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A fresh start as a Flea Market entrepreneur: Sarianna Sumiloff credits business advisor as her mentor in early stages of entrepreneurship
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Business Joensuu news
Sarianna Sumiloff from Outokumpu decided to fulfill her long-time dream by establishing a a flea market with Mikko Vartiainen and Ari Naumanen. The KovaNasu Flea Market opened its doors on Kummunkatu on December 9, 2024
- This was the right opportunity, and I decided to go for it—maybe it was a midlife crisis that gave me the courage, Sarianna Sumiloff shares.
The flea market’s memorable name originates from the surnames of its original conceptualizers (Korhonen, Vartiainen, Naumanen, and Sumiloff), although not all of them eventually joined the entrepreneurial journey.
- We really loved the name—it’s definitely unusual, Sarianna laughs.
Business Joensuu advisor provides coaching and advice
KovaNasu is a flea market where customers can either rent a sales spot or use a consignment service where Sarianna and her team handle everything for the client.
- Consignment sales have clearly been the more popular option so far because it’s so convenient, Sarianna notes.
The flea market has been a highly anticipated addition to Outokumpu and has attracted a steady stream of customers.
- The amount of work has been a bit of a surprise, even though I knew what I was getting into, Sarianna reflects. - I’ve done all kinds of jobs before, including working at a flea market, so the concept itself is familiar.
However, every new entrepreneur needs support. Sarianna has had several sparring sessions with Juha Saastamoinen, a business advisor from Business Joensuu.
- We reviewed financial calculations and the business plan, and we’re still working on matters related to the startup grant, Sarianna explains.
- Juha has been a mental mentor during the early stages of the business and has provided great advice. It’s wonderful to have someone you can always turn to if something is unclear, she adds enthusiastically.
New plans already taking shape
The fresh entrepreneur already has additional plans on the horizon.
- We’ll soon be expanding into construction, renovations, and property maintenance services. We’re currently finalizing the paperwork for that, Sarianna reveals.
Text and photo:
Paula Hulkkonen, Communications Designer, City of Outokumpu
Contact information:
Sarianna Sumiloff, +358 44 901 9038, kirppis@kovanasu.fi