Asak Miljøstein Closes Fetsund Factory – 7 Jobs Affected

Asak Miljøstein to Close Fetsund Production Facility, Citing Market Challenges

FETSUND ( Romerikes Blad): Asak Miljøstein AS will close its production facility in Fetsund, Norway, impacting seven employees. The decision, described by Managing Director Hanne Sønsteby as “terribly sad,” stems from sustained overcapacity across the company’s five factories due to ongoing difficulties within the construction industry. Production will be consolidated at the Hønefoss plant.

A Century of Industrial History Ends

The Fetsund facility boasts a history stretching back to 1916, initially established as a sand business by Kristiansand Cementstøberi before evolving to produce concrete products. Today, the plant manufactures paving stones, slabs, and elements for walls. The closure marks the end of over 100 years of industrial activity in the region. Asak Miljøstein, as noted on their website, represents a significant part of Norwegian industrial history, and this decision underscores the pressures facing even established businesses.

Impact on Workforce and Community

Seven employees are directly affected by the closure. Whereas two will transition to administrative roles at the company’s Olavsgaard headquarters, the remaining five face potential relocation to Asak Miljøstein’s other production sites in Kristiansand, Bodø, or Hønefoss. Sønsteby acknowledged that these options may not be feasible for employees residing in the Romerike area. The company recognizes the contributions of the Fetsund workforce, praising their dedication to both production and innovation.

Company Overview: Asak Miljøstein AS

Asak Miljøstein AS, registered November 12, 1998 (org. Nr. 980 281 310), is an established player in the Norwegian building materials sector. According to data from Proff.no, the company employs 12 people and reported operating revenues of 240,596 (in thousands of NOK) in 2024, with a pre-tax profit of 2,103. Hanne Sønsteby Rooth serves as the Managing Director. The company’s core business is wholesale trade of timber, building materials, and sanitary equipment (NACE-bransje 46.830).

Market Conditions and Strategic Shift

The decision to consolidate production reflects broader challenges within the Norwegian construction industry. Sønsteby cited “demanding market conditions” and a lack of anticipated improvement as key factors driving the move. The company has experienced overcapacity at all five of its factories for the past two years. This strategic shift prioritizes efficiency, according to Sønsteby, despite the difficult implications for the Fetsund facility and its employees.

What Happens Next?

Production at the Fetsund plant will continue through June. Following this, the facility will be dismantled. The company has not provided details regarding the timeline for the dismantling process or potential future utilize of the land. It remains unclear what plans, if any, Asak Miljøstein has for reinvesting the resources freed up by the closure. Further details regarding support for affected employees beyond potential relocation opportunities were not provided.

Confirmed vs. Unclear

Confirmed: The Fetsund facility will close. Seven employees are affected. Production will move to Hønefoss. The decision is linked to overcapacity and a challenging construction market. Hanne Sønsteby Rooth is the Managing Director. Asak Miljøstein was established in 1916.

Unclear: The specific financial implications of the closure beyond the 2024 figures. The long-term plans for the Fetsund site after dismantling. The extent of support offered to employees unable to relocate. Detailed reasons for the sustained overcapacity beyond general market conditions.