Valio is investing USD 70 million to modernize its Seinäjoki production plant in Finland. The project, spanning from 2023 to 2026, includes upgrading the powder plant’s drying tower, constructing a new washing center, and building a regional laboratory. These improvements aim to boost production capacity, enhance efficiency, and support Valio’s diverse product range, including specialty milk powders.
Valio, a prominent Finnish dairy company known for its diverse range of products including butters, spreads, quark, and specialty milk powders, is investing approximately USD 70 million to modernize and enhance its Seinäjoki production plant. This significant investment is scheduled for implementation between 2023 and 2026.
Investment Details
The investment will cover the construction of a new washing center for the powder plant, modernization of the powder plant’s drying tower, and a comprehensive process overhaul. Additionally, a new regional laboratory facility will be constructed at the Seinäjoki site. These upgrades are expected to boost the plant’s production capacity and improve operational and energy efficiency.
The Seinäjoki plant is one of Valio’s largest and most diverse facilities, handling a substantial volume of milk processing. It produces a wide array of products, including all Valio butters, Valio Oivariini® spreads, quark, cottage cheeses, Valio Profeel® quarks and puddings, as well as specialty milk powders for industrial clients. Notably, more than 80% of the milk powders produced are exported internationally.
Key Enhancements
- Drying Process Overhaul: Beginning in autumn 2024, the plant will undertake a significant overhaul of its drying process. This upgrade aims to enhance production capacity for both conventional and specialty milk powders, which are crucial to Valio’s strategy. The new multipurpose tower will also improve energy efficiency within the powder production process.
- Modern Washing Center: By the end of 2025, the new washing center will be operational. It will efficiently manage the washing process, recycle water, and handle raw chemicals, significantly reducing water consumption and chemical use while minimizing wastewater.
- New Regional Laboratory: The existing laboratory facilities, which have reached the end of their useful life, will be replaced by a modern building by the end of 2024. The laboratory plays a crucial role in analyzing the quality of milk from Valio’s farms and conducting necessary production analyses. Each year, it processes 1.7 million samples, highlighting its critical role in quality control.
Impact on the Seinäjoki Region
These upgrades will not only enhance Valio’s operational efficiency but also strengthen its profitability and employment capabilities in the Seinäjoki region. The Seinäjoki plant, which processes approximately 25% of Valio’s total milk supply, employs around 450 professionals and contributes significantly to the local economy. With nearly 60% of its production exported, the plant is a key player in Valio’s international operations.