Apr 28, 2014 11:39 UTC Fazer plans increasing efficiency of bakery network in Finland Fazer has made an assessment of options to increase the efficiency of its bakery network to secure the company’s competitiveness in a changing operational environment. Fazer is considering measures to centralise the production of bakery products and, consequently, the possible closure of its Hyvinkää and Ulvila bakeries. Fazer will start collaboration negotiations which will affect 146 persons in total. Fazer is prepared to support those affected by the possible termination of employment. ʻThe market situation is challenging and consumer behaviour has changed in a significant way. We must enhance the efficiency of our operations to secure our future competitiveness,ʼ says Markus Hellström, Managing Director of Fazer Bakery Finland. Bread consumption is declining in Finland. The share of bread baked in stores is growing and that of pre-packed bread is falling. Increasing the efficiency of operations must be continued also because salary and energy costs have continued to rise and it is not possible to fully transfer the cost effects into prices. Fazer has considered different options to improve the efficiency of its bakery network. One outcome is that operations in the Hyvinkää and Ulvila bakeries may be discontinued. Fazer will start collaboration negotiations with the entire personnel of the Hyvinkää and Ulvila bakeries, affecting 146 employees in total, of which 73 in Hyvinkää and 73 in Ulvila. Fazer supports personnel in change Fazer will support those whose employment may be terminated. ʻWe want to further the employees’ possibilities of re-employment. We will liaise with the local employment administrations and with companies which need new employees, ʼ says Markus Hellström. Fazer’s bakeries are located in Vantaa, Hyvinkää, Lahti, Ulvila, Lappeenranta and Oulu. In addition, Fazer has 47 in-store bakeries where bakers make bread every day. The degree of domestic origin in Fazer’s bakery products is over 95 per cent. Media contacts: VP Communications Leena Majamäki, Fazer Group - tel. +358 40 585 1585 Emails are in the form: firstname.lastname(at)fazer.com Fazer is an international family-owned company offering bakery, confectionery and biscuit products as well as contract catering, restaurant and café services. Fazer operates in eight countries and exports to more than 40 countries. Fazer’s mission is to create taste sensations. The company’s success, ever since its establishment in 1891, has been based on the best product and service quality, beloved brands and skilful people. Fazer wants to make life taste good every day. Fazer Group’s net sales in 2013 amounted to nearly 1.7 billion euros and the company has over 15,000 employees. Fazer’s operations comply with ethical principles that are based on the Group’s values and the UN Global Compact. Contacts Liisa Eerola Press Contact Manager, Partnerships and Events, Fazer Group [email protected] 358 44 7108860 Leena Majamäki Press Contact Vice president, Communications, Fazer Group Communications, Fazer Group [email protected] +358 40 585 1585.