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18 Leif Snellman, Operations Director of Oy Karleby Limetec Ab 04 21 Daniel Öholm, CEO of Railcare Group AB (publ) 06 Bengt Ahlqvist, Area Sales Manager for Europe at Swedish Lorry Parts AB IMPRINT BEST OF SCANDINAVIA 10 08 Kjell Olav A. Maldum, Managing Director of Infinitum AS Aušra Vankevičiūtė, General Manager of Staticus Norge AS 12 Anne Berit Rørlien, CEO of Viken Fiber AS 16 Leif Wartacz, Regional Sales Manager of Elfa Distrelec A/S 20 Roger Persson, CEO of Ryds Glas AB 14 Publisher: International Business Media GmbH Address: Landersumer Weg 40 48431 Rheine Germany Phone: +49 5971 92161-0 Fax: +49 5971 92161-854 info@european-business.com www.european-business.com Editor-in-chief: M. J.P. Brinkmann N A E P O R U E business Lars Bogs, General Director of KAV America Europe 3 www.european-business.com Lars Bork Dylander, CEO of 2BM A/S
Interview with Daniel Öholm, CEO of Railcare Group AB (publ) Taking the train to a greener future 2019 has so far been an excellent year for Swedish rail expert Rail- care Group AB (publ). Consolidated net sales for the first nine months of the year increased by 44.7% to reach 277.1 million SEK, with the strongest growth coming in the third quarter – up by 62.1% over the same period in 2018 – to produce a very healthy profit margin of 16.6%. The third quarter also saw the first test run of its innovative new emissions-free, battery-powered multi-purpose vehicle, giving the clearest possible signal of the direction of travel the company is taking for the future. The Railcare Group specializes in Abroad, Machine Sales and Trans- the UK. Both are performing well the future,” says Mr. Öholm. “As services and machinery aimed at port Scandinavia. “Historically, the at present with scheduled main- well as ballast changing opera- keeping the rail infrastructure on company has operated as a ser- tenance proceeding as planned, tions, we also carry out cable han- which passenger and freight trains vice provider for rail infrastructure and several major investments dling. As the winter approaches, run clean and safe. The publicly operators,” outlines CEO Daniel announced by the respective track we will increasingly be engaged in quoted company is listed on Stock- Öholm, who joined Railcare in companies for the coming years. snow clearing operations.” holm’s Nasdaq exchange and 2010. “The company was founded “We are enjoying good growth and employs 138 people at its Swedish by two partners in 1992 on the ba- profitability in our home markets in As its portfolio of services has ex- headquarters. Its operations are sis of an idea for a type of vacuum Sweden and the UK and we expect panded, Railcare has also expand- divided into four main sectors – excavator (Railvac) that could be Construction Sweden, Construction used to remove contaminated ballast from between the railway sleepers. Cleaning services and the manufacture of the machines to carry them out still form our core activity.” We are enjoying good growth and profitability in our home markets in Sweden and the UK. We expect the volume of rail maintenance work to increase in the future. Railcare’s ballast cleaning and maintenance to increase further in duces. Today, it has five different the volume of work in terms of rail ed the range of machines it pro- replacement activities are focused on two key markets – Sweden and machines in its portfolio. Three are suction machines for lifting ballast in various situations while two are Railcare’s snow melting vehicle in ac- tion – it is able to melt 1,300 m3 of snow in an hour N A E P O R U E business www.european-business.com 4
Our new battery-powered multi-purpose vehicle will make train transport even greener. Railcare’s production facility and headquarter in Sweden Railcare Group AB (publ) Näsuddsvägen 10 93221 Skelleftehamn Sweden +46 910 438800 +46 910 33375 info@railcare.se www.railcare.se The first test runs have been successfully completed on Railcare’s new electrically- driven multi-purpose vehicle snow machines designed for snow re- moval from rail tracks. “Our snow ered clearance engines have a special vehicle of feature that allows them to melt its size designed for use the snow at the same time, so that on rails and therefore a significant Rail- it can drain away rather than hav- development that is being watched care’s own ing to be removed after clearing,” with interest by leading players maintenance activities in describes Mr. Öholm. “It is so ef- fective that it can melt 1,300 m3 of snow in an hour.” in the rail transportation sector Sweden and the UK. It will also worldwide. go on wider sale to international clients. “Over the years, we have As well as having a much lower sold 40 vacuum excavators (Rail- The latest new machine in the carbon footprint than conventional vacs) and maintenance machines range is an innovative, emissions- diesel engines, the first test run to international customers,” notes free, battery-powered multi- also demonstrated that the new Mr. Öholm. “Half of these went to purpose vehicle. This new addition MPV is up to 20 dB quieter. “There customers in North America and to the portfolio helps underscore is a great demand for our products the other half went to Russia.” Of rail transport’s position as a green around the world and not least course, the uncertainty surround- solution to the problems of conges- the emission-free multi-purpose ing Brexit is casting a shadow over tion and pollution caused by road- vehicle that we are developing the company’s most important based transportation. “The first right now,” says Mr. Öholm. “The export market. “We are heavily test runs of our new MPV machine positive response and our strong involved in the UK market but the took place a few months ago” says performance over the last year need for our services will not evap- Mr. Öholm. “These have proved show that we can still remain prof- orate if and when Britain leaves very successful and the feedback itable while adopting a responsible the EU,” says Mr. Öholm. “We has been very positive, not least position with regard to fulfilling our have prepared for all eventualities from customers who are keen to responsibilities towards protecting as far as we can and are confident stress their green credentials.” The the environment.” The new MPV that, whatever happens politically, Reballasting work carried out with its own in-house specialist machinery re- mains Railcare’s core activity new MPV is the first battery-pow- will, of course, go into service with our activities there will continue.” 5 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business
