“The closer you are to Kouvola, the less anxious you are,” sings Aleksanteri Hakaniemi in the title track of his new album Kouvola. To alleviate the homesickness of the author of the album, which was born out of love for his homeland, we decided to invite him to visit the Kouvola Liquorice Factory for a day.
The 25-year-old singer and musician, originally from Kouvola, thinks that what's great about his old hometown is that it combines the best aspects of a big and small city. In addition, Kouvola has taught him perseverance:
– It is possible to get an education and a job here. To try and grow. To take over the city. At the same time, Kouvola has nature, peace and your own space. In addition, Kouvola is in a good location and Helsinki can be reached quickly if necessary. However, the best thing that Kouvola has given me is the will to fight for my own cause. Nothing has come easily, but when you seal your place, it is appreciated. I wouldn't be here without Kouvola.
Black sweets have also been a big part of Aleksanteri's life since he was a child, both on the basketball courts and at school. So Aleksanteri happily accepted the invitation and stepped into the middle of his own life's Jali and the chocolate factory story for a day:
– For me, Kouvola Liquorice has always meant an award. An award for a job well done. In my childhood, you could get an award for a well-played game in a basketball tournament or for a prize from school to celebrate the start of the holidays. It sounds cliché, but even today, when I eat Kouvola Liquorice, I am brought back to those feelings!
During a visit to the Kouvola Lakritsi factory, Aleksanteri was able to learn about the production of licorice from start to finish, guided by CEO Timo Nisula. The musician was surprised by how much of the production is handmade:
– A lot is done by hand with love, emotion and heart. And it comes across. I especially remembered the reason for the freshness of the liquorice, which I have always wondered about. The reason was natural: the liquorice is not stored for months, but goes to the store fresh and on the market. In addition, the export aspect was new information. I didn't know that Kouvola's Licorice is global! That's great!
During the day, which was scented with licorice, Aleksanteri received a good information package about the company's operations and saw how licorice is made. He also got to make the legendary licorice pipes:
– It was fun to try making a classic! Yes, the version made by a professional had a slightly better posture, but overall the amount of craftsmanship was a positive surprise.
At the end of the day, the staff of Kouvola's Lakritsi were able to enjoy Aleksanteri's intimate gig.
– The visit left a good impression on everyone! I have walked past the factory many times and wondered what it all looks like, and now I know. I received comprehensive information about the behind-the-scenes and the growth of the company, and I was able to see all the work stages in person. The good taste was also left in my mouth in the form of souvenirs from the factory, Aleksanteri sums up.