A new year. New challenges, new expectations and right on the new year a trip for new exciting industry meetings. What awaited when Kung Bore pulled in like a whirlwind?
The journey north began on the evening of the Epiphany with a flight from Sturup to Luleå via Stockholm. Once check-in was completed and the delays were over, it was half past two on Wednesday morning – and even though Skåne was cold, the contrast was still palpable as northern Norrland faced a harsh winter. Biting cold, creaking snow and a landscape that was deeply frozen set the tone for the week.
Warm meeting in a chilly landscape
A little later that morning by train to Boden, where site manager Daniel Hultin Textiles received. Suddenly two Daniels from Skåne met ten miles south of the Arctic Circle. Boden is a classic garrison and industrial town, safe and down to earth, and it was very nice to be back – a full 30 years after the last visit. The meetings with the employees were especially rewarding, not least those who have actually been with us ever since. Customer segments primarily healthcare, care and hotels.
Lunch is taken at The farm trot – the country's northernmost trotting track. However, no horses were seen that day, for completely understandable reasons. The evening ended in Luleå, the coastal city on the Gulf of Bothnia that combines university life, industry and the archipelago – all framed by winter darkness and snow.
Focus industry and carpets
Thursday began with a visit to Elis in Luleå, where site manager Marzena Lundberg welcomed and explained the company's focus on industry and carpets. The knowledgeable guide during the tour was production manager Thomas Lundgren.
Industry legends met up
During the day another welcome meeting, now with an old friend: Håkan Linneruth, a true industry legend. After many years at Tvättman/Berendsen/Elis – and board work in Piteå IF – he has now landed in retirement, with full focus on his children and grandchildren.
After lunch, Håkan took a ride to the train. Four hours later, after braving both snowfall and winter road conditions, we reached the city of the Björks – Umeå. Here, a different pace is noticeable: the pulse of the university city combined with the Norrland spirit, even though the cold persisted here during the week.
An angel in the room
Friday was spent visiting both Elis Umeå and CWS Umeå. At Elis, site manager Moa Jonsson welcomed us and at CWS, Thomas and Peter Larsson met. Two businesses with clear local commitment and a strong presence among their customers. At lunchtime, another industry profile joined: Martin Morin. After the family business KM Tvätten was sold 24 years ago, Martin has established himself as a leading business angel in what is often called the capital of Norrland.
A journey through a winter cold, but warm and professional, Norrland.
The flight via Stockholm to Copenhagen. Cold here too, but with many warm memories in my luggage.