Trust transparency. Trust glass! Interview with Roger Persson, CEO of Ryds Glas AB Scandinavia has a pioneering role in many ways – in terms of sustainability, education, health systems, design, infrastructure and innovation. Sweden, for instance, has a strong spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, and a vital start-up scene. The country’s long-term focus on education and research has had a positive impact on its capacity for innovation. Ryds Glas AB perfectly represents this Swedish trait. In Sweden, Ryds Glas is a widely Ryds Glas is a big name in Sweden. “We basically sell glass,” sums Glas supports customers in finding acclaimed brand. The company is The company was founded in 1947 up Mr. Persson. “We do not fo- the best glass for their specific re- synonymous with glass – glass in in the north of the country. The cus on standard solutions but on quirements. The company knows different varieties used for diverse second generation of the Ryds fam- individual and specific solutions. the market and its standards ex- purposes. According to Roger ily expanded activities by placing Sometimes glass needs to insulate, tremely well and offers competent Persson, who has been the com- the focus on the whole of Sweden. sometimes it needs to meet strict advice when it comes to perfect pany’s CEO since 2016, there are Over time, two brothers success- safety standards, sometimes it glass for indoor and outdoor use. around 50 different types of glass. fully built up a competence network “There are various types of glass and strengthened the company’s used in construction for specific competitiveness. Today, the third Our brand has won the trust of many loyal customers. purposes,” states Mr. Persson. generation runs the company – with “Our core business is installing outstanding success as the figures “We carefully listen to find out what kind of glass is needed,” says Mr. Persson. “Is it glass for a standard window, double glazing or maybe thermal insulation glass? glass not in new buildings, but illustrate. Ryds Glas has 450 em- needs to be tinted. Glass is able It always depends.” mostly when renovating. We work ployees, a market share in Sweden to satisfy the most diverse needs. in all areas except cars and do not of almost 20% – in a nutshell, Ryds We clearly define those needs and Customers benefitting from Ryds realize projects valuated at more Glas is by some distance Sweden’s work out solutions.” Thanks to its Glas’s competence are mostly than ten million SEK.” number-one market player. expertise and know-how, Ryds insurance, facility management or Ryds Glas – a strong company with a clear vision Regular training is important to keep employees motivated and competent N A E P O R U E business www.european-business.com 6
construction companies, public novative technologies and invested authorities and municipalities. in digitization at a very early stage. 80% of sales are made up by B2B “Our market may seem a bit old customers, 20% by end consum- fashioned,” adds Mr. Persson. ers. “Ryds Glas is a brand that has “However, we always saw the great been building trust and confidence potential of innovative technolo- among customers,” states Mr. gies and did not want to miss out Persson. “The brand is renowned on the digital future. Today, all for commitment and customer processes within the company are orientation, and many customers digital. All employees have iPads, approach us directly. However, we and all reports, orders, projects, Ryds Glas AB Bergavägen 11 25466 Helsingborg Sweden +46 20 808000 +46 87 492980 info@rydsglas.se www.rydsglas.se have a strong sales team that regu- simply all content is digitally stored Mr. Persson. “While the building SEK over the next five years. “The larly visits customers to provide and can easily be tracked, which industry is slightly static at the mo- market still offers great opportu- information according to new laws or updates. Engaging with custom- ers and improving customer expe- rience is extremely important. In addition, we put great emphasis on We want our employees to be happy at work. ment, there are many interesting nities, and we are keen to seize renovation projects. Highly energy- them,” Mr. Persson underlines. efficient glass can increase rents. “We always look at the big picture Furthermore, thanks to our size, we and do not reduce success to are an interesting partner for many mere figures. At the end of the good relationships with architects ensures outstanding transparency. insurance companies as we cover day, it is all about happy employ- and share information.” In addition, all our vehicles are the whole of Sweden. We benefit ees and customers. The well-being digitally connected. This way, we from better purchasing conditions, of employees and a strict customer Personal contacts are pivotal. always know where they are.” which we pass on to customers. orientation will be guiding princi- Nonetheless, Ryds Glas uses There are many reasons why we ples in the future.” social media channels to get in Ryds Glas is keen to continue are looking at a bright future.” touch with existing and potential its dynamic development and is customers. The Swedish company optimistic about future growth. Ryds Glas will increase revenues has always been open to new, in- “The market is still growing,” says from 600 million SEK to 1.2 billion Always close to customers – Ryds Glas offers glass installations all over Sweden Happy employees are the backbone of a successful company 7 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business
