Purchases from reliable suppliers

VR’s guiding principle in procurement is responsibility in its own operations and in the operations of its suppliers.

VR uses only reliable suppliers that meet their regulatory obligations, fulfil their responsibilities as employers, do not discriminate, and do not exploit child labour. The Group endeavours to use suppliers that through their own activities and operations support the implementation of VR’s environmental promises.

Making sure materials can be recycled

VR ensures that materials can be recycled in its procurement processes. Purchases of rolling stock take into account the lifetime costs, including estimated energy costs.

Railway operations tie up large sums of capital. Investments in rolling stock, essential to successful operation, are long-term and require heavy financing. The cost structure is fairly rigid, and prospects for growth in net turnover are limited.

Restructuring of industry poses risk

VR’s financial risks are linked to its business risks. Some of the biggest of these are the restructuring of Finland’s forest industry and the unpredictable nature of traffic to and from Russia.

In its investments, VR complies with the principles approved by the Board of Directors, avoiding unnecessary risks.