ANNUAL
REPORT
2024
EKORNES
QM HOLDING
COMPANY
Company history and ownership 4 - 5
Strategy section 6 - 7
Message from the CEO
8 - 9
Group management 10 - 11
Board of directors in Ekornes AS 12 - 13
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Code of Conduct 14 - 15
Sustainability report 16 - 111
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ REPORT
Board of directors 114
Board of directors’ report 115 - 124
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Consolidated financial statements 126 - 131
Notes to the consolidated financial statements 132 - 160
Financial statements Ekornes QM Holding AS 162 - 165
Notes to the financial statements Ekornes QM Holding AS 166 -171
Statement pursuant to section 5-5 of the securities trading act 172
Independent Auditor’s Report 174 - 177
Independent Sustainability Auditor’s Limited Assurance Report 178 - 181
Content
Ownership chart as at 31 December 2024
Ekornes QM Holding AS was founded 4 January 2018 with the
purpose of acquiring the Ekornes Group. In May 2018, an offer was
made to purchase the shares of all Ekornes shareholders. The share
purchase was completed in August 2018 and Ekornes AS was delisted
from the Oslo Stock Exchange in October 2018.
Norwegian ultimate parent company Ekornes QM Holding AS is a
subsidiary of Qumei Home Furnishings Group. Qumei Group owns
94,12% of the shares in Qumei Runto S.à.r.l and Hillhouse owns the
remaining shares.
Qumei Runto S.à.r.l owns 100% of the shares in Ekornes QM Holding
AS. The Ekornes Group is the only operational part of the Ekornes QM
Holding Group. The consolidated financial statements comprise the
financial statements of the parent company Ekornes QM Holding AS
and its subsidiaries as at 31 December 2024.
Ekornes QM Holding AS had, as at 31 December 2024, 100%
shareholding and voting rights in Ekornes AS who in its turn has a
100% ownership share and voting rights for all other consolidated
companies.
(Ownership chart as at 31 December 2024)
Company history
and ownership
Qumei Home Furnishings Group Co., Ltd. (China)
Zhimei Chuangshe Home Furnishings (Shanghai)
Co., Ltd. (China)
Qumei Runto S.á.r.l.
(Luxembourg) (Parent)
Ekornes Group Entities
100%
94,12%
100%
100%
NOK 1 200m
secured bond
NOK 1 600m
bank loan
100%
Ekornes AS
5,88%
Zhuhai Deyou Nuohui Equity Investment
Partnership (L.P.) (“Hillhouse”)
Ekornes QM Holding AS
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Company history and ownership Company history and ownership | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 20244 5
Elevate customer appeal
Ekornes has over 90-years history of innovation and
international brand building and Stressless
®
is among the
world’s most recognized furniture brands. This provides a
unique foundation for Ekornes’ transformation into a
branded furniture company. Strengthening its presence in
key markets, the company is investing in brand building,
increased digital presence and lifting in-store experiences.
Cultivating on each brands’ strengths, Ekornes seeks a
differentiated sales strategy for Stressless
®
, IMG and
Svane
®
. Stressless
®
is undergoing a modernization, with
updated retail studios, increased digital marketing and
tailored promotional campaigns aimed at reinforcing its
premium position. IMG focus is on product portfolio
development and store upgrades to grow sales, operating
as a discovery brand with targeted marketing. Svane
®
, after
refining its product offering in recent years, continues to
emphasize on premium quality products with solid margins.
By further strengthening dealer cooperation and
leveraging the unique strengths of each brand, Ekornes
seeks to enhance its appeal among consumers.
Maximize operations and supply chain efficiency
Ekornes has a global production and distribution network,
with eight manufacturing facilities in four countries and
product availability in more than 4 000 retailers in 40
countries. To maximize efficiency across operations, the
company is optimizing capacity utilization across brands
and increasingly specializing facilities in its most efficient
processes. In addition, Ekornes seeks to consolidate
warehouses and support functions where possible,
including various degrees of back-office operations and
refining commercial structures.
At the same time, Ekornes is streamlining its product
portfolio, further enabling increased efficiency while
maintaining persistent focus on exquisite product quality
throughout the value chain.
Improve contribution margin
A challenging consumer environment in recent years has
put pressure on profitability as Ekornes has adapted to
lower activity. While significant improvements were made
in 2024, the Group maintains margin improvement a top
priority.
Initiatives include optimizing procurement by improving
direct material sourcing, as well as refining pricing
strategies tailored to different brands and markets.
Product innovation is also key, with redesigned products
supporting higher profitability with improved efficiency
and enhanced product longevity.
Modernize the organization structure, skills, and culture
As the furniture industry evolves, technology, innovation
and agility are becoming increasingly relevant. To remain
competitive, Ekornes is modernizing its organization to
drive customer focus, elevate leadership and performance
across the organization. The company will implement a
leadership, culture and value program to reflect this.
Ekornes is also actively investing in new talent and key
capabilities. This includes streamlining leadership levels
and enhancing competence in operations, product design,
sales and marketing.
These organizational measures are designed to fortify the
business structure for future growth, ensuring that
Ekornes remains agile and resilient in evolving market
conditions.
Strategic priorities
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Strategic priorities Strategic priorities | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 20246 7
Strategic priorities
Elevate
customer
appeal
Maximize
operations and
supply chain
efficiency
Improve
contribution
margin
Modernize the
organization
structure, skills,
and culture
Founded in 1934, Ekornes is the largest furniture manufacturer
in the Nordics, designing and producing furniture under the
brands Stressless
®
, Svane
®
and IMG. With a vision to improve
everyday living, Ekornes delivers stylish, comfortable and
high-quality seating solutions of exquisite quality to consumers
worldwide.
To ensure long-term competitiveness and to strengthen its position as the
customer favourite for Nordic comfort, quality and style, Ekornes focus on
four strategic priorities: 1) elevate customer appeal, 2) maximise
operations and supply chain efficiency, 3) improve contribution margin
and 4) modernize the organization structure, skill and culture.
Through these initiatives, the company is reallocating capital and
resources toward areas with the highest potential for profitable growth.
Global furniture markets remained volatile in 2024,
primarily due to high living costs constraining consumers’
disposable income. Despite this challenging backdrop,
Ekornes managed to improve profitability during the year,
even as revenues declined. This reflects disciplined
execution on our strategy, transforming into a more
customer-focused branded furniture company with
improved efficiency and strong global execution capabilities.
Improving profitability and maintaining resilience
Over the past few years, the furniture industry has
experienced major shifts in market conditions, marked by
fluctuations in demand, supply chain disruptions and economic
uncertainty. These challenges have required regular financial
adaptions and operational improvements which have
ultimately bettered our organization, translating into increased
gross operating earnings (EBITDA) of 9% despite revenues
declining by 9% in 2024. This demonstrates Ekornes’ resilience
and extends the track record of navigating downturns in its
90-year history of industrial growth and international
expansion. With geopolitical instability and high uncertainty
continuing in 2025, we remain adaptive and resilient in the
face of volatility.
Today, we are Norway’s largest furniture manufacturer with
three unique brands and a global footprint with products
available in more than 4 000 outlets in 40 countries.
Stressless
®
, our premium brand offering superior comfort and
quality contributed 74% of revenues in 2024, exhibiting strong
customer loyalty. IMG, our discovery brand of high-quality
furniture at affordable prices, delivered 19% of revenues.
Remaining revenues came from Svane
®
, a premium mattress
provider to the Nordic bedding market, renowned for its
IntelliGel
®
solution. Together, these brands form a strong
base from which to continuously develop Ekornes and
position for long-term sustainable growth.
Delivering on our strategy
In 2024, we launched a new strategy aimed at transforming
Ekornes into a branded furniture company, the Nordic
favourite for comfort, quality and style. This transformation
is guided by four key priorities: 1) Elevate customer appeal,
2) Maximize operations and supply chain efficiency, 3)
Improve contribution margin and 4) Modernize the
organization structure, skills and culture.
We are already showing good progress delivering on these
objectives. We have strengthened our brands through
upgraded floor assortment and in-store presence,
implemented initiatives to building a stronger digital
presence and launched new and improved products.
Internally, we have sharpened focus by reducing the
leadership team from twelve to six members, and appointed
new executives within strategy, marketing, operations and
commercial. Our new leadership team aims to accelerate
decision-making and create a more agile organization.
Our global production footprint, with eight factories
across four countries, has been further optimized to
enhance efficiency. By creating specialized production
facilities and aligning capabilities across our portfolio, we
are utilizing our global manufacturing strengths better. At
the same time, we have undertaken a significant portfolio
optimization. This, combined with pricing adjustments and
optimized procurement involving comprehensive tender
processes, has resulted in gross margin increasing to from
10% in 2023 to 12% in 2024 and lays a solid foundation
for further improvements.
Continuing our transformation
The transformation of Ekornes has only just begun. In 2025,
we will further reallocate capital towards the areas we see
growth opportunities, ensuring that we fully capitalize on
our industrial strengths and unique brand platform.
For Stressless
®
, this means continuing to modernize the
brand, rolling out updated in-store concepts and
expanding our digital footprint across markets. For IMG,
we are enhancing the in-store shopping experience,
making it easier for consumers to discover and engage
with the brand. Across all brands, we will continue to
launch new products, ensuring our offerings remain
relevant, innovative and tailored to market demand.
Operational excellence remains a key priority. In 2025,
we will further optimize our warehouse and production
footprint, consolidate operational functions and reduce
complexity across our supply chain. A more integrated
sales and operations planning process will allow us to
better balance supply and demand, ensuring a more
effective and resilient supply chain management.
Securing stronger profitability that can be sustained over
time remains at the core of our efforts. We will continue to
focus on realizing procurement savings, while implementing
a systematic approach to pricing, marketing and promotions
across brands and products. This means leveraging data
and analytics to optimize the strategy for each consumer
segment and market.
At the same time, we continue to modernize the organization
structure and develop skills and culture. A complete
organizational review is ongoing, with the launch of a new
global matrix organization planned by the second quarter
of 2025. This new structure will increase agility, strengthen
execution and ensure that we have the right talent in place
to drive our ambitious growth plans forward.
