Entrepreneur Adnan Ali Sherko has opened a new car wash and auto service called Ridecare in Rajapatsas, Imatra. The business operates in the former Neste auto hall facilities near the Russian border.
Sherko brings years of experience to his new venture. He previously ran a car wash in Hämeenlinna, about 150 kilometers west of Imatra.
"I operated a car wash in Hämeenlinna for many years," Sherko said. "But the space became too small and lacked a car lift."
The affordable rental costs in Imatra attracted the entrepreneur to expand his business eastward. Imatra sits directly on Finland's border with Russia, making it an important crossing point between the two countries.
Sherko currently lives in Helsinki but chose Imatra for his business expansion. The move demonstrates how border towns can attract investment through competitive pricing.
Regional development often depends on such entrepreneurial decisions. Border communities frequently offer lower operating costs that can outweigh their peripheral locations.
The new auto service provides both washing and maintenance options for local residents and cross-border travelers.