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Why Finnish Supermarkets Are the Secret to the Country's National Defense
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In Finland, national security extends far beyond the military. Janne Ahtoniemi, a risk management leader at the supermarket chain S Group, is part of a specialized system designed to protect the country’s 5.6 million residents.
In the event of an invasion or a major cyberattack, his company is responsible for ensuring the national food supply remains stable, according to BBC on March 19.
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"Finland’s reliable security of supply is based on decades of constant readiness and training," Ahtoniemi says. "Companies understand this perspective and their own role in it."
Finland has long relied on "total defense" model, which has evolved into "comprehensive security" following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
This strategy integrates private businesses into government readiness committees. Companies such as S Group and its competitor, Kesko, are legally required to maintain strategic reserves of flour, sugar, and oil in reinforced underground bunkers.
"We want to contribute to ensuring the functioning of Finnish society every day, regardless of the circumstances," says Kesko executive Jyrki Tomminen.
The system relies on high levels of social trust and individual responsibility. From university professors to grocery clerks, most adults have designated roles in a crisis.
Security expert Tom Woolmore notes that this participation is a practical reality for Finns. "When something happens, I will be told what to do," says Frank Martela, a professor and naval reservist.
While specific logistics remain confidential, the collaboration between the state and the private sector ensures that the country is prepared for a wide range of modern threats.
Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Finland was on high alert, as the nation shared a 1,340-kilometer border with its neighbor. Volunteers flocked to military training courses, leading to a significant spike in attendance for programs that taught essential survival and defense skills.
In response to the heightened tension, the Finnish government updated its preparedness guidelines and secured land rights along the eastern frontier to establish fortifications.
Pasi, an analyst with Finland’s Blackbird Group—an open-source intelligence agency specializing in Russia and Ukraine— explains that the Finns have never been quite as trusting towards Russia as other countries. “We have a multi-generational, deep-seated distrust of Russia. I would say that this comes with the mother’s milk.”
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