Increasing long-term competitiveness
None of our progress would be possible without the
dedication of our employees, who have shown relentless
effort and commitment amidst challenging market
conditions. I also want to thank our partners and retailers
for their continued support in bringing our brands to
customers worldwide.
As we move forward, the strategic transformation of
Ekornes will continue gaining momentum. With a clear
strategy, disciplined execution and a committed team, we
are building a stronger, more competitive company,
increasing efficiency and positioning Ekornes to remain
the customer furniture favourite for Nordic comfort,
quality and style for years to come.
Message from the CEO
Transforming for long-term
sustainable growth
Tine Hammernes Leopold
CEO of Ekornes
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Message form the CEO Message form the CEO | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 20248 9
TINE HAMMERNES LEOPOLD (1971)
CEO Ekornes Group
Education: Bachelor of Science Business Administration, California State University,
Sacramento, 1993. Orkla and INSEAD executive leadership program.
Experience: More than 27 years executive and board experience in the leading Nordic
branded consumer goods company Orkla. Currently holding position on Bord of
Directors at Motek AS, since 2017.
CEO of Ekornes and member of Ekornes Group Management since September 2023.
FREDRIK ØDEGÅRD NILSEN (1988)
EVP & CFO Ekornes Group
Education: Masters of Economics and Business Administration at the Norwegian
School of Economics (NHH) and Master in Management at the University of Mannheim.
Experience: Various position at ISS Facility Services within Finance, Pricing and
Business Development. CFO at Haut Nordic.
CFO of Ekornes since April 2021 and EVP of Ekornes since September 2023.Member
of Ekornes Group management team since August 2020.
Group management
HENRIK BODEKÆR THOMSEN (1971)
CCO Ekornes Group
Education: HD degree in Marketing Management, Copenhagen Business School 1999.
Carlsberg Group leadership program.
Experience: 30 years international management experience with leading Nordic FMCG
companies Carlsberg Group and Anora Group.
Member of Ekornes Group management team since February 2025.
LASSE RUUD-HANSEN (1980)
SVP Strategy & Organization Ekornes Group
Education: Master of Science in Business Administration (Siviløkonom), Norges Han-
delshøyskole, 2004. Bachelor of Science (Organizational Psychology), University of Oslo,
2005. Strategic Leadership Programme, IMD, 2021.
Experience: Over 20 years of experience from management consulting and branded
consumer goods companies. Experienced executive and board member, previously holding
CEO roles in snacking and personal care companies.
Member of Ekornes Group management since October 2024.
JANNE STRØMMMEN (1972)
CMO, Marketing & Innovation Ekornes Group
Education: MBA Brand Management at the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) and
Bachelor in Marketing at BI Norwegian Business School/Suffolk University Madrid, Spain.
Experience: Brand Marketing from Stokke, Devold and various advertising agencies.
Before joining Ekornes she held the position as Global Brand Communication Director for
Stokke.
Member of Ekornes Group management team since January 2022
FREDRIK SAMSON (1974)
COO Ekornes Group
Education: MSc Electrical Engineering & Computer Science from Institute of Technology
Linköping University 2004. LEAN/Six Sigma Black Belt. Westinghouse and Ottobock
leadership programs.
Experience: More than 15 years of senior management experience within nuclear,
med-tech and food industry, from Westinghouse Electric, Ottobock and Lantmännen
Unibake.
Member of Ekornes Group management since October 2024.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Group management Group management | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202410 11
Bente Johnsen, 1972, Director (employee elected)
Position: Facilitator at dep. Aure .
Education:
Studies in carpentry and upholstery, craft certificate as upholsterer..
Board memberships: Deputy chairman of ITAF (Ikornnes Treindustriarbeiderforbund/
Wooden Industry Workers’ Union), deputy chairman of Cooperation Committee for
Furniture and Laerdal.
Experience: I have various experience working as a florist, in the food and travel industry,
as a caretaker at an assisted living facility and production worker at upholstery and sewing
departments at Ekornes since 1997.
Atle Berntzen (1967), Director (employee elected)
Position: Team leader and deputy manager, warehouse/goods inwards at Ekornes Beds AS.
Education: Upper secondary school (commercial studies major).
Experience: Sales person and warehouse operative at General Motors AS. Warehouse
operative at Ekornes Beds AS.
Stian Ekornes (1963), Director
Position: Investor.
Education: The Norwegian Merchants Institute (today BI Varehandel).
Experience: 30 years’ experience of the furniture industry. Extensive experience as CEO, board
chair and director within the furniture industry, chain management and property development.
Ruihai Zhao (1965), Chair
Position: Chair and CEO of Qumei Group.
Education: MBA (Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business, China), degrees in global
business management from Tsinghua University, China and University of Minnesota, USA.
Experience: Founder and chair of Qumei Home Furnishings Group, with more than 30
years’ experience of the furniture industry.
Lars I. Røiri (1961), Vice-Chair
Board memberships: Chair in Flokk Holding AS and Protan AS. Director in Glamox AS.
Education:
Master of Economics and Business Administration (BI Norwegian Business School).
Experience: Commercial management positions at Tomra ASA, Mølnlycke AB and Jordan AS,
CEO of Flokk Holding AS, Coloplast AS and HÅG ASA. Membership of the boards of numerous
companies, including Molift AS, Netonnet AB, Enghav AS and Design & Architecture Norway,
and of the Norwegian Advisory Board of the private equity company Ratos
Rui Liu (1995), Director
Position: Vice President in Hillhouse Investment.
Education:
BSc in Quantitative Economics and Mathematics at Tufts University .
Experience: Associate at HSBC Global Banking Division Hong Kong office, with experience
in capital market financing and M&A
Ove Per Skåre (1956), Director (employee elected)
Position: Work in upholstery department of J.E.Ekornes AS.
Education: Diverse courses in Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions
.
Experience: Prodcution worker in Velledalen Møbler AS; Foam production in Porolon AS;
Foam, steal and upholstery department in J.E.Ekornes AS; UN Veteran served in Lebanon;
Union representative and health & safety representative in J.E.Ekornes AS; board member
of the Trade Union (ITAF).
The Board of Directors
in Ekornes AS
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | The Board of Directors in Ekornes AS The Board of Directors in Ekornes AS | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202412 13
Tine Hammernes Leopold (1971), Director
Position: CEO Ekornes Group
Education: Bachelor of Science Business Administration, California State University,
Sacramento, 1993. Orkla and INSEAD executive leadership program.
Experience: More than 27 years executive and board experience in the leading Nordic branded
consumer goods company Orkla. Currently holding position on Bord of Directors at Motek AS,
since 2017.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Code of conduct Code of conduct | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202414 15
In December 2013, Ekornes published an updated version
of its Code of Conduct and anti-corruption policy. Both of
these are presented below.
Anti-corruption policy – UNs Global Compact
Ekornes has endorsed the UN Global Compact since 2009.
Through participation in the UN Global Compact, Ekornes
is committed to operating its business responsibly in line
with the UN Global Compact’s ten principles, which also
cover anti-corruption. Ekornes also encourages its
business associates to comply with these principles.
Ekornes has drawn up a new system with which to assess
its suppliers’ performance against the Global Compact’s
principles. The system went into effect in 2013.
The UN Global Compact is based on openness, both with
respect to the company’s dealings with all stakeholders and
the challenges Ekornes meets at the local and global level.
Since 2012 Ekornes has been a member of the UN Global
Compact’s Nordic network. Participation in the network
enables Ekornes to exchange experiences with other
businesses which have social responsibility high on the
agenda.
Through the UN Global Compact, Ekornes is obligated to
set goals for and work continuously to improve its
practices in this area. Each year Ekornes reports its
performance to the UN in the form of a Communication on
Progress (COP). This may be found on the company’s
website under ir.ekornes.no/environmental-and-social-
responsibilities.
Ekornes will conduct its business activities responsibly, and
will operate in compliance with all relevant laws,
regulations and strict ethical norms. We support and strive
to live up to the UN’s Global Compact. This means that in
all parts of our operations we will maintain high standards
with regard to:
1. Respect for and compliance with the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights.
2. Respect for workers’ rights and needs.
3. Environmental responsibility.
4. Combatting corruption in Norway and abroad.
This document, “Ethical Values and Anti-Corruption Policy”,
as well as “Objectives and Values”, have been distributed to
all employees. These regulations have also been distributed
to external relations and have been published on the
company’s website www.ekornes.no. Everyone within the
company has a duty to follow up and comply with these
regulations. Managers in all parts of the company have a
special responsibility for their follow-up.
Code of Conduct for the Ekornes Group
1. ‘Objectives and Values’, company regulations,
employment contracts and job descriptions also contain
ethical rules with which the Ekornes Group complies.
The rules contained in this overview should therefore
not be considered exhaustive with respect to the
Group’s ethical standards.
2. A duty of confidentiality contained in company
regulations, employment contracts or job descriptions
does not prevent you from informing a superior should
you become aware of breaches of regulations,
legislation or rules laid down by the authorities. This
also applies to internal guidelines, provisions or issues
that might harm Ekornes’ reputation or other parties’
trust in Ekornes.
3. Ekornes shall comply with the laws, rules and
regulations in the countries in which Ekornes companies
have been established or in which business connections
have been established.
4. In all contact with suppliers of raw materials, machinery,
subsidiary materials and services of any kind, and
contact with customers and other business connections,
we shall aspire to honesty, integrity, openness, as well as
correct and responsible business conduct. The objective
is to arrive at the best offer for Ekornes.
5. Ekornes or employees of Ekornes shall not take part in
“bribery” or its equivalent in order to achieve special
advantages or access to such.
6. Business connections such as those mentioned above
shall not be furnished with more information about
Ekornes than they need to provide a satisfactory offer
with respect to price, level of service, delivery times,
technology and specifications, or what they need to
exercise their business relationship with Ekornes.
