul-

50% market share. On average, sales to OEMs have 

Truck Tyre business unit was done in the end of 

the previous year. Lower raw material costs and 

tural tyres, a variety of industrial tyres as well as 

accounted for approximately 40% of the unit’s 

2013 and the new organization became effective 

improved productivity supported our margins, 

truck tyres and retreading materials for deman-

revenue. The customers of Nokian Heavy Tyres 

from the beginning of 2014, creating synergies 

and lower fixed costs improved profitability.

ding conditions. The unique qualities of the prod-

value the functionality and overall cost efficiency 

in all operations.

The production output (tonnes) in 2014 was up 

ucts grow out of the knowledge of extreme oper-

of tyres. For them, low operating costs per hour are 

In 2014, the revenue of Nokian Heavy Tyres 

by 19.8% year-over-year. The production utiliza-

ating conditions and respect for nature. The core 

more important than a low purchase price of tyres.

was nearly EUR 150 million and operating profit 

tion rate was increased to over 90% during 2014. 

products are manufactured in Nokia, Finland. In 

The high-quality truck tyres are developed in 

was  about  EUR  25  million.  In  some  product 

The factory modernization and automation have 

addition to the Nordic countries, the main markets 

Finland and manufactured as outsourced cont-

groups, demand exceeded Nokian Heavy Tyres’ 

already opened bottlenecks, as well as improved 

include Central and Southern Europe, the USA and 

ract manufacturing in factories whose level of 

supply capacity. Total sales volume remained 

product quality, flexibility, and productivity.

Canada, and Russia and the CIS countries. 

quality  meets  Nokian  Tyres’  high  standards. 

at the previous year’s level, but the sales of 

Since  the  1960s,  Nokian  Heavy  Tyres  has 

Retreading materials, which are mainly used in 

forestry tyres grew by 15%. The changes in the 

designed special tyres for forestry machines that 

truck tyres and machinery tyres, are manufac-

currency exchange rates decreased our sales in 

NOKIAN HEAVY TYRES
Net sales, Operating profit 
and Operating profit%

EUR mill.
200

Operating profit%
40

150

100

50

30

20

10

0

10
Net sales

0

11 12 13
14
Operating profit Operating profit%

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Net sales

Operating profit

Operating profit%

122.2
22.0
18.1

172.1
28.2
16.4

157.3
19.9
12.7

149.7
20.4
13.6

149.1
24.6
16.5

39

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Management  

Management  

Read QR Code with your smart phone or look at details of Management at 

http://bit.ly/1AZddb1

Esa Eronen

Born 1957

Antti-Jussi Tähtinen

Born 1965

Vice President, Production Service.

Vice President, Marketing 

Technology Engineer.

& Communications.

With the company since 1988.

Master of Arts.

With the company since 2005.

W
O
R

K
C
A
B

W
O
R

E
L
D
D
M

I

Heikki Mattsson

Born 1960

Ville Nurmi

Born 1971

Andrei Pantioukhov

Alexej von Bagh

Pontus Stenberg

Born 1972

Born 1968

Born 1966

Teppo Huovila

Born 1963

Vice President, ICT.

Vice President, Human Resources

Russian operations, 

Vice President, CEO of Vianor. 

Vice President, Nokian Heavy Tyres.

Vice President, Quality.

With the company since 2010.

Doctor of Education.

General Manager, Vice President. 

Master of Science (Eng.).

Master of Economic Sciences.

Master of Science, MBA.

With the company since 2014.

MBA.

With the company since 1995.

With the company since 2010.

With the company since 1989.

With the company since 2004.

W
O
R

T
N
O
R
F

Rami Helminen

Born 1966

Anne Leskelä

Born 1962

Hannu Teininen

Ari Lehtoranta

Born 1960

Born 1963

Manu Salmi

Born 1975

Vice President, Passenger Car Tyres.

Vice President, Finance and Control & IR.

Vice President, Sales and Logistics.

President and CEO from 1 October, 2014

Vice President, Procurement. 

Master of Economic Sciences.

Master of Economic Sciences.

Engineer, MBA.

M.Sc. Telecommunications.

Master of Military Sciences, M.Sc. Economics.

With the company since 1990.

With the company since 1997.

With the company since 1984.

With the company since September, 2014

With the company since 2001.

40

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014 
 
 
Board of Directors  

Board of Directors  

Year of birth: 1961. 

Licentiate of Science (Technology).  

President and CEO, Alko Inc.

Member of the Board since 2006. 

Member of the Nomination and 

Remuneration Committee. 

Independent of the company.

Shares: 6,568 pcs.

Year of birth: 1963. 

