Switches Without Compromises
1930s – Time Before Switches
KATKO’s predecessor, Auto-Koneistamo Oy, was founded in 1938 to repair car engines. While switches were not yet part of the business, the foundations for KATKO’s long-standing focus on automation were already being established. Founders Kauko and Tauno Hyryläinen had a strong interest in new manufacturing methods and developed ways to automate work phases that had previously been done by hand.
1940s – The Beginning of Switch Manufacturing
Following World War II, the Finnish Ministry of Supply sought domestic manufacturers to strengthen Finland's self-sufficiency. As a result, the company received its first switch orders and began manufacturing switches in 1946. This marked the beginning of KATKO's journey as a switch manufacturer and laid the foundation for the KATKO brand.
1950s – Growing Focus on Switch Manufacturing
KATKO introduced its first motor protection switches (PS 16) along with customer-specific switch solutions. Strong in-house product development became a cornerstone of the company's operations, enabling a solution-oriented approach that remains central to KATKO today.
1960s – Innovation and the First Export Markets
KATKO took its first step into international markets, as switch exports to Sweden began. The product portfolio expanded with new switch solutions, and Kauko Hyryläinen invented the modern fused switch, establishing KATKO as a pioneer in the industry. The invention was patented and became one of the company's defining innovations.
1970s – Expanding the Product Portfolio
By the time KATKO's manufacturing facilities in Vantaa were completed in 1972, the company had become fully focused on manufacturing switches and related accessories.
As safety switches became increasingly common, KATKO expanded its range from metal-enclosed switches to include plastic-enclosed solutions. Exports expanded beyond the Nordic countries to markets such as Portugal and Greece.
In 1976, the first generational transition took place
as the second generation assumed leadership of the company.
1980s – Growth and Automation
Major investments in production equipment in the late 1980s introduced modern automation to KATKO's manufacturing. The automatic production line for KU switches significantly improved production efficiency and scalability.
KATKO Elektriska Ab was established in Sweden. KATKO's international expansion accelerated as exports grew also beyond Europe.
1990s – Becoming a Global Supplier
International expansion continued as the company entered new markets and strengthened its position as a supplier of switch solutions with a broad and versatile product portfolio. KATKO UK Ltd was also established as part of this growth.
2000s – A Decade of Development
The 2000s marked another period of significant development. Continuous investment in in-house product development, customer-specific solutions and manufacturing strengthened KATKO's competitiveness. Exports exceeded 60% of total sales, with KATKO operating in more than 45 countries worldwide.
KATKO Poland was established in 2002, followed by its manufacturing facility in Nidzica in 2006. Moreover, KATKO’s sales office in Dubai was established in 2007.
2010s – Increased Capacity and Digital Transformation
KATKO relocated its headquarters and main manufacturing facility to Helsinki. The investment enabled the modernization of production, increased manufacturing capacity, and created Finland's most modern plastics manufacturing facility. At the same time, major investments were made to improve digital systems.
2020s – A New Chapter
The beginning of the decade marked another generational transition at KATKO. In 2024, the new Switching Gears Strategy was launched, with an even stronger focus on internationalisation and sustainable growth. In 2025, KATKO AB in Sweden and KATKO Electrical Ltd in the United Kingdom were re-established, strengthening KATKO's presence in both markets.
In 2026, KATKO celebrates 80 years of switch manufacturing. Over the decades, the company has grown into an international switch manufacturer serving customers in more than 80 countries worldwide.
With a strong commitment to in-house product development and continuous innovation, KATKO continues to shape the future of switch technology. The next generation of innovations is already on the drawing board.