7. Suppliers and business connections shall under no
circumstances receive information about other
suppliers and business connections via Ekornes.
8. Employees of Ekornes shall participate in trips, dinners
and events arranged by suppliers and business
connections only when there is a professional reason
for the event/trip, or it provides business-related
opportunities. In cases of such participation the travel,
entertainment and accommodation of employees of
Ekornes shall always be paid by Ekornes.
9. Employees of Ekornes are not permitted to receive
benefits or gifts (in the form of products, services or
trips, etc.) from business connections other than small
promotional items of limited value. The same applies to
private purchases of goods at discounts from suppliers
to Ekornes without the approval of a superior.
Individuals must also avoid becoming in any way
beholden to customers or suppliers.
10. Suppliers and business connections shall be made
aware of the contents of this document and also be
made aware that any attempt to contravene these
ethical rules could result in exclusion.
Accounting and internal control requirements
Ekornes requires transparency in all operations. All
Ekornes entities shall therefore ensure that transactions
are correctly registered and supported by proper
documentation in accordance with local and international
accounting principles. Anti-corruption law requires that
Ekornes has in place effective internal accounting controls
and maintains books and records that accurately reflect
the companies’ transactions. All entities within the Group
must correctly account for income and expenditures and
must ensure that payments are not recorded falsely in
company books. All expenses shall be approved under
standard company procedures, documented and recorded
in accordance with appropriate accounting standards.
Organization and follow-up
This document, “Ethical Values and Anti-Corruption Policy”,
as well as “Objectives and Values”, have been distributed to
all employees. These regulations have also been distributed
to external relations and have been published on the
company’s website IR.ekornes.no. Everyone within the
company has a duty to follow up and comply with these
regulations.
Managers in all parts of the company have a special
responsibility for their dissemination and follow-up. In the
autumn of 2018, a new vision “We improve everyday
living” and a new set of values was adopted. The new values
are Honest, Authentic, Enthusiastic and Adaptable. These
were communicated to all employees through staff
meetings, internal communications channels and eLearning
courses.
Code of conduct
for the Ekornes Group
16 17
Contents
GENERAL DISCLOSURES
18
Policy overview – table 42-45
ENVIRONMENT
47
E1 Climate change 48-61
EU Taxonomy 61-73
E4 Biodiversity and ecosystems 74-83
E5 Resource use and circular economy 84-96
SOCIAL
S1 Own workforce 98-106
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A1 Data points that derive from other EU legislation 107-111
Sustainability Statement
Sustainability Statement
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report18 1918 Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report
General disclosures
BP 1 + BP 2 General basis for preparation of sustainability statement 19-20
GOV-1 Role of the Administrative, Management and Supervisory Bodies 20-22
GOV-2 Information provided to and sustainability matters addressed by
administrative, management and supervisory bodies
23
GOV-3 General requirements on integration of sustainability-related
performance in incentive schemes
23
GOV-4 Statement on Due Diligence 24-25
SBM-1 Strategy, Business models and Value chain 26-28
SBM-2 Interests and views of stakeholders 28-30
SBM-3 Material impacts, risks and opportunities 30-33
IRO-1 Process to identify and assess material impacts, risks and opportunities 33-37
IRO 2 Disclosure requirements in ESRS covered by the undertaking’s
sustainability statement
33-41
ESRS 2 - General Requirements
[BP-1] General basis for
preparation of sustainability
statement and [BP-2]
Disclosures in relation to
specific circumstances
GENERAL BASIS FOR PREPARATION
OF THE SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT
About This Report
Ekornes’ 2024 Sustainability Report is the first integrated
report aligning with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting
Directive (CSRD) and the European Sustainability
Reporting Standards (ESRS). The report provides an
overview of the company’s sustainability strategy,
governance framework, material impacts, risks, and
opportunities, and how these factors are integrated into
the business model. Ekornes is a member of the UN Global
Compact and this report also represents the Group’s
communication on progress for 2024 to the UN Global
Compact.
General Basis for Preparation of the Sustainability
Statement (BP-1)
Ekornes’ sustainability statement is prepared on a
consolidated basis, covering all operations under the
same scope as the financial statements. It includes both
upstream and downstream value chain elements, ensuring
a full disclosure of sustainability impacts. This is the first
year of reporting under the mandatory disclosure
requirements, and as historical data is unavailable, 2024
is considered the baseline year for future reporting.
Omissions & Exemptions
No exclusions under ESRS 1, section 7.7 (classified and
sensitive information) or 7.8 (intellectual property and
innovation protection) have been applied.
DISCLOSURES IN RELATION TO
SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES
Accounting Estimates and Judgements
The preparation of sustainability disclosures involves
estimates and assumptions, particularly in areas such as
Scope 3 emissions (E1), inflows and outflows calculations
(E5). These estimates rely on available data, industry
benchmarks, and internal methodologies, which may be
refined in subsequent reporting periods as more precise
data becomes available. The level of accuracy is medium
based on internal review. Judgements applied in
sustainability-related accounting policies are disclosed
alongside the relevant data points to ensure transparency.
The basis for preparation and the resulting level of
accuracy is described, as well as ways Ekornes is working
to improve the accuracy for future reporting cycles.
Contents
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report20 21
Sources of Estimation
• Internal systems (Procurement)
• Spend analysis systems (for Scope 3 estimation)
• Supplier-provided documentation, where available
• Public emissions and conversion factors (e.g. DEFRA,
Ecoinvent)
• Industry and NGO benchmarks (e.g. social metrics)
Ekornes plans to improve accuracy in the next years
reporting cycles.
Forward-Looking Statements
The sustainability statements contain forward-looking
statements based on assumptions about future developments
and potential actions by the company. These statements
reflect expectations at the time of reporting; however,
actual outcomes may differ due to unforeseen
circumstances, regulatory changes, or shifts in market
conditions. As sustainability-related frameworks and
industry best practices evolve, disclosures will be refined
to reflect the most accurate and relevant information
available.
[GOV-1] Role of the
Administrative, Management
and Supervisory Bodies
COMPOSITION OF ADMINISTRATIVE,
MANAGEMENT AND SUPERVISORY
BOARD
Ekornes’ governance structure includes a management
team, and a supervisory board, each with specific
responsibilities for strategic direction, risk management,
and sustainability oversight.
• The board consists of 1 executive member and 7
non-executive members, ensuring balanced leadership
and independent oversight, including 3 representatives
of the employees.
• Board members have experience relevant to Ekornes’
core business, including furniture manufacturing, supply
chain management, and operations across key markets
such as Europe, North America, and Asia. For more
details please reference the annual report and detailed
descriptions of board member experience on page 12/13.
• The gender composition of the board stands at 37.5%
female, 62.5% male, calculated as an average ratio of
female to male board members.
• Independent board members constitute 25% of the
board, ensuring impartial oversight and decision-making.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES IN
MANAGING SUSTAINABILITY IMPACTS,
RISKS, AND OPPORTUNITIES
Ekornes has established a structured ESG governance
framework to ensure effective oversight, decision-making,
and execution of sustainability initiatives. The governance
model operates at three levels:
1. The board level provides strategic oversight and
approval of sustainability-related decisions related to
material impacts, risks and opportunities.
2. The group level focuses on strategy execution and
issue resolution.
3. The functional level handles implementation and
operational execution.
The ESG governance structure includes the following
key bodies:
• The board approves and oversees the group’s
sustainability strategy. Ekornes plans to have a
committee that advises the board and ensures that
sustainability is embedded at the highest governance
level. This committee can be either a sustainability or
auditing committee.
• The Group Sustainability Leadership Team is
responsible for orchestrating and executing the
sustainability strategy based on identified IROs,
overseeing progress, and resolving escalations.
• The Sustainability Task Force develops and executes
key documents such as strategy papers, policies, and
process manuals in connection with IROs and broader
sustainability topics. It coordinates sustainability
projects and initiatives across the organization and
escalates critical issues when necessary.
• The functional teams’ representatives execute
sustainability projects and initiatives in alignment with
approved targets. They are responsible for reporting
required data on policies, actions, targets and metrics
to evaluate progress and ensure compliance with
sustainability objectives.
Material topic Indirect data sources Level of accuracy
E1
Spend data, supplier-specic emission factors,
DEFRA and other secondary databases*
* more details in the table Emissions factor sources of emissions
factors applied to Scope 1-3 GHG emissions in E1 chapter
Low to Medium
Based on spend and sector averages; limited primary supplier
data; data model under improvemen
E5
Spend data, material weights, packaging data, and
waste contractor reports, industry standards
Low to Medium
Internal procurement and waste records used; more work
needed on supplier-level material traceability, data model under
improvement
Board
Group Sustainability
Leadership Team
Sustainability Task Force
Functional Teams' Representatives
BOARD LEVEL
GROUP LEVEL
FUNCTIONAL LEVEL
IMPLEMENTA TION
ESCALATION
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At the management level, IROs are reviewed and approved
by the Group Sustainability Leadership Team . The full list
of reviewed material IROs can be found on page 31/32.
The Group Sustainability Leadership Team consists of the
following members:
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Chief Operating Officer (COO)
• Senior Vice President, Strategy & Organisation
• Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
• Vice President, ICT & Digitalisation
• Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)
• Head of Product Development
• Head of Strategy & Sustainability
• ESG Manager
The leadership team within the Group Sustainability
Leadership Team, led by the CFO and SVP Strategy &
Organization, has been actively engaged in shaping the
CSRD reporting process. Their participation spans all
stages of assessment, from IRO identification to final
approval.
As of 2024 Ekornes does not have specific controls or
procedures to manage material IROs. This will be
developed further during 2025 and the Group
Sustainability Leadership Team will play a central role in
both development and follow up of procedures and
internal controls.
Clear reporting lines exist between the board, management,
sustainability leadership, sustainability task force and
functional teams involved in sustainability. Sustainability
topics are reviewed at bi-annual board meetings oversight
(or more often if required).
The agenda of the bi-annual board meetings:
• Q2 - Board has been informed of the annual report
and sustainability statement.
