History

ScandBook is a company whose name symbolizes modern book production, but its foundations were laid at the beginning of the 20th century. Its history encompasses longevity, the ability to change and consistent growth in the publishing and printing industries, while maintaining respect for the book as a carrier of culture and knowledge.

Origins starting with the publishing house

In 1911, book publisher Birger Wahlström founded Wahlströms Bokförlag, a publishing house dedicated to disseminating literature and knowledge to the growing Swedish public. These were the times when the book had a special meaning, and the publishers were also culture makers.

In 1918, the publishing house took an important strategic step, starting to print and bind books in addition to publishing. This created a value chain from an idea to a physical book that allowed quality and process control.

Separation of production – logical step for growth

In 1958, due to the increasing volume and complexity of production, it was decided to separate publishing and production activities. The production part was taken over by the newly formed company B. Wahlströms Bokindustri AB. This solution allowed to focus on technology, process optimization and more efficient book production. The business expanded, the number of orders increased, but at the same time the infrastructure challenges became more pronounced.

Moving to Falun – a solution for the future

By the end of the 1950s, the company’s operations were spread out over different parts of Stockholm. This meant complex logistics, higher costs, and inefficient work.

In 1967, the decision was made to transfer production to Falun. The city was chosen strategically. It was in a convenient geographical location near Stockholm, but at the same time it was able to offer more spacious premises, a more stable labor market and a supportive environment for employees. This decision has become an important starting point for further growth.

ScandBook name and open market

In 1982, another significant transformation took place. Following the reorganisation, B. Wahlströms Bokindustri AB became J. A. Lindblads Bokförlag AB subsidiary and was renamed ScandBook AB.

The new name symbolised a clear direction. ScandBook was to become an independent, open to the market printing and book production company working not only with Wahlströms but also with other customers in Sweden and beyond.

International experience and owner turnover

In 1987, the ScandBook was sold to the Norwegian press company Aktietrykkeriet from Trondheim. In 1990, the company was taken back and managed until 2002, when it was acquired by the Danish press group Nørhaven.

These milestones strengthened ScandBook’s international experience, opened new markets and helped deploy more advanced manufacturing solutions.

Two factories – more flexibility

At the end of 2002, ScandBook acquired a printing house in Smedjebacken. Since then, book production has taken place in two locations – Falun and Smedjebacken. This allowed to increase production capacity, shorten deadlines and better adapt to customer needs.

New owner and a clear vision

In October 2006, ScandBook changed hands. The company was acquired by Stockholm-based private equity firm Accent Equity Partners along with several top-level ScandBook executives. This phase brought a long-term strategy focused on sustainable growth, technology modernization, and employee engagement.

Expansion and new segments

In 2015, ScandBook merged with Print IT in Klaipėda, Lithuania. Since then, the Falun and Klaipeda factories have functioned as a single organization, successfully serving international customers and creating a new story on a daily basis.

ScandBook Holding AB is also strengthening its position in Northern Europe by acquiring Nörhaven Book A/S and real estate company Bjerringholm Ejendomme ApS. The transaction was announced on 24 September 2025 and is considered a strategically important step in expanding operations in Germany, the Netherlands and other mature European markets and diversifying the client portfolio. According to management, this step will further strengthen production capacity, innovation and service levels by creating a wider and more competitive book production group in Europe and North America.

ScandBook’s goal is to be a reliable and long-term partner for publishers, ensuring high-quality book production, efficient processes and a responsible approach to the environment.

ScandBook’s mission is to create books that last. By investing in technology, people and processes, the company strives to ensure that every book is produced in a quality, sustainable and timely manner, regardless of edition or format.

ScandBook is built on long-term values. Quality means attention to detail at every stage of production.

• Reliability is a promise that is always kept.
• Responsibility includes taking care of employees, partners, and the environment.
• Continuous improvement encourages you to look for new solutions and not be afraid of change.
• Respect for books reminds us that every publication is more than just a product. This is content that lives on.

ScandBook is a place where books take on a physical form and becomes Future – Proof.