Thank you for joining the Swedish Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Sustainability & Innovation Summit 2025, held on December 4 at the Barbizon Palace in Amsterdam.
We were delighted to welcome such an engaged and forward-thinking group of members and guests to this high-level forum. Bringing together executives, policymakers, academics, and innovators from Sweden and the Netherlands, the Summit offered rich perspectives on how we can collectively tackle today’s sustainability challenges while shaping tomorrow’s innovative solutions.
With distinguished speakers from Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), Vattenfall, SSAB, SAAB, the Netherlands Innovation Center Sweden, RISE Research Institute of Sweden, Ericsson Netherlands, Vattenfall, , the sessions explored Sweden’s global leadership in fossil-free innovation as well as the evolving landscape of AI and tech autonomy.
“Tackling today’s challenges, shaping tomorrow’s solutions.”
Your participation and contributions helped make the Summit a success, and we hope the discussions inspired new ideas for driving sustainable transformation within your organisation.
A special thank you to our speakers for sharing their expertise, to our moderators Britta Wyss Bisang and Alexander Ljungström, and to our Honorary Guest, H.E. Mr Liljeström, Ambassador of Sweden to the Netherlands, for their valued presence and insights.
Following the Summit, many of you joined us for the Annual Exclusive Lucia Dinner 2025 at the historic St. Olof’s Chapel. This magical evening filled with tradition, music, celebration, and Swedish hospitality marked a festive end to the Chamber’s 65th anniversary year. We are grateful to everyone who helped make the night unforgettable, from the Swedish Julbord and Business Award Ceremony to the Lucia procession, entertainment, and charity raffle.
We warmly thank all participants for contributing to a truly memorable day of knowledge sharing, collaboration, and celebration.
CLICK HERE FOR EVENT PHOTOS, by Hanne Hansen Photography
Summit program:
The first session themed “Sweden as a Global Leader in Fossil-Free Innovation and Sustainable Industry” moderated by Britta Wyss Bisang, VP Sustainability & Strategic Marketing Communications Schoeller Allibert
Speakers
- Annika Markovic, Engagement and Impact Director Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI)
- Annika Ramsköld, Chief Sustainability Officer Vattenfall
- Frans van Hesteren, International Sales Manager GreenCoat SSAB
- Eva Axelsson, Chief Sustainability Officer and Head of Group Sustainability SAAB
The second session themed “Sweden–Netherlands AI & Tech Autonomy” moderated by Alexander Ljungström, Einar & Partners and Chairperson Swedish Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals
Speakers
- H.E. Mr Liljeström, Ambassador of Sweden to the Netherlands
- John Dekker, Sr Innovation Advisor, Netherlands Innovation Center Sweden
- Thor Wikfeldt, Director of Mimer AI Factory, RISE Research Institute of Sweden
- Fatih Noyan, Country Manager, Ericsson Netherlands
Corporate Sponsors:
In collaboration with:
Thank you for joining the Swedish Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Sustainability & Innovation Summit 2025, held on December 4 at the Barbizon Palace in Amsterdam.
We were delighted to welcome such an engaged and forward-thinking group of members and guests to this high-level forum. Bringing together executives, policymakers, academics, and innovators from Sweden and the Netherlands, the Summit offered rich perspectives on how we can collectively tackle today’s sustainability challenges while shaping tomorrow’s innovative solutions.
With distinguished speakers from Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), Vattenfall, SSAB, SAAB, the Netherlands Innovation Center Sweden, RISE Research Institute of Sweden, Ericsson Netherlands, Vattenfall, , the sessions explored Sweden’s global leadership in fossil-free innovation as well as the evolving landscape of AI and tech autonomy.
“Tackling today’s challenges, shaping tomorrow’s solutions.”
Your participation and contributions helped make the Summit a success, and we hope the discussions inspired new ideas for driving sustainable transformation within your organisation.
A special thank you to our speakers for sharing their expertise, to our moderators Britta Wyss Bisang and Alexander Ljungström, and to our Honorary Guest, H.E. Mr Liljeström, Ambassador of Sweden to the Netherlands, for their valued presence and insights.
Following the Summit, many of you joined us for the Annual Exclusive Lucia Dinner 2025 at the historic St. Olof’s Chapel. This magical evening filled with tradition, music, celebration, and Swedish hospitality marked a festive end to the Chamber’s 65th anniversary year. We are grateful to everyone who helped make the night unforgettable, from the Swedish Julbord and Business Award Ceremony to the Lucia procession, entertainment, and charity raffle.
We warmly thank all participants for contributing to a truly memorable day of knowledge sharing, collaboration, and celebration.
We look forward to welcoming you to future events hosted by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce.