• Q4 – Board has reviewed DMA assessment and verified
of material disclosure. The Group Sustainability
Leadership Team has conducted ambition setting
workshop in the sustainable development of the
organization.
The board and senior management set sustainability-
related targets and track progress through key
performance indicators related to all material IROs.
This process is still new at Ekornes and will be fully
implemented in 2025.
In 2025, the board will continue to oversee the strategic
development of sustainability at Ekornes. As part of its
governance role, the board will review and sign the
sustainability statement and play a more active role in
the approval of the company’s sustainability strategy and
connected targets. This structured involvement will
strengthen accountability, ensuring that sustainability
considerations remain integrated into overall business
strategy and decision-making at the highest level.
EXPERTISE AND SKILLS IN
SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS
Ekornes ensures that its governance bodies have the
necessary expertise and resources to effectively oversee
sustainability matters. Ekornes continuously evaluates the
skills and competencies of its leadership to ensure its
governance structures remain effective, resilient, and
aligned with its long-term sustainability objectives.
• Board members and executive leaders receive regular
updates on the development of sustainability within the
organization, as well as changes in the regulatory
environment and their application to Ekornes.
• The company collaborates with external sustainability
advisors and industry networks to enhance
management and board-level expertise in material IROs
and broader sustainability topics such as sustainability
strategy, carbon footprint reduction, biodiversity,
circular economy principles, and supply chain
sustainability.
• To strengthen access to sustainability expertise at the
board and executive management levels, dedicated
sessions with internal subject matter experts have been
scheduled as part of governance meetings in 2024.
These sessions provide governance bodies with the
knowledge required to oversee Ekornes’ material
sustainability topics, impacts, risks, and opportunities.
[GOV-2] Information provided
to and sustainability matters
addressed by administrative,
management and supervisory
bodies
INFORMATION OF IMPACTS, RISKS,
AND OPPORTUNITIES
Ekornes identifies material impacts, risks, and
opportunities (IROs) as part of the annual Due Diligence
and Materiality Assessment (DMA) process. The IROs that
are material for reporting in 2024 are presented on page
31/32.
The Board of Directors holds the responsibility for
approving the IROs, overseeing due diligence
implementation, and reviewing the results of sustainability
actions. The board receives biannual updates and formally
approved the list of IROs in December 2024.
These updates include:
• Review of the methodologies used to assess IROs
• Results and effectiveness of policies, targets, actions
and metrics used to address IROs
• Evaluation of planned actions and forward-looking
strategies
CONSIDERATION OF IMPACTS, RISKS,
AND OPPORTUNITIES IN DECISION
MAKING
Currently, sustainability-related risks are not yet
integrated into Ekornes’ general risk framework. However,
the organization is evaluating its implementation in the
coming years to ensure a structured approach to managing
sustainability risks, impacts and opportunities.
Key risks identified through the IRO process have been
reviewed, and actions to mitigate them are being
developed. These mitigation measures will be implemented
and reported in upcoming reporting cycles to ensure
transparency and accountability in risk management.
[GOV-3] General requirements
on integration of sustainability-
related performance in incentive
schemes
As of today, sustainability-related performance is not yet
integrated into the incentive schemes for members of
Ekornes’ administrative, management, and supervisory
bodies.
However, the organization is assessing potential ways to
incorporate sustainability-related targets into future
performance evaluations and remuneration policies.
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[GOV-4] STATEMENT ON DUE DILIGENCE
[GOV-5] RISK MANAGEMENT
AND INTERNAL CONTROLS
OVER SUSTAINABILITY
REPORTING
In 2024, Ekornes developed its internal control system for
sustainability reporting, with a pilot rollout of sustainability
controls planned for 2025. During this transitional phase
for the first round of CSRD reporting, the company
implemented a light version of internal controls, primarily
focused on data collection oversight through a four-eye
validation approach.
Risk Assessment Approach
A formalized risk assessment methodology was not yet in
place in 2024. Instead, risk identification and prioritization
were conducted at the Sustainability Task Force level,
and initial mitigation actions were developed. The
Sustainability Task Force also got input and guidance from
internal subject matter experts and external advisors.
The risk prioritization was based on three key factors:
1. Likelihood of occurrence – Evaluating how frequently
or how likely the identified risk could impact
sustainability reporting.
2. Potential impact – Assessing the degree of disruption
a risk could cause, particularly regarding compliance
with regulatory requirements, reporting accuracy, and
reputational consequences.
3. Mitigation complexity – Considering the feasibility
and resources required to implement risk mitigation
measures, including internal capacity and system
development needs.
While this approach was qualitative rather than formalized,
it enabled the Sustainability Task Force to rank risks based
on urgency and develop initial mitigation actions, such as
engaging external expertise, enhancing internal training,
and beginning to explore automation solutions.
Ekornes aims to establish a more structured risk
assessment framework, integrating it with existing
enterprise risk management processes to ensure
consistent evaluation and monitoring of sustainability
reporting risks.
Main Risks Identified for first reporting year
and Mitigation Strategies
Ekornes identified key risks related to sustainability
reporting in 2024, including:
• Lack of automated systems and reliance on manual data
input
• Limited internal competency and expertise in
sustainability data handling
• Internal competency gaps
While these initial control measures and mitigating
actions ensured compliance with current sustainability
reporting obligations, Ekornes plans to further strengthen
governance in 2025 through enhanced internal control
mechanisms.
Integration of Risk Assessment Findings into
Internal Processes
Based on the initial internal control process, in 2024
Ekornes has developed an Internal Control Policy that
will be rolled out in 2025 for selected pilot reporting
topics. This policy will formalize governance structures,
risk management, and validation mechanisms for
sustainability disclosures. While the internal control
framework aligns with financial reporting controls, it is
not directly modeled after it. Instead, it has been tailored
to sustainability-specific data requirements, ensuring
compliance with regulatory standards and internal
governance expectations. Findings from risk assessments
and internal control reviews will guide adjustments in
reporting methodologies, system improvements, and
additional governance measures to ensure continuous
improvement in sustainability reporting.
Additionally, Ekornes plans to expand training programs to
further develop internal competencies in data collection,
risk assessment, and compliance processes.
Reporting of findings to governance bodies
When it comes to reporting of the findings from risk
assessment and internal controls to administrative,
management and supervisory bodies, it is the Group
Sustainability Leadership Team that will be responsible
for presenting governance bodies, ensuring alignment
with corporate risk management frameworks. Specifically,
sustainability reporting risk assessment findings will
be reported to the Board of Directors and Executive
Management on a biannual basis, tracking progress toward
full implementation of internal controls.
Risk Identied Mitigation Strategy
Lack of automated systems
Development of a data collection framework covering all
regulatory requirements
High dependency on manual input
Implementation of a four-eye validation approach for data
accuracy
Internal competency gaps
Engagement with sustainability experts and training for
employees, the hotline chat and regular meetings to clarify any
questions on ESRS reporting process
Ekornes adopted a targeted approach to address these sustainability reporting risks:
Core elements of due diligence Paragraphs in the sustainability statement
a) Embedding due diligence in governance, strategy and business
model
GOV-1 Management responsibilities
GOV-1 Oversight of sustainability IROs
GOV-2 Sustainability matters addressed by management
SBM-3 Double materiality assessment
b) Engaging with affected stakeholders in all key steps of the due
diligence
SRS 2 GOV-2: Stakeholder overview
GOV-2 Sustainability matters addressed by management
IRO-1 Double materiality assessment process
c) Identifying and assessing adverse impacts SBM-3 Double materiality assessment
d) Taking actions to address those adverse impacts
E1-3 Climate action plans
E4-2 Managing impacts on biodiversity
E5-2 Managing impacts on resources and circularity
S1-4 Managing impacts on our people
e) Tracking the effectiveness of these efforts and communicating ESRS 2 MDR-M per every material topic
Core Elements of Due Diligence:
(*ESRS ESRS 2-GOV-4-32, ESRS 2-GOV-4-AR 10-(a), (b), (c), (d), (e))
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202426 27
[SBM-1] STRATEGY, BUSINESS
MODEL AND VALUE CHAIN
General Strategy and Sustainability-Related
Elements
Ekornes designs, manufactures, and distributes premium
furniture products across global markets. The company
offers a diverse range of high-quality furniture, including
the following key products:
• Recliners
• Sofas
• Chairs
• Beds
In 2024, there were no newly introduced or discontinued
product categories.
Ekornes serves a global customer base as
presented on the global map:
The company employs 2,461 people across its operations,
distributed as follows:
• Norway – 972 employees
• Lithuania – 256 employees
• USA – 80 employees
• Thailand – 881 employees
• Other regions – 272 employees
Revenue Breakdown and Significant ESRS Sectors
Ekornes does not report revenue breakdowns by ESRS
sectors. The company operates within the furniture
manufacturing sector.
Sustainability-Related Goals and their link to key
products and markets
Ekornes is currently updating its sustainability targets,
reinforcing sustainability as one of its core strategic
priorities. The company’s sustainability goals align with the
material impact areas:
Climate – Reduce CO
2
emissions across operations and
value chain.
Nature – Ensure key raw materials are sourced from
renewable, recycled, or certified sustainable sources.
Circular Economy – Transition to a fully circular product
portfolio, increasing recyclability and material reuse.
Own workforce – Sustainability-related targets for
workforce and social aspects are still being defined, as they
will be aligned with an updated organizational structure
and policies.
Most of Ekornes emissions accrue through the production
of the key products that are provided to customers.
Reducing emissions will impact how materials are sourced
and transported, how products are designed and marketed
to the end market. Ekornes will need to work actively with
retailers to align on sustainability targets to work together
to reduce transportation emissions. What materials are
used in production directly affects the final product and
this value needs to be communicated to the end customer.
Using sustainable raw materials and recycled raw materials
could increase cost of production, thus affecting both
retailers and end customers. Different markets also have
different maturity when it comes to actively seeking
sustainable products, and so this communication must be
targeted and tailored to the main markets. Succeeding with
a fully circular business model rests on close collaboration
with retailers and end customers, as the end customer
is the one taking care of the furniture, ensuring the
theoretical product lifetime is lived out fully. At the end of
the use life of the product, Ekornes is disconnected from
the customer and the customer is responsible for disposing
of the used furniture in a safe and sustainable manner.