Interview with Aušra Vankevičiūtė, General Manager of Staticus Norge AS The new face of facade creation and production As the global population continues to climb, so too does the need for new housing, office buildings, hospitals and so much more. An aesthetic appearance, combined with quality- made materials that also respect the natural world is a lofty but attainable goal in the con- struction industry. The Staticus group of companies is well on its way to meeting this goal. The company specializes in creating the perfect facade for each project it works on while be- ing as eco-friendly as possible. The end goal is the creation of smart buildings where people can live and work in harmony with the environment. Staticus is one of the largest fa- Manager. This change helped the cade engineering contractors in business increase the quality of its Northern Europe that provides de- products dramatically while mak- sign, production, installation, war- ing everything more cost efficient ranty, and after warranty services and safer for the workers. Word to its clients. The company has 20 quickly spread about the company years of experience in the facade with the high-quality product and industry and has been manu- efficient pricing model. This led facturing unitized facades since to bigger projects and more name 2011. “Prior to 2011, we used recognition. Today, the firm contin- to ship all materials to the build- ues to build on its strong reputa- ing site and construct everything tion and draws more new custom- there, which is called assembled ers annually. on-site structures, but now we do all the assembly off-site,” explains However, a high-quality product The Kuggen building at the Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden was nominated for an award at the World Architecture Festival in 2011 Aušra Vankevičiūtė, General at a good price is far from the only reason why people keep choos- very beginning stages and help ing to work with Staticus. The look for ways to meet the techni- contractor provides assistance cal, architectural and economic for its clients through the entire requirements of each project,” process. This includes consulting says Ms. Vankevičiūtė. R&D is Upon a project’s completion, we provide extra peace of mind to our clients by offering a warranty service to ensure regu- lar and preventive checks of all facades. work, design, project manage- very important to Staticus, and it ment, creating mock-ups, instal- has several highly trained product lation, quality control checks and development professionals ready warranty services. “We start at the to evaluate the risks in complex www.european-business.com 8 The Tele2 Arena in Stockholm beautifully showcases what Staticus is capable of creating N A E P O R U E business
A design that was created for the firm Apply Sørco This beautiful, multifaceted facade, Heden Park, can be seen in Gothenburg, Sweden Travel to Oslo and witness the compa- ny’s impressive work on many buildings solutions, foresee and eliminate stricter, developers now also have even collaborates with universities ply artificial intelligence (AI) to the system failures, and offer advice to take the end user of the build- and other research-based institu- engineering process, using new on the use of new materials. One ing into account,” explains Ms. tions to maintain a steady flow of products and new methods such of the tools used throughout the entire process is building informa- tion modelling (BIM) technology. A BIM model helps employees ef- ficiently manage the large amount of information in a project. It makes it easier to understand and As building facade contractors, we recognize our responsi- bility to protect the natural environment and improve our carbon footprint, so we strive to reduce, reuse and recycle wherever possible. revise a project since engineers Vankevičiūtė. Sustainability and ideas and information. can quickly review and assess the environmental friendliness are im- alternatives in terms of the costs portant values upheld by the busi- Innovation is nothing new to and other aspects. ness. Staticus tries to use as little Staticus. It plans on continuing its Critically thinking about and plan- packaging and builds only with new markets, exploring how to ap- plastic as possible, uses reusable forward momentum by entering as sensors in the glass units in its projects, and working out how to help clients maintain their build- ings in the future. Staticus Norge AS Henrik Ibsens Gate 90 0203 Oslo Norway +47 415 87962 ausra@staticus.no www.staticus.no ning for unforeseen issues, and certified materials. The company is helping the project progress are involved in every step of the supply no longer the only things construc- chain and chooses its suppliers tion-based entities need to consid- based on their quality, ethics and er. “Due to regulations becoming sustainability policies. The firm Staticus can give any firm an eye-catching look that is also environmentally sustain- able 9 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business
Interview with Kjell Olav A. Maldum, Managing Director of Infinitum AS Be the one who makes your industry sustainable We have all seen the news report images of plastic piling up along beaches, and many different solutions have been attempted to incen- tivise its cleanup. This has often taken the form of plastic recycling schemes, but more recently, there have been attempts to harness market forces to solve the problem. Norwegian company Infinitum AS is one of the most successful models of this kind of enterprise, and now, under the leadership of Managing Director Kjell Olav A. Maldum, it is undertaking an ambitious expansion strategy. Infinitum’s philosophy. We have eign and domestic policy-makers even gone beyond Norway. Fre- and industry leaders help us build quently, international delegations a network of like-minded people visit the company, most recently all working for similar ends. In from Scotland, India and Australia. person, and via social media, we Inspiring sustainable use of plastic want to reach and educate on this globally is something we are par- issue. ticularly proud of.” Dissecting their own approach, the “Not only do we welcome the director suggests it is a mistake to world,” Mr. Maldum continues, think Infinutum is a finished arti- “but we go to the world with our cle: “While we have been looking model. Our interactions with for- to share our way of doing things, Norwegian producers began to use non-refillable bottles in 2014, and since then Infinitum’s processing volumes have increased by a multiple of seven. www.european-business.com 10 The company has three purpose-built sorting facilities in Norway with 55 employ- ees, for the separation of clear PET bottles from coloured bottles and cans “It is fair to say that plastic has tainable use of a high percentage a bad environmental reputation of recycled plastic is something we at this point in time,” begins Mr. really want to achieve.” Maldum. “However, as long as you collect and reuse it, plastic is the It is an aim that is winning many most efficient material for drinks admirers, reports the Manag- bottles. Compared to glass, plastic ing Director: “Our bottle deposit is lighter, which saves energy in schemes have been expanding, as transit. Seeing closed-loop, sus- more politicians get on board with Seeing closed-loop, sustainable use of a high percentage of recycled plastic is something we really want to achieve. N A E P O R U E business
