Our approach to long-term value creation

Introduction

Bertel O. Steen Industri: Empowering the Future of Nordic Industry

Bertel O. Steen Industri is a leading owner and developer of companies providing premium goods and services essential to critical infrastructure and industries across the Nordics. With a legacy rooted in one of Norway’s largest trading houses, we specialize in what we call “Next Generation Industrial SMB Ownership”—a modern approach to empowering sustainable, growth-oriented businesses.

Investing in Family-Owned Heritage Businesses

Our portfolio primarily consists of well-established, family-owned companies that have thrived for generations. Many of these businesses face challenges in adapting to today’s rapidly evolving digital, regulatory, and compliance landscape. Bertel O. Steen Industri steps in to provide the strategic support and modern infrastructure needed to navigate these changes, while preserving the values and customer-centric approach that have made these companies successful.

Strengthening Businesses with Stability and Expertise

Through our strong financial backing and robust operational infrastructure, we help our portfolio companies focus on what they do best: delivering exceptional products and services to their customers. For our customers, this means continuity of quality, with the added benefit of enhanced professionalism, digital tools, and operational efficiency derived from our Bertel O. Steen network.

A Long-Term, Active Ownership Approach

We are committed to being an active, long-term owner. Our focus is on driving both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, creating a dynamic ecosystem where our companies can collaborate, share insights, and leverage expert resources. At the same time, we believe in preserving the autonomy of the management teams, empowering them to lead with entrepreneurial agility while benefiting from the stability and resources we provide.

Partnering for Sustainable Growth

At Bertel O. Steen Industri, we are dedicated to building strong, resilient companies that thrive in an ever-changing world. If you're looking for a partner that understands the challenges of growth, transformation, and sustainability, we are ready to help take your business to the next level.

What do we look for?

Financial factors

Company size: Our investment strategy focuses on companies with a revenue range of 50 million to 200 million NOK.

Growth and profitability: We invest in companies that has demonstrated stable growth and profitability over time, showing resilience against market downturns.

Type of control: We prefer majority stakes, as this allows us to effectively leverage our expertise, resources, and network to drive operational enhancements and capture opportunities for expansion.

Type of companies

Industries of Focus

At Bertel O. Steen Industri, we concentrate on companies within specific industry verticals where we see strong potential for growth and innovation. Our core focus areas include:

Industrial Tools
Material Science and Analysis
Industrial Manufacturing
Security Systems

Business Model

In line with our heritage and expertise, we exclusively invest in businesses with a B2B (business-to-business) model. Our parent company, Bertel O. Steen, has a long history of success in the import and distribution of premium goods from leading international manufacturers. We leverage this experience to support our portfolio companies in expanding their reach and operational capabilities, ensuring they remain competitive in a global marketplace.

Geographic Focus

While we are open to investment opportunities across the Nordics, our primary focus is on companies headquartered in Norway. We have a deep understanding of the local market and regulatory environment, allowing us to provide tailored support and resources to businesses in the region.

Market Position

We are particularly interested in niche market leaders that possess a sustainable competitive advantage. These companies have established themselves as dominant players within their respective industries, offering unique products or services that position them for long-term success. Our goal is to help these businesses strengthen their market position and unlock new growth opportunities through strategic support and resources.

Situations

We are particularly interested in companies that seek competent capital to fuel new organic or structural initiatives. Our goal is to provide the necessary financial resources and expertise to support the company's expansion plans and help drive its growth trajectory.

We also actively seek opportunities where companies are undergoing a generational transition. In such cases, we recognize the unique challenges and opportunities that arise during leadership handovers. By partnering with these companies, we offer stability, continuity, and strategic guidance to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure the company's long-term success.

Our ability to adapt to various situations and provide tailored solutions allows us to partner with companies in diverse circumstances, offering the necessary financial support, operational expertise, and strategic guidance to facilitate their growth, transition, or restructuring objectives.

Team and culture

When assessing potential investment opportunities, we place great importance on the team and culture within the target company. We seek a strong leadership team with deep domain expertise and a track record of success. The team's competence, experience, and strategic vision are crucial factors that contribute to the company's ability to execute its growth plans effectively.

Furthermore, we are attracted to companies with a strong sense of integrity, as this forms the foundation of a sustainable and ethical business. We believe that a culture of integrity and shared values enhances decision-making, fosters innovation, and promotes a positive working environment.

By partnering with companies that possess these qualities, we aim to create a synergistic relationship where our values align, and together we can build a resilient and successful organization.

Integration post acquisition

Majority of acquired companies reports directly to Bertel O. Steen Industri, and are not merged with one of the existing daughter companies. We place a high emphasis on allowing the management of our portfolio companies to keep their autonomy, while reaping the benefits of being a part of a larger organization.

Our value proposition for portfolio companies