Main challenges ahead
Ekornes faces several critical challenges in advancing
its sustainability strategy and meeting regulatory and
stakeholder expectations. These challenges require
targeted actions to enhance resilience and long-term
business viability.
• Improving supply chain transparency – Increasing
visibility into the supply chain is essential to ensure
compliance with sustainability regulations, such as
CSRD and the EU Taxonomy, and to meet customer
and investor expectations for ethical sourcing. Greater
transparency also helps mitigate risks related to human
rights violations, environmental impact, and material
traceability, particularly for key raw materials such as
leather, wood, and textiles.
• Building a more circular and sustainable portfolio
– Transitioning toward circularity involves designing
products for longevity, repairability, and recyclability.
This reduces resource dependency, minimizes
waste, and aligns with evolving market demands and
regulatory shifts. Increasing the use of recycled and
certified materials supports this transition while
reducing reliance on virgin resources and improving
overall environmental performance.
• Reducing carbon footprint – LLowering carbon
emissions across the value chain is necessary to
comply with international climate targets and national
regulations. Key focus areas include improving energy
efficiency in manufacturing, optimizing transportation
logistics, and sourcing lower-carbon materials. These
actions help reduce exposure to carbon pricing
mechanisms.
Addressing these challenges will require ongoing
collaboration with suppliers, retailers and end customers,
innovation in product development, and continuous
improvement in sustainability reporting and governance.
Strategic Projects and Critical Solutions
Ekornes is implementing sustainability-driven business
model improvements that focus on:
• Sustainable material innovation – Increasing the
use of recycled and certified materials in furniture
production.
• Supply chain transparency – Strengthening traceability
of raw materials through supplier engagement..
• Product circularity initiatives – Expanding circularity
of the portfolio.
Target markets
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202428 29
Business Model and Value Chain
Ekornes operates a vertically integrated business
model, encompassing design, sourcing, manufacturing,
distribution, and sales. The company’s value chain
consists of:
Upstream
• Raw material production – Primary materials include
wood, leather, textiles, plastics, foam, steel, electronics,
and chemicals.
• Inbound logistics – Transportation of materials to
manufacturing sites.
Own Operations
• Manufacturing – Ekornes operates production facilities
in Norway, Lithuania, Thailand, and the USA.
Downstream
• Outbound logistics – Finished products are distributed
through global logistics networks.
• Sales – Key customers include large furniture retailers
and corporate clients.
• End-user engagement – Consumers purchasing
premium furniture products for residential and
commercial use
Main inputs and outputs
Ekornes sources essential raw materials such as wood,
Ekornes sources essential raw materials such as wood,
leather, textiles, plastics, wadding, foam, steel, aluminum,
electronics, chemicals, cardboard, and styropor. Details
about inputs and sourcing regions can be found on page
87 (E5 chapter). To ensure a stable and responsible supply
chain, Ekornes integrates sustainable sourcing criteria and
supplier engagement programs, including certifications
such as FSC® for wood and LWG for leather, supplier
audits, and long-term partnerships with key suppliers.
This approach enhances supply chain sustainability
while strengthening business resilience against material
availability risks.
Beyond raw materials, Ekornes depends on its
manufacturing sites, specialized manufacturing equipment,
and a skilled workforce. To secure these inputs, the
company invests in maintaining compliance with
international labor standards, and continuously upgrades
production facilities to ensure efficiency and quality.
Intellectual assets, including product designs, brand
reputation, and relationships with suppliers, retailers,
and logistics operators, are protected through trademark
registrations, contractual agreements, and active market
engagement.
These inputs are transformed into outputs such as
recliners, chairs, sofas, beds, and other products in the
Ekornes portfolio. Other outcomes of Ekornes’ operations
include waste and emissions, economic contributions
such as tax and duty revenues, social impacts including
employment and competitive wages, and intellectual
contributions such as participation in developing furniture
industry standards for recyclability and circularity.
These inputs are transformed into outputs such as
recliners, chairs, sofas, beds, and other products in the
Ekornes portfolio. Other outcomes of Ekornes’ operations
include waste and emissions, economic contributions
such as tax and duty revenues, social impacts including
employment and competitive wages, and intellectual
contributions such as participation in developing furniture
industry standards for recyclability and circularity.
By continuously assessing risks and opportunities
related to sourcing, production, and workforce
management, Ekornes ensures the long-term availability
and sustainability of its key inputs, supporting business
growth and resilience in a changing regulatory and market
landscape.
[SBM-2] INTERESTS AND VIEWS
OF STAKEHOLDERS
1. Stakeholder Engagement
Ekornes actively engages with a broad range of
stakeholders to integrate their interests and views into its
strategy and business model. Engagement occurs through
structured surveys, interviews, audits, participation
in industry associations, direct communications, and
reporting mechanisms. The purpose of this engagement
is to ensure transparency, improve product and
service offerings, strengthen compliance, and enhance
sustainability efforts.
Stakeholder
Group
Stakeholder Interests and Purpose of
Engagement How Ekornes Engages
Impact on Operations,
Business Model, Strategy
Customers
(Dealers &
Retailers)
Expect timely product delivery, compliance with
regulations, strong marketing support, and
efcient claims handling. Ekornes engages to
strengthen commercial relationships, improve
service levels, and ensure alignment on
sustainability and quality expectations.
Customer satisfaction
surveys, involvement in
DMA process, direct sales
meetings, marketing
collaboration.
Impacts production planning,
distribution efciency, and
sustainability-focused
product development.
End-Users
(Consumers)
Seek safe, sustainable products free from
harmful chemicals, meeting environmental and
quality standards. Ekornes engages to
understand evolving consumer preferences, build
trust in the brand, and integrate sustainability
into the user experience.
Customer satisfaction
surveys, involvment in DMA
process, direct sales
meetings, marketing
collaboration.
Drives product innovation,
inuences sustainability
commitments, and impacts
brand perception.
Suppliers
Require clear specications, predictability, fair
payment terms, and compliance with
sustainability requirements (ethical sourcing,
human rights, environmental standards). Ekornes
engages to align expectations, strengthen ethical
and environmental performance, and foster
resilient, long-term partnerships.
Annual supplier audits,
self-assessments, FSC® and
LWG crtications, ongoing
collaboration on
sustainability compliance.
Impacts supply chain
resilience, ethical sourcing
policies, and risk
management.
Industry
Associations
Expect adherence to industry standards,
participation in expert groups and sustainability
initiatives. Ekornes engages to contribute to
responsible industry development, inuence
standards, and promote shared learning.
Active involvement in
sustainability committees,
industry exhibitions, peer
collaborations.
Strengthens industry
inuence, enhances
regulatory compliance
readiness, fosters innovation.
Authorities &
Regulators
Require compliance with environmental permits,
waste management, land use, and sustainability
regulations (CSRD, EU Taxonomy). Ekornes
engages to ensure regulatory alignment, manage
risks.
Compliance programs,
sustainability reporting
alignment, engagement with
regulators if required.
Impacts reporting obligations,
regulatory risks, and
long-term strategic planning.
NGOs
Demand transparency, ethical responsibility, and
collaboration on sustainability topics. Ekornes
engages to gain external insights, improve
accountability, and collaborate on initiatives that
advance responsible business practices.
Partnerships on
sustainability initiatives,
collaboration for
transparency in material
sourcing (e.g., leather value
chain).
Enhances credibility,
mitigates reputational risks,
and drives responsible
business practices.
Employees
Seek safe working conditions, fair wages, career
development, and inclusion in sustainability
efforts. Ekornes engages to support well-being,
foster inclusion, and strengthen employee
contribution to the company’s sustainability
journey.
Employee engagement
programs (health & safety,
training, union
collaboration).
Impacts talent retention,
productivity, and workplace
culture.
Owners
Expect strong nancial performance, quality
production, and commitment to sustainability
regulation. Ekornes engages to ensure
transparency, maintain strategic alignment, and
demonstrate resilience in both nancial and ESG
performance.
Quarterly earnings calls,
nancial and sustainability
performance updates,
briengs.
Affects capital allocation,
long-term strategic planning,
and risk management.
The key stakeholders and engagement approaches are detailed below:
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2. Stakeholder Views and Strategic Integration
Ekornes integrates stakeholder perspectives into its
strategy through its materiality assessment and due
diligence processes. The assessments involve structured
analyses of stakeholder interests and expectations,
incorporating direct feedback. The degree to which
stakeholder views influence decision-making is evaluated
through data-driven insights (e.g. marketing survey
results, interview analysis etc), ensuring their concerns are
systematically addressed.
Key insights from stakeholders are one of the factors
considered in product innovation, supply chain policies, and
sustainability initiatives. Examples include:
• Strengthening sustainable product offerings based on
customer demand, with specific focus areas identified
through market insights and sustainability dialogues.
• Enhancing supplier auditing processes to address
evolving ESG expectations from regulators and industry
associations, ensuring compliance with ethical sourcing
and environmental standards.
• Expanding sustainability certifications and improving
sustainability reporting to meet customer, partner and
authorities expectations for greater transparency and
accountability.
• Improving employee engagement initiatives to retain
talent, foster a high-quality work environment, and
respond to employee feedback on workplace conditions
and development opportunities.
3. Board Oversight and Integration of
Stakeholder Views
The administrative, management, and supervisory bodies
are regularly informed about stakeholder views through
reporting and direct engagement mechanisms. This
includes:
• Board is informed regularly on DMA results
and stakeholders’ engagement and on key other
stakeholder insights.
Through these processes, Ekornes ensures that
stakeholder interests are systematically embedded in
decision-making, driving long-term sustainable value
creation.