Infinitum AS Karenslyst allé 9c 0278 Oslo Norway +47 2212 1520 +47 2212 1521 info@infinitum.no www.infinitum.no Retailers and producers share ownership of the company in a 50/50 split, compa- nies who want to participate must go through a membership process we have also been very aware that Mr. Maldum points additionally to For Infinitum, optimizing the pro- these products and having to we have to look into other systems the smaller links in the chain: “The cess is more about refining the clean up the environment as a to find out how we could be doing bottle deposit scheme relies on a principles, rather than any given result.” better.” lot of things, and optimizing each product: “It’s ultimately about step has been key for us as a com- more than just plastic bottles, we Infinitum presents a model for This has led to big developments, pany moving forward. One thing want to include other products as businesses, even as a non-profit. It like a German firm building a recy- we have been looking at is increas- well. In Norway, one of our first has positioned itself as an enabler cling plant next to the company’s ing uptake in small stores and targets is fishing nets. Of course of radical change in the use of sorting facilities, he explains: “This petrol stations. The attitude of the deposit schemes can’t be used for plastic goods in its native Norway is one step towards a closed loop staff members towards the scheme everything, but it has the potential and abroad. Its income of 300 mil- plastic system in Norway, and is so important, and we have been to increase the efficient usage of lion EUR in 2018, and the increas- means less exporting of goods for looking at ways to encourage this.” many different kinds of products. ingly international nature of its recycling.” Compare the schemes to the cost of not collecting bottles and having to clean up the environment as a result. Imagine a similar scheme for old work, attests to its market leader- cars or glass fibre bolts, a deposit ship, and to the success of its self- fee as an economic incentive to reflexive yet highly outward ethos. return them would work. Compare this to the cost of not collecting Currently, many bottles marked ‘recycled’ only have around 10% recycled plastic in them. Infinitum wants to raise that to see bottles reach 100% recycled plastic The bottle deposit schemes run from over 11,000 pick-up points across Norway, and can even pick up plastic bottles from your house 11 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business
Interview with Anne Berit Rørlien, CEO of Viken Fiber AS How to modernize a country Fibre networks are the future in delivering high-speed broadband services for the Internet of Things, video streaming and other, in- creasingly data-intensive applications. Viken Fiber AS, a Norwegian fibre pioneer, has been laying fibre cables for the past 14 years and with its advanced technology, the company is challenging the tradi- tional providers and enhancing Norway’s modernization. Viken Fiber AS Grønland 70 3045 Drammen Norway +47 21 454500 +47 21 454501 www.vikenfiber.no Viken Fiber is Norway’s largest fibre company, building and op- erating fibre glass networks and providing broadband services, in cooperation with Altibox, across wide areas of eastern Norway. Based in Drammen, the capital of the county of Buskerud, the most populated part of Norway, the company has been building fibre networks since 2005. “Already in 2004 we had the idea to develop the digital infrastructure and pro- vide households and businesses Viken Fiber has managed to turn the cost-intensive digging and cable laying into a profitable activity enhancing Nor- way’s digitalization with high-capacity, broadband equipped 500 households with network access points,” says CEO fibre connections. The pilot was Anne Berit Rørlien. “Our focus was highly successful, despite the high on being a challenger in the tel- costs for the cabling. Many market ecommunications market. For this participants did not believe in the purpose, we started a pilot project project, but we demonstrated that in a limited region around Oslo and the future lies in fibre networks and that a significant return on We are the fibre leader in Norway. investment is possible within a very and went from door to door. Soon, reasonable time.” After the suc- the company was able to win cessful pilot, Viken Fiber rolled out 20,000 fibre clients. “In 2013, five its fibre network initiative further companies from the sector merged N A E P O R U E business www.european-business.com 12
Building Norway’s fibre network, Viken Fiber is laying the basis for today’s and tomorrow’s high-speed broadband Internet services and created today’s Viken Fiber,” ally much higher, though, between scribers. So we are the undisputed ized by EPSI Norway, a European explains Ms. Rørlien. 62 and 74%.” To this date, Viken number 1. We strongly believe in leader in stakeholder management Fiber has laid over 5,000 km of fibre as the future of broadband and benchmarking. Viken Fiber is owned by four utility fibre-optic cables, which is about network infrastructure and have companies – Lyse Fiberinvest, Gli- twice the length of Norway from found a way to make it a profitable Besides supporting data-intensive tre Energi, Lier Everk Holding and top to bottom. Viken Fiber plans technology in spite of high invest- broadband applications, includ- Hadeland Energi – and has branch every new cable laying project and ment costs. This applies to urban ing the Internet of Things, Viken offices in Oslo, Porsgrunn, Grålum for the actual digging and laying areas with its many concrete areas, Fiber is enabling future-oriented and Hønefoss. “We are still a re- the company works together with which make cable laying expen- concepts like smart cities, integrat- gional player concentrating on the experienced, reliable subcontrac- sive, and for rural areas with their ing high-speed mobile