Finnwatch report finds shifts in scandal-hit wild berry industry

A new Finnwatch report shows some wild berry companies are improving conditions for pickers after labour scandals tarnished the sector’s reputation.

The investigation examined responsibility practices at four major berry firms, retailers and food processors. It found a key change: adoption of the Employer Pays Principle (EPP), where employers cover all recruitment costs, including travel, rather than workers paying themselves.

Kiantama, based in Suomussalmi, has begun Fair Trade certification, the first berry company to do so. Polarica has committed to covering 30% of pickers’ costs by 2026, though it does not yet fully apply EPP. Major retailers Kesko, S-ryhmä, Lidl Finland and Valio have all pledged to follow EPP, with some targeting 30% compliance next season.

Marja Bothnia Berries, one of the largest players, remains resistant. It does not apply EPP, has no Fair Trade plans, and relies on a piece-rate model it claims already exceeds collective bargaining wages. Pakkasmarja, which does not directly employ pickers, sources berries from Marja Bothnia Berries, a long-term partner and partial owner.

Thai pickers, who make up most of Finland’s berry workforce, have historically paid their own travel costs from Thailand, often taking loans. Last year, average prices were €2.36 per kg for bilberries and €1.88 for lingonberries—so low that Finnish workers are scarce.

Finnwatch executive director Sonja Finér said demand for responsibly sourced berries is growing. “Consumers are ready to pay more for berries produced under fair conditions, not under forced labour or where pickers get no fair compensation for their work.”