(*ESRS S1-ESRS 2 SBM-2 -12)
[SBM-3] MATERIAL IMPACTS,
RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES
AND THEIR INTERACTION
WITH STRATEGY AND
BUSINESS MODEL
This section presents Ekornes’ material impacts, risks and
opportunities and their interaction with Ekornes’ strategy
and business model. An overview of positive and negative
impacts as well as the identified risks and opportunities is
provided. Then the current and anticipated effects of the
IROs are discussed, considering effects on business model,
value chain, strategy and decision-making.
A more detailed description of material IROs specific
to each material topic is presented under SBM-3 for
each material topic, according to ESRS 2 and the topical
standards.
1. Overview of Material Impacts, Risks, and
Opportunities (IROs)
Ekornes has conducted a double materiality assessment
aligned with ESRS requirements to identify key
sustainability impacts, risks, and opportunities for the first
time in 2024. Consequently, there have been no changes
made to material IROs compared to previous reporting
years.
The IROs originate from Ekornes operations and value
chain and influence its business model, strategy, and
resource allocation. The assessment has identified the
following key IROs:
Category Impact Description Value Chain Scope Time Horizon
GHG Emissions &
Energy Usage
Contributing to climate change and increasing
the GHG emissions through indirect emissions
scope 3 (e.g.; commuting, procurement, use
phase of products and services).
Upstream, Downstream
Medium-term,
long-term
GHG Emissions &
Energy Usage
Ekornes' operations contribute to global
climate change due to energy consumption
and emissions from manufacturing processes.
Own Operations
Medium-term,
long-term
GHG Emissions &
Energy Usage
Sourcing products increases emissions across
the value chain, particularly from
transportation, raw material extraction, and
supplier operations.
Upstream
Medium-term,
long-term
Ecosystem and
Biodiversity Degradati-
on
Ekornes' reliance on large amounts of raw
materials contributes to ecosystem
degradation, including deforestation, soil
depletion, and biodiversity loss.
Upstream
Medium-term,
long-term
Circular Design &
Quality Products
Ekornes products contribute to global waste
generation throughout the lifecycle, increasing
resource consumption and disposal
challenges.
Own Operations,
Downstream
Medium-term,
long-term
Circular Design &
Quality Products
As a production company, Ekornes depends
on raw materials, leading to resource
exploitation and increased pressure on nite
natural resources.
Upstream, Own
Operations
Medium-term,
long-term
Working Conditions
Manufacturing environments are not 100%
safe, posing risks to employee health and
safety despite mitigation efforts.
Own operations
Short-term,
Medium-term,
long-term
Category Impact Description Value Chain Scope Time Horizon
Working Conditions
Providing permanent contracts and enabling a
healthy life throughgood working conditions
can enhance employee well-being,
satisfaction, and a more motivated and
engaged workforce.
Own Operations
(Thailand)
Actual impact,
Short-term,
Medium-term,
long-term
Material Negative Impacts
Material Positive Impacts
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202432 33
2. Interaction with Business Model and Strategy
Ekornes has responded to material IROs with the following
current and planned adjustments to its business model and
strategy::
• Business Model: Ekornes is integrating low-carbon,
sustainable sourced and circularity principles into
product design and manufacturing. This includes
investing in durable, repairable furniture and
sustainable raw materials to future-proof the model
against resource scarcity and regulatory changes.
• Value Chain:
• Sustainable sourcing policies have been
implemented, focusing on FSC-certified wood
and LWG-certified leather.
• Scope 3 emissions monitoring is being strengthened
to improve upstream data quality and reduce
environmental risk across suppliers.
• Ekornes actively screens suppliers in high-risk
geographies and engages in risk-based due diligence
to manage ESG dependencies.
• Strategy and Decision-Making:
• Scenario analysis is used to evaluate climate
and biodiversity risks (e.g. extreme weather,
regulation) and their implications for supply
security, material cost, and product demand
• Strategic investments include development
of alternative materials and supplier partnerships
to mitigate dependency risks.
These measures directly respond to material impacts,
risks and opportunities identified in the double materiality
assessment and are intended to strengthen Ekornes’
long-term operational resilience and brand positioning.
3. Financial and Strategic Implications of Material
IROs
Ekornes evaluates both the current and anticipated
financial effects of material IROs:
As of 2024, no significant sustainability-related financial
impacts have been identified that would significantly affect
the company’s financial position, performance, or cash
flows. The financial statements and budget incorporate
recurring sustainability-related costs, and no substantial
adjustments to asset or liability values are expected in the
next reporting period.
While no current material financial impacts have been
identified for 2024, the anticipated financial effects of
material IROs will be further assessed and may include:
1. Increased Operating Costs
• Due diligence and compliance with sourcing
certifications (e.g. FSC, LWG) will lead to higher
procurement and verification costs.
• Enhanced emissions, particularly Scope 3, and
sustainability data points tracking may require
investment in new IT systems, data collection tools,
and staff training.
2. Capital Expenditures
• Investment in sustainable material innovation and
process efficiency (e.g. circular design, low-carbon
manufacturing) may increase R&D and equipment
costs in the short term.
• Shifting to more sustainable suppliers or regions
may require adjustments to logistics or procurement
contracts.
3. Cost of Non-Compliance or Delays
• Failure to meet emerging regulatory standards
(e.g. EU deforestation regulation, CSRD, taxonomy
alignment) could result in fines, loss of market access,
or reputational damage impacting sales.
4. Financial Risk from Physical Climate Impacts
• Exposure to supply chain disruption from extreme
weather or natural resource scarcity (e.g. wood,
foam) may lead to delays or increased input prices,
though these risks are currently assessed as
moderate.
4. Resilience of Strategy and Business Model
Ekornes ensures resilience by integrating sustainability
considerations into its business model, addressing
key climate and biodiversity risks through structured
mitigation and adaptation strategies.
• Scenario analysis and risk assessment: Ekornes
evaluates the resilience of its strategy under various
climate and biodiversity scenarios, including physical
risks such as supply chain disruptions from extreme
weather and resource availability constraints, as well
as transition risks like regulatory shifts and evolving
market expectations for sustainable products. This
analysis will inform strategic decisions.
• Investment in innovation and sustainable supply
chains: To reduce dependency on vulnerable raw
materials and mitigate transition risks, Ekornes is
actively developing alternative materials and expanding
partnerships for certified, traceable sourcing, including
FSC-certified wood and LWG-certified leather.
Investments in process efficiency and product design
also support long-term resilience against resource
scarcity and regulatory shifts.
• Circularity and low-carbon manufacturing: Ekornes
is transitioning its portfolio toward circularity by
integrating product durability, repairability, and material
recovery strategies.
• Workforce stability and adaptation: With production
facilities in Norway, Thailand, Lithuania, and the USA,
Ekornes ensures resilience by maintaining a stable
workforce through secure employment contracts,
competitive wages, and strong workplace safety
measures. By aligning labor policies with international
standards, Ekornes strengthens operational continuity
and supports long-term business sustainability.
[IRO-1] DESCRIPTION OF
PROCESS TO IDENTIFY AND
ASSESS MATERIAL IMPACTS,
RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES
1. Overview of the Materiality Assessment
Process
Ekornes has conducted a double materiality assessment
to identify and assess its impacts, risks, and opportunities
(IROs) across its operations and value chain. The
methodology aligns with ESRS 1 principles and
incorporates both impact materiality (effects on people and
the environment) and financial materiality (effects on the
company’s financial position and performance). Ekornes’
IROs are covered by ESRS Disclosure Requirements.
The assessment followed a structured four-phase
approach:
1. Mobilization – Team onboarding, review of existing
sustainability materials like policies, strategies,
departments’ standards in use, and setup of governance
structures.
Category Description of Financial Impact Scope Time-horizon
GHG Emissions & Energy
Usage
Proactive disclosure of scope 3 emissions can result in valuable insights
on the business and value chain activities that are the most emitting.
Therefore, disclosing scope 3 emissions can lead to better-informed
decision-making, investment choices, and improved supply chain
collaboration.
Opportunity
Short-
medium-
term
GHG Emissions & Energy
Usage
Switching to low-carbon footprint products can result in additional
costs. This is due to higher production expenses, the use of more
sustainable but costly materials, and the need for new technologies or
processes. In many cases, supply chains for low-carbon alternatives are
less developed, leading to higher procurement and operational costs.
Risk
Medium-
term
Ecosystem and Biodiversity
Degradation
Switching to materials from sustainable production processes can lead
to increased costs. This is because these materials often require more
responsible sourcing, stricter environmental standards, and
certications that add expenses. Additionally, sustainable production
methods may have lower yields or involve more labor-intensive
practices, raising costs compared to conventional alternatives. Limited
supply and higher demand for sustainably produced materials can also
drive up prices.
Risk
Medium-
term
Circular Design & Quality
Products
Designing recyclable and durable products and furniture can increase
costs. This is because it often requires higher-quality materials,
advanced engineering, and more complex manufacturing processes.
Ensuring recyclability may involve specialized material selection,
disassembly-friendly designs, and compliance with circular economy
standards, all of which can add to production expenses. Additionally,
durability testing, certications, and potential redesigns to balance
longevity with sustainability further contribute to higher upfront costs
for manufacturers.
Risk
Short-
medium-
long- term
Description of Financial Impact
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202434 35
2. Definition – Compilation of a long list of ESG topics
that is further mapped against the value chain to
narrow it down that became the foundation for further
assessment.
3. Assessment – Workshops, internal analysis, and
engagement with stakeholders to identify and score
IROs based on materiality thresholds.
4. Final conclusion – Decide on material topics based on
materiality scores of IROs.
2. Methodologies and Assumptions
Ekornes applied a combination of qualitative and
quantitative methods to identify, assess, and prioritize IROs:
• Internal Expert Review – Cross-functional teams
assessed impacts, risks and opportunities based on
likelihood and severity.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Interviews and
workshops were conducted with internal and external
stakeholders.
• Benchmarking and Peer Analysis – long list of IROs
were further compared against industry best practices
and competitor disclosures to ensure that nothing went
missing.
• Financial and Impact Scoring – IROs were ranked
using predefined scoring methodologies for impact
materiality (severity, scope, likelihood, irremediability)
and financial materiality (financial effects, likelihood of
occurrence, and strategic relevance).
