The technical textile manufacturers industry in the Nordics focuses on producing fabrics designed for specific performance characteristics rather than conventional uses. Companies in this sector create innovative solutions for various markets, including automotive, healthcare, and sports. This specialization drives demand for advanced materials that incorporate sustainability and technology. Recent trends highlight a growing interest in eco-friendly textiles and smart fabrics, shaped by consumer preferences and regulatory changes. The industry is evolving rapidly, with investments funneling into research and development, indicating a bright future as businesses continue to adapt to modern challenges and opportunities.

The investors featured here represent a mix of private equity firms, corporate investors, and venture capitalists. Predominantly based in Stockholm, Helsinki, and Espoo, they operate companies of varying scales, from small firms to large organizations. Founded between 1893 and 2018, these investors collectively engaged in a notable number of transactions within the technical textiles industry in 2024, reflecting their commitment to stimulating innovation and growth.

Top 15 Technical Textile Manufacturers Investors in the Nordics

1. Almi

• Website: almi.se
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden. Almi aims to enhance the growth and competitiveness of these businesses through tailored financial solutions and guidance. Among their notable transactions, Almi has invested in several companies within the technical textiles space, including HealthTextiles, which focuses on textile solutions for health applications, and Vividye AB, a startup that has developed innovative printing technology for textiles. These investments highlight Almi's commitment to supporting advancements in the textile industry, particularly in areas that intersect with technology and sustainability.

2. EQT Group

• Website: eqtgroup.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 30
• LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has been active in the technical textiles space, exemplified by their recent acquisition of Zeus Industrial Products in December 2023. This acquisition aligns with their strategy to invest in companies that can leverage their expertise in manufacturing and innovation. Additionally, EQT's acquisition of BBS Automation in 2018, a provider of automation solutions for complex manufacturing processes, further highlights their interest in enhancing manufacturing capabilities, which is relevant to the technical textiles industry.

3. Indutrade Life Science

• Website: indutrade.se
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 14
• LinkedIn: indutrade-life-science

Indutrade Life Science is a corporate investor based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1978. The company is part of the Indutrade group, which focuses on developing and acquiring companies with high technical expertise across various technology and industrial sectors. Indutrade emphasizes long-term relationships with its customers and operates through a decentralized structure, allowing its subsidiaries to maintain independence while benefiting from the group's resources. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Beldam Crossley, a company involved in technical textiles, and TSE Troller, a manufacturer of high-quality coating dies, which may have applications in technical textiles. These acquisitions reflect Indutrade's strategy to expand its portfolio in sectors that require innovative industrial products, including technical textiles.

4. Business Finland

• Website: businessfinland.fi
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 26
• LinkedIn: business-finland

Business Finland is a public entity established to support Finnish companies in their growth and internationalization efforts. Founded in 2018, it offers funding, consulting services, and market opportunities to help businesses innovate and succeed in global markets. Notably, Business Finland has been involved in several transactions within the technical textile sector, including significant investments in Spinnova, which raised funds through grants and debt to develop sustainable textile solutions. Additionally, it has supported Infinited Fiber Company with grants aimed at advancing innovative fiber technologies. These activities highlight Business Finland's commitment to promoting trade and innovation in the textile industry, particularly in technical textiles.

5. Chalmers Ventures

• Website: chalmersventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sweden
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 26
• LinkedIn: chalmers-ventures

Chalmers Ventures is a venture builder and tech investor based in Sweden, founded in 2015. They focus on deep tech innovations and support researchers and entrepreneurs in commercializing their technology through various programs that provide business guidance, financing, and community networking. Chalmers Ventures has been actively involved in the technical textile sector, notably through their investments in Vividye AB, a textile tech startup that has developed a unique printing technology allowing for the removal and reapplication of colors on fabrics. They led a seed round for Vividye AB in 2022, contributing to the company's efforts to enhance its innovative textile processing capabilities. This involvement demonstrates Chalmers Ventures' commitment to advancing technology in the textile industry, making them a relevant investor in this space.

