The Nordics boast a vibrant designer furniture industry rooted in functionality, sustainability, and innovation. It hosts a mix of small-to-medium-sized design companies, artisanal workshops, and larger well-known brands, all offering unique products that emphasize craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal. As demand grows for sustainable and ethically manufactured items, companies are increasingly focusing on eco-friendly materials and practices. Interest in online sales continues to rise and the industry is witnessing the emergence of tech-savvy startups pushing traditional boundaries. With a strong emphasis on Scandinavian design principles, the future is promising for talented designers and investors alike in this space.


This list showcases various investors from the Nordics, primarily private equity and venture capital firms. With headquarters in cities like Stockholm and Copenhagen, these firms vary in size, having been founded between 1866 and 2016. In 2024, collective investments reached impressive numbers, with notable funding from Verdane and EQT Group demonstrating active engagement in the designer furniture market. Each investor plays a unique role by supporting companies in their growth journeys, ultimately shaping the future of the designer furniture sector in the region.


Top 19 Designer Furniture Investors in the Nordics


1. Verdane

  • Website: verdane.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: verdane-capital

Verdane is a private equity investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1985. The firm specializes in growth equity investments, primarily targeting technology-enabled companies. Verdane provides capital and hands-on support to help businesses scale, with a focus on digitalization and decarbonization trends. Notably, Verdane has invested in several companies within the designer furniture sector, including Hem, a design company based in Stockholm that received $5M in capital investment, and Bemz, which designs sofa covers for IKEA sofas and received equity funding to expand its marketing and international presence. Other relevant transactions include their acquisition of Confident Living and investments in RoyalDesign and Premium.xl, further showcasing their engagement in the furniture and design market.


2. 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 by offering tailored financial solutions and guidance. Among its notable transactions, Almi has invested in Resize Design and Beleco, both of which are relevant to the designer furniture sector. Beleco, for instance, raised $1,851,925 in a seed round in 2019, focusing on sustainable furniture solutions. These investments highlight Almi's engagement in the design and furniture industry, making it a potential player in this market.


3. Accent Equity


Accent Equity is a private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in investments in private Nordic companies, focusing on enhancing the value of its portfolio through strategic management and investment. Accent Equity has been involved in several notable transactions in the designer furniture context, including the acquisition of Götessons Group, which specializes in office furniture and accessories, and Cervera, a retailer known for its home decor and kitchenware. These investments reflect Accent Equity's commitment to supporting companies that contribute to the designer furniture and home accessories market, aiming to create sustainable growth and superior returns for their clientele.


4. 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. Altor focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and sustainable growth for its partners through tailored investment strategies and digital transformation solutions. Notably, Altor Fund V formed a new entity called Network of Design (NOD) and acquired String Furniture and Photowall, both of which are significant players in the designer furniture market. This strategic move highlights Altor's commitment to investing in the designer furniture sector, alongside their other investments in diverse industries such as holiday homes and boats.


5. Litorina

  • Website: litorina.se
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: litorina

Litorina is a private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1998. The firm specializes in private equity investments in Nordic niche market-leading companies, partnering with management teams and entrepreneurs to provide capital, strategic guidance, and operational support aimed at driving growth and value creation. Litorina focuses on well-managed, profitable companies in the business services and consumer sectors. Notably, Litorina has made several acquisitions relevant to the furniture industry, including KungSängen, a company in the bedding sector, and LGT Logistics, a leading Nordic player in furniture logistics. These transactions highlight Litorina's engagement with the furniture market, showcasing their interest in supporting companies that contribute to the design and logistics of furniture products.


6. Hilding Anders International AB


Hilding Anders International AB, founded in 1939 and based in Sweden, is a prominent corporate investor in the sleep product manufacturing sector, specializing in beds, mattresses, and sleep accessories. With a strong presence in over 40 countries, they leverage extensive experience and product testing to meet diverse customer needs. Notably, Hilding Anders has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its market position, including the purchase of Feather & Black, a brand known for its stylish beds and bedroom furniture, for £6.5 million in 2018. They also acquired Carpe Diem Beds of Sweden, a luxury mattress brand, from Herkules Capital, further solidifying their presence in the high-end bedding market. Other significant acquisitions include Myer’s, a leading UK bedding company, and Eastborn, a major player in the Netherlands, which have helped Hilding Anders expand its footprint in the European market. These transactions highlight their commitment to quality and design in the sleep product industry, making them a relevant player in the broader designer furniture context.


7. 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 managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notable transactions include the acquisition of HusCompagniet in 2015, a company recognized for its premium home design and construction services, which aligns with the designer furniture market. Additionally, their acquisition of Eton Group AB, a global premium men's shirts brand, reflects their focus on quality and design, further indicating their interest in sectors that value aesthetics and craftsmanship. Overall, EQT Group's investment strategy encompasses a variety of industries, including those related to design and furniture, showcasing their versatility as an investor.