3. Process for Identifying and Prioritizing Impacts
3.1 Scope of Analysis
Ekornes considered its entire value chain, from raw
material sourcing to end-of-life product disposal,
identifying specific activities and business relationships
that contribute to heightened sustainability risks.
Ekornes considered its entire value chain, from raw
material sourcing to end-of-life product disposal,
identifying specific activities, business relationships, and
geographies that contribute to heightened sustainability
risks. This included close analysis of sourcing regions for
leather, wood, textiles, and steel, based on environmental
risks such as deforestation, emissions, as well as workers
rights risks flagged in due diligence checks.
The materiality assessment was informed by Ekornes’
ongoing due diligence process, which includes supplier
audits, compliance checks, and ESG risk screening
of high-risk sourcing countries. These due diligence
insights were integrated into the materiality scoring and
prioritisation of impacts. Specific attention was given to
upstream suppliers and partners operating in geographies
with higher ESG risk profiles. This approach ensures that
Ekornes’ process prioritises areas with potential or actual
adverse impacts based on concrete data, stakeholder input,
and internal compliance reviews.
More detailed information on IRO-1 for topical standards
can be found in the respective chapters:
E1 - pages 48-49
E4 - pages 74-75
E5 - pages 84-85
S1 - pages 98-99
3.2 Stakeholder Engagement
Ekornes incorporated insights from:
• Employees (workshops and surveys)
• Customers and dealers (interviews and satisfaction
surveys)
• Suppliers (audits and compliance checks)
• Employees
• Internal SMEs
3.3 Prioritization Criteria
Negative impacts were prioritized based on:
• Severity (scale and scope of impact)
• Likelihood (probability of occurrence)
• Irremediability (difficulty of mitigation or reversal)
• Time Horizon (short-, medium-, or long-term relevance)
Positive impacts were prioritized based on:
• Severity (scale and scope of impact)
• Likelihood (probability of occurrence)
• Time Horizon (short-, medium-, or long-term relevance)
4. Process for Assessing Financial Risks and
Opportunities
Ekornes assessed financial risks and opportunities
through:
• Size of financial effect
• Likelihood
To support prioritization and decision-making, Ekornes
applied a scoring model that enabled a consistent and
transparent evaluation of sustainability impacts, risks, and
opportunities. Thresholds for significance were established
based on both qualitative and quantitative input from
internal experts across sustainability, finance, risk, and
procurement functions.
Each impact was assessed using defined criteria—such as
severity, likelihood, time horizon, and irremediability—and
risk and opportunities were scored on a standardized
scale. Thresholds for identifying material topics were
calibrated by analyzing score distributions and identifying
natural breakpoints that distinguish high-priority IROs.
This approach ensured a balanced representation of both
actual and potential impacts, as well as financial relevance,
aligning with the principles of double materiality under
ESRS.
The scoring and threshold-setting process was validated
through internal workshops and reviewed by senior
management to ensure it reflects Ekornes’ strategic
context and stakeholder expectations.
Ekornes’ double materiality approach explicitly considered
how impacts, create strategic, operational, or financial risks
and opportunities for the company.
By mapping each material impact and dependency to its
corresponding risk or opportunity the company ensured
that disclosures align with the logic of double materiality
and reflect the systemic nature of sustainability challenges.
This process was informed by input from sustainability,
procurement, risk, and finance functions.
5. Integration with Corporate Governance and Risk
Management
Ekornes plans to integrate sustainability risk criteria within
its broader risk management framework in upcoming
years. As on 2024 following actions have been in place:
• Results of DMA are reported to senior management
and the board.
• Those results informed ambition setting workshop to
better understand risks and strategic developments.
• Based on this input management approved development
of the internal control framework for sustainability.
6. Changes Compared to the Previous Reporting Period
For the 2024 reporting period, Ekornes conducted a
double materiality assessment for the first time. As a result,
there is no direct comparison available with previous years,
as this is the first iteration of the process. Future reporting
cycles will build upon this baseline to track progress and
refine methodologies for enhanced accuracy and strategic
alignment.
7. Process for Identifying Material Topics – E2, E3,
and G1 (Immaterial Topics)
As part of double materiality assessment, Ekornes has
also considered the potential pollution-related (E2),
water and marine resources-related (E3), and business
conduct-related (G1) impacts, risks, and opportunities.
Although these topics were not assessed as material for
our 2024 reporting period, we applied the same IRO-1
process as described for material topics.
For E2 and E3, Ekornes screened relevant sites and
business activities across our operations and value chain
to identify any pollution- or water-related impacts. The
assessment was based on our own operations, supplier
engagement, and expert input, using sector-appropriate
tools and references. For G1, we assessed business
conduct risks based on geographic location, nature of
business relationships, activity type, and sector-specific
risk factors, aligned with Ekornes ethics and compliance
programs. Ekornes didn’t conduct consultations with
affected communities,
These topics were not prioritized for reporting this year
due to limited identified impacts, risks, or opportunities.
Ekornes will continue to monitor developments in these
areas and reassess in future cycles.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202436 37
ESRS DMA Assessment Performed By
Internal Subject-Matter
Experts
External Advisory and Input Input Parameters Used
First Review
Conducted by
Final Review and
Approval Conducted by
Materials for Board
approved by
Final DMA
Approved by
E1 - Climate
Change
Sustainability&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams
Sustainbility&strategy team,
procurement team
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Policies, internal guiding documents,
desk reviews, interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
E4 - Biodiversity
and Ecosystems
Sustainability&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams
Sustainbility&strategy team,
procurement team
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Policies, internal guding documents,
desk reviews interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
E5 - Resource Use
& Circular
Economy
Sustainbility&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams
Sustainbility&strategy team,
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Policies, internal guding documents,
desk reviews interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
S1 - Own
Workforce
Group HR, Finance team, CFO HR
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Policies, internal guiding documents,
desk reviews interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
E2-Polution – not
material
Sustainability&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams
Sustainbility&strategy team
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Desk reviews, interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
E3-Water and
marine resources
– not mtaerial
Sustainability&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams
Sustainbility&strategy team
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Desk reviews, interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
S2- workers in the
value chain – not
materail
Sustainability&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams,
HR
Sustainbility&strategy team
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Desk reviews, interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
S3 – affected
communities
– not material
Sustainability&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams
Sustainbility&strategy team
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Desk reviews, interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
S4 –
Consumers&End-
Users – not
material
Sustainability&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams
Sustainbility&strategy team
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Desk reviews, interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
G1 Business
Conduct – not
material
Sustainability&strategy team, quality and
compliance, procurement and nancial teams
Sustainbility&strategy team
External advisors were used to review the relevance
for the topics and provide input on the best practices
Desk reviews, interviews, workshops,
assessment templates
Head of Strategy CFO
SVP
Strategy&Organization
Board
Materiality Assessment Process - Double Materiality Analysis (DMA) Template
The DMA process table presents the approval and input process used for ESRS assessment.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202438 39
[IRO-2] DISCLOSURE REQUIRE-
MENTS IN ESRS COVERED BY
THE UNDERTAKING’S SUSTAIN-
ABILITY STATEMENT
To collect and assess the information required for
sustainability disclosures, Ekornes conducted targeted
consultations with internal stakeholders across key
business functions. These stakeholders were selected
based on their operational knowledge of material topics,
including finance, climate, circularity, sourcing, and social
responsibility. The consultations focused on aligning
specific IROs and ESRS data points with company targets,
strategies and actions. As a follow-up, Ekornes reviewed
and validated findings through a leadership review
process, ensuring consistency with existing activities, and
management systems. This iterative approach enabled
company to identify the relevant content for disclosure and
confirm its accuracy and completeness in line with CSRD
expectations.
Given the evolving regulatory landscape and the
complexity of environmental financial assessments,
Ekornes has opted to postpone detailed disclosures on the
projected financial effects of sustainability-related matters,
including the projected allocation of capital and operating
expenditures for environmental initiatives, in this initial
reporting year. Future reports will refine these disclosures.
Detailed IRO-2 table Disclosure requirements by
reference please find below.
Data points that derive from other EU legislation please
find in the table A1 IRO 2 Data points that derive from
other EU legislation at the end of the report.