6. Altor Equity Partners

• Website: altor.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: altor

Altor Equity Partners is a private equity investment management firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in providing consulting services across various sectors, including technology and consumer products, with a focus on enhancing operational efficiency and sustainable growth for its partners. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Trioworld, which operates in the packaging sector and may have relevance to technical textiles, and the acquisition of Dale of Norway, a company known for its high-quality wool products, which could relate to technical textile applications. Altor's investment strategy emphasizes tailored solutions and digital transformation, making them a versatile player in the investment landscape.

7. Trelleborg Group

• Website: trelleborg.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Trelleborg, Skåne, Sweden
• Founded year: 1905
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: trelleborggroup

Trelleborg Group is a leading manufacturing company based in Trelleborg, Skåne, Sweden, specializing in engineered polymer solutions. Founded in 1905, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 people and has made significant strides in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and marine. Trelleborg's focus on delivering innovative solutions is evident in their strategic acquisitions aimed at enhancing their product offerings. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Ambler Technologies Ltd. in 2013, which specializes in composite materials for deep-sea applications, and the acquisition of Innovative Sewer Technologies in 2022, which enhances their capabilities in trenchless pipe repair technology. These acquisitions reflect Trelleborg's commitment to advancing their position in the technical textiles market, particularly in specialized applications that require high-performance materials.

8. Aboa Venture III Ky

• Website: aboaventure.fi
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Turku, Southwest Finland, Finland
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: aboa-venture-iii-ky

Aboa Venture III Ky is a private equity firm based in Turku, Southwest Finland, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in providing equity financing solutions to Finnish businesses with revenues between 2-20 million euros, focusing on acquisitions and growth investments. Aboa Venture has participated in several transactions, including investments in companies like Aqvacomp, which raised funds in 2015, and Purvac, which secured financing in 2007. While the specific industries of these companies are not detailed, the firm's investment strategy is geared towards supporting small to medium-sized enterprises, which may include those in the technical textiles sector. This diversified investment approach suggests that Aboa Venture III Ky could potentially engage with technical textile manufacturers.

9. Lagercrantz Group AB

• Website: lagercrantz.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: lagercrantz

Lagercrantz Group AB is a technology group based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in providing tailored technical solutions across various sectors. Founded in 2001, the company operates around 80 subsidiaries that focus on niche markets, offering products and services in areas such as Electrify, Control, and TecSec. In 2024, Lagercrantz has already made six investments, showcasing its active acquisition strategy. Notable transactions include the acquisition of DP Seals, a UK-based manufacturer of rubber sealings and mouldings, which positions Lagercrantz to leverage capabilities in high-specification applications relevant to technical textiles. Additionally, their acquisition of Tykoflex, a manufacturer of enclosures for fiber cables, further demonstrates their engagement in sectors that may intersect with technical textiles. Overall, Lagercrantz Group's business model emphasizes both acquisitions and organic growth, catering primarily to business customers seeking specialized technology solutions.

10. HEXPOL Compounding

• Website: hexpol.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Rekekroken, Skåne, Sweden
• Founded year: 1893
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: hexpol-compounding

HEXPOL Compounding, founded in 1893 and based in Rekekroken, Skåne, Sweden, is a corporate investor specializing in polymer manufacturing. The company focuses on advanced polymer compounding and engineered products, serving diverse industries including automotive, healthcare, and construction. HEXPOL is committed to innovation and sustainability, providing high-quality materials such as rubber and thermoplastic compounds, gaskets, and wheels. In recent years, HEXPOL has made significant acquisitions to strengthen its market position, including the acquisition of 70% of almaak international, a company specializing in advanced recycled engineered compounds, and 100% of Star Thermoplastic Alloys and Rubbers, which allows HEXPOL to enter the American TPE market. These transactions highlight HEXPOL's strategy to expand its footprint in relevant markets, including those that intersect with technical textiles.

11. FSN Capital Partners

• Website: fsncapital.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fsn-capital

FSN Capital Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including services, green transition, industrials, and technology. FSN Capital partners with companies to drive growth and transformation, primarily catering to institutional investors and pension funds seeking sustainable returns. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Holmbergs Safety System, a supplier of safety systems for the child safety seat industry, and Skamol A/S, which operates in the industrial sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Impreg Group, a Danish manufacturer of pipe liner systems, highlights their interest in companies that may utilize technical textiles, further aligning them with the technical textile manufacturers industry.

