Fazer Builds €400M Carbon-Neutral Chocolate Factory in Lahti

Fazer Group has secured approval to proceed with its €400 million ($467 million) chocolate factory project in Lahti, Finland, marking the largest investment in the company's history. The factory, scheduled for completion in 2028, will feature advanced automation, energy recycling, and aims to be carbon dioxide emissions-free, aligning with environmental certifications such as BREEAM. The project had experienced delays due to a previously proposed VAT increase on sweets, which was later dropped, allowing construction to commence in mid-2025. The facility will significantly boost Finnish food exports, with Fazer currently accounting for 15% of these exports, and will generate approximately two million euros in annual tax revenue for Lahti, while creating hundreds of jobs during the construction phase. Lahti's mayor expressed strong support for the project, highlighting its importance to the city's economic development and attractiveness. Financing will include long-term debt and a €20 million grant from Business Finland, supporting the factory's green transition goals.