Johannes Holter started at GN Tobacco Enköping, a snus factory in Enköping, when the pandemic began. Starting a new job while everyone wore facemasks wasn't ideal he says. However, facemasks are standard attire in GN Tobacco's Enköping factory, where they among other brands manufacture Siberia, Odens and White Fox.
"Technology has always fascinated me, which led me to pursue a technical program in secondary school. I planned to attend a technical college but decided to take a break first. After working at a company in Bålsta, I saw GN Tobacco's ad for a machine operator position at their snus factory. That's how I ended up here," explains Johannes Holter, who now works in quality control monitoring nicotine levels, moisture levels, and other quality standards fall through the production chain from raw tobacco to finished packaged products.
In Enköping, Sweden, GN Tobacco runs one of the largest smokeless tobacco factories in the world. In the state-of-the art factory, people, and technology work together to produce a total of over 80 varieties of tobacco-based and tobacco-free snus products. The process is highly automated from the intake of raw tobacco leaf from all over the world, via different types of treatment, and shipping it to customers across the world.
According to Johannes, the factory floor can overwhelm newcomers with its sights and sounds. Advanced machinery, robots, and other equipment run non-stop, creating a noisy and bustling environment. There, Johannes began in tobacco preparation before later moving to labeling, where workers print tax stamps and labels for snus cans.
"My excellent instructor taught me everything I needed to know when I joined. A factory environment keeps you on your toes. Even with strict security and cutting-edge machinery, you can't let your guard down. Working on a production line quickly shows you your role's importance and how each team member's contribution matters. You learn to trust your colleagues."
Like most of his coworkers, Johannes works factory shifts. Outside work, he spends time in Enköping with his girlfriend and their two daughters, occasionally hitting the gym.
"I'm content with my current life and work situation. I haven't abandoned the idea of returning to school, but I'm in no rush to leave my current position. Quality control work involves a range of quality control tools, and it interests me. One of the best things about working here is that most managers started as operators like me. Once you're part of the team at this evaluation place, you have many opportunities to grow and develop if you choose to."
GN Tobacco Sweden AB is a leading manufacturer of smokeless tobacco products. Probably best known for its high-quality renowned Siberia snus, one of the strongest snus in the world, the factory produces a wide variety of types, shapes, tastes and strengths of snus. The products are being exported countries all over the world.
By Robert
