“Swedish, innovative and sustainable – that’s what we’re proud of”

- We have a position in the exhibition hall that comes with certain obligations, admits Mattias Andersson, Marketing and Sustainability Manager.

The star power of one of the world's best in STIHL Timbersports attracted a large number of visitors to Weland's stand.

- But the real reason we exhibit at Elmia Subcontractor is that we think it's a very good trade fair. We've been coming here for a long time and we've gained many of our best customers here at the fair, explains Mattias.

Interested in Weland as a brand

The family-owned industrial group Weland has its headquarters in Smålandsstenar and consists of around 30 subsidiaries within steel, aluminium and plastic processing. Over the years, many of the companies have appeared in joint group stands. This year, the subsidiary Weland Solutions was a co-exhibitor.

- We recognise that there is added value in presenting ourselves as several Weland companies under a common umbrella, which is why we try to present our entire range. We are a very large player in sheet metal processing, and many of those who visit us here at the fair are simply curious about Weland as a brand, says Mattias.

Star power at Weland's stand. Mattias Andersson, Marketing and Sustainability Manager at Weland AB, together with Ferry Svan.

The strength of a family-owned industrial concern

One theme highlighted in the stage programme at this year's Elmia Subcontractor was the strength and opportunities offered by family-owned companies. What role has this played for the Weland Group?

- There is definitely strength in being family-owned. The long-term perspective is one aspect, where you can invest and grow in a different way, says Mattias.

An owner-managed business can be both flexible and responsive in a different way than one that is bound by quarterly reports, Mattias believes:
- Many of us work on the same floor as the owner family, we have lunch together and this close contact creates the conditions for quick decisions. There is great value in that.

Working hard for "Made in Sweden"

A turbulent world has affected virtually everyone in the subcontractor chain.

- Last year, we saw a fairly clear dip for many in our industry, but this year is different, thankfully. For us, the main competition comes from foreign players, but we continue to work hard for Made in Sweden and fight tooth and nail to keep manufacturing here, says Mattias.

That is Weland's core value, he explains. Swedish, innovative and sustainable.
- That is the very heart and soul of Weland. We are proud of that.