A word from the CEO

When it comes to sustainability, our ambition is clear: we will work to reduce our own climate emissions while encouraging suppliers and industry stakeholders to choose products, services and solutions with lower climate impact. This is a team effort that requires action both now and over time if we are to achieve the intended impact and results together.

During the year, we continued our work on the EU’s sustainability reporting requirements, including CSRD and ESRS, as well as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), with its requirements for traceability, digitalisation and supplier dialogue. While this work progressed, it was also a year that demanded both flexibility and decisiveness, as regulatory requirements were withdrawn, amended or postponed.

Sustainability has become increasingly business-critical and, together with digitalisation, plays a key role in meeting external requirements for environmental data and traceability. We see that our customers – from Sweden’s largest construction companies to small and medium-sized builders – are increasingly requesting products and solutions with lower climate impact, as well as supply chains with improved traceability and environmental performance. The expectations placed on our industry are higher than ever before.

We have therefore worked intensively throughout the year to strengthen our customer offering in sustainability. Key priorities have included increasing the share of products with documented sustainability attributes in our portfolio, improving traceability and follow-up in our supply chains, and integrating more stores into our ISO, FSC and PEFC certifications. We have also prioritised the digitalisation of environmental data and transport solutions designed to reduce climate impact. Our logistics centre in Jönköping – now certified BREEAM Outstanding, the highest level in the internationally recognised certification system – is a clear example of how we work to improve operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

The social engagement of Mestergruppen, our chains and our members has remained strong. We continue to support initiatives and activities that make a difference, both locally and nationally. We also see that this contributes to engagement, pride and loyalty, while our entrepreneurs and members receive local recognition for their contributions. We have also continued our work to promote greater gender equality and skills development.

Despite the challenging external environment, we have continued to outperform the market. Our business model – where independent entrepreneurs work together with central resources and systems – has once again demonstrated its strength. It is in the meeting between local commitment and central development capacity that real synergies and results are created. Through drive, entrepreneurship and collaboration, we have continued to gain market share and strengthen our position within building materials retail and surface products retail.

Finally, I would like to extend my warmest thanks to all employees, members, suppliers and partners. Together, we have taken important steps towards a more sustainable future.

Mia Malmros
CEO, Mestergruppen Sverige