1956
Origins
Following exploration of nickel ore deposits in the Pobuzhye region, a Soviet government decision initiated the design and construction of a nickel plant and associated settlement near Kapitanka.
Company
An established Ukrainian industrial enterprise entering a new phase
PFK has more than five decades of metallurgical history in central Ukraine. Its development has been closely connected with the industrial and social development of Pobuzhsky and the surrounding region.
In 2026, PFK became part of Avenir Holding. The new shareholder is building on that industrial heritage while preparing the company and its assets for a new stage of development.
About PFK
Industrial experience built over decades
The Pobuzhsky Ferronickel Works was created to process nickel-bearing ores and developed into an established ferronickel producer. The first stage of the plant was commissioned in 1972, and the first batch of commercial ferronickel was produced on 29 December 1972. A second production stage followed in 1973.
Over the decades that followed, PFK developed metallurgical production together with extensive industrial infrastructure, utilities, technical capabilities and workforce experience.
Company history
More than half a century of industrial development
1963–1964
Project development
Technical terms of reference for commercial ferronickel production were developed and subsequently approved.
1972
First production
The first stage of the plant was commissioned and the first batch of commercial ferronickel was produced on 29 December 1972.
1973
Expansion
The second production stage entered operation, expanding the industrial base of the enterprise.
1994
Corporate restructuring
The state enterprise was reorganised as OJSC Pobuzhsky Ferronickel Works. A prolonged period of inactivity followed.
2003–2004
Restart
Following several years of shutdown, the assets were acquired by the previous shareholder and ferronickel production was restored.
2011
Modernisation
A further reconstruction programme was undertaken with international engineering participation, including Hatch.
2022
Suspension of metallurgical production
Following external disruption, PFK suspended metallurgical production from 1 November 2022.
2026
A new development phase
PFK became part of the Avenir Group, beginning a new phase of strategic and long-term development.
2026+
A new development phase
Responsible stewardship, industrial renewal and preparation of the PFK Industrial & Energy Park.
PFK today
Stewardship today, development for tomorrow
Following external disruption, PFK suspended metallurgical production from 1 November 2022. The site subsequently entered a period focused on responsible preservation and stewardship.
Today, the priority is the responsible preservation and management of PFK’s industrial assets, infrastructure and capabilities, together with its responsibilities toward employees and the local community.
As part of the Avenir Group, PFK is preparing a new development programme intended to preserve the site’s industrial potential while creating a platform for future industrial and energy investment.
PFK and Avenir
Part of the Avenir Group
PFK is part of the Avenir Group of Companies. Its direct shareholder is Avenir Baltic OÜ, an Estonian company wholly owned by Avenir Holding AG, Switzerland.
Responsible stewardshipPreserving PFK’s industrial capability and enterprise value.
Industrial renewalPreparing existing assets and infrastructure for productive future use.
Investment and partnershipsCreating a platform for industrial, energy and infrastructure cooperation.
Long-term developmentSupporting PFK’s role in Ukraine’s reconstruction and future industrial economy.
As part of the Avenir Group, PFK has initiated development work for the proposed PFK Industrial & Energy Park and the associated energy-development programme.
Latest development news →PFK and Pobuzhsky
More than an industrial site
PFK and the settlement of Pobuzhsky have developed alongside one another for more than half a century.
The enterprise has historically been closely connected with employment, infrastructure and community life in the surrounding area. That relationship remains an important consideration in the future development of PFK.
Sustainability & Community →Responsible ownership
Long-term perspective
Industrial competence
Community responsibility