Group strategy & strategic cornerstones

World trade remains impacted by protectionist tendencies, with tariffs, trade barriers and geopolitical tensions creating uncertainty and reshaping global value chains. Regionalization and a greater emphasis on security of supply are growing in importance. In parallel, the Asia-Pacific region is consolidating its position as a global growth powerhouse, while more mature economies face demographic challenges of an aging population and low birth rates, thereby dampening growth potential.

What is means for Trelleborg
The Trelleborg Group combines local presence with global capacity through its more than 100 facilities in some 40 countries, enabling us to manufacture and sell in the same region. This reduces our vulnerably to trade barriers at the same time as we can share material and appli-cation expertise globally. In 2025, we continued to grow in emerging regions through strategic acquisitions and investments in our business. In medical, Trelleborg has invested in several existing facilities and inaugurated a new produc-tion unit in Costa Rica, strengthening its focus on healthcare & medical – a sector that, according to the WHO, accounts for more than 10 percent of global GDP and is expected to continue growing.

The world is in the midst of a transition where reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring more efficient use of scarce natural resources are of the utmost importance. The Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C requires accelerated action and innovation, with a focus on energy efficiency, circular material flows and the transition to fossil-free and renewable energy sources.

What it means for Trelleborg
Trelleborg’s solutions are used in renewable energy, such as wind power and hydrogen. They help to reduce energy use and extend the service life in industrial applications through their unique properties. Water infrastructure is a growing area, ensuring both access to drinking water and reducing leaks in existing systems. We are transitioning our own operations to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption, while the share of bio-based or recycled raw materials in our products is increasing.

Urbanization is continuing globally, particularly in emerging markets, placing ever-greater demands on efficient and sustainable cities. While investment in infrastructure is crucial to meet needs, there remains a gap between necessary investments and actual investments. Meanwhile, the need for mobility – both short distances within cities and longer journeys between regions – is increasing, driven by labor mobility, e-commerce and tourism. This development also includes electrification and new transportation systems to reduce emissions and improve accessibility.
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What it means for Trelleborg
Trelleborg’s solutions are integrated into equipment used in the construction of both buildings and infrastructure, and our seals and profiles facilitate energy-efficient and sustainable buildings. During the year, the Group increased its exposure to water infrastructure – an area that is growing both through new construction and rehabilitation to meet the needs of urbanization. Our solutions can be found in virtually all types of vehicles – from bicycles, cars and trains to ships and airplanes – ensuring a safe, efficient and comfortable journey.

Technological developments are accelerating, with artificial intelligence (AI) being one of the most transformative drivers. AI technology and advanced data analytics enable significant streamlining of industrial processes. Automation and digitalization continue to gain ground in both industry and society, while new technologies such as generative AI and machine learning are trans-forming how products are developed, production is optimized and services are delivered.

What it means for Trelleborg
Semiconductor production plays a key role in the rapid development of AI technology, and Trelleborg produces sealing solutions for the advanced equipment required in this process. Automation remains a strong trend in industry, fueling demand for our solutions. At the same time, AI and automation are also being increasingly used in our own business – from streamlining production and administration to developing marketing and customized offerings. During the year, we took further steps to further integrate digital tools and data analytics into our processes to add more value for customers.