broadband eastern parts of Norway,” states tors. Ms. Rørlien. Viken Fiber currently often very long distances. But we technologies. “We also plan to are convinced of our concept and engage more in data centers and delivers broadband services for the As the fibre glass pioneer and mar- willingly accept the challenge. And connect them to our high-speed Internet, television and telephone ket challenger, Viken Fiber is com- we have very efficient processes fibre networks,” explains Ms. to more than 180,000 custom- peting with the traditional broad- and in-depth expertise. Our suc- Rørlien. “In addition, we want ers in over 70 municipalities. The company employs 110 people and has annual revenues of 1.5 billion NOK, or approximately 146 million EUR. Viken Fiber specializes in We are contributing to the modernization of Norway. to participate in the building of the modern 5G mobile telecom- munications network, which is also based on fibre infrastructure, and expand geographically and Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) con- band providers in Norway. “As the cess and reliable work speak in fa- acquire additional subscribers nections and manages the laying building of a fibre network is very vour of us.” Another strong point of beyond eastern Norway. There is of the fibre-optic cables in every costly, the established providers Viken Fiber is its tried-and-tested a lot of potential. The market is region the company is developing. had no interest in entering this partnership with the content pro- far from being saturated, and with “The laying is very cost-intensive,” market segment,” states Ms. Rør- vider Altibox. “For the tenth time in our technology, we are making a explains Ms. Rørlien. “Therefore, lien. “This way, we have developed a row, we have been jointly elected contribution to the modernization the rate of new subscribers has to into the fibre leader in Norway. Norway’s best network provider,” of Norway.” be at least 50% in a defined area There are other companies like us says Ms. Rørlien. Viken Fiber won to make the investment pay off. in the country. But the second- first place in the coveted Customer Today, the connection rate is usu- largest has only about 80,000 sub- Satisfaction Award rating organ- 13 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business
Interview with Lars Bork Dylander, CEO of 2BM A/S Direct contact and open dialogues are key tools when it comes to 2BM finding the right solutions for clients’ needs Lars Bork Dylander is CEO and founder of 2BM A/S, the largest privately owned SAP consultancy in Denmark Mastering SAP in digital transformation For countless companies worldwide, one software solution has been an absolute godsend: SAP. It structures and streamlines company processes, no matter the area of business or the size of the company. Due to SAP’s market presence over the last four decades, other com- panies have been developing in line with it to support SAP users with advice and customized solutions. One such company is 2BM A/S, headquartered in Copenhagen. Since its establish- ment in 2000, 2BM has grown to become the largest privately owned SAP consulting busi- ness in Denmark, but SAP is not the only feather in 2BM’s cap. The Danish consultancy 2BM is specialists know how to combine a leading specialist for SAP en- business acumen with digital ex- terprise solutions and software, pertise to offer the right solution. throughout Scandinavia and is “When push comes to shove, we a preferred partner for SAP. The put business first,” notes Mr. Dy- Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things are really changing the game. We need to help our clients understand what they gain from them and why they need to change. name 2BM actually comes from its lander, describing the priorities. Dylander notes. “We also offer fa- cites an example. “It’s a matter of driving concept: to be mobile. “We “The technology has to suit the cility management solutions for en- both safety and security, especially have focused on mobile software people using it and how they need terprises to maintain its factories.” in the energy and rail sectors.” from the start,” says Lars Bork Dy- to work, not the other way around.” In addition, 2BM provides apps for lander, CEO and founder of 2BM. warehousing and stock manage- Active solely in the B2B market, “We then created an SAP consult- In the field of digital solutions, ment. Another field of expertise is many of 2BM’s mobile solutions ing group, and over the years, that 2BM especially focuses on main- in qualification audit. “The national relate to Industry 4.0 or the In- has become our primary focus. tenance and facility management. grid in the US has to know that the ternet of Things. “Digitization is SAP accounts for 70% of our rev- “One of our references here is people working in high-voltage ar- driving immense change. Every enues today.” 2BM is a full-service Danske Statsbaner, the Danish eas or with direct access to back- day, there are new breakthroughs SAP partner, covering all aspects Railways, whose employees man- end systems have the right quali- that each contain the potential of the core of SAP, including HR. age track maintenance all over the fications to do the work or even to alter the world as we know it. The company’s 100 highly skilled country via tablet computer,” Mr. have access to the area,” the CEO Many companies have experi- N A E P O R U E business www.european-business.com 14