12. CapMan

• Website: capman.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: capman

CapMan Oyj is an investment management firm based in Helsinki, Finland, specializing in private equity, real estate, infrastructure, and natural capital investments. Founded in 1989, CapMan serves institutional investors by providing access to a range of investment strategies aimed at achieving sustainable returns. With a strong presence in the Nordic markets, CapMan leverages its expertise to manage funds and drive value creation for its clients. Notably, CapMan has been involved in significant transactions within the technical textiles sector, including the acquisition of Walki Group Oy in 2007, a company recognized for its production of technical textiles and packaging solutions. This acquisition highlights CapMan's commitment to investing in industries that align with innovative and sustainable practices. Additionally, their involvement with other companies such as Metal Power Technology Sweden and Cederroth Intressenter AB showcases their diverse investment portfolio, further emphasizing their capability to engage with various sectors.

13. Lifeline Ventures

• Website: lifelineventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 14
• LinkedIn: lifeline-ventures

Lifeline Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Helsinki, Finland, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in startups, providing financial backing and advisory services to entrepreneurs across various sectors. Lifeline Ventures aims to support resilient founders from the inception of their ventures. Notable transactions include investments in Sulapac, a company focused on sustainable materials, which raised €15 million to scale up production and develop new formulas, and Hyperion Robotics, which raised €3 million to enhance its R&D capabilities in materials technology. These investments reflect Lifeline Ventures' commitment to innovative material solutions, which could be relevant to the technical textile manufacturers industry.

14. Metsä Spring

• Website: metsaspring.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: metsaspring

Metsä Spring is a corporate investor based in Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland, founded in 2018. It is part of the Metsä Group, a leading forest industry company specializing in renewable wood products such as pulp, paperboard, and tissue papers. The company emphasizes sustainability and efficient resource use in its operations. In 2023 and 2024, Metsä Spring has been involved in several relevant transactions, including a €3 million investment in Fiberwood, a startup focused on scaling production capabilities, and a €1 million seed funding for FineCellOX AB, which is developing cellulose powder technology. These investments highlight Metsä Spring's interest in innovative material applications that are pertinent to the technical textiles industry, showcasing their commitment to supporting sustainable and advanced material solutions.

15. NIBE Industrier AB

• Website: nibe.se
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Markaryd, Kronoberg, Sweden
• Founded year: 1952
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: nibe-ab

NIBE Industrier AB is a corporate investor based in Markaryd, Kronoberg, Sweden, specializing in energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions. Founded in 1952, NIBE offers a range of products including heat pumps, hot water heaters, and smart home technology, primarily targeting homeowners and property managers. In recent years, NIBE has expanded its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, including BriskHeat Corporation, a leading manufacturer of cloth heating jackets, which they acquired in January 2018. This acquisition highlights NIBE's interest in technical textiles, as BriskHeat's products integrate textile technology with heating solutions. Additionally, NIBE has acquired other companies such as HemiHeating, ELEKTRON-ETTO, and Therm-x, focusing on enhancing their thermal sensing and heating technologies. These transactions reflect NIBE's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the energy sector, while also indicating a growing interest in the technical textile market.

Technical Textile Manufacturers Insights: Key Investors in the Nordics

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
Almi	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	201-500	1994	7
EQT Group	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1994	30
Indutrade Life Science	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1978	14
Business Finland	Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland	501-1000	2018	26
Chalmers Ventures	Sweden	11-50	2015	26
Altor Equity Partners	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	51-200	2003	6
Trelleborg Group	Trelleborg, Skåne, Sweden	10001+	1905	7
Aboa Venture III Ky	Turku, Southwest Finland, Finland	1-10	1994	0
Lagercrantz Group AB	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	2001	6
HEXPOL Compounding	Rekekroken, Skåne, Sweden	1001-5000	1893	1
FSN Capital Partners	Oslo, Oslo, Norway	51-200	1999	0
CapMan	Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland	51-200	1989	4
Lifeline Ventures	Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland	1-10	2009	14
Metsä Spring	Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland	11-50	2018	1
NIBE Industrier AB	Markaryd, Kronoberg, Sweden	5001-10000	1952	0

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