Finnish food group Raisio has announced it is to invest EUR45m (US$50.9m) in the production of plant-based products, including building a new dedicated facility.

The Helsinki-listed business, which owns the Benecol brand, said it is responding to the strong growth in demand for plant-based food, particularly in Europe.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

“The project is funded by the company’s strong cash position and cash flow. The investment strengthens Raisio’s position as a specialist in plant-based food and supports growth in line with the company’s strategy,” it said.

Raisio’s president and CEO Pekka Kuusniemi, added: “This investment is the biggest one in organic growth for Raisio in decades and one of the most robust in the Finnish food sector lately. The development of the market for responsibly-produced plant-based food is only beginning. Inspired by consumer insight, our special expertise and strong brands, we will develop new plant-based products.”

Raisio said it plans to establish a European business based on the company’s “strong oat expertise” and plant-based food.

The new production facility will be built in the Finnish town after which the company is named. 

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Raisio said its focus will be on added-value products in which oats and a wide variety of plant-based raw materials can be used. 

It suggested that at full capacity, the factory will employ 30 to 35 people, some of whom will work in product development. The company has estimated that the first products made in the new factory will be available in stores during 2021.

In March, Raisio announced it was linking up with Italy-based Dr Schär to collaborate in product development and manufacturing.

From January 2019: Raisio CEO Pekka Kuusniemi sets out stall to grow Benecol maker – interview