
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Dec. 28, 2024 - Axopar Boats and its visionary founder, Jan-Erik Viitala, have been recognized as winners of the prestigious 'EY Entrepreneur Of The Year' award in Finland. This esteemed accolade, announced at the EY Gala in Helsinki on November 8th, celebrates not only Jan-Erik Viitala's outstanding entrepreneurial achievements but also the passion and innovation that have driven Axopar's success since its inception in 2014.
The jury, led by Leena Niemistö, praised Axopar for its clear market strategy, innovative product development, and Jan-Erik Viitala's unwavering passion for the boating industry. The company's strong financial performance and ability to stand out in a competitive market were key factors in their selection as this year's winners.
A Global Recognition of Entrepreneurial Excellence The 'EY Entrepreneur Of The Year' program, considered one of the world's most prestigious entrepreneurial competitions, recognizes visionary leaders whose innovation, strategic focus, and leadership inspire others. This year's Finnish competition saw 53 growth companies vying for the title, with ten finalists selected for the final round.
An independent jury evaluated candidates based on international criteria, including strong values, exceptional leadership, and business strategy. Axopar's strategic differentiation and growth-oriented approach proved to be compelling, underscoring the company's significant impact on both the domestic and international boating markets.
As the winner of the Finnish competition, Axopar and Jan-Erik Viitala will represent Finland at the 'EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year World Championship' scheduled for June 2025.
Axopar's Founder Expresses Gratitude and Excitement Upon accepting the award, Axopar's founding partner, Jan-Erik Viitala, expressed his gratitude, stating, "In this our special 10th Anniversary Year, this recognition reflects the dedication and achievements of the entire Axopar team, who have come so far in such a short time."
He continued, "Since 2014, Axopar has grown into one of Europe's largest boat manufacturers, producing versatile, multifunctional outboard boats tailored to meet diverse customer needs. Our journey to receive this honor is a testament to our commitment to pushing boundaries in design, functionality, and market strategy."
Viitala concluded by emphasizing the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and expansion, stating, "This win is a milestone for Axopar as we continue to innovate and expand our reach globally. We have many more unique surprises and innovations in store, so stay tuned as we introduce even more people to the joys of boating in 2025."
About Axopar Boats Founded in 2014, Axopar Boats is a leading European manufacturer of high-quality, versatile, and multifunctional outboard boats. The company's innovative designs and commitment to customer satisfaction have propelled it to become one of the largest boat manufacturers in Europe. Axopar's boats are known for their exceptional seaworthiness, stylish design, and extensive range of features, making them ideal for a variety of boating activities, from family adventures to exhilarating water sports.
About EY Entrepreneur Of The Year EY Entrepreneur Of The Year is a global program that recognizes and supports exceptional entrepreneurs who are driving innovation and growth across various industries. The program is run by EY, a leading professional services firm, and has been operating for over 30 years. In 2023, the program honored more than 5,000 entrepreneurs in over 60 countries around the world.