The only factory producing traditional Zaonezhye embroidery in Karelia is closing.
In Medvezhyegorsk, the renowned Karelian Patterns factory, the only remaining producer of traditional Zaonezhye embroidery in the region, has ceased operations and is closing. All employees have been laid off, and the production facilities are already up for sale.
The history and legacy of the Karelian Patterns company
Zaonezhye embroidery is rightfully considered one of the main calling cards of the Republic of Karelia. The Karelian Patterns factory, in turn, was one of the oldest enterprises in the region, preserving unique folk traditions since 1929.
For many years, the company's craftswomen successfully sewed clothing from natural linen, produced high-quality home textiles, stage costumes, and various souvenirs. However, this legendary production facility is now closing.
Reasons for closure and financial problems
Emilia Slabunova, a member of the Legislative Assembly of Karelia, officially announced the factory's closure. According to local media, the main reason for the closure was the deteriorating health of the plant's director.
Furthermore, according to financial analysis from the Rusprofile database, Karelian Patterns has recently experienced significant financial difficulties. Specifically, in 2025, the company's revenue amounted to 12,1 million rubles, and its profit was 312 rubles, a 6% decrease compared to the previous year.
The reaction of the authorities and the outrage of local residents
Deputy Emilia Slabunova called on regional authorities to intervene and save the unique production facility from complete liquidation and sale.
We consider the closure of the republic's only folk art and crafts enterprise, which has preserved ancient embroidery traditions, unacceptable. Instead of talking about preserving traditions, please purchase and preserve this unique enterprise, Government of the Republic of Karelia.
It's worth noting that back in 2024, Governor Artur Parfenchikov publicly called "Karelian Patterns" the pride of the region and a crucial "contribution to the global history of folk arts and crafts." However, the head of the republic has not yet commented on the factory's current closure.
At the same time, local residents expressed extreme outrage at what was happening on social media:
It survived the 40s war years, it survived the 90s, but under Putinism something went wrong. Prove otherwise.
There was no money to support national culture. But there was enough for churches and patriotic song contests.
They're destroying everything. Poor Karelia.
