While Finland moves forward with a pioneering system of crisis-proof shops known as beredskapsbutiker, Denmark has officially declined to follow its Nordic neighbour’s example. The Finnish initiative, launched in partnership between public authorities and grocery chains, will see 300 emergency stores established across the country. These shops are designed to remain operational during severe crises, including power outages, internet failures, and disrupted supply chains.
The goal, according to Finnish officials, is to maintain public access to essential food and supplies even in the event of war or national emergencies. But in Denmark, the government has taken a different stance.
Minister: no current need for emergency stores in Denmark
Speaking to TV 2 Kosmopol, Danish Minister for Civil Security and Emergency Preparedness Torsten Schack Pedersen (Venstre) stated:
“In principle, I do not rule anything out. But I currently do not see a need for emergency stores in Denmark. During the coronavirus pandemic, we saw that our food supply was robust.”
While not completely dismissing the concept, Schack Pedersen highlighted key differences between the two countries:
“It is also clear that Finland, which borders directly on Russia, will design its approach to civil security differently than Denmark. Finland also has a very different geography and population density compared to Denmark.”
Different threat perception shapes national strategy
Finland has increased its focus on crisis preparedness in light of regional security tensions, particularly following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. With a 1,340-kilometre border with Russia and a long tradition of comprehensive civil defence planning, Finland views food security as a critical national concern.
Denmark, by contrast, does not share a border with Russia and has historically relied more heavily on its integrated infrastructure and close coordination with the private sector. This influences the government’s reluctance to adopt state-mandated crisis retail infrastructure.
Private sector seen as key partner in Danish preparedness
Rather than investing in a network of government-supported emergency stores, the Danish government is focusing on strengthening cooperation with private businesses to enhance crisis readiness.
“I have seen great willingness among Danish private companies to contribute to improved civil security. Business preparedness is a good example,” said Schack Pedersen.
He also announced plans to launch a business forum aimed at exploring how companies can actively support national emergency planning.
Monitoring Finland’s model, but no copy-paste approach
Despite rejecting the immediate implementation of beredskapsbutikker, Danish authorities say they will monitor Finland’s experience closely.
“We will follow the Finnish example with interest,” Schack Pedersen added.
The decision reflects Denmark’s broader strategic posture, where flexible partnerships and adaptive planning are preferred over rigid crisis infrastructure. Whether this model will prove resilient in the face of future crises remains to be seen, especially as European countries revisit their national security strategies.
