25 years of ideas, perseverance, and optimism
When Alf Pettersson started his company in 2001, the plan was actually quite simple. He wanted to create something of his own—a business where ideas could become reality without lengthy decision-making processes or unnecessary obstacles.
Building a company may not have been explicitly part of the plan from the start. What was there, however, was curiosity, drive, and a desire to solve problems.
Alf grew up on a farm outside Vårgårda as the youngest of six siblings—four brothers and one sister. Over the years, he has gained expertise in engineering, design, production technology, languages, and translation, as well as a deep interest in music. He still picks up his guitar whenever he gets the chance.
Those who know Alf often describe him as driven, stubborn, and full of ideas. He himself often jokes that an impatient idea machine works best when he’s in charge. It was with that mindset that Alf Pettersson AB was founded.
The Early Years – Custom Solutions and Customer Focus
The early years were characterized by custom manufacturing, consulting projects, and tailored solutions. Often, this involved finding solutions to problems for which there was no off-the-shelf solution.
The business grew rapidly. From a turnover of 86,000 kronor in its first year, the company’s revenue had risen to around four million kronor within just a few years.
Demand for specialty products continued to grow, and in 2003 the first product catalog was produced to give customers a comprehensive overview of the product range. At that time, the company’s own products were manufactured by external suppliers, while the company also represented several Italian accessory brands for the trucking industry.
Customer needs were already the focus back then.
– “We’ve always had high ambitions and a well-organized approach with the customer at the center,” says Alf.