2BM has a team of 100 highly skilled experts who know how to combine business with technology for the best solution Tackling the challenges of Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things involves helping cli- ents understand why they need to change and how they can benefit enced the digital transformation. New technologies and services continually demand more of us as human beings, which requires companies to focus more on the employees in the process. They’re We’re working on IOT and AI concepts to be one step ahead of our clients. When it comes time to implement the solu- tions for them, we’ll already have several years’ experience and be better equipped to advise them. will be for production companies. Then there are businesses, like malls, which benefit from several of our solutions, such as security, maintenance and facility manage- ment.” really changing the game,” Mr. “We’re working on IOT and artifi- an office in Malmö.” Nonethe- Dylander emphasizes. “We need to cial intelligence concepts to be one less, 2BM is striving to gain a 2BM’s greatest challenge this help our clients understand what step ahead of our clients,” the CEO foothold in China and Singapore, year will be the transition to the they gain from digital transforma- continues. “That way, when the and obtain greater traction in the new SAP S/4 HANA system. “It tion, exponential mindset and In- time comes to implement the solu- US and Europe. “The German can mean big changes for some dustry 4.0. It’s important for them tions for them, we’ll already have market is very appealing to us,” companies, so it is important that to understand why the change is several years’ experience and be the CEO says. “There are quite a we support them, not only during necessary, why they can’t stick to better equipped to advise them.” few major brands we’d like to add the transition itself but also before the way things used to be.” Two to our reference list.” In terms of that, during the planning phase,” major skill sets are required for The company largely provides its sectors, there is no one industry Mr. Dylander explains. Regardless this undertaking. First of all, 2BM consultancy services in Denmark, where 2BM is at home. “Human of the actual work to be done, the has to listen to its clients carefully while its mobile solution activities resources solutions can be applied CEO holds steadfastly to his vision: to understand how they work and are more international. Altogether, to any sector,” Mr. Dylander says. to invest in knowledge and exper- what they need. Direct contact and 2BM operates in 15 countries “Some solutions are better for tise to offer clients the best advice open dialogue are the two tools and eight languages, serving certain areas than others. For ex- possible. at work to master this task. Once the United States and Europe in ample, our work with Industry 4.0 2BM knows how the company particular. It hopes to acquire its works, it can advise the client on first client in China soon. “In the where it would benefit and what future, the Nordic countries will can be upgraded. The consultancy remain our most important region, also has to provide the means with which is good because they’re which its clients can operate at the also the easiest for us to serve,” next level, so 2BM exerts the in- Mr. Dylander concedes. “Sweden, novative strength essential to stay- for instance, is a huge market for ing at the forefront of technology. us for consulting. We even have 2BM A/S Livjægergade 17 2100 Copenhagen Denmark +45 35 555575 info@2bm.com www.2bm.com 15 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business
Interview with Leif Wartacz, Regional Sales Manager of Elfa Distrelec A/S A company on the move From humble beginnings as a family-owned, Swedish based compa- ny, to the successful adoption into the Datwyler portfolio, Elfa Dis- trelec is now one of the leading electronics suppliers in Europe. Since 2008, the company has undergone rapid growth in response to the needs of their newly merged supplier and customer networks. Their promise: to deliver a truly personalised customer experience. EB: Elfa Distrelec’s experience now shifted from the former focus Leif Wartacz: The resources that EB: Elfa Distrelec promises to de- as an electronics supplier spans of pure electronics, to a much became available have allowed for liver within 24 hours of receiving more than 70 years. How has your broader range of electromechani- locally based, highly knowledge- an order to most of Europe. What product portfolio changed over the cal components, tools and auto- able sales managers, guiding their are the most important factors in last decades and what were the mation equipment. teams in localised offices to deliver building up a logistics system that biggest changes and challenges to your business? personalised customer support, as makes this possible? well as access to an industry lead- Leif Wartacz: Since 1945, Elfa Datwyler Group, a global industry over 17 languages. ships with strategic courier part- EB: You are part of the Swiss ing digital platform, available in Leif Wartacz: Due to solid relation- Distrelec has grown from delivering supplier. How does Elfa Distrelec primarily electronics and electrical benefit from being part of a major, components, to offering an exten- multinational group? sive line of test and measurement tools, to now having the capacity to provide industry knowledge, appli- cation advice and expertise in the robotics and automation industry. With the business now six times its original size, the supply chain has had significant changes in order to sustain the rapidly growing product line and shipping demands across Europe. The product range has ners, we are able to offer next day delivery to 90 to 95% of industrial areas across Europe. Elfa Distrelec benefits from a cohesive network of systems where sales, warehouse management and courier transport management processes are all aligned. Through significant invest- ment in internal infrastructure, inclusive of our warehouse manage- ment system, Elfa Distrelec has the capacity to pick and pack certain articles from the warehouse within two hours of the order being placed. N A E P O R U E business www.european-business.com 16
Elfa Distrelec A/S Haslegårdsvej 8-12 8210 Aarhus V Denmark +45 8624 6422 +45 8624 6433 danmark@elfadistrelec.com www.elfadistrelec.com EB: Your mission is ‘We are satis- ing their bespoke requirements ers demand a more personalised fied only when we know you are!’ and treating them as partners, we experience, and it is our mission to How are you achieving this goal can deliver a more personalised provide that. today and what are your plans to response to their needs. Key to maintain this high level of cus- this is providing customer support EB: The responsible treatment tomer service in the future? in the local language, with highly of resources is part of your com- Leif Wartacz: Through commit- market knowledge to better under- as a pioneer. What are your ways ment to supporting our customers stand project requirements. For us of protecting our planet now and in trained staff who can share local pany’s identity, you regard yourself and their business at each stage at Elfa Distrelec, it is not enough the future? of their procurement, understand- to offer the basics, our custom- Leif Wartacz: As an importer of large amounts of electrical equip- ment, such as batteries and ac- cumulators, Elfa Distrelec is a of similar products are removed member of waste management from the market and recycled compliance schemes in each appropriately. Elfa Distrelec also country it operates in. Each year, implements a supplier screening the business provides detailed process, requiring written declara- sales information to the compli- tions and in some cases evidence ance schemes and, based on of chemical testing to ensure the these reports, pays fees to ensure products sold do not contain any that in the next year, quantities restricted substances. 17 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business
