As reported by Helsingin Uutiset in an article written by Susanna Bono, Helsinki’s historic Töölö neighborhood has welcomed a new culinary addition: Rakkaudesta luomuun, a boutique shop specializing in high-quality, flavorful organic products.
Taking over the space previously occupied by one of Finland’s smallest Alko stores at Messeniuksenkatu 1, the shop opened its doors in mid-March 2026. For founder Marika Auersalmi, the launch marks the realization of a longstanding dream to create a space exclusively dedicated to organic goods.
Offering everything from olive oils to beverages and gourmet foods, Auersalmi works with small-scale producers both in Finland and abroad, bringing a carefully curated selection of premium products to her delicatessen, all produced through environmentally responsible practices from start to finish. One of her main selection criteria is to offer products that are not typically available in conventional supermarkets, while also introducing new items based on customer preferences.
The Origins of the Store
Auersalmi’s expertise in sustainable retail and the food industry spans decades. Growing up on her family’s goat farm in the Ostrobothnia region, she developed an early, close connection to agriculture. She later refined her knowledge of organic foods and customer service through years of working at Ruohonjuuri and Stockmann Herkku.
The catalyst for her own venture finally arrived in 2025 during a conversation with her friend, Petri Saloperä. When asked what kind of business she would launch if given the chance, Auersalmi’s answer was immediate: an organic food store. Saloperä subsequently joined the venture as an investor and business partner, while Auersalmi took the helm to manage Rakkaudesta luomuun and shape its retail vision.
Today, Auersalmi sees the store as a vital bridge between conscious consumers and passionate small-scale producers, fostering an approach to food that celebrates its ethical origins, exceptional quality, and the pure pleasure of eating.
This article is based on a report by Susanna Bono, published in Helsingin Uutiset on 24/07/2026. Read the original article in Finnish.
