Microsoft Shutters Finland Phone Site

Microsoft confirms the closure of the former Nokia handset product development unit in Salo, Finland. The company also plans to slash up to 2300 jobs in the Nordic country, with around 1000 in Salo.

Microsoft EspooThe company will retain Finnish mobile operations in two units, Espoo and Tampere. The Espoo unit will concentrate on high-end smartphone development while the Tampere unit is dedicated to the development of mid-range handsets and key technologies.

Salo housed one of the first Nokia factories, set up back in the 1970s. Until 2005 the factory employed 5000 people, and the closure leads to further resentment among Finns against the American company.

Initially announced in July 2015, the job cuts are part of a Microsoft plan to cut 7800 employees globally. The Nokia unit also led to a $7.6 billion impairment charge earlier this year.

Go Microsoft Confirms Finnish Phone Site Closure and Job Cuts (Reuters)