The year was 2016. Digitalization was progressing rapidly, and everyone was talking about technology. The property sector was also beginning to wake up to the advantages offered by tech innovations. How could Finland’s built environment respond to the global transformation and keep up with the pace of change? Recotech – short for Real Estate and Construction Technology – was born. More than just an event, it became a community dedicated to exploring the opportunities of a new era shaped by technology.
From Rakli, Recotech was founded by CEO Jyrki Laurikainen and Anssi Salonen, who was working at Rakli as Director of Real Estate Investing and Proptech. Today, Anssi and Jyrki share what has stayed with them from Recotech’s early years.
What was Recotech’s original goal?
“Recotech’s most important goal was to develop the industry,” Jyrki summarizes. “For me, Recotech represents the ability to adapt and renew, something that is still incredibly important today.”
The event itself, however, had a twofold purpose: “We hoped to create a space where real estate and construction professionals could meet tech experts,” Anssi explains. “At the same time, we wanted to help tech companies build a foundation that would allow them to break into the industry.”
Recotech grew and evolved during its first years just as its founders had envisioned. The visitor target set for the first year was far exceeded, and it became clear that they were tapping into a truly significant phenomenon.
What memories stand out from those early years?
“The first Recotech exceeded our expectations completely! It was clear there was a huge demand, and we had great timing,” says Anssi. “In the first year, we underestimated the space and catering needs. We actually ran out of coffee and food.”
Jyrki recalls how the name “Recotech” came to be: “We spent a long time thinking about the name. Eventually, we settled on Recotech because we wanted to unite the real estate and construction sectors. Even ten years later, I’m still very happy with that choice.”
What was the best part of Recotech in those early days?
“The first years were full of energy!” Jyrki says. “It was great to overhear people talking about Recotech in the halls. The event was, and still is, highly appreciated.”
“We, the organisers, had a blast,” Anssi adds. “We were excited, and the milestones felt rewarding – for example, when we brought in an international speaker, or when Recotech became an official side event of Slush. That was huge!”
What does Recotech mean to you now, ten years later?
“Recotech has grown in the right direction over the years. In the past decade, the property and construction sector have become much more dynamic. There are now many active players. I’m proud that Recotech has played a role in accelerating change, especially through the use of technology and startups,” Jyrki reflects.