Indoor Group, the parent company of Finnish furniture brands Asko and Sotka, submitted a bankruptcy petition on Monday after becoming over-indebted and insolvent. This situation could lead to the loss of more than a hundred years of history in Finnish furniture manufacturing, particularly tied to the Asko brand. The roots of Asko date back to Lahti, where carpenter Aukusti Avonius founded Lahden Puuseppätehdas (Lahti Joinery Factory) in 1918. Avonius aimed for mass production of furniture and established his retail chain early on.

The factory underwent a name change to Asko-Avonius in 1931, reflecting its growing brand recognition, with the name Asko being increasingly used in advertising. Innovations such as the production line for springs and the introduction of Asko Bonnell mattresses in the early 1960s marked significant milestones in the company's history. Asko has collaborated with renowned designers, including Eero Aarnio, whose iconic ball chair garnered considerable fame during its debut at the 1966 Cologne Furniture Fair.

In contrast, the Sotka brand is relatively younger, having been introduced to the market in later years. The bankruptcy represents not only a corporate failure but also a cultural loss, as these brands have been integral to the Finnish furniture landscape, shaping the design and manufacturing ethos of the region. The implications of this bankruptcy could resonate through the industry, affecting supply chains, employment, and the legacy of Finnish craftsmanship.