Savonlinja has emerged victorious in the competitive bidding for Mikkeli's local transport services. The Finnish transport company secured the contract for the city's primary bus network. Meanwhile, Tilausliikenne Himanen won the separate tender for Moppe service traffic, which covers specialized transport services.
The new contract period begins in June 2026 and spans eight years. Authorities can extend the agreement for two additional years if needed. The annual cost to Mikkeli city will reach approximately three million euros.
This transition marks a significant change for Mikkeli's public transportation system. Soisalon liikenne, the current operator, chose not to exercise its option to extend the existing contract. Company representatives stated that operating Mikkeli's city traffic had become insufficiently profitable for their business.
Four companies submitted bids for the main local transport contract. Two companies competed for the service traffic portion. The city also received two joint bids during the process. Officials rejected one submission that did not meet requirements.
Multiple transport operators participated in the competitive process. Savonlinja faced competition from Soisalon liikenne, Vekka Group, and Kymen Charterline for the primary contract. The Moppe service traffic tender attracted seven companies including the winner Tilausliikenne Himanen, Savonlinja, and Soisalon liikenne.
The decision remains open to appeal for two weeks before becoming legally binding. This standard waiting period allows competitors to challenge the outcome if they identify procedural issues.
Finland's public transport system operates through municipal tendering processes. Cities regularly put transport contracts out to competitive bidding to ensure cost efficiency and service quality. The eight-year contract duration reflects typical practice for major transport agreements, providing stability while maintaining periodic competition.
For international readers, this type of competitive bidding process demonstrates Finland's transparent approach to public services. Municipal transport contracts represent substantial business opportunities for Nordic transport companies. The three million euro annual price tag shows the significant investment Finnish cities make in public mobility infrastructure.
The contract change could bring service improvements for Mikkeli residents. New operators often introduce updated vehicles and modernized routes. However, transitions between transport providers sometimes cause temporary disruptions as drivers learn new routes and systems.
Local transport decisions directly impact urban development and environmental goals. Efficient public transportation reduces private car usage and supports sustainable city planning. Mikkeli's investment in its bus network reflects broader Nordic commitments to green mobility solutions.