The Teboil Siilinhovi service station in Siilinjärvi's Vuorela district will shut down in November. Local residents expressed disappointment about the closure during their final visits.
Erkki Tissari from Maaninka stopped by for coffee and pastries on Tuesday morning. The station has served as a popular stop for travelers and locals alike.
"It's a shame this place is closing," said Erkki Jokela, a taxi driver from nearby Kuopio. He sipped his coffee while sitting at the window table. "But there's not much anyone can do about the situation as it stands."
The closure reflects broader challenges facing rural service stations across Finland. Many struggle with rising costs and changing travel patterns. Local businesses often serve as community hubs beyond their commercial function.
What does this mean for other rural service stations in Eastern Finland? The Teboil shutdown may signal similar challenges for other small stations in the region. Local residents will need to find alternative stops for fuel and refreshments.
The station's last day of operation will be in November, though the exact date remains unspecified. Regular customers like Jokela will need to adjust their routines after the closure.