Investment appetite among food and beverage manufacturers in Finland is at a historic high, but sustained growth requires predictable regulation, sufficient R&D funding, and skilled professionals across the country. Food sector can drive Finland’s economic growth and well-being – if it’s given the chance to grow, says Kai Gyllström, Chair of the Finnish Food and Drink Industries Federation (ETL) and CEO of Atria Plc.
According to Gyllström, Finnish food industry is at the threshold of a new growth leap.
– We are not facing a downturn but entering a new cycle of growth. Now is the time to accelerate this positive momentum.
Food sector plays a crucial role in both combating climate change and ensuring national security of supply. At the same time, consumer and business confidence is strengthening, and investment willingness in the industry is exceptionally strong. Annual investment intentions in the sector have exceeded the one-billion-euro mark.
– Investments that drive growth can either be boosted or hindered through regulation. That’s why we need predictable regulation that supports competitiveness, not new surprises in each government’s budget framework talks, Gyllström emphasizes.
He also highlights the importance of EU-level regulation, such as the packaging regulation and reporting requirements – which can either support or obstruct the renewal of the food sector. Regulation should enable the adoption of innovations and low-carbon solutions, like the use of biogas.
A national nutrition pact and RDI funding for food
ETL proposes a national nutrition pact for Finland. This agreement between the government and food industry companies would aim to establish a stable and predictable operating environment in which companies commit to developing increasingly healthy products as part of advancing public health.
Gyllström hopes food will be allocated its own dedicated share of research, development, and innovation (RDI) funding:
– This is an opportunity to combine growth, better nutrition, and national resilience.
Growth in the food sector also requires skilled professionals. Gyllström notes that the industry needs both highly educated experts and strong vocational know-how across Finland.
– We must work together to make the food sector more visible and attractive as a career choice. Collaboration between municipalities, educational institutions, and companies is essential.
Gyllström spoke at the Finnish Food Congress held at Finlandia Hall in Helsinki on May 13th.
