For chemical companies global competition is stiffer than ever before. In order to succeed and to maintain jobs it is necessary continuously to improve productivity. For the chemical companies productivity development is a task requiring the cooperation of the whole personnel. Many companies have implemented comprehensive development programmes. Some of the employers have responded by making small, gradual changes. The most important thing is, however, that the entire personnel take part in the development work, and that increasing productivity is part of a systematic plan. Productivity is the result of the right attitude, competence and efficient operations.

In the past few years the Chemical Industry Federation of Finland, Chemical Workers Union and the Union of Salaried Employees (TU) have organized productivity theme days targeting company representatives that participate in practical productivity development as employers, employees and salaried employees. The events offer practical tools as well as information on training opportunities and financial arrangements. Also, practical examples of productivity-enhancing projects are introduced.

The cooperation forum for productivity development is the labour committee of the chemical industry. In addition to the Chemical Industry Federation of Finland, the other parties are Chemical Workers Union and the Union of Salaried Employees (TU). Workplace development programme Tykes offers public support and funding for the development projects.