Ålgård Offset expands significantly in Sweden with a new acquisition

Ålgård Offset acquires Ruter AB in Sweden, strengthening its position as a leading Scandinavian player in web offset printing. The news was announced in a press release from Ålgård just before the summer break.

Ålgård Offset AS and Lars G. Andersson, CEO of Ruter AB, are acquiring the Swedish printing group Ruter AB, including its subsidiary Ruter Vellinge AB, from the Falkenberg-based Hannells Holding. Ålgård Offset is already present in Sweden through its subsidiary Printagon Graphic AB in Helsingborg, and with this acquisition, the group further strengthens its position in the Scandinavian market.

“The acquisition creates new opportunities to consolidate operations and strengthen the group’s position in both existing and new markets across the Nordic region. In an industry that has long been characterized by structural changes and tough competition, it is crucial to grow strategically and create synergies between the companies. A well-executed consolidation is not only a path to increased efficiency but also a prerequisite for long-term sustainability and innovation in the printing sector,” says Tom Bjarte Norland, owner of Ålgård Offset.

“A perfect match! It couldn’t be better! I am convinced that Ålgård will be an excellent industrial owner for Ruter. The businesses complement each other, and we will be able to offer the Nordic market competitive solutions with high customer value. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Patrik Hannell and Hannells Holding AB, who have fully supported this agreement,” says Lars G. Andersson, CEO of Ruter, who will also join as a shareholder together with Ålgård Offset.

With the acquisition, Ålgård Offset becomes one of only two remaining large players in the Scandinavian web offset printing market. The other is Danish company Stibo. Just one year ago, there were five such players.

As part of the acquisition, there will also be a change in leadership at Ruter. Current CEO Lars G. Andersson will hand over the reins to Andreas Cheander, who will take over as managing director. Lars G. will remain in the company as chairman of the board and co-owner.

“We look forward to developing new services and strengthening our relationships with customers throughout Scandinavia. With a unified and stronger organization, we are better positioned to meet future demands for quality, flexibility, and sustainability. We now have a total of 8 web offset presses and 3 sheet-fed offset presses in the group and expect a combined turnover of around NOK 700 million. This makes us the largest producer of printed materials in Norway and Sweden,” concludes Group CEO Paul Bjarte Løyning.

Ruter AB and Ruter Vellinge AB had a combined turnover of approximately SEK 300 million in 2023.