Marimekko
Marimekko is a Finnish design company founded in Helsinki in 1951. It makes printed textiles, clothing and home furnishings, and is best known for its bold patterns such as the Unikko poppy print.
| Founded | 1951, Helsinki |
|---|---|
| Founders | Viljo Ratia, Armi Ratia, Riitta Immonen |
| Signature print | Unikko (Maija Isola, 1964) |
| Listing | Nasdaq Helsinki |
| Website | marimekko.com |
What is Marimekko?
Marimekko is a Finnish design house based in Helsinki, known for printed textiles that it turns into clothing and home furnishings. The company is publicly listed as Marimekko Oyj on Nasdaq Helsinki.
History
Marimekko was founded on 25 May 1951 in Helsinki by Viljo Ratia, Armi Ratia and Riitta Immonen. Designers set the tone early: Vuokko Nurmesniemi created the Jokapoika striped shirt in 1956, and Maija Isola designed the Unikko poppy print in 1964, which remains the company's signature pattern. In 1985 the business was sold to Amer-yhtymä and was later bought back by Kirsti Paakkanen.
Products and positioning
The range covers printed fabrics, dresses, shirts, swimwear and home textiles such as tablecloths. Fabrics are printed at the company's own factory in Helsinki, while finished products are made in several countries including Portugal, Lithuania, India, Thailand and China.
Distribution
Marimekko sells through its own store network, which counted around 170 stores in 2025, alongside online sales that serve customers worldwide.
Why it matters
Marimekko is one of the clearest examples of a fashion and lifestyle brand built on a print archive, where a small number of patterns carry the identity across apparel, accessories and the home.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Marimekko from?
Marimekko is from Finland. It was founded in Helsinki in 1951 and is still headquartered there.
Who designed the Marimekko Unikko print?
The Unikko poppy print was designed by Maija Isola in 1964 and remains Marimekko's best known pattern.