Fazer Group Company Profile

Background

Overview

Founded in 1891 by Karl Fazer, Fazer Group is a prominent Finnish food company specializing in bakery, confectionery, biscuit, and grain products. With a mission to create taste sensations and a vision of "Towards Perfect Days," Fazer has evolved from a single café in Helsinki to an international enterprise. The company operates in eight countries and exports to over 40 nations, employing approximately 6,000 people.

Industry Significance

Fazer holds a significant position in the Nordic food industry, particularly in Finland and Sweden. Its diverse product portfolio and commitment to quality have established it as a trusted brand among consumers. In 2023, Fazer was recognized as the most reputable company in Finland, reflecting its strong market presence and consumer trust.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Fazer's strategic focus centers on growth, innovation, and sustainability. The company aims to expand its presence in Northern Europe and beyond by leveraging consumer insights to develop innovative products and meaningful food experiences.

Areas of Specialization

Fazer operates through three main business areas:

Fazer Confectionery: The largest segment, offering a wide range of chocolates, candies, and biscuits.

Fazer Bakery: The oldest segment, providing various baked goods with a strong foothold in Finland, Sweden, and the Baltics.

Fazer Lifestyle Foods: Established in 2017, focusing on plant-based products, including non-dairy grain products and on-the-go snacks.

Key Technologies Utilized

Fazer emphasizes innovation in its product development, particularly in the use of oats. The company has invested in oat milling facilities in Finland and Sweden to meet the growing demand for plant-based foods. Additionally, Fazer has developed a patented process to produce xylitol from oat hulls, showcasing its commitment to sustainable practices.

Primary Markets Targeted

Fazer's primary markets include Finland, Sweden, and the Baltics, with a growing presence in other Northern European countries. The company also exports to over 40 countries, including recent expansions into India.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Fazer is a family-owned company with a history of reinvesting profits into business growth and innovation. Specific details about external funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Recent Financial Performance

In 2022, Fazer Group reported net sales of €1.1 billion. The company continues to invest in expanding its production capacities and developing new products to meet consumer demand.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Fazer is actively developing plant-based products and sustainable food solutions. The company has launched a grain-based "Taste the Future" candy tablet without cocoa and is researching cell-cultured cocoa pods in collaboration with VTT, Finland's state-owned research center.

Stages of Product Development

These initiatives are in various stages of research and development, with some products already introduced to the market and others undergoing testing and refinement.

Target Conditions and Timelines

Fazer aims to address consumer demand for sustainable and plant-based products. While specific timelines for product launches are not publicly disclosed, the company is committed to continuous innovation in these areas.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Fazer has developed a patented process to produce xylitol from oat hulls, representing a significant advancement in sustainable food production.

Significant Scientific Methods

The company collaborates with research institutions and startups to explore innovations such as cellular agriculture for cocoa production and sugar replacement options for confectionery products.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

Christoph Vitzthum: President & CEO since 2013, leading the company's strategic direction and growth initiatives.

Tero Tynkkynen: Chief Commercial Officer, appointed in 2025, responsible for driving international expansion and overseeing the Group Commercial Organisation.

Leadership Changes

In 2025, Tero Tynkkynen was appointed as Chief Commercial Officer to lead the newly established Group Commercial Organisation, focusing on international market expansion.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The global food industry is experiencing a shift towards plant-based and sustainable products. Consumers are increasingly seeking healthier options, driving companies to innovate and adapt to these trends.

Competitor Analysis

Fazer faces competition from both regional and international food companies. Key competitors include:

Mondelez International: A global leader in confectionery and snacks, investing in alternative ingredients due to rising cocoa prices.

Tate & Lyle: A British food ingredients company developing synthetic sweeteners to offer cost-effective, natural alternatives.

Voyage Foods: A startup producing sustainable foods such as chocolate and nut spreads without traditional ingredients, using alternatives like grape seeds and sunflower protein flour.