Interview with Andrian Satrio - Burger Company

‘Make sure to build a good reputation and network. Then plenty of doors will open for you. ’

What does your company do and which products or services do you offer?

I own Burger Company Oulunkylä. Our main product is Burger Company Burgers and sides but I have also a contract to offer Buli Cheesesteak and Buli’s Mac & Cheese, both on online platforms as well as for dine in. Oulunkylä venue is slightly different than other Burger Company locations;  we are also offering private space for meetings, birthdays and any other private events.   

How did you end up in Finland?

I did my double degree program in Sweden. That's where I met my girlfriend, currently my spouse. After long consideration and discussions, we thought it would be best for a family to be in Finland. So 13+ years ago I moved to Finland.

Why did you start your own business?

I had 2 bachelor degrees and I couldn’t find a job. With my HoReCa experience , I fell into the restaurant industry. My first job was a dishwasher. I have worked my way up and made a name in the restaurant industry. Burger Company’s CEO approached me to become their first franchisee ever. An opportunity that I took up.

Do you also have experience with running your own company in the Netherlands?

No.   

What are the major differences and similarities in the field of entrepreneurship between the Netherlands and Finland?

Differences: the biggest differences are regulations. It’s slightly different for the restaurant industry. Here in Finland, government is much more strict with alcohol regulation for example.

Similarities: Perhaps the similarities are more on the operational side. As soon as the paper work is done, at least in the restaurant industry, things are pretty similar.

Do you have any tips for other Dutch, or international, people who want to do business in Finland?

Make sure you have the basics knowledge about setting up a company in Finland. When you actually look into it, many grants are available for companies as long as you know where to apply. Getting a good consultant will actually helps you.

A peek into the future: where do you see yourself and your company in 5 years?

I am hoping that the company will stabilise more so I can also start other locations. At the moment I am also the Quality control manager for the company Better Food, covering 19 online restaurants. This is in addition to being the Burger Company Field Manager managing 18 BC restaurants.

At the moment, together with other stakeholders, we are busy with 3 different new concepts that we will hopefully start in the near future.

Anything else you would like to bring forward?

It is not easy to be an entrepreneur. It is about long hours and it needs 100% of your attention. Finland’s market is relatively small. Make sure to build a good reputation and network. Then plenty of doors will open for you.