8. Kinnevik

  • Website: kinnevik.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1936
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: investment-ab-kinnevik

Kinnevik is an investment company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1936. The firm partners with innovative entrepreneurs across various sectors, including healthcare, software, marketplaces, and climate tech, providing both capital and operational support to help these companies scale and create long-term value. Notably, Kinnevik has made significant investments in the home furnishings sector, particularly through their involvement with WestWing, a Munich-based e-commerce company specializing in home and living products. Kinnevik participated in multiple funding rounds for WestWing, including a €30 million venture capital funding round in 2015 and a record funding round of $50 million in 2012. These transactions highlight Kinnevik's strategic interest in the designer furniture market, showcasing their commitment to supporting growth in this industry.


9. Nordic Capital

  • Website: nordiccapital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: nordic-capital

Nordic Capital is a private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1989. The firm specializes in investments across various sectors, including healthcare and technology, and is known for partnering with management teams to drive growth and operational improvements in its portfolio companies. Nordic Capital has a strong focus on creating long-term value and sustainability in its investments. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions in the home furnishings sector, such as the acquisition of Jotex, a prominent player in the Scandinavian home textile and decoration market, and the reacquisition of Ellos Group, a leading Nordic e-commerce group that includes home goods. These transactions highlight Nordic Capital's engagement in the home furnishings industry, which is closely related to designer furniture.


10. Procuritas

  • Website: procuritas.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: procuritas-ab

Procuritas is a private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1986. The firm specializes in private equity and growth capital investments, partnering with entrepreneurs and business owners to provide capital and strategic guidance aimed at achieving market leadership. Procuritas has a diverse portfolio that includes various industries, but they have made significant strides in the designer furniture sector. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Scandinavian Designs and Sofakompagniet ApS in April 2017, both of which are prominent players in the designer furniture market. Additionally, their investment in Zone Company Denmark A/S, which focuses on interior products, highlights their commitment to the furniture and design industry. Overall, Procuritas demonstrates a strong interest in fostering growth within the designer furniture space while maintaining a broader investment strategy.


11. Bygghemma

  • Website: bygghemma.se
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Sweden
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: bygghemma

Bygghemma Sverige AB is a corporate investor based in Sweden, founded in 2006, specializing in e-commerce for construction, home improvement, and gardening products. The company operates an online store that caters primarily to consumers engaged in DIY projects and home renovations. Notably, Bygghemma has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its market position in the home furnishings sector. In 2017, they acquired WeGot, a home furnishing specialist, which strengthens their presence in the designer furniture market. Additionally, they acquired Gartenmöbel Company in 2021, further expanding their portfolio in home furnishings. Other acquisitions, such as Outl1.se and Golvpoolen, while primarily focused on flooring and building materials, indicate a broader strategy to dominate the home improvement and furnishing market.


12. Ratos

  • Website: ratos.se
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1866
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: ratos

Ratos is a private equity investment company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1866. The firm operates across various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, and consumer goods, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and efficiency. Ratos aims to create value for its shareholders while addressing the diverse needs of its customer base. Notably, Ratos acquired Flokk in 2007, a company recognized for its innovative and design-focused office furniture solutions. This acquisition highlights Ratos's involvement in the designer furniture market. Additionally, Ratos's investment in Gudrun Sjödén Design in 2016, a brand known for its unique textile designs and home decor, further illustrates its engagement with design-oriented businesses. These transactions indicate that while Ratos has a broad investment portfolio, it does have significant ties to the designer furniture industry.


13. Fiskars Group


Fiskars Group, founded in 1649 and based in Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland, is a corporate investor known for its design-driven consumer goods. The company specializes in gardening, cooking, and home products, offering a range of high-quality tools and lifestyle items aimed at enhancing everyday living. In recent years, Fiskars has made significant strides in the designer furniture and luxury home goods sector through strategic acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Georg Jensen, a renowned Danish luxury lifestyle brand, for EUR 151.5 million in 2023, which aims to bolster their luxury brand portfolio. Additionally, Fiskars acquired Royal Copenhagen, a premium porcelain company, for approximately EUR 66 million in 2012, further solidifying its position in the Scandinavian design market. These acquisitions, along with their purchase of Iittala Group and WWRD (which includes brands like Waterford and Wedgwood), highlight Fiskars' focus on high-quality, design-oriented products that resonate with consumers seeking both functionality and aesthetic appeal in their homes.


14. Maj Invest

  • Website: majinvest.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Copenhagen, Denmark
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: maj-invest

Maj Invest is an investment management firm based in Copenhagen, Denmark, specializing in asset management and private equity. Founded in 2005, the firm provides tailored investment solutions to institutional investors, focusing on sectors such as technology, life sciences, and energy transition. Notably, Maj Invest has made significant strides in the designer furniture sector, acquiring Muuto, a prominent Danish design brand, in August 2014, and taking a majority stake in ferm LIVING, a company known for its stylish interior design products, in December 2020. These transactions highlight Maj Invest's commitment to investing in the designer furniture industry while maintaining a focus on sustainability and responsible investing, aiming to generate long-term value for its clients.