Doctor of Science (Economics), 

Master of Science (Economics). 

CEO, Varma Mutual Pension 

Insurance Company. Member of 

the Board since 2012. Member of 

the Audit Committee. 

Independent of the company.

Shares: 1,899 pcs.

Hille Korhonen

Risto Murto

Year of birth: 1948. 

Master of Science (Engineering). 

Member of the Board since 2005 and 

Chairman. Chairman of the Nomination 

and Remuneration Committee. 

Independent of the company.

Shares: 15,737 pcs.

Year of birth: 1953.

Master of Science (Economics).

Member of the Board since 2014.  

Chairman of the Audit committee.

Independent of the company.

Shares: 697 pcs.

Year of birth: 1953. 

Master of Laws. 

Member of the Board since 1999. 

Member of the Nomination and 

Remuneration Committee.

Independent of the company.

Shares: 8,196 pcs.

Petteri Walldén

Raimo Lind

Hannu Penttilä

Year of birth: 1954. 

Bachelor of Science in Economics. 

Member of the Board since 2002.

Shares: 0 pcs.

Bonds with warrants: 2010B 

90,000; 2010C 90 000; 2013A 60 

000; 2013B 40.

Year of birth: 1976. 

Master of Economics.

Co-Founder and Chairwoman, KoppiCatch Ltd.

Member of the Board since 2014.  

Member of the Audit Committee.

Independent of the company.

Shares: 697 pcs.

Kim Gran

Inka Mero

Read QR Code with your smart 

phone or look at all details of 

Board of Directors at

http://bit.ly/1LGW24k

41

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Key figures

Net sales, Operating profit  
and Operating profit%

EUR million
2,000

Operating profit%
50

1,600

1,200

800

400

0

10

11 12 13

14

40

30

20

10

0

Profit before tax

Earnings per share 

Equity ratio

milj. EUR
400

300

200

100

0

10

11 12 13

14

EUR
3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0

10

11 12 13

14

%
80

60

40

20

0

10

11 12 13

14

Net sales

Operating 
profit

Operating 
profit%

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Net sales
Operating profit
Operating profit%

1,058.1 1,456.8 1,612.4 1,521.0 1,389.1
308.7
415.0
22.2
25.7

222.2
21.0

385.5
25.3

380.1
26.1

EUR million

208.8

359.2

387.7

312.8

261.2

2010

1.34

2011

2.39

2012

2.52

2013

1.39

2014

1.56

EUR

2010

68.4

2011

63.2

2012

71.2

2013

67.6

2014

67.5

%

Net sales by market area
Share of group’s sales %

Net sales by business unit
Share of group’s sales, %

Gross investment

Cash flow from  
operations

Gearing 

6

1

5

4

2

3

EUR mill.

3

2

1

1. Finland
2. Sweden
3. Norway
4. Russia and CIS
5. Other Europe
6. North America

2013

2014

14%
11%
11%
34%
22%
7%

15%
13%
12%
26%
24%
9%

1. Passenger Car Tyres
2. Heavy Tyres
3. Vianor

2013

2014

71%
9%
20%

68%
10%
22%

milj. EUR

milj. EUR

250

200

150

100

50

0

10

11 12 13

14

350

280

210

140

70

0

10 11 12

13 14

%
20

10

0 

10

-20

10 11 12

13 14

2010

2011

2012

2013

EUR million

50.5

161.7

209.2

125.6

2014

80.6

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2010

2011

2012

2013

EUR million

318.8

114.1

262.3

325.6

458.3

%

0,1

-0,3

-4,5

-4,1

2014

-13,6

42

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014Consolidated income statement, IFRS

EUR million   |   1.1. – 31.12.

Notes

2014

2013

EUR million   |   1.1. – 31.12.

Notes

2014

2013

(1)

1,389.1

1,521.0

CONSOLIDATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(3)(6)(7)

-769.6

-819.9

Result for the period

208.4

183.7

619.5

701.0

Other comprehensive income, items that may be reclassi-

fied subsequently to profit and loss, net of tax

3.4

3.9

  Gains/Losses from hedge of net investment in foreign operations

-246.5

-249.1

  Cash flow hedges

-34.5

-33.2

-36.6

-33.8

  Translation differences on foreign operations (4

Total other comprehensive income for the period,net of tax

(10)

(10)

(4)

(6)(7)

(6)(7)

(5)(6)(7)

308.7

385.5

Total comprehensive income for the period

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

(8)

(9)

