In the beginning of the year, Akava announced that the membership of its affiliates declined slightly last year, by less than one per cent. At TEK, however, 2025 went rather well. At the end of the year, our total membership stood at nearly 85,000, representing growth of almost three per cent from 2024. We once again set a record in student recruitment, and the number of full members increased.
Once again, we were the Akava affiliate that grew its membership the most in absolute numbers.
The abolition of the tax deduction for membership fees paid to labour market organisations, which took effect at the turn of the year, naturally brings uncertainty to 2026. In recent years, however, we have focused on improving the member experience and strengthening our marketing. By marketing, I mean calmly and factually communicating to members and potential members the added value that TEK provides.
Nearly one in four of TEK’s full members used our services last year. The feedback on our services has been excellent (NPS 76) — the kind of result that any service provider can be proud of. Among all members, nearly one in five used our services, which is also a strong figure.
Support and security are also provided by our shop stewards in workplaces, as well as by our work life experts when problems arise, for example in change negotiations or conflict situations. And, of course, by the negotiation of collective agreements. A general pay increase returns the membership fee many times over.
Members can prepare for possible challenges but also develop their own thinking by watching the numerous webinars and recordings available on TEK’s website. These webinars cover a broad range of topics related to a good working life — and a good life more generally — while offering opportunities to learn something new.
It’s always a good idea to join TEK and enjoy numerous benefits for our members.
This text was originally published as an editorial in TEK Magazine 1/2026 (the all-English edition).
