Alma Media Invests in Hilla Villas

Hilla Villas, a company specializing in premium villa rentals in Finnish Lapland, has expanded its ownership base by selling a 10 percent stake to Alma Media Corporation, a publicly listed Finnish media company. Alma Media’s investment is fully dedicated to accelerating the company’s business growth. Alma Media and its marketplace Nettimökki have been strategic partners of Hilla Villas since late 2023, and the collaboration now deepens both in terms of ownership and operations.

In addition to private shareholders, Hilla Villas is co-owned by the leading Finnish real estate agency Bo, and now Alma Media. The company has expanded its rental services to cover all major travel destinations in Finnish Lapland and the northern region. Hilla Villas caters to both domestic and international travelers who value quality and the unique experience Lapland offers. International customers already make up the majority of the clientele, and their share continues to grow.

“I’m truly pleased that the most profitable and highest-quality media company in Nasdaq Helsinki is investing in Hilla Villas and helping us accelerate our growth. Demand for premium accommodation in Lapland and Northern Finland is growing rapidly, so the key lies in creating a credible offering and channeling the demand effectively. With this shareholder lineup, I see the best possible foundation for capturing significant market share and creating lasting value for all stakeholders”, comments Jukka Oksaharju, an investment expert and founding partner of Hilla Villas.

Excellent Accessibility to Lapland Boosts Business Potential

The expanding partnership between Hilla Villas and Alma Media offers villa owners new, highly effective multichannel marketing and sales platforms. Plans include deeper integration between Nettimökki and Hilla Villas, and the development of seamless, profitable service packages for property owners.

“Lapland has always been close to my heart. I think it is wonderful that more and more Finnish and international travelers have the chance to discover and fall in love with this magical region. We want to offer this unforgettable Lapland experience in a premium way”, states actor Jussi Vatanen, a shareholder in Hilla Villas.

“We’ve been deeply impressed by the growth of Hilla Villas and the company’s customer-centric concept. We believe it has the potential to become the leading premium vacation rental platform in Finland. This investment strengthens our position as a provider of digital housing and leisure services”, says Maarit Tarkiainen, Vice President of Comparison Services at Alma Media.

Hilla Villas was founded to meet the rapidly growing demand for high-quality vacation rentals in Lapland. In addition to accommodation, travelers can also find desired activities and experiences through the platform. The company collaborates with several international travel agencies and operators. Today, Lapland is more accessible than ever, thanks to increasingly comprehensive flight connections from across Europe, both geographically and seasonally.

In summer 2023, Bo also joined Hilla Villas as a shareholder and strategic partner.

Further Information:
Jukka Oksaharju, Hilla Villas, tel. +358 50 376 0589
Jussi Vatanen, Hilla Villas, jussi.vatanen@hillavillas.com
Maarit Tarkiainen, Alma Media, Alma Marketplaces, tel. +358 50 341 5830

About Hilla Villas:
Hilla Villas offers premium rental villas in Lapland, one of the world’s most magical travel destinations. Its carefully curated selection covers all the region’s major tourist hubs. Hilla Villas’ mission is to enhance Lapland’s appeal and enchant both domestic and international travelers with unforgettable experiences. The company’s owners have strong roots in northern tourism and experience providers. Alongside private shareholders, the company is co-owned by Bo, one of Finland’s most respected real estate agencies, and the publicly listed media company Alma Media Corporation.