15. Wellstreet

  • Website: wellstreet.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: wellstreet

Wellstreet is a venture capital firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in early-stage investments primarily in Nordic tech companies, providing entrepreneurs with capital and strategic support to foster growth and innovation. Wellstreet has a diverse portfolio, focusing on sectors such as FinTech, E-commerce, and GreenTech. Notably, they invested in Hemset, a Malmö-based startup that offers digital interior design services, which aligns with the designer furniture industry. This investment highlights Wellstreet's potential interest in design-related ventures. Other transactions include investments in companies like Anatomic Studios and Sir of Sweden, although these are less directly related to designer furniture. Overall, Wellstreet's investment strategy indicates a willingness to explore opportunities that may intersect with the design and furniture sectors.


16. Polaris Private Equity


Polaris Private Equity is a private equity firm based in Copenhagen, Denmark, founded in 1998. The firm specializes in investment management, focusing on supporting mid-sized companies in the Nordic region through tailored investment strategies, including private equity, flexible capital, and public equity. Polaris partners with management teams to drive growth and operational improvements, helping these companies realize their full potential. Notably, Polaris acquired Louis Poulsen, a prominent designer lighting company, from the Italian Targetti Sankey Group in 2014, which reported expected revenue of approximately 675 million DKK for 2013. This acquisition highlights Polaris's commitment to investing in high-quality design brands within the furniture and lighting sector. Additionally, their diverse portfolio includes investments in various industries, but the acquisition of Louis Poulsen positions them as a relevant player in the designer furniture market.


17. eEquity

  • Website: eequity.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: eequity

eEquity is a venture capital firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in growth equity, primarily targeting digitally enabled business models in the Nordic region. eEquity partners with entrepreneurs in various sectors, including technology and retail, providing both capital and strategic support to help scale businesses into regional and global leaders. Notably, eEquity has been involved in several transactions relevant to the designer furniture context, including an investment in RoyalDesign, a prominent player in the designer furniture and home decor market. This investment highlights eEquity's engagement in the designer furniture industry, alongside their other ventures such as SON OF A TAILOR and Twistshake, which, while not directly related to furniture, showcase their diverse investment portfolio.


18. Priveq

  • Website: priveq.se
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: priveq-investment

Priveq is an investment management and private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1983. The firm specializes in providing growth capital to companies across various sectors, with a focus on helping businesses achieve their growth objectives through strategic guidance and financial support. Priveq has a history of investing in over 130 companies, including notable transactions in the home and design sector. For instance, they invested in Hemtex, a company known for its home textiles and furnishings, in 2004, which aligns with the designer furniture market. Additionally, their acquisition of Nordic Room Improvement (NRI) in 2012 further emphasizes their involvement in enhancing living spaces. These transactions highlight Priveq's commitment to supporting companies that contribute to the design and improvement of home environments.


19. Lifeline Ventures


Lifeline Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in startups across various sectors, providing financial backing and advisory services to entrepreneurs. Lifeline Ventures has been actively involved in the furniture industry, particularly through their investments in Mjuk, a Helsinki-based marketplace for buying and reselling used furniture. They participated in several funding rounds for Mjuk, including a €2.5 million round in September 2023 and a $4.2 million seed round in April 2022. Additionally, they were part of a funding round for Sulapac, a company focused on sustainable materials, which may have relevance to the designer furniture market as sustainability is a growing trend in furniture design.



Designer Furniture Insights: Key Investors in the Nordics


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
VerdaneOslo, Oslo, Norway51-20019857
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947
Accent EquityStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden11-5019944
Altor Equity PartnersStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden51-20020036
LitorinaStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden11-5019980
Hilding Anders International ABSweden5001-1000019390
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
KinnevikStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden11-50193610
Nordic CapitalStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-500198910
ProcuritasStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden11-5019860
BygghemmaSweden201-50020060
RatosStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden11-5018660
Fiskars GroupEspoo, Uusimaa, Finland5001-1000016490
Maj InvestCopenhagen, Denmark51-20020055
WellstreetStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1-1020163
Polaris Private EquityCopenhagen, Denmark51-20019984
eEquityStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden11-5020100
PriveqStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden11-5019830
Lifeline VenturesHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland1-10200914


Want to find more investors focusing on the designer furniture industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the designer furnitureindustry, you can do that with Inven. We built this list and analysis throughInven's Investor Search, and there are a lot more private equity, venturecapital, and corporate investors like these globally.

With Inven, you'll also get to know:

  • Deal History: Number of deals and their sizes.
  • Portfolio: Companies they've invested in.
  • Contact data: Key dealmakers, including their emails and phonenumbers.
  • ...and much more!