From 1975 to 2025 – Forshedaverken exhibits for the 50th year in a row

Located just outside Forsheda, by the stream that laid the foundation for the area’s industrial development, Forshedaverken has operated for more than a century. The old waterfall nearby enabled the early use of hydropower, something the company still relies on today. In fact, Forshedaverken continues to produce its own electricity, which is both sustainable and quite unique. Today, the company has 12 employees and specializes in wire-bending components, primarily for the construction, automotive, and manufacturing industries.

– We are proud to offer a complete wire bending solution with automatic machines that handle diameters from 1 to 10 millimeters. We work with everything from 100 percent pure steel to copper and stainless steel. Our craftsmanship is combined with modern technology, whether it is for large production volumes or smaller custom orders, says Fredrick Martinsson, CEO of Forshedaverken.

Consistency that creates opportunity

As Elmia Subcontractor celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, Forshedaverken does too – as an exhibitor. Consistency, efficiency, and visibility are key reasons the trade fair remains important for the company.

– We are there to show that we are present, year after year. Participating in the fair has been a given for us since 1975, and it is still one of the highlights of the year. It is a great opportunity to meet both existing customers and potential new ones. With a wide customer base and a tight schedule, it is incredibly valuable to gather so many meetings under one roof. And geographically, Elmia is ideal for us, says Oscar Axelsson, Quality and Environmental Manager at Forshedaverken.

With its long-standing presence, Forshedaverken sees the fair as a platform to demonstrate ongoing development and relevance.

–  We want to highlight our skills, our flexibility, and especially our growing focus on tool manufacturing. We want to show our customers that we are taking even greater responsibility across the entire production chain, Fredrick adds.

Fredrick Martinsson och Oscar Axelsson, Forshedaverken

When old technology became the main attraction

Over the years, Forshedaverken has collected many memorable moments from Elmia Subcontractor, but one story stands out. A few years ago, they brought a unique chain-making machine from the 1940s, which had once been used to produce ID tags for the military.

– We ran the machine three times a day, and each time about 50 people gathered around our booth. The neighboring stands could barely see their own visitors, there was just a wall of backs in front of ours. It really stole the show, Fredrick laughs.

The vintage machine quickly became a conversation starter across the exhibition hall. In a world focused on the latest tech, a piece of industrial history proved to be the unexpected star.

–  People started calling us ‘the chain makers.’ Of course, that’s not all we do, but it definitely got people talking, he says.

A taste of Småland hospitality

At booth A:0916, it's not just about technology and production. Forshedaverken also offers a warm welcome, serving hot dogs and creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

–  For us, meetings shouldn’t be just about business. By offering something simple and genuine, we open the door to spontaneous conversations and new connections. Combining professionalism with warmth and humor is a natural part of our company culture, Fredrick and Oscar conclude with a smile and great anticipation for this year’s edition of Elmia Subcontractor.