ÅF - 4 more Olympic years!

"When we work on an international level to influence the International Olympic Committee, we benefit greatly from the expertise that ÅF provides," says Stefan Lindeberg, Chairman of the SOC.

ÅF has entered into an agreement for the coming four years with the Olympic committees for Finland, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.Stefan Lindeberg, Chairman of the SOC, and Jonas Wiström, ÅF's CEO, talk about how they see the long-term cooperation between ÅF and the four committees.

Stefan, what does this partnership mean to the Swedish Olympic Committee (SOC)?

Stefan: So far it has meant a lot as we have received support and help with developing ideas and with our practical actions for sustainable solutions. When we work at international level to influence the International Olympic Committee (IOC) we greatly benefit from the expertise that ÅF provides.

How has ÅF contributed so far to the SOC's sustainability efforts?

Stefan: ÅF has contributed expertise both to SOC's sustainability plan and when it comes to a future Olympic Games in Sweden. ÅF has really contributed its knowledge to various subprojects, so that we come up with good innovative and sustainable solutions.

How do other committees view the cooperation with ÅF?

Stefan: They are all just as positive! This is partly because it is an international collaboration, which is unique in that there are four national committees who work together with ÅF. But it is also positive because the issue of sustainability has become central to all sporting events. It will become even more important now that the IOC has adopted new rules and in doing so set the tone for sustainable solutions to become a key issue in all future events.

Jonas, why does ÅF collaborate with four Olympic Committees?

Jonas: Because it is a fantastic partnership that has many facets. We get the best possible venue to showcase our sustainability efforts. We also feel that the Olympians give us new ideas about performance, focus and results. We have had the pleasure of listening to and talking to numerous Olympians over the past four years, which has had a big impact on ÅF's total energy. Last but not least, the Olympic rings are the world's most famous brand, which helps to make ÅF an even more attractive employer.

What do you hope to get out of the new contract period?

Jonas: Our partnership so far has exceeded expectations and I think we will benefit even more when it comes to sustainability issues. We see how all sporting events, not only the Olympics but also the World Cup and others, place a stronger focus on these issues, and I am therefore convinced that ÅF will be able to contribute even more.

When will other ÅF countries be affiliated with their Olympic committees?

Jonas: We are in negotiations but a lot still has to fall into place. I cannot say when it will happen but our ambition is to expand the partnership.

ÅF really looks forward to these four years of cooperation and we wish all the athletes good luck on their preparation for the Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro (2016) and Pyeongchang (2018).

For further information, please contact Viktor Svensson.