Hydroscand was founded in 1969 by Björn Holmström – an entrepreneur with a clear and powerful idea: to provide fast and reliable hose and fluid solutions. What began in a basement in Stockholm has grown into a global group operating in over 20 countries. From the very beginning, Hydroscand was built around customer proximity, quality, and speed. Björn’s vision was to create a decentralised, focused and responsive business – always close to the customer, and always ready to solve their problems.

Björn had been entrepreneurial since childhood – selling aquarium fish, scarves, and even door-to-door services – before finding his true calling in hydraulics. The day Hydroscand was founded was also the day his son Martin was born. From that point on, the company and family grew together – guided by persistence, service and a deep understanding of customer needs.

Hydroscand quickly earned a reputation for fast response and strong technical knowledge. Early on, the company decided to focus only on hoses and fittings – a strategy that created unmatched depth and efficiency. The first branch was established after taking over a customer from a supplier – an early example of how our growth has always been driven by opportunity and customer relationships.

"I’ve always believed that if we stay true to our niche, and close to our customers, we will never be without work."
– Björn Holmström, Founder of Hydroscand

Over the years, Hydroscand has grown from a national provider into an international group. With a strong presence across Europe and an expanding footprint in other parts of the world, the company continues to explore new ways to bring its solutions closer to customers wherever they operate. With each step, Hydroscand has stayed true to its core beliefs – decentralised decision-making, long-term partnerships and investment in local teams.

From the creation of specialised companies like Hydroscand Machine and Hydroscand Automotive, to the launch of our mobile service concept SlangExpress, innovation has always been driven by real customer needs.

Today, Hydroscand has over 260 locations and more than 150 mobile service units. But the entrepreneurial mindset, customer closeness and commitment to technical excellence remain at the core of how we operate.

Below are some of the key milestones in Hydroscand’s history – from foundation to global expansion.

Hydroscand remains a family-owned business – rooted in the same belief that started it all: when we focus on what we do best, and we stay close to our customers, we create long-term value. 

The principles that shaped Hydroscand's first decades continue to guide us today: entrepreneurship, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve. As our markets evolve and our customer needs grow more complex, we stay committed to being agile, curious, and deeply involved in the industries we serve.

Whether in a remote branch, a mobile service unit or a production center, our goal is always the same: to serve our customers, deliver quality without compromise, and build relationships that last.