Peter Erkelenz, Key Account Manager recently gave me the opportunity to question him on Borgers experience of moving here. What exactly is your business? “Borgers is a supplier of components to the automotive industry." Why Göteborg?
“The Swedish automotive industry is located in the western region of Sweden."
What's unique regarding your Business?
“We are a 100% family- owned business producing textile interior trim parts, with the focus on weight reduction and environmental friendliness. Furthermore we offer in-house of all the required services, like design and development possibilities and in house production of production tooling and equipment."
What organizations helped you here and with what?
“Business Region Göteborg helped us right from the beginning to find the right contacts, like lawyers, architects, etc. Furthermore Invest in Sweden."
Is there much of a culture shock for staff you might have moved from your home country?
“Not really, because Sweden is a very civilized country and in times where you can buy IKEA and H&M products all over the world the differences are becoming marginal. But like all foreigners, we had to learn the finer differences in the Swedish mentality compared to other countries."
Has it all been plain sailing in setting up in Sweden?
“Yes it has been all the way through. Business Region Göteborg helped us so much with their services. We had no surprises, or negative experiences."
Differences or similarities with Sweden and your country?
“We find Swedes are extremely correct business partners. A word is still a word. Agreed dates are being met. The Germans had to learn to read between the lines and that it takes some time to establish friendships in Sweden. "
Göteborg has a good history of trade with your country, is it still felt today?
“Yes, but to be honest the borderlines have been moved. My company imports nearly all the products from the Czech Republic. But again, no problems."
If you were doing things again would you do anything different?
“No nothing...contact the same people."
Is there anything you didn't get help with that maybe you should?
“No."
What is your goal?
“ To deepen our business relationship with the Swedish Automotive Industry and
to have a profitable operation. "
What will be the basis of your success?
“To follow the demands of our customers and to be innovative"
Any tips for other companies relocating here?
“Do it, go to Sweden!"
How is your company adjusting?
“Trying to get further business by watching the market closely and to continue to be innovative and new opportunities will come."
Recent Developments?
“We won a new contract with Volvo for the supply of components to an additional model."
Final comments?
“Sweden is a very interesting country to be in for business."
