Ragn-Sells: From company in crisis to circular sustainability champion
This case highlights Ragn-Sells’ remarkable journey from facing financial difficulties to establishing itself as a global authority on the circular economy and sustainability. In 2015, Pär Larshans joined the Swedish waste management company during a period of financial uncertainty, prompting a re-evaluation of its business strategy. Through a comprehensive trend scouting process, Ragn-Sells identified key opportunities within mega trends, notably focusing on planetary boundaries and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which became central to its future direction. Over nearly a decade, Ragn-Sells underwent a profound transformation and cultural shift. It pioneered innovative approaches such as recycling phosphorus and other nutrients from waste instead of mining them, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy. Early recognition of its efforts followed, with Ragn-Sells being honored as an “Innovation of Leadership” ambassador for the SDGs in 2018 and invited to present its achievements at the UN in New York. Leveraging this recognition, Larshans embarked on a mission of knowledge sharing, utilizing public speaking engagements and early adoption of LinkedIn to promote Ragn-Sells’ innovative solutions and foster collaboration. Looking ahead, Larshans contemplated Ragn-Sells’ next steps, exploring emerging mega trends beyond the SDGs and formulating strategic plans for continued success.
- Understand Ragn-Sells’ development of a long-term strategy based on major societal trends.
- Understand the impact of long-term sustainability strategies on growth and culture
- Appreciate the challenges for mid-sized companies transforming through sustainability
- Gain insights into innovation methods and long-term trend scouting
- Explore circular business models
Ragn-Sells Group, Utilities, Recycling
2015-2024
Cranfield University
Wharley End Beds MK43 0JR, UK
Tel +44 (0)1234 750903
Email [email protected]
Harvard Business School Publishing
60 Harvard Way, Boston MA 02163, USA
Tel (800) 545-7685 Tel (617)-783-7600
Fax (617) 783-7666
Email [email protected]
NUCB Business School
1-3-1 Nishiki Naka
Nagoya Aichi, Japan 460-0003
Tel +81 52 20 38 111
Email [email protected]
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in I by IMD Brain Circuits 17 February 2025
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