Interview with Leif Snellman, Operations Director of Oy Karleby Limetec Ab Easy to load and unload: a custom-built Limetec semitrailer with doors that conveniently open to the side Limetec dollies are high in quality and functionality and low in weight and maintenance Making life easier It is in a rather traditional line of business but among the fastest evolving competitors in the sector: Oy Karleby Limetec Ab aims to grow by 40% this year and by another 30% in 2020. The Finnish manufacturer of trailers and related transport solutions has ambitious growth plans and is increasingly expanding beyond Scandinavia to the rest of Europe. Its strengths lie in genuinely customer-specific vehicles and special solutions that make life easier, such as doors that open to the side or roofs that can be opened by remote control from the driver’s cabin. Limetec designs and manufactures Snellman describes the difference. markets are the Baltic countries, Limetec started manufacturing heavy goods transport solutions At its factory in Kokkola in western the Netherlands, Russia, Switzer- trailers and boxes for trucks and including trailers, truck superstruc- Finland, Limetec has two separate land and the UK.” kept developing new solutions. tures and dollies. The trailer range assembly lines for its two product “Today, we offer a complete port- includes full trailers, semitrailers, lines. Nevertheless, production is Limetec was established only in folio,” says Mr. Snellman. With city trailers and center-axle trailers highly efficient because customiza- 1994 but has more than 60 years over 60 employees and a turnover as well as trailers for temperature- controlled transports. The com- pany also produces a wide choice of truck superstructures for bulk, We do what the client wants, we are a solution partner. of twelve million EUR for last year, Limetec is a medium-sized player in the Nordic market. “We expect this year’s sales to reach around refrigerated and dangerous goods tion takes place only in the final of experience in the transport 17 million EUR. The main growth transport applications and high- stages of the assembly process. sector. “We started as a service comes from the dollies. We have quality, low-weight dollies. The In addition, the company provides for Ahola Transport, which is also special know-how and solutions in product range comprises two dis- maintenance and spare parts ser- based in Kokkola and was founded this segment. Our goal is to grow. tinct lines: Limetec Next and Lime- vices. “We have dealers and ser- in 1955,” explains Mr. Snellman. In the past, we were limited by our tec Specials. “Limetec Next is our vice points across Finland, Norway “Ahola Transport is one of the size, but now we have paved the standard product line, and Limetec and Sweden,” states Mr. Snellman. largest privately owned logistics way for achieving a new market Specials offers individually tailored “Our biggest market is Sweden. providers in the Nordic region, and level.” solutions,” Operations Director Leif Besides Scandinavia, our main we are now part of the Group.” N A E P O R U E business www.european-business.com 18
Limetec presents its trailers and superstructures at truck trade shows throughout Scandinavia Limetec offers a wide range of high-quality full trailers, all built to meet individual customer needs Our vision is to grow to 50 million EUR in revenues in the coming years. Owned by the four founding the solution was great,” states Mr. brothers, Limetec is known in the Snellman. “We have many satis- market for its special solutions like fied customers who are our best trailers with doors that conveni- advertising. Apart from that, we ently open to the side and thus are exhibit at various truck trade fairs, easier to handle. “We have our including Hanover’s IAA Commer- own special system that works cial Vehicles, and focus on social better than other systems, and the media.” In particular, Limetec back of the trailer is made of stain- wants to grow abroad. “We started less steel,” explains Mr. Snellman. in Switzerland and Poland, are now “And the floors are very heavy entering Germany and the next and among the best available in country will be Italy,” Mr. Snellman the market.” Of course, Limetec describes the internationalization offers standard trailers and super- strategy of the dynamically evolv- structures, too, but the company’s ing company. “There are many strength lies in customer-specific new possibilities and challenges solutions. “Everything depends as well.” To support its growth on the kind of transport they do,” ambitions, Limetec does a lot of says Mr. Snellman. “Some need research and development that re- special axles, others open tops that sults in new, high quality transport can be opened with a joy-stick by solutions. “We never stand still,” the driver. We do what the client says Mr. Snellman. “Our vision is wants, we are a solution partner.” to grow to 50 million EUR in reve- Its solution-oriented approach nues in the coming years. The only has brought Limetec many loyal thing that could prevent us from customers across Scandinavia. achieving that goal is the growing “Often, customers try us once and skills shortage. We desperately many of them come back because need qualified people.” 19 www.european-business.com Oy Karleby Limetec Ab Isokalliontie 4 67600 Kokkola Finland +358 20 7475000 +358 20 7475444 lars.ahola@limetec.fi www.limetec.fi Limetec serves the Swedish temperature-controlled specialist Widéns and many other Scandinavian transport businesses N A E P O R U E business