268.4

-315.9

104.3

-177.0

  Equity holders of the parent

  Non-controlling interest

0.0

1.9

-202.1

-204.0

-1.9

0.8

-65.6

-66.7

4.4

117.0

4.4

0.0

117.1

0.1

Net sales

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Other operating income

Selling and marketing expenses

Administration expenses

Other operating expenses

Operating profit

Financial income 

Financial expenses (1

Profit before tax

Tax expense (2 (3

261,2

312.8

(10)

-52.8

-129.1

Profit for the period

208.4

183.7

Attributable to:

Equity holders of the parent

Non-controlling interest

Earnings per share (EPS) for the profit attributable

to the equity holders of the parent:

(11)

Basic, euros

Diluted, euros

208.4

183.7

0.0

0.1

1.56

1.56

1.39

1.39

1) 

2) 

3) 

4) 

Financial expenses in 2014 contain EUR 1.6 million expensed punitive interest for tax reassessment  
decisions on years 2008-2012 and in 2013 EUR 20.2 million on years 2007–2010.

Tax expense in 2014 contains EUR 9.4 million expensed additional taxes with punitive tax increases for tax  
reassessment decisions on years 2008–2012 and in 2013 EUR 80.1 million on years 2007–2010.

Otherwise tax expense in the consolidated income statement is based on the taxable result for the period.

Since the beginning of this year the Group has internal loans that are recognised as net investments in  
foreign operations in accordance with IAS 21 “The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates”.  
The impact on year 2014 is EUR -10.0 million.

43

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014 
 
 
 
Consolidated statement of financial position, IFRS

EUR million   |   31.12.

Notes

2014

2013

EUR million   |   31.12.

Notes

2014

2013

ASSETS

Non-current assets

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent

(22)(23)

  Property, plant and equipment

(12)(13)

502.8

683.8

  Share capital

  Goodwill

  Other intangible assets

Investments in associates

  Available-for-sale financial assets

  Other receivables

  Deferred tax assets

Current assets

Inventories

  Trade and other receivables
  Current tax assets

  Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

(2)(14)

(14)

(16)

(16)

(15)(17)

(18)

(19)

(20)(29)

73.3

19.8

0.1

0.3

10.0

9.1

69.9

24.7

0.1

0.3

11.3

8.8

615.4

798.8

  Share premium

  Treasury shares

  Translation reserve

  Fair value and hedging reserves

  Paid-up unrestricted equity reserve

  Retained earnings

288.3

444.6

8.9

322.1

503.5

13.8

424.6

Non-controlling interest

Total equity

Liabilities

(21)

439.9

25.4

181.4

-8.6

25.4

181.4

-

-202.0

-128.5

-2.6

100.3

-0.7

97.1

1,114.5

1,217.9

1,208.5

1,392.5

-

0.2

1,208.5

1,392.8

1,181.6

1,264.1

  Non-current liabilities

(1)

1,797.0

2,062.9

  Deferred tax liabilities

  Provisions

(24)

(18)

(25)

26.7

0.1

  Interest-bearing financial liabilities

(26)(27)(29)

274.7

  Other liabilities

  Current liabilities

  Trade and other payables

  Current tax liabilities

  Provisions

(28)

(25)

Interest-bearing financial liabilities

(26)(27)(29)

5.1

306.5

259.9

18.7

2.8

0.6

282.0

36.1

0.1

185.8

3.5

225.4

255.2

4.0

3.1

182.4

444.7

Total liabilities

(1)

588.5

670.1

Total equity and liabilities

1,797.0

2,062.9

44

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement, IFRS

EUR million   |   1.1.-31.12.

Notes

2014

2013

Cash flows from operating activities:

  Cash receipts from sales

  Cash paid for operating activities

  Cash generated from operations

Interest paid

Interest received

  Dividends received

Income taxes paid

Net cash from operating activities (A)

Cash flow from investing activities:

The company has received a stay of execution from the Finnish 

Tax Administration for the collection of the tax increases based 

1,348.9

1,469.9

on the tax reassessment decisions on years 2007–2010. In spite 

-870.9

-1,045.5

of this stay of execution the Finnish Tax Administration has 

477.9

-69.8

3.3

0.0

-88.2

323.4

424.3

-56.3

3.4

0.0

-53.9

317.6

taken funds in accordance with these aforesaid decisions from 

company’s tax account setting off company’s other tax refunds. 

Financial items and taxes in 2014 contain these set-offs by the 

Tax Administration in total of EUR 34.2 million.

  Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

-81.7

-151.8

  Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

  Acquisitions of Group companies, net of cash acquired

  Change in Non-controlling interest

Net cash used in investing activities (B)

Cash flow from financing activities:

  Proceeds from issue of share capital

  Purchase of treasury shares

  Change in current financial receivables

  Change in non-current financial receivables

  Change in financial current borrowings

  Change in financial non-current borrowings

  Dividens received

  Dividends paid

Net cash from financing activities (C)

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents (A+B+C)

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period

Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash held

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period

(2)

(22)

(21)

3.2

-5.8

-0.3

11.2

-2.7

0.0

-84.7

-143.4

2.6

-8.6

-8.0

-3.4

62.2

-79.6

0.4

17.8

-

-1.2

3.8

-39.5

32.8

-

-193.4

-227.7

-191.9

-178.1

11.0

-4.0

424.6

4.3

439.9

11.0

430.3

-1.8

424.6

-4.0

45

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014 
 
 
Investor information

Annual General Meeting 2015

Financial reports

Questions from analysts and investors:

Investor information:

The Annual General Meeting of Nokian Tyres plc 

Nokian Tyres will publish financial information in 

Ari Lehtoranta, President and CEO

Antti-Jussi Tähtinen, Vice President,

will be held at Tampere-talo, in Tampere, Finland; 

Finnish and in English as follows:

address Yliopistonkatu 55 on Wednesday 8 April 

2015, starting at 4 p.m. Registration of attendants 

and the distribution of ballots will begin at 3 p.m. 

Shareholders  registered  by  no  later  than  25 

March 2015 in the company´s shareholder register, 

• 

• 

• 

• 

which is maintained by Euroclear Oy are entitled to 

5 February 2016

Interim Report for three months on 8 May 2015

Interim Report for six months on  7 August 2015

Anne Leskelä, CFO, Investor Relations

Interim Report for nine months on 30 October 2015

tel. +358 10 401 7481

Anne Aittoniemi, Communications

Financial Statements Bulletin 2014 on  

email: ir@nokiantyres.com

Marketing and Communications

tel. +358 10 401 7940

email: info@nokiantyres.com

& IPR Specialist

tel. +358 10 401 7641

tel. +358 10 401 7733

email: ir@nokiantyres.com

attend the Annual General Meeting. 

•  Annual Report 2015 on March 2016

Request for meetings and visits:

email: info@nokiantyres.com

The Annual Report, including the company’s 

Raija Kivimäki, Assistant to

Fax: +358 10 401 7799

annual accounts, the Report of the Board of Direc-

Nokian Tyres publishes its Interim Reports, Finan-

President and CEO

tors and the Auditors Report is available on the 

cial  Statements  Bulletin  and  Annual  Report  at 

tel. +358 10 401 7438

company’s website no later than week 12, 2015.

www.nokiantyres.com/company/investors/

email: ir@nokiantyres.com

Address:

Nokian Tyres plc

Read more: 

www.nokiantyres.com/annualgeneralmeeting2015

Principles of investor relations

Fax: +358 10 401 7378

P.O. Box 20 (Visiting address: Pirkkalaistie 7)

FI-37101 Nokia

Dividend payment

The goal of Nokian Tyres’ investor relations is 

to regularly and consistently provide the stock 

market  with  essential,  correct,  sufficient  and 

Nokian Tyres’ share price development
1 January 2010 – 31 December 2014

The Board of Directors proposes to the Annual 

up-to-date information used to determine the 

General Meeting that a dividend of EUR 1.45 per 

share value. The operations are based on equality, 

share be paid for the financial year 2014. The 

openness, accuracy and good service.

record date for the dividend payment will be 10 

The Management of Nokian Tyres is strongly 

April 2015 and the dividend payment date 23 

committed to serving the capital markets. The 

April 2015, provided that the Board’s proposal is 

company’s President & CEO and CFO are the main 

approved.

parties dealing with and answering questions 

Share register

from analysts and investors.

Nokian Tyres adopts a three-week period of 

EUR

40

35

30

25

20

15

10

5

0

silence before the publication of financial infor-

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Shareholders are requested to notify any changes 

mation and a six week period of silence before the 

in  their  contact  information  to  the  bookentry 

publication of the Financial Statements Bulletin.

register in which they have a bookentry securi-

Analyst and investor meetings are mainly held 

Annual Report and Financial Review 2014

ties account. 

both in Finland and abroad in conjunction with 

the publication of the company’s financial results. 

At other times analysts and investors are mainly 

answered by phone or email.

Nokian Tyres Annual Report and Financial Statements Bulletin/Financial Review 2014 are 
available only in electronic form on the company’s web site. Electronic Annual Report, above 
mentioned reports as well as contact details including analysts can be read from  
www.nokiantyres.com/company/investors/

46

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014www.nokiantyres.com

47

NOKIAN TYRES PLC 2014