About

Who we are

At Borgestad ASA, we are proud of our long-standing history, which dates back to 1904. Founded by former Norwegian Prime Minister Gunnar Knudsen, Borgestad is an investment company built on a strong legacy of innovation and growth across various industries. Listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange since 1917, we are the longest-listed company in its history. Today, our focus is on two core areas: supporting the delivery of top-quality refractory solutions through our majority-owned Höganäs Borgestad Group and managing real estate development, including full ownership of the Agora Bytom shopping mall in Poland.

Where we come from

2023

A new Board of Directors is established, with Glen Ole Rødland appointed as Chair. Together with the board, management revitalizes Borgestad's strategy and initiates a series of actions aimed at enhancing profitability within the Höganäs Borgestad Group.

2019

Pål Feen Larsen succeeds Christen Knudsen as CEO of Borgestad ASA, marking the end of an era, as Knudsen, a descendant of founder Gunnar Knudsen, has served the company well for many years.

2013

Subsidiaries in the refractory industry are merged to create what is now recognized as the Höganäs Borgestad Group.

Borgestad acquires the remaining 50% of Agora Bytom.

2008

Borgestad's refractory industry segment is spun off into a separate entity.

The Agora Bytom shopping mall in Poland opens, with Borgestad holding a 50% stake in the venture.

2007

The Forum Gliwice shopping mall is sold, resulting in a substantial profit from the real estate investment.

2006

Borgestad's shipping holdings are sold, marking the conclusion of a long chapter in the company's shipping history.

2005

The construction of the Forum Gliwice shopping mall in Poland is initiated, marking the beginning of Borgestad's real estate investments.

1998

Borgestad acquires Höganäs Bjuf, a Swedish company specializing in refractory materials, along with GZMO in Poland, forming a significant player in the European refractory industry.

1964

Borgestad enters the car carrier market with the purchase of RORO ships, expanding its shipping history, which had previously been limited to tankers and bulk carriers.

1940-1945

Six out of Borgestad's eight vessels sank during World War II.

1923

The Borgestad shipping fleet is being renewed, and the existing steamships are being replaced with motor-powered vessels.

1917

Borgestad Aktieselskab is listed on Oslo Stock Exchange (OSE). Today, more than 100 years later, Borgestad ASA is the longest-listed company on OSE.

1904

Aktieselskabet Borgestad is founded by prime minister Gunnar Knudsen, encompasing the refractory company Boregstad Fabrikker and his interests in three shipping partnerships.

Where we are going

Borgestad ASA is a Norwegian industrial company with roots dating back to 1904. Initially founded by former Norwegian Prime Minister Gunnar Knudsen, the company has a rich legacy of industrial and commercial ventures. Over the years, Borgestad has evolved through mergers, acquisitions, and diversified interests, with a current focus on refractory products and real estate development. The company has a significant stake in the Höganäs Borgestad Group, a leader in refractory materials, and owns 100% of the Agora Bytom shopping mall in Poland.