Erteco: Long-term technical partner for finding optimal materials

By Malin Norman | Photos: Erteco

Material selection has a great influence on the final product and, therefore, all materials have properties that are suitable for specific purposes. Swedish entrepreneur Erteco Rubber & Plastics has an extensive range of materials that are suitable for different industries, and the technical expertise to make the whole process smoother.

Erteco Rubber & Plastics is one of the largest agents and distributors of plastic resins and rubber raw materials in the Nordics, with representation also in the Baltics and Poland. The materials come from leading manufacturers and are of the highest quality, including bulk products such as natural rubber, polyolefins and engineering plastics, as well as advanced construction plastics.

The privately-owned company has a long-term perspective and a commitment to developing the polymer industry. With head office in Stockholm and sales offices in Sweden, Finland and Denmark, plus strategically located warehouses in Anderstorp as well as Finland and Lithuania, Erteco has a strong presence and can ensure fast and efficient deliveries to its clients.

”With our Nordic DNA, we focus on high-quality and sustainable solutions to meet our customers’ needs. Proximity is crucial and we build long-term relationships with customers, end users and suppliers,” says Niklas Lindberg, CEO. “Our vision is that our customers are those who succeed best in global competition.”

Niklas Lindberg, CEO, and Niklas Olsson, COO.

Technical knowledge and local support

Erteco’s clients include companies in industries such as healthcare, packaging, E&E and automotive. The company’s commitment extends beyond distribution, however, as explained by the CEO; “Doing business with ease is what we strive for and with decades of experience in supporting diverse projects, we are confident that we provide our customers with products and services that meet the highest standards of quality and ensure an efficient and cost-effective partnership.”

Via its Tech Center, Erteco supports customers – throughout the process – with material selection, recipe proposals and processing, analyses, simulations, and strength calculations. “Our pursuit of innovation, sustainability, and technical knowledge is what sets us apart from our competitors,” continues Lindberg. “Our sales representatives have the required expertise, and our Tech Center has customer support in the local language, to offer even more value.”

Erteco’s clients include companies in industries such as healthcare, packaging, E&E and automotive.

Innovation and design for the future

Being one of the largest distributors of plastic and rubber materials comes with a great responsibility. Lindberg explains the challenges with plastic use; “Plastics play a crucial role in today’s society. It’s a versatile and flexible material used in everything from consumer products to advanced industrial components. At the same time, the global collection and recycling systems need improvement, and carbon emissions must be reduced through long-term sustainable solutions, innovation, and the use of bio-based and recycled materials.”

Through collaboration and continuous innovation, Erteco ensures that plastics continue to contribute positively to society and industrial development while minimising its negative impact on our planet. For instance, plastic can be made from fossil fuels, such as crude oil and natural gas, which are the most common methods today. It can also be made from renewable raw materials such as plant-based oils and other biological substances.

Designing for sustainability and durability includes minimising the use of materials, for instance a thinner layer, and optimising for easier upgrading, renovation and recycling possibilities. “Our Tech Center helps customers to design products that make the best use of the material,” says Niklas Olsson, COO. “It’s about achieving an optimal design for increased sustainability and product lifespan, as well as ensuring efficient production.”

Another challenge is reducing energy – how it is produced, used and discharged – and logistics solutions. “Transportation of goods represents a significant part of our environmental impact, and therefore we strive for efficiency and alternative modes of transport,” explains Olsson. “We will continue our efforts with the goal of finding more environmentally friendly alternatives while maintaining service levels.”

Committed drivers of sustainability

In its pledge to be a driver of sustainability, Erteco continuously looks at challenges such as climate change, new government regulations, and changing customer requirements. The company has recently appointed a sustainability manager, who is responsible for reporting, materials, documentation, information, data collection and training – a responsibility that extends to suppliers and customers, as well as internally.

“At Erteco, we strive to take our sustainability work forward on all levels,” means Lindberg. “We are adapting our organisation, increasing our knowledge, preparing for the upcoming CSRD reporting, engaging in dialogues with suppliers, and creating solutions together with our customers. Knowledge is a cornerstone of our business, and we live by our brand promise to bring knowledge to rubber and plastics.”