Snellman 75 Years – From a Small Sausage Factory to a Major Finnish Food Company
Over the past 75 years, a small sausage factory in Pietarsaari has grown into a major Finnish food company. A healthy and well-managed company builds its future on strong roots, quality and the ability to renew itself.
Snellman’s story began in 1951, when Kurt and Lars Snellman founded their own sausage factory, Snellmans Kött & Korv, in the basement premises of the Skata wooden-house district in Pietarsaari. Over time, their three younger brothers, Per, Karl and Henry, also became shareholders. When the business started, the company had just three customers.
Today, 75 years later, the company has grown into a major Finnish food company. According to several surveys, its products are among the most trusted on the market. The Snellman Group’s brands include Herr Snellman high-quality Finnish meat products and meal components, Kokkikartano ready meals made with taste at the forefront, Mr. Panini delicious bread products, Carolines Kök tasty ready meals and pies in Sweden, as well as MUSH raw food for pets. The Group employs more than 2,000 people, operates in two home markets, has production facilities in three countries and exports to several countries.
The Strength of a Family Business
The Snellman Group remains fully family owned. Today, the company has more than 500 owners across four generations. Per, Karl and Henry Snellman, representing the founding generation, describe the company’s journey:
“Our original idea was to establish our own company, secure a livelihood for our families and make good sausages. The business has grown into something wonderful, and we wish it continued success. The contribution of our employees has been, and continues to be, invaluable.”
Living in time
Although many things have changed over the years, the company has never compromised on quality. Its products were known for their quality 75 years ago, and they still are today.
The company has also remained true to its values and people-oriented way of working. This can be seen, for example, in our warm working environment, the respect we show our colleagues and one of our company values: Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself. Markus Hellström, CEO of the Snellman Group, comments:
“I feel incredibly proud to work for a company where a strong set of values, long-term commitment and genuine care for people are evident every day. These values are not only part of our history – they continue to shape our everyday work, our decisions and our products. What makes this particularly meaningful is that I get to do this work together with such skilled and great colleagues.”
Eyes to the Future
Company’s long history is an important strength for the Snellman Group, while at the same time our focus is firmly on the future. Through hard work, a people-oriented approach and an unwavering commitment to quality, we are looking ahead to new opportunities and the next 75 years.
Kaj Fagerholm, Chairman of the Board of Oy Snellman Ab, comments:
“As Snellman celebrates its 75th anniversary, the company is in a stable position and has strong prospects for the future. Our brands are strong, consumers choose our products in ever greater numbers, our employees are highly skilled, and our owners are committed and want to continue developing the company. As Chairman of the Board I feel, together with the entire Board, great joy and pride – but also humility – in having the opportunity to help carry this work forward.”
During its first 75 years, the company has already demonstrated its ability to adapt to changing times and continuously develop. That ability is essential in a rapidly changing world. Looking ahead, the Snellman Group will continue to offer exceptional taste experiences through some of the most trusted brands on the market.