Date: November 25, 2025
Time: 09.30 – 12.00
Venue: AllChiefs
Stationsplein 45, Unit A3.202, 3013 AK RotterdamStationsplein 45, Unit A3.202, 3013 AK RotterdamStationsplein 45, Unit A3.202, 3013 AK Rotterdam Stationsplein 45
Unit A3.202
3013 AK Rotterdam
Join an exclusive gathering of visionary business leaders, policy-makers, and logistics professionals at the Swedish Chamber Supply Chain Resilience and Sustainability Forum.
This pivotal event will explore how innovative thinking, knowledge-sharing, and actionable strategies drive impactful and sustainable change. Participants will explore real-world case studies, share expert insights, and address the supply chain challenges shaped by today’s business, economic, and climate landscape. The forum will demonstrate how collaboration, meaningful discussions, and a shared commitment to sustainability can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate the decarbonisation of logistics.
Hosted in partnership with AllChiefs, this forum provides an opportunity for you to engage with thought leaders, exchange ideas, and contribute to building a more resilient, future-ready, and climate-conscious global supply chain
Speakers:
Program
09:30 – 09:45 Doors open, Registration and Coffee
09:45 – 09:55 Welcome by AllChiefs (Pim Roest)
09:55 – 10:15 Presentation by Sophie Punte, Life-Links & Smart Freight Centre
10:15 – 10:20 Perspective by Marjolein Klunne, SCM Sustainability Manager, ABB
10:20 – 10:25 Perspective by Laura Realpe, Senior Transport Manager, dsm-firmenich
10:25 – 11:25 Panel discussion led by Pim Roest, AllChiefs
11.25 – 11.30 Thank you by Swedish Chamber of Commerce
11.30 – 12.00 Networking and light Lunch bites
Together, let’s shape the future of sustainable logistics.
This event is hosted by
The Dutch Chamber of Commerce is happy to invite the Members of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce to this commemorative event:
The Executive Board and Regional Directors of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Sweden are delighted to invite you to our Annual Dinner 2025, taking place on Friday, November 14th. Join other guests of the Dutch Chamber for an elegant evening of fine dining, connection, and celebration.
Day Program: Seminar on Leading Through Uncertainty
On the day of the Annual Dinner, we organise an exciting seminar on Leading Through Uncertainty with confirmed keynotes from Anko van der Werff (CEO SAS) and Dennis van Schie (VP Supply Northvolt). The seminar is at the Royal Netherlands Embassy where we start with a light lunch and end the session around 16.30.
If you only wish to participate in the day program, please register here. NB! Members of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce can register as non-members. We will try to seat you at the same table. Tickets can also be selected as part of the registration for the annual dinner (see below).
Evening Program: Annual Dinner at the Vasa Museum
This year’s dinner will be held at the iconic Vasa Museum in Stockholm, home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship. The Vasa ship sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was partly designed by Dutch shipwrights. This highlights the long-standing maritime and cultural ties between Sweden and the Netherlands.
Dining among such rich history offers a truly memorable setting for this special occasion!
Please confirm your attendance by clicking HERE.
We look forward to welcoming you.
On behalf of the Executive Board and Regional Directors,
Warm regards,
Manuel Harmsen & Annalie Schmittmann
Date: November 13, 2025
Time: 19.00 – 22.00
Venue: Residence of the Swedish Ambassador
The Hague
It is our pleasure to invite our Patron Members to the Swedish Chamber of Commerce Exclusive Patron Dinner – one of the Chamber’s most distinguished annual gatherings.
This year’s dinner will be graciously hosted by H.E. Mr. Julius Liljeström, Ambassador of Sweden and Honorary Chairperson of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce, at the Swedish Residence in The Hague.
This exclusive evening is by invitation only for our Patron Members, offering a unique opportunity to connect, exchange insights, and strengthen relationships within an exceptional and inspiring setting.
The Swedish Chamber Exclusive Patron Dinner serves as a distinguished platform for Patron Members – representing leading business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers from both Sweden and the Netherlands – to engage in high-level dialogue, explore future collaborations, and promote innovation and sustainable growth across our shared business community.
By Invitation Only
In Parnership with:
Date: November 6, 2025
Time: 09.30 – 13.00
Venue:
Ecophon
Parallelweg 17
4878 AH Etten-Leur
Tech for Good: Sustainable Innovation at Saint-Gobain Ecophon
Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at Saint-Gobain Ecophon’s Dutch operations. We’ll begin at Saint-Gobain Isover’s factory, where you’ll witness the world’s first hybrid glass wool furnace in operation – reducing CO₂ emissions by 55% through its innovative 50% electric design.
