From a single office to an industrial powerhouse: Atlas Copco Group’s century in the UK & Ireland

Atlas Copco Group’s story in the UK and Ireland is defined by continuous growth, strong local partnerships, and an innovative spirit. Through close collaboration with customers and a focus on sustainability, Atlas Copco Group has established itself as a key contributor across a range of industries, with its values and forward-thinking approach driving long-standing success in the region.

On 21st October 1919, a Swedish company – back then called Atlas Diesel – opened the doors to its first office outside Sweden. Over the following century, that single London outpost has evolved into a cornerstone of industrial progress. Today, the Atlas Copco Group employs more than 3,000 people across over 20 sales centres and six manufacturing plants throughout the UK and Ireland. This enduring presence stands as a testament to Atlas Copco Group’s commitment to growth, innovative mindset, and the lasting partnerships it has cultivated.

Unlocking opportunities in the UK

The UK market was the first outside of Sweden where Atlas Copco Group developed a presence. Leading up to this decision was an ambition to provide products and services specifically for the UK’s shipping industry. Since Atlas Copco Group has grown into a global industrial Group, with a direct presence in over 70 countries and customers in over 180, its expansion has been driven by a desire to operate in close relation to its customers.

Over the years, Atlas Copco Group’s purpose in the UK market has majorly increased. “Over the 105 years the Group has been in the UK, the scope and presence has grown to cover not just the shipping industry but automotive, aviation, and rail transportation markets as well as food and beverage, medical science, and construction to name just a few.” Says Alex Bongaerts, Vice President of the UK & Ireland Holding Region at Atlas Copco Group. In other words, Atlas Copco Group’s presence in the UK serves multiple purposes.

The Atlas Copco Group approach: innovation and people

At Atlas Copco Group, an innovative mindset coupled with a desire to continuously evolve and do better, has been a driving force behind its successful launch in the UK. Since it opened its first UK office, it has stayed openminded, always seeking new opportunities and solutions. Alex explains: “We started by supplying products for the railway expansion and from there expanded into compressors and tools needed to industrialise the world. Today, we hold world-leading positions in many of the same industries, but also in completely new segments such as vacuum.”

During all of Atlas Copco Group’s expansions, one aspect has been constant. Alex notes: “Still, our purpose remains the same: enabling technology that transforms the future by empowering our customers to grow and drive society forward.”  Atlas Copco Group’s values of innovation, sustainability and ethical business practices have remained unchanged.  Alex highlights: “Most of all, it's about our people and their drive and ideas to find new and better ways to shape the future.“ The recipe for success lies in the company’s employees and their forward-thinking mindset.

Collaboration that counts

Atlas Copco Group has worked closely with the UK Department for Business and Trade throughout the years. Alex explains: “The introduction to the Department of Business and Trade, facilitated by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK, enabled us to engage with both local and neighbouring authorities, fostering relationships that culminated in the inauguration of our Smart Factory Innovation Centre. Located in Wolverhampton, this state-of-the-art facility showcases the latest technologies and solutions for tightening, joining, quality assurance, vision, and data-driven services.” This did not only enable the Group to showcase their cutting-edge technology but also positioned the company as a leading technology innovator within the region.

Supporting the UK’s Net Zero Ambitions

Alex recognises climate change is an enormous challenge and highlights that significant changes are necessary to stay within the planet’s capacity and limit global warming. He explains: “We are committed to being part of the solution by reducing the environmental impact of our operations and products. At the same time, the demand for new energy sources, transportation modes, and automation presents a significant business opportunity for us.”

Atlas Copco Group tackles the urgent issue of climate change by implementing a life cycle approach and enhancing resource efficiency throughout its entire value chain. Alex highlights: “By managing our environmental impact we strive to create value to all our stakeholders and society.”

Advice for Swedish businesses looking to expand to the UK

For other Sweden-based companies planning an expansion to the UK, Alex recommends utilising the SCC UK network. He elaborates: “The Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK is an asset to any Swedish company based in the UK. They are incredibly well connected and can provide support for all businesses at any level.”

Alex also highlights the importance of establishing relationships within the local region. He explains: “You should also look to build local networks depending on where in the UK you are based. There is a wealth of support available to businesses around the UK from regional chamber of commerce’s to local council’s business growth teams.”

Ultimately, Atlas Copco Group’s key advice for Swedish businesses looking to expand in the UK is to actively foster connections – both within the Swedish-British community and across the wider UK business landscape.