Fiskars
ActiveOverview
Fiskars Corporation is a Finnish consumer goods company founded in 1649, known for products in home, garden, and outdoor categories, including its iconic orange-handled scissors introduced in 1967. It operates as an integrated company with strategic business units in Living and Functional, owning brands like Iittala, Royal Copenhagen, and Gerber, with products sold in over 100 countries.15
History
Fiskars was founded in 1649 as an ironworks in Fiskars village, Raseborg, Finland, becoming one of the world's oldest continuously operating companies. It expanded through steel processing innovations, acquisitions like Inha Works, Billnäs Bruks, and Oy Ferraria Ab, and listed on the Helsinki Stock Exchange in 1915. Post-WWII restructuring led to mass production, including the 1967 plastic-handled scissors; later acquisitions included Iittala and Leborgne in 2007, Royal Copenhagen in 2013, and Waterford Wedgwood in 2015.14
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Fiskars Garden Tools | Durable garden cutting and maintenance tools | $10 - $100 |
| Fiskars Scissors | Ergonomic cutting tools for home and craft | $5 - $50 |
| Iittala Tableware | Scandinavian design kitchen and dining products | $20 - $300 |
| Royal Copenhagen Porcelain | Luxury hand-painted tableware | $50 - $500 |
| Gerber Outdoor Gear | Functional knives and multi-tools | $20 - $200 |
Manufacturing
Fiskars products are manufactured across multiple countries as part of its global operations in 29 countries, with historical roots in Finnish ironworks. The company has integrated production through acquisitions strengthening garden tools and kitchenware capabilities. Specific manufacturing locations vary by product line and brand.15
Notable Products
- Orange-Handled Scissors - World's first plastic-handled scissors from 1967, recognized for ergonomic design.
- Fiskars X-Series Pruners - Lightweight, powerful garden cutting tools.
- Iittala Kivi Votives - Iconic glass candle holders in Scandinavian design.
- Royal Copenhagen Blue Fluted - Traditional hand-painted porcelain dinnerware.
- Gerber Bear Grylls Knives - Survival multi-tools for outdoor use.
Reputation
Fiskars is regarded by professionals and enthusiasts for durable, ergonomic tools like its scissors and garden products, with strong heritage in functional design. Criticisms include declining net sales prior to 2021 strategy shifts and lack of clear growth focus earlier. The brand maintains solid market presence through owned channels and global distribution.1