Operating in Finland and Sweden, Snellman Group is a family-run company in the food industry. Specialising in meat processing and ready meals, the company has more than 70 years of experience delivering high-quality products. Marketing & Communications Director Tommi Fors and Managing Director of Snellman Meat Processing Roland Snellman discussed sustainability and innovation. Report by Imogen Ward and Antonia Cole.
Snellman Group is committed to delivering products at the highest standard, Managing Director of Snellman Meat Processing Roland Snellman said: “Our dedication to quality has driven us forward since our establishment. We aim to provide trusted products that exceed customer expectations with great-tasting food from a diverse array of brands.”
Founded in Pietarsaari, a town in the Ostrobothnia region of Finland, Snellman began as a small sausage factory in 1951. The purpose of the company was to make products that were of a better quality and flavour than others on the market. This commitment to quality, instilled by founders Kurt and Lars Snellman, has grown alongside Snellman, resulting in a premium range of food products.
However, in the 1970s, Snellman faced the challenges of the oil crisis. Approx-
imately 90% of food-processing companies in Finland went bankrupt, but Snellman was able to keep operating. This is due to the quality of its products, building up a loyal customer base who trust the company. In 1985, Snellman also invested in a slaughtering business, giving it more control over the supply chain, which enabled it to diversify its portfolio and increase production capacity.
“Another significant step for us was securing our own breeding operations,” explained Marketing & Communications Director Tommi Fors. “Today, we are the only company in Finland breeding Finnish pigs. Through this, we can ensure that our pigs
“At Snellman, we believe in doing good and taking responsibility for the wellbeing of people, animals and the environment,” said Mr Snellman. “Being ahead of the market in these changes underscores our commitment to sustainability. These changes were not made due to pressure from regulations, but because we are dedicated to doing the right thing. Our goal is to operate entirely on renewable energy and biofuel going forward.”
The company is also taking action to encourage sustainability on its farms. Animal welfare is very important to Snellman, which is why the company has been encouraging pig farmers to free-farrow animals. Offering bonuses for free-farrowing pigs has led 60% of Snellman’s farms to adopt to this method in a relatively short time.
Additionally, the company is aiming to minimise the carbon footprint on farms with soy-free feeding. This has been
Managing Director Snellman
Meat Processing Roland Snellman
replaced with Finnish raw materials, which not only make the animal healthier, but also reduces transportation emissions. In production, Snellman has been working to limit packaging materials. The company launched a mince meat packaging design that used over 70% less plastic. This innovative development has been followed by other companies both in and out of Finland, leaving a lasting sustainable impact.
“We stand at the forefront of change,” continued Mr Fors. “Such projects have inspired competitors to follow, and we aim to continue leading the market. Currently, we are preparing for the new EU sustainability regulations and reporting structure. We are proud of what we have already achieved for the environment and plan to keep improving into the future.”
Eating better
Snellman has managed to make its projects successful through strong supplier and partner relationships. When developing new products and packaging, it is essential that
suppliers understand the company’s values and uphold them in their operations. This process has allowed Snellman to maintain its principles throughout every stage of production.
“Our slogan is if you eat meat, eat better meat,” explained Mr Snellman. “We produce meat products that respect the animals and the environment, promoting a healthier society and planet. Our products give consumers the opportunity to eat better food and make more sustainable consumption choices. We conducted a large customer survey last year, which showed us what our customers expect from us. We are always striving to meet these expectations.”
Moving forward, the company plans to maintain its values of quality and animal welfare. Snellman will continue to explore sustainable production methods and strive towards achieving a better future for meat processing. n
