History
Over 130 years of Making Future
From steam power to artificial intelligence – AFRY has been involved in every technological revolution since 1895.
AFRY’s story begins in 1895 in southern Sweden, during a time of rapid industrial transformation. What started as a small steam boiler inspection association soon grew into a pioneering force in engineering, design, and advisory services with a commitment to sustainability that continues to shape the company today.
Origins in the age of steam
The late 19th century was marked by the rapid expansion of steam technologies. While revolutionary, they also introduced serious safety risks.
To help prevent accidents, steam boiler owners in Malmö came together in 1895 to form Södra Sveriges Ångpanneförening (Southern Swedish Steam Generator Association), an organization dedicated to safety inspections.
Just two years later, in 1897, a northern counterpart was established in Stockholm: Mellersta och Norra Sveriges Ångpanneförening (The Central and Northern Swedish Steam Generator Association). Its inspectors soon began offering consultancy services in addition to inspections.
Early steps towards sustainability
A significant milestone came in 1901 when Ångpanneföreningen hired environmental consultant Emil Spetz. His work focused on making emerging technologies cleaner and more efficient.
This marked the beginning of AFRY’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, long before the concept became a global priority.
Electrification and industrial growth
At the turn of the new century, electricity emerged as the main driver of social and industrial development. Ångpanneföreningen adapted quickly, shifting its focus towards an electrified industry.
The pulp and paper sector soon became a vital part of the company’s business, setting the stage for further industrial expansion.
A parallel story in Finland
At the same time, another important chapter was unfolding across the Baltic Sea. In the 1950s, young pulp and paper engineer Jaakko Pöyry founded a company in Finland.
The business expanded rapidly across Europe and South America, eventually becoming one of the world’s leading engineering companies in the forest industry.
Expanding across sectors and continents
Over time, Pöyry broadened its scope to include energy, infrastructure, and environmental services.
The company contributed to pioneering projects not only in Scandinavia, but also in countries such as Switzerland and Germany. Its reach extended even further, with projects delivered across Asia and other continents.
Meanwhile, Ångpanneföreningen grew into one of Europe’s leading technical consultancy firms. It built strong partnerships in industries ranging from food and pharmaceuticals to automotive and nuclear power.
Its project portfolio stretched from Northern Europe to Africa.
National consolidation and digital transformation
In 1964, the Southern and the Central and Northern Swedish Steam Generator Associations merged under the unified name Ångpanneföreningen. This created a single organization covering the entire Swedish market.
During the following decades, mechanical processes were gradually replaced by digital technology, automation, and IT-supported solutions.
From cooperative to joint stock company
In 1981, the consulting business was transferred from the cooperative association to a newly formed joint stock company, AB Ångpanneföreningen.
Five years later, in 1986, AB Ångpanneföreningen was listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, marking another major step in its evolution.
From ÅF and Pöyry to AFRY
In the early 2000s, the company rebranded as ÅF. Over the years, ÅF and Pöyry frequently worked side by side on high-profile international projects.
In 2019, the two companies merged to form AFRY, combining more than a century of engineering expertise, innovation, and global experience.
Since the merger, AFRY has continued to lead the transition towards a more sustainable society.
AFRY today
Today, AFRY builds on over 130 years of history, innovation, and collaboration. With 18,000 experts worldwide, the company remains dedicated to shaping a sustainable, resilient future.
