With over 40 years of industrial experience and extensive financial expertise, BEWI Invest focuses on long-term investments, leveraging its knowledge to develop businesses and foster growth. However, their goal is not merely expansion; they aim to create added value for society, employees, and shareholders.
The philosophy of diamonds
Ulstein draws parallels between the natural formation of diamonds and BEWI Invest’s approach to developing companies and people.
– The word diamond comes from the Greek adámas, meaning ‘invincible’ or ‘unbreakable.’ Diamonds are formed under immense pressure and heat over time. Similarly, we believe that success requires both individuals and companies to withstand pressure over time. But for this to be possible, they must also feel warmth — care and support from one another, he explains.
This philosophy is at the heart of BEWI Invest’s operations. They strive to create something unique and valuable while emphasizing the combination of pressure and warmth over time. Building a sense of belonging, like being part of one big family, forms the foundation of their success.
The BEWI family
The concept of the “BEWI family” is central to BEWI Invest. Ulstein describes it as an integral part of the company’s identity and values.
– The BEWI family includes all the companies we own or co-own and everyone working there. It doesn’t matter if they belong to the parent company, subsidiaries, fully-owned entities, or joint ventures — they’re all part of the family.
He emphasizes that this sense of community is rooted in values tracing back to the company’s origins and a founding family that holds strong family values.
– It’s probably easier to live out this vision in BEWI ASA and in the ownership company close to the founders than, for example, in Sinkaberg, which has its own history, values, and identity. We respect that, but at the same time, there are many similarities, for example, that they also come from a family that has created value through long-term commitment and hard work.
– We work to ensure that everyone feels a shared identity and connection to the values BEWI is built on: long-term thinking, responsibility, pride, quality, and solidity in everything we do.
Unwinding: – Bjørnar Ulstein finds relaxation and joy as a football coach for his junior, a meaningful way to spend time together and recharge.
Drive and long-term thinking as key success factors
Ulstein points to drive as a critical success factor.
– We think outside the box and have the ability to execute. This mindset has been a consistent thread since our founder, Svenn (Bekken), and through the generations, he says.
This drive and willingness to develop are evident across the organization’s companies and people.
– There is a tremendous will to improve — to be a little better today than we were yesterday. Perhaps this is what makes us stand out and succeed, he reflects.
Long-term thinking is another cornerstone of BEWI Invest.
– It’s part of who we are, our roots. We come from an industrial culture where values are created over time. We know results don’t come easily or quickly. That’s why we prioritize our people and think long-term — we’re not here just for this quarter or year. We’re here to build for the future. This gives security both to our companies and our partners, he emphasizes.
2024: A demanding but rewarding year
2024 has been a tough year marked by global challenges, rising costs, increased interest rates, and inflation. Many of the companies BEWI Invest is involved with have felt the impact. Yet, there’s much to be proud of Ulstein highlights Sinkaberg’s success with sheltered deep-water production and FiiZK’s achievement in successfully selling the first units of Protectus fish cages through hard work.
– FiiZK has faced tough challenges since 2022, which can be described as an annus horribilis. The following year, 2023, continued with challenges, including a meeting in the bankruptcy court. Despite these tough processes, the company has shown strong results in 2024 and secured important contracts. This is a great example of a company and its employees persevering under high pressure over time. The result is that FiiZK has developed solutions critical to its future and to an industry that desperately needs innovation — especially regarding animal welfare.
– This wouldn’t have been possible without a good dose of warmth and support from those around them. Huge kudos to everyone at FiiZK who has endured extraordinary challenges over time.
Ulstein also highlights the merger of KMC and Logistea, creating a leading Nordic property company in its niche.
– This process was demanding, and we understand not everyone sees the potential we do. We respect that. However, I’m proud we stuck to what we believe is right, with a long-term perspective. Our decisions have been based on facts and the belief that this will yield results and create value for all involved.
FAMILY TIME: – Bjørnar André Ulstein shares a moment of joy with his son as they head out into the winter landscape.
Looking ahead to 2025
Ulstein is optimistic yet realistic about 2025.
– We anticipate continued challenges, especially early in the year, but there are small signs the markets are turning. The most important thing for us is to keep developing and improving, he says.
He emphasizes the importance of drive and execution for success.
– Our goal for 2025 remains the same: to develop and get even better. To achieve this, we must work long-term and systematically. Above all, we need to maintain the drive and execution that characterize us.
Family time and the true meaning of Christmas
On a personal note, Ulstein shares highlights like a football trip to London with his son, nephew, and brother-in-law.
– I’m my son’s football coach, and it’s one of my ways to unwind. Taking him to London to watch our favourite team, Tottenham, was an amazing experience, he says.
– Those who know me know how much I love my family — and football. It’s a vital part of my daily life, a little pocket of time where I can truly relax, he smiles.
As Christmas approaches, family time takes centre stage, reflecting a cornerstone of Norwegian holiday traditions.
– I prioritize spending a lot of time with family during Christmas. While I don’t usually spend much time in the kitchen, there’s something special about preparing the Christmas Eve dinner and making sour cream porridge for friends on the 23rd – following my mom’s recipe. That’s when the Christmas spirit truly arrives, he says.
For Ulstein, the core message of Christmas holds particular significance.
– The hope brought into the world by a small child resonates deeply with me. The message of hope and love is a guiding principle in my life and serves as an anchor for most of what I do and endure.
He concludes by thanking everyone who contributed to this year’s results:
– I want to sincerely thank all our employees for their tireless efforts throughout the year. You are the backbone of the BEWI family, and your dedication is something we rely on every single day. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to our owners, customers, partners, and advisors for the excellent collaboration we’ve enjoyed this year.
– As we approach the holidays, I wish everyone a well-deserved, joyful holiday season. I look forward to working together to seize new opportunities in 2025.