Interview with Lars Bogs, General Director of KAV America Europe Hitting the sweet spot Chai is a traditional Indian, sweetly spiced, milky tea that has exploded in popularity amongst western consumers in recent years. Recipes vary, which is part of its appeal, but the instant chai latte powders produced and distributed by KAV America Europe have clearly hit the sweet spot. The company’s Chai Latte East Indian Spice was recently bestowed two gold stars in the Superior Taste Award 2019 from the International Taste Institute in Brussels. That a drink can convey such pleasure with so little effort amounts almost to heresy in these days of painstakingly crafted, bar- rista-poured coffee. By contrast, KAV America Europe’s instant chai drinks are made in seconds but guarantee lasting refreshment. Milky, sweet and spicy, there is an immediate sense of relaxation at the first sip of its classic East Indi- an Spice Chai Latte that doubtless persuaded the jury at the Interna- tional Taste Institute in Brussels to single it out for particular praise. “We are very proud to receive this award,” says General Director Lars General Director Lars Bogs holding the award- winning Chai Latte East Indian Spice and the Superior Taste Award expand into high-potential mar- kets such as Germany, Italy and France. Its presence at this year’s Anuga is as much about finding new distributors in these markets as it is about raising brand aware- ness. “We are actively looking to recruit new agents and distributors and are looking forward to making some useful contacts at this year’s Anuga,” says Mr. Bogs. “We also have some exciting product devel- opments in the pipeline.” Amongst them are a new matcha chai fla- vour and vegan cocoa. New pack- aging forms are also important for the future such as stick sachets Bogs. “It is yet further confirma- ganic Spice. “We also make instant company’s origins but may change for the hospitality sector and other tion that our products hit the sweet cocoa drinks, iced coffee and in the future. “At the moment, it single cup packaging options that spot.” smoothies, but chai drinks seem to is more cost-effective to produce meet the current zeitgeist. Anyone who would like to get to moment,” notes Mr. Bogs. “Issues “However, we are currently target- have really hit the zeitgeist at the in America,” confirms Mr. Bogs. know KAV America Europe’s chai products and the people behind them is welcome to visit the com- pany’s stand at the upcoming Anuga trade fair for the food and beverage industry in Cologne at the We are actively looking to recruit new agents and distributors and are looking to making some useful contacts at the Anuga. beginning of October. In addition of sustainability and organic pro- ing significant expansion in the to its award-winning East Indian duction are on-trend boxes that we European market so that as sales Spice Chai Latte, the company will also tick.” be presenting other chai products volumes rise, we may consider setting up a production unit here.” from a range that includes flavours At present, all of the company’s The company’s instant drinks such as Tahitian Vanilla, Rooibos, products are imported from Amer- have long been a hit in its native Rich Spice, Green Tea and Or- ica. This is a hang-over from the Denmark, but it is now looking to N A E P O R U E business KAV America Europe Aa. Louis-Hansens Allē 2 3060 Espergærde Denmark +45 49 223594 lars.bogs@kavamerica.com www.kavamerica.com www.european-business.com 20
Interview with Bengt Ahlqvist, Area Sales Manager for Europe at Swedish Lorry Parts AB Mr Bengt Ahlqvist and his colleagues at SLP provide clients all over the world with great service and spare parts of a quality comparable to that of OEM parts SLP is headquartered in the southwestern part of Stockholm and has an automated warehouse about 200 km to the west in Kumla, with up to 14,000 parts in stock As good as new Swedish Lorry Parts AB sources and produces spare parts, suitable for Volvo and Scania, that are as good as or better than original parts. The company is headquartered on the outskirts of Stockholm. With 45 employees and a flexible base of 20 agency staff, SLP realizes a turn- over of 19 million EUR and supports customers all over the world. “In the last five years we have accessories, and is continuously senger cars. In 1991, he founded tion is important for the company’s enjoyed a continuous increase in expanding its range. The company SLP with its current focus on activities. “When a particular re- our turnover, with growth of around offers between 13,000 and 14,000 heavy goods vehicles and trucks, gion slows down, we do have the 10%,” says Bengt Ahlqvist, who items, 95% of which are mostly expanding it later on to include opportunity to focus elsewhere, be- is responsible for European sales delivered from stock. “We provide off-road and construction vehicles. cause we serve customers in over as Area Sales Manager. “60% of a high level of service in combina- In 2014, SLP decided to develop 90 countries in the world.” the spare parts we sell are sourced tion with high quality products,” spare parts for Scania as well. from different suppliers, while the Mr. Alhqvist notes. “Our founder The company has a particularly other 40% are produced according to our own drawings.” At present, SLP provides spare parts, suitable for Volvo and Scania, heavy goods vehicles, trucks, busses and off- road vehicles. Most heavy goods We are one of the strongest independent suppliers of high quality spare parts for heavy vehicles. vehicles have a Volvo motor, as the always insisted on a quality level strong presence in Europe and brand has a long history, while the that is comparable to that of spare South America. Close to home, the market for Scania parts has great parts by the original manufac- Nordic region and Russia are the potential to keep growing. The turer.” spare parts sold most are motor most important markets. “North America is a huge market and is components, like cylinders, repair Founder and owner Mr. Lars one of our main target markets kits for overhauling motors and so Hedlund started his activities in for further expansion, along with on, but SLP also provides parts spare parts in the 1970s, at first Germany and Italy,” observes Mr. for transmissions, mirrors and with parts suitable for Volvo pas- Ahlqvist. The global political situa- 21 www.european-business.com Swedish Lorry Parts AB Hans Stahles väg 7 14741 Tumba Sweden +46 8 55597800 +46 8 55597898 info@slp.se www.slp.se N A E P O R U E business