Materials technology is a strong base

Century-old traditions

Sophisticated technology in many areas of the industrial community has been a dominating feature in the BASE region for a very long time. Companies, which today have a worldwide reputation, have been based here for over a hundred years. To some of them the dedication to the world market is obvious, with a turnover of as much as 90% and more emanating from markets outside Sweden.

This is home of the Sandvik Group, a world leader in specialty steels, cemented-carbide products and tools and tooling for the mining and construction industries.

Ovako Steel, a manufacturer of seamless pipe and rings for roller bearings, is a renowned supplier to the global engineering industry.

Ericsson Radio Systems is a dominating performer on the world market, with a sophisticated production site located in the region.

Wood processing is a major industry in the region. From Korsnäs pulp and paper products are shipped all over the world. The company uses the most modern techniques for an environment-friendly production.

Stora Enso with production of graphic paper and cardboard, and AssiDomän, producer of sawn timber and packaging paper, and one of Sweden's international giants in the forestry sector, benefit among other things from shipping their goods via the port of Gävle.

Many other modern industrial undertakings are also located here. The plastics industry is developing fast, as are also the food and foodstuffs industries, where coffee processing and confectionary manufacture are among the most expanding areas. Production of special vehicles and advanced eletrical concept solutions form part of our vigorous industrial palette.

Fact:   Number of companies in the BASE region 1999: Type of company Number Newly established companies, 1998 Corporations 3,152 116 Trading companies 1,345 57 Limited partnerships 298 19 Total 4,795 192 Of the total number of companies in the region in 1999, 99 were owned by foreign corporations. Source: Swedish Patent and Registration Office