History
The Swedish Rope program is marketed in Sweden by AB Knut Westerbergs Repslageri — a family business founded in 1889, today run by the fifth generation. This is our story.
1889
The company is founded
Knut Westerberg
Knut Westerberg (1865-1950) - The company is founded under the name 'Knut Westerberg Repslagare'.
1918
Knut takes over an existing rope-making workshop.
Takeover of factory
Knut takes over P. Jansson's Rope Workshop at Lindåker in Norrköping.
1940s
A historic transformation in the manufacturing industry
From natural fibers to synthetic materials
Up until now, manufacturing has been made solely with natural fibers. The most common materials were hemp and cotton. Thanks to the close collaboration with the textile industry in Norrköping, there was abundant access to raw materials in cotton. After the end of World War II, polyamide fiber became available, was the first synthetic fiber in the company's production.
1950s
Revolutionary advances in rope manufacturing
In the early 1950s, polyester fiber was introduced, quickly gaining ground among rope manufacturers due to its excellent abrasion resistance and UV resistance. In consultation with the textile industry in Norrköping, the Reinforced Spun Polyester was developed at Westerbergs Repslageri (by the 2nd and 3rd generation of ropemakers in the family, Tomas and his son Hans), quickly becoming the company's main product.
1959-1960s
Expansion and transformation
AB Knut Westerbergs Repslageri establishes a new production facility
The company relocates its production to newly constructed premises (a new ropewalk and a new machine hall for industrial production) in Smedby, outside Norrköping. The company is restructured as 'AB Knut Westerbergs Repslageri'.
1988
Generational change
Olle Westerberg
The fourth generation of Westerbergs (Hans' son Olle) takes over the responsibility.
1996
Expansion and technological advances
New warehouse and acquisition of a new Roblon machine
New warehouse is built along with a new office and retail store section. The first Roblon machine for twisting yarns for production is acquired.
2000s
New machine hall
Advanced production with Roblon machines
A new machine hall is constructed within the new warehouse premises, equipped with four new Roblon machines for expanded production of thinner polyester ropes (2-8mm).
2002
Expansion of production capacity
Two new Roblon machines
Two additional new Roblon machines are purchased to increase production capacity.
2004
Expansion of warehouse space
The Swedish Rope program is introduced
A new phase in the company's history begins with the expansion of warehouse space by 560 square meters for the new Swedish Rope program.
2008
Expanded warehouse expansion
The Swedish Rope program expands
Further expansion of storage space by 460 sqm for the Swedish Rope program.
2009
Advanced marine solutions
Braided mooring lines
Introduction of new Garda 24 mooring lines, Arkö 24 anchor lines and braided mooring ropes.
2010-2011
New products
Enhance your marine life
A range of new products is introduced
- Tarline XP = Our new rope for wooden boats and sailing vessels
- Danline MX = Mooring ropes for small and medium-sized vessels
- New braided ropes with REFLEX
2017
Continuing the family tradition: The next generation takes the helm
Markus Westerberg
The fifth generation of Westerbergs takes over as CEO of the company, initiating a new era of large-scale investments in environmental improvements, digitalization and expansion.
2018
Solar power in focus
Solar cell revolution
A solar panel installation covering 470 sqm is set up on the roof of the warehouse. The installation produces enough electricity to meet the entire company's needs and more, meaning that AB Knut Westerbergs Repslageri now also generates and sells solar power. Our solar project provides us with surplus electricity and reduces our environmental footprint.
2021
Groundbreaking technology for rope splicing
Innovative method for rope splicing enhances durability and usability
With the help of new splicing techniques, the company can offer tubular thimbles + tubular thimbles in, among others, Dynatech & Acera ropes.
2023
Improved range and service!
Repbutiken joins Swedish Rope
Exciting news! Repbutiken is now part of Swedish Rope. This collaboration means an expanded product portfolio and improved customer service. We continue to offer high-quality ropes and accessories while working to take your experience to the next level.
2026
A new warehouse
More room for a growing range
The business has grown and the old storage space no longer had room for everything. In 2026 Swedish Rope therefore took a new warehouse, with space for a wider range of ropes, hawsers, lines, cords and accessories. More items can now be kept in stock and sent straight out to you.