About us
We are
entrepreneurs at heart.
Trade is in our genes
Whether it is trading in pulp and paper, developing commercial real estate, or supplying equipment to sustainable projects around the globe. We make it happen.
Who we are
The Elof Hansson Group conducts international trade in forest and industrial products across the world. We also invest in and develop real estate projects. Our roots go back to 1897, when the young merchant Elof Hansson started the company in Hamburg. His original business philosophy and “house rules” have been passed down from one generation of employees to the next and continue to drive the Elof Hansson Group of today and tomorrow.
The worldwide activities of the Elof Hansson Group are managed and coordinated from our headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden. The headquarters house management, sales divisions, financing, risk management and shipping departments.
Our subsidiaries are the strategic hubs of our global network of business specialists. They interact with both agents in the individual regions and the sales managers at the headquarters in Gothenburg. In total, we have subsidiaries and agents in more than 100 countries, each involved in one or more of the Group’s business areas.
Elof Hansson in numbers 2024
596MUSD in Sales
Steady growth is a testament to our company’s progress and success.
193dedicated employees worldwide
Our employee’s commitment, expertise and efforts combined are the magic of Elof Hansson.
16global offices
Together we are strong. Global presence is key to delivering local expertise.
What we do
Elof Hansson was founded in 1897, which makes us one of Sweden’s oldest trading houses and a well-known brand all over the world. Pioneering the transition into a sustainable future, propelled by our rich entrepreneurial legacy our vision is to Spearheading a Sustainable Tomorrow. Our actions are based on the Group’s values: trust, commitment, and professionalism.
Elof Hansson is owned by a foundation, and the ownership structures allow us entrepreneurial freedom with a strong focus on ethics. We aim to be a role model for sustainable business, and we have the vision and courage to make change.
Our activities are divided into three business areas, all of which contribute to the Global Goals of the United Nations. The business areas complement each other and reduce the total risk for the Group.
Mikael Forslund, CEO
"In alignment with our growth strategy, we concentrate on our core business and ensure its sustainable development. This includes investing in circular products, promoting innovation, and expanding our portfolio to encompass trade-related businesses"
2024 in short
The keyword for 2024 has been engagement. I'm inspired by the exceptional engagement within Elof Hansson—internally, externally, in core business, projects, and new developments. Our people's commitment drives us closer to our Vision 2030: Spearheading a Sustainable Tomorrow, where sustainability and profitability align.
We remain focused on sustainable growth, expanding our business, and preparing for evolving reporting standards, including compliance with EUDR. Introducing recycled board into our US portfolio exemplifies our commitment to innovative, sustainable solutions.
Elof Hansson Trade achieved consistent results, adapting effectively despite fluctuating markets. Notable expansions include our new Dubai office and acquisition of DeDe Paper & Board, strengthening our European presence. Aligning with our strategy, we've divested certain EPC operations to Serneke International to better concentrate on our core strengths.
Elof Hansson Properties reached significant milestones, with all properties now SGBC certified. Construction has started on The Parkside district, and Global Business Gate's foundations were completed, with further construction set for 2025.
Looking ahead, our organization is energized by engagement, innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth. Together, we're building momentum toward Vision 2030.
Elof Hansson Foundation
Elof Hansson is owned by Elof Hansson Foundation, with the mission to secure the Groups future
Our annual report
Elof Hansson exits 2024 with a clear focus on sustainability combined with a stabile financial performance
Our latest annual report covers our journey. Both a deeper insight in our sustinability work as well as our financials.