The first half of 2026 was a steady period for Raisio, although our overall performance did not fully meet our ambitions. The Group’s net sales grew by 1.0% to EUR 113.5 (112.4) million, but this is not yet in line with our targets. Comparable EBIT was EUR 13.1 (14.0) million, falling clearly short of the comparison period. The EBIT of our Brands & Industrial segment increased slightly compared with the comparison period, but our ongoing ERP project had a negative impact of EUR 1.3 million on Group’s comparable EBIT, as a result of which the Group’s comparable EBIT was lower than in the comparison period. The growth in net sales, our strong financial position and the progress of our strategic projects provide us with a solid foundation for continuing our long-term efforts to build sustainable growth.
In the second quarter, net sales grew by 2.7% to EUR 56.0 (54.5) million. Comparable EBIT was EUR 5.5 (7.9) million. Profitability was particularly affected by the timing of commercial investments, the underperformance of the Heart Health business relative to its targets, the adverse impact of exchange rates and ongoing development projects. The foundations of our business are strong, but despite accelerating growth, the quarter’s result did not meet our targets.
The Breakfast, Snacking & Food Solutions business continued to develop well. The unit’s net sales grew significantly in the first half of the year compared with the comparison period. Elovena® continued to develop strongly in Finland, and growth in the Food Solutions business was supported in particular by good demand in export markets. The interest in oat-based products and solutions supports growth in line with our strategy in the longer term as well.
The Heart Health business saw mixed results in the first half of the year. Net sales were slightly lower than in the comparison period, and profitability was impacted by volume trends in the consumer business, exchange rates and investments related to the Benecol® brand renewal. We are not satisfied with the overall performance during the first half of the year and determinedly continued to reform our business operations. The comprehensive renewal of the Benecol® brand is being rolled out in stages across the markets and will be completed in the final quarter of the year. Distribution of the products launched in Spain in March is gaining momentum, and there has been positive development in licensing and industrial customer relationships. These initiatives will not be reflected in our results immediately, but they are important for strenghtening Heart Health’s growth and competitiveness.
We are building growth step by step. We are on the right track, but at the same time, strengthening our profitability will require us to ensure precise commercial execution and disciplined cost management for the rest of the year.
The implementation of our strategic initiatives progressed across several areas during the review period. The investment to increase the capacity of the Nokia oat mill has been completed and is now fully operational. Our new pilot plant paves the way for the development of fibre-based raw materials, and the decision to establish new research and product development facilities will strengthen our innovation activities. The approval of our emissions reduction targets by the Science Based Targets initiative in June marks an important step in our sustainability work.
Our operating environment remains uncertain. Consumer price consciousness, fluctuations in exchange rates and pressures relating to raw materials and costs are affecting the food supply chain. However, Raisio’s strengths are clear: well-known brands, expertise in healthy food and heart health, a strong balance sheet and the ability to develop new solutions to meet consumers’ changing needs. Converting these strengths into faster growth will be our key focus for the rest of the year.
My term as CEO of Raisio is coming to an end. During my remaining time as CEO, my main task will be to ensure that Raisio’s work continues with a clear direction, at a good pace and with strong commitment, and onboard my successor, Elli Siltala. The company has strong brands, skilled employees and a solid foundation for future growth. Our guidance for 2026 remains unchanged. We estimate that net sales and comparable EBIT will increase compared to 2025. Our priorities for the rest of the year are clear: we will boost sales, strengthen profitability and continue the disciplined implementation of our strategic growth projects.
Pasi Flinkman
CEO, Raisio plc
August 2026