Danish furniture manufacturer Hjort Knudsen is maintaining production in Ukraine despite the ongoing war, even as around 300 of its employees have joined the military.
The company operates five factories across the country, including in the Lviv and Rivne regions, and reports that production remains stable despite the conflict. CEO Klaus Hjort Knudsen said employees value the continuity of work, which provides a distraction from the realities of war.
© Hjort Knudsen
However, the impact on the workforce has been significant. With many male employees deployed, the company has increasingly shifted roles towards female workers. It is also adapting workplaces to support returning employees, including those with physical and psychological injuries.
Knudsen noted that while facilities are located far from the frontlines, the emotional toll is widespread, as most workers have been affected by loss or hardship.
Following a temporary shutdown in 2022, the company resumed operations within months and has since committed to remaining in Ukraine. The business views its presence as both economically and socially important, contributing to local stability during the conflict.
Hjort Knudsen continues to invest globally, with additional production in India and China, while maintaining its Ukrainian operations as part of a broader international strategy.
Source: www.wood-supply.dk