Transitioning to Saint-Gobain Ecophon, discover how acoustics contribute to healthier built environments. You’ll be introduced to our CarbonLow ceiling systems (with 43% lower CO₂ footprint), learn about our SoundCircularity recycling program active in the Netherlands, and experience an interactive VR demonstration showing how sound impacts human well-being in spaces like hospitals, offices, and classrooms.
The visit takes place at Saint-Gobain Ecophon, Parallelweg 17, Etten-Leur with free on-site parking. To maintain an engaging experience, attendance is limited to 30 guests. Our business unit manager, Johanna Westera, will host the session; with one of our concept developers, Cees van Wezel, presenting on sustainability and good acoustics. We will be closing off with a networking lunch.
Program
09.30 Doors open, registration and coffee
10.00 Saint- Gobain Isover Factory Tour
11.00 Presentation Sustainability and good Acoustics by Johanna Westera Business Unit Manager and Cees van Wezel, Concept Developer
12.00 Networking Lunch
13.00 End of Company Visit
Speakers list:
Sign up today to secure a ticket for this exciting Company Visit!
This Tech for Good Event is generously offered by:
ABOUT THE SWEDISH CHAMBER TECH TABLES
Tech Tables is a platform for Swedish-Dutch tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors to meet, learn, and discuss. At the Swedish Chamber Tech Tables, we aim to celebrate the latest in technology and discuss the latest trends, whether artificial intelligence, blockchain, or virtual reality. Click here to learn more about the Swedish Chamber Tech Tables series, or email events@swedishchamber.nl to hear more.
November 4, 2025
12.00 – 12.45
Digital Seminar
The upcoming Dutch elections will reshape the country’s political landscape. But what do the results mean for businesses, investors, and international companies operating in the Netherlands?
Join IvCB and the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for an exclusive post-election webinar offering first-hand insights into the outcome, key coalition scenarios, and what to expect for the Dutch economy, regulation, and investment climate in the months ahead.
Gain early insight into how shifting political priorities could shape the Dutch business environment – from investment conditions to sustainability goals and market access.
Agenda Highlights:
- A brief reflection on the campaign
- Results analysis: Five forces shaping the new political center – Understanding implications for stability and policy direction, Kevin Zuidhof IVCB
- Coalition outlook: Exploring the most likely coalition scenarios and Negotiation dynamics:
- Business implications: What’s next for Swedish companies in the Netherlands?
How potential coalitions view key themes such as green industrial policy, sustainability, innovation, and the investment climate. - Looking ahead: Influence opportunities
- Q&A and closing
Speakers
Kevin Zuidhof – Founder & Managing Director, IvCB
Daniel Buwalda – Senior Consultant, IvCB
Date: October 28, 2025
Time: 16.00 – 19.00
Venue: Inter IKEA Systems
Olof Palmestraat 1,
2616 LN Delft
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Scroll all the way down to see pictures from the event!
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Thank You for Joining our SOLD OUT event “The Strength of Brand Sweden” held on October 28, 2025.
The Swedish Chamber of Commerce extends its warmest thanks to all members, guests, and partners who joined The Strength of Brand Sweden, proudly hosted by Inter IKEA Systems.
We were delighted to welcome so many distinguished participants to this flagship event, held in the presence of H.E. Mr. Liljeström, Ambassador of Sweden to the Netherlands, and dedicated to exploring Sweden’s new Nation Brand Strategy—an initiative developed by the Swedish Institute in close collaboration with major Swedish companies.
Throughout the afternoon, we heard valuable insights from Christian Biller of the Swedish Institute, alongside inspiring presentations from IKEA, Husqvarna, Sweco, and Electrolux. Together, they provided a comprehensive look at how the collective strength of Brand Sweden—grounded in innovation, sustainability, trust, and collaboration—continues to enhance Swedish businesses’ global visibility and competitiveness.
According to our recent Business Climate Survey, 83% of Swedish companies in the Netherlands believe that Brand Sweden has a positive impact on their success. This event was a timely opportunity to delve deeper into that sentiment, to exchange experiences, and to explore actionable strategies for strengthening corporate brands under the unifying values that define Sweden’s international reputation.
Your active participation and thoughtful questions greatly enriched the discussion, reinforcing the importance of shared values and partnerships in shaping the future of Brand Sweden abroad.
A sincere thank you to our distinguished speakers, to Inter IKEA Systems for their generous hospitality, and to our partners at the Swedish Institute and the Swedish Chamber Branding Committee for their invaluable collaboration in making this event a success.
We look forward to welcoming you to future Swedish Chamber events as we continue to highlight the innovation, creativity, and purpose-driven leadership that make Swedish businesses thrive on the global stage.
Speakers List:
Moderator & Speaker:
Event photo credit: Hanne Hansen Photography
