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COMMENT FROM THE CEO
High level of activity in a
turbulent world
As we look back on 2025, we can see that the year has been as turbulent as
we imagined it would be a year ago. Mellby Gård have every reason to be
satisfied with how we have managed to navigate a number of challenges
and instead build further stability by completing several investments in
existing companies. Last years' planned reorganisation landed well and we
have successfully moved forward in our new roles.
The transition to the role of CEO has not been dramatic, but
it has brought certain changes for me personally. Over the
course of the year, I have gradually deepened my under­
standing of those parts of the Group with which I was not previously
involved. I can confidently conclude that Mellby Gård comprises
a portfolio of highly attractive companies, led by dedicated and
skilled employees. Like all organisations, however, we face our share
of challenges. Operating across multiple industries requires us to
manage complexity and remain attentive to a broad range of factors.
Our ambitions for 2025 were, as always, high. The objective was
for the Group to grow and outperform the previous year. At the same
time, we anticipated a turbulent environment. The U.S. presidential
transition, continued war in Ukraine, new regulatory requirements,
digitalisation and the rapid development of AI were all factors we
knew would influence our operations, even if the precise impact was
difficult to predict.
Looking back, I am pleased to note that many of our expectations
have been met. It has indeed been an unpredictable year, but what
has impressed me most is how our companies and employees have
responded to the challenges. Across geographies and functions, our
colleagues have delivered outstanding work. Their dedication and
professionalism are the foundation of our strong performance.
The Group is now larger than ever, and many of our companies
have exceeded expectations. In 2025, Mellby Gård reached an impor­
tant milestone: net sales of more than SEK 20 billion for the first
time. Financial earnings are in line with the previous year, despite
challenging conditions in several of the industries in which we
operate.
The year also brought unexpected highlights, particularly regarding
our sporting commitments. One of the most gratifying moments
was Mjällby AIF being crowned Swedish league champions. This
achievement engaged not only Blekinge, where the club is based, and
Sweden as a whole, but also attracted international attention—while
generating tremendous enthusiasm within our own organisation. We
would also like to highlight our partnership with Truls Möregårdh. It
has been both exciting and rewarding to follow his progress through­
out the year, especially the admirable victory in the Europe Smash
tournament.
2025 was also marked by significant investments across several
of Mellby Gård’s subsidiaries. We acquired Filippa K, which now
forms the Scandinavian Heritage AB Group together with Oscar
Jacobson. In addition, we invested in new warehousing and
logistics solutions for Kappahl Group and Roxtec, increased our
ownership in Duni Group and continued to invest in Anocca. These
strategic investments are essential to our long-term development,
strengthening both the individual companies and Mellby Gård as
a whole. You can read more about these initiatives in this year’s
magazine.
Looking ahead to 2026, we expect continued uncertainty. Never­
the­less, there are reasons to hope for economic stabilisation and
gradually improving demand, including in industries that have
recently faced more challenging conditions. We also look forward to
completing and commissioning several major investment projects
that will enhance competitiveness and lay the foundation for future
growth. At the same time, it remains crucial to continue building
stability and resilience in order to meet whatever challenges lie
ahead. Unfortunately, there are indications that geopolitical ten­
sions may intensify before they ease. Even so, opportunities will
undoubtedly emerge in parallel.
Finally, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all our employ­
ees for your commitment and excellent work throughout the year.
Together, we have successfully navigated 2025, and I look forward
with confidence to what we can accomplish in the years ahead.
Mikael Helmerson,
CEO, Mellby Gård AB
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