Raisio appoints Leena Niemistö as Chair of Board

FINLAND – Raisio, a Finnish food company, has appointed Leena Niemistö as chair of its board of directors after Arto Tiitinen resigned from the position with immediate effect for personal reasons.

Niemistö, who has been a member of Raisio’s board since 2017, was elected by the board on 6 November 2026.

She will serve as chair until the company’s next Annual General Meeting, scheduled for 20 April 2027 in Turku, Finland.

Niemistö thanked Tiitinen for his contribution to the company, saying: “I would like to warmly thank Arto Tiitinen for his long work on Raisio’s board of directors for the company’s success”.

The board also made changes to its People Committee, appointing Niemistö as chair and Patrik Lundell as a new member. The committee now comprises Niemistö, Reija Airas and Lundell.

The composition of the Audit Committee remains unchanged, with Elevuori continuing as chair alongside Satu Ahomäki and Pekka Tennilä.

In addition, Raisio, the owner of the Benecol brand, has dissolved its separate M&A Committee, transferring its responsibilities to the full board of directors.

Valio strengthens plant-based portfolio with €7M Raisio acquisition

In 2025, Valio acquired Raisio’s plant protein business, including the Härkis and Beanit fava bean brands, in a deal valued at €7 million. 

The acquisition includes production equipment at Raisio’s plant protein factory in Kauhava, Finland, and 16 employees who will transfer to Valio.

A report by Valio stated that the deal strengthens its position in the plant-based protein market as part of its ongoing expansion beyond dairy. 

The company has been investing in alternative protein sources, with executive vice president Tuomas Salusjärvi highlighting that the future of food will require a combination of plant-based, animal-based, and cellular agriculture products.

According to the company, the acquisition is a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the plant-based sector.

Valio has previously invested in plant proteins, acquiring the Gold&Green business in 2022 and launching new products under the brand. 

The addition of Raisio’s plant protein business is expected to enhance product development and expand production capacity.

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