ESRS 2 General Disclosures
DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS BY REFERENCE
ESRS Standard Standard Description Section Page
BP-1
General basis for preparation of sustainability statements
Sustainability statement 19/20
BP-2
Disclosures in relation to specic circumstances
Sustainability statement 19/20
GOV-1
Role of the administrative, management and supervisory bodies
Sustainability statement 21/23
GOV-2
Information provided to and sustainability matters addressed by
administrative, management and supervisory bodies
Sustainability statement 21/23
GOV-3
Integration of sustainability-related performance in incentive schemes
Sustainability statement 23
GOV-4
Statement on Due dilligence
Sustainability statement 24
GOV-5
Risk management and internal controls over sustainability reporting
Sustainability statement 24/25
SBM-1
Strategy, business model and value chain
Sustainability statement 26/28
SBM-2
Interests and views of stakeholders
Sustainability statement 28/30
SBM-3
Material impacts, risks and opportunities and their interaction with
strategy and business model
Sustainability statement 31/33
IRO-1
Description of process to identify and assess material impacts, risks and
opportunities
Sustainability statement 33/37
IRO-2
Disclosure Requirements in ESRS covered by sustainability statements
Sustainability statement
34/41,
108/111
E 1 Climate Change
E4 Biodiversity
ESRS Standard Standard Description Section Page
ESRS 2, GOV-3
Integration of sustainability-related performance in incentive schemes
Sustainability statement 23
E1-1
Transition plan for climate change mitigation
Sustainability statement 53
ESRS 2, SBM-3
Climate related impacts, risks and opportunities
Sustainability statement 48
ESRS 2, IRO-1
Climate related process to identify and assess material impacts, risks and
opportunities
Sustainability statement 33/35, 48
E1-2
Policies related to climate change mitigation and adaptation
Sustainability statement
42/45,
51/25
E1-3
Actions and resources in relation to climate change policies
Sustainability statement 53
E1-4
Targets related to climate change mitigation and adaptation
Sustainability statement 53
E1-5
Energy consumption and mix
Sustainability statement 53/55
E1-6
Gross Scopes 1, 2, 3 and Total GHG emissions
Sustainability statement 56/61
ESRS Standard Standard Description Section Page
E4-1
Transition plan on biodiversity and ecosystems in strategy and business
model
Sustainability statement 76/79
ESRS 2, SBM-3
Biodiversity related impacts, risks and opportunities
Sustainability statement 76
ESRS 2, IRO-1
Biodiversity related process to identify and assess material impacts, risks
and opportunities
Sustainability statement
33/35,
76
E4-2
Policies related to biodiversity and ecosystems
Sustainability statement
44/45,
79/80
E4-3
Actions and resources related to biodiversity and ecosystems
Sustainability statement 82/83
E4-4
Targets related to biodiversity and ecosystems
Sustainability statement 81/82
E4-5
Impact metrics related to biodiversity and ecosystems change
Sustainability statement 83
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202440 41
E5 Resource use and circular economy S1 Own Workforce
ESRS Standard Standard Description Section Page
ESRS 2, IRO-1
Circularity related process to identify and assess material impacts, risks
and opportunities
Sustainability statement
33/35,
84/85
E5-1
Policies related to resource use and circular economy
Sustainability statement 42/45, 85
E5-2
Actions and resources related to resource use and circular economy
Sustainability statement 86
E5-3
Targets related to resource use and circular economy
Sustainability statement 86
E5-4
Resource inows
Sustainability statement 87/91
E5-5
Resource outows
Sustainability statement 92/95
ESRS Standard Standard Description Section Page
ESRS 2, SBM-2
Own workforce-related interests and views of stakeholders
Sustainability statement 29
ESRS 2, SBM-3
Own workforce related impacts, risks and opportunities
Sustainability statement
33/35,
98/99
S1-1
Policies related to own workforce
Sustainability statement
42/45,
91/100
S1-2
Processes for engaging with own workers and workers’ representatives
about impacts
Sustainability statement 101
S1-3
Processes to remediate negative impacts and channels for own workforce
to raise concerns
Sustainability statement 102
S1-4
Actions on material impacts on own workforce, and approaches to
mitigating material risks and pursuing material opportunities related to
own workforce, and effectiveness of those actions
Sustainability statement 100
S1-5
Targets related to managing material negative impacts, advancing positive
impacts, and managing material risks and opportunities
Sustainability statement 101
S1-6
Characteristics of undertaking’s employees
Sustainability statement 102/104
S1-8
Collective bargaining coverage and social dialogue
Sustainability statement 104/105
S1-10
Adequate Wages
Sustainability statement 105
S1-11
Social protection
Sustainability statement 106
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202442 43
Policy Description of key content Scope of policy, value chain
Scope of policy,
geography
Accountability and monitoring
process
Third-party standards or initatives Availability
Material
Topic
Ekornes
Environmental Policy
Ekornes Environmental Policy outlines how we will improve our own environmental performance
and be a driving force in the sustainability work within the industry. The general objective of the
policy is to provide clearly dened commitments related to Ekornes’ environmental performance
and environmental targets.
Upstream, Own operations,
Downstream
All geographies
Quality, Health, Safety and Environment
Manager
No set monitoring process.
ISO 14001:2015 Available internally
E1
E4
E5
Ekornes Supplier
Code of conduct
The Supplier Code of Conduct outlines Ekornes’ expectations to suppliers and business partners. It
touches on several topics, including; management systems, forced labour, freedom of association,
child labour and young workers, discrimination, health and safety, decent wage, working hours,
regular employment, environmental regulations and corruption and bribery.
Upstream All geographies
SVP Sourcing & Supply
Procurement Category Managers
No set monitoring process.
UN Global Compact
International Labour Organization’s
Convention NO 138 and NO 182
Actively communicated to
suppliers and business
partners.
Publicly available through
the Ekornes website.
E1
Sustainability
Position Paper on
Nature
The Sustainability Position Paper on Nature outlines Ekornes’ key biodiversity priorities for
2024-2026. These include minimizing negative impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems, ensuring
compliance with biodiversity regulations and standards, and promoting ecosystem restoration and
resilience across our value chain.
Upstream, Own operations,
Downstream
All geographies
Head of Strategy & Sustainability
Annual review to incorporate advancements
in biodiversity science, regulatory updates
Supplier audits, biodiversity performance
reviews and traceability measures in the
supply chain.
Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity
Framework
EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030
FSC and PEFC certication schemes for
sustainable forestry practices
The Leather Working Group standards
for responsible leather sourcing
Available internally E4
Sustainability
Position Paper on
Climate
The Sustainability Position Paper on Climate outlines Ekornes’ key climate and energy priorities for
2024-2026. These include emissions reduction, sustainable product design, supplier engagement
and collaboration, transparency and reporting, and continuous improvement on climate-related
metrics and sustainable practices.
Upstream, Own operations All geographies
Head of Strategy & Sustainability
Annual review
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Paris Agreement
GHG protocol
CSRD
Available internally E1
Sustainability
Position Paper on
Our People
This position statement outlines Ekornes’ key workforce priorities for 2024–2026, emphasizing
Ekornes approach to promoting employee well-being, upholding fair labor practices, and investing
in professional development.
Own operations All geographies
VP people&Culture
Annual review of policy
UN Global Compact
International Labour Organization’s
Convention
Available internally
through TQM
S1
Sustainability
Position Paper on
Circularity
The Sustainability Position Paper Circularity outlines Ekornes’ commitment to embedding
circularity principles across our value chain. The Position Paper covers which key principles guide
Ekornes’ circularity efforts, Ekornes’ approach to circularity and the key activities linked to
managing risks and seizing opportunities related to circularity. The general objective of the position
paper is to outline key principles, approaches and measures related to circularity and will form the
basis for a Circularity policy which is in the making.
Upstream, Own operations,
Downstream
All geographies
Head of Strategy & Sustainability
Annual review of policy to account for
scientic advances, regulatory updates and
changing stakeholder expectations.
EU Packaging and Packaging Waste
Regulation (PPWR), EU Circular
Economy Action Plan (CEAP)
Available internally E5
Sustainable Leather
Sourcing Policy
The Sustainable Leather Sourcing Policy outlines criteria and quality specications all leather
suppliers to Ekornes must comprehend, sign and comply with.
Notably the policy details which substances and chemicals are permitted by suppliers and which
are considered restricted.
Upstream, Own operations All geographies
SVP Sourcing and Supply Chain
Procurement and supply chain teams
(ensure supplier compliance, integrate
sustainability requirements into sourcing
contracts)
Own inspectors take part in leather selection
and random sample testing
Leather Working Group
World Health Organization by Animal
Health
EU Deforestation Regulation EUDR
EU 23/1115
Available internally and
made available to
suppliers
E4
Table for Ekornes policies related to material IROs
More detailed information on policies for material topics is allocated in designated topic chapters.
44 45
FSC
®
Certication
Policy
Ekornes is a member of the FSC
®
Chain of Custody (COC)Certication and complies with the FSC
®
Member Instruction Manual. This policy outlines the people responsible for COC at Ekornes,
employee training requirements, documentation requirements, material sourcing and storage
requirements, supplier control and monitoring requirements, production specications when using
FSC
®
wood, volume control and accounting best practices, sale of certied products, and use of the
FSC
®
label.
Upstream, Own operations,
Downstream
All geographies
CEO
Central Multisite Manager
Local FSC managers oversee compliance at
facility level
Forest Stewardship Council
FSC-STD-40-004 V3-1 (Standard for
Chain of Custody certication)
FSC-STD-50-001 V2-1 (FSC labeling
requirements)
FSC-PRO-20-001 V1-1 (Evaluation of
compliance with FSC values)
Available internally E4
Ekornes Quality
Policy
Ekornes Quality Policy outlines Ekornes’ overall quality policy, which is to deliver products and
services that satisfy our customers’ assumed expectations and needs. These expectations are
dened in the product specication used in manufacturing. The general objective of the policy is to
ensure Ekornes focuses on continual improvement to ensure that our products have the right/
correct quality, in line with product specications.
Upstream, Own operations,
Downstream
All geographies
Quality, Health, Safety and Environment
Manager
No set monitoring process.
ISO 9001:2015 Available internally. E5
Furniture
Compliance
Specication
(Ekornes Compliance
Handbook)
This compliance specication outlines the standards and requirements that furniture products
must meet to ensure safety, durability, and compliance with relevant regulations and industry
standards. Furniture test standards are a set of guidelines and specications used to evaluate the
safety, durability, and performance of various types of furniture. This policy ensures Ekornes
products are of high quality and safe to use.
Upstream, Own operations,
Downstream
All geographies
Quality, Health, Safety and Environment
Manager
Periodic review to ensure it remains up to
date with evolving regulations and industry
best practices.
Public Procurement Requirements
(Norway), Møbelfakta, Svensk
Møbelfakta, Svanemerket
Available internally and
communicated to
suppliers, vendors and
customers as needed.
E5
Ekornes People
Policy
The policy is a high-level framework that outlines Ekornes commitment to managing its workforce
in a fair, inclusive, and ethical manner across all regions. It acts as a tool to give clear understanding
what’s expected from employees and what employees can expect from the business. This policy has
been developed, but not yet implemented.
Own operations All geographies VP People & Culture N/A S1
Whistleblowing at
Ekornes (poster)
The policy guides employees on how to report wrongdoing or causes for concern at work. Own operations All geographies VP People & Culture
Available internally
(intranet)
S1
Whistleblowing
procedure (full scale,
Norwegian only)
The policy describes the Global whistleblowing procedure of Ekornes AS and all group companies. Own operations in Norway All geographies VP People & Culture Norwegian Employment Law
Available internally
(intranet)
S1
Health, safety and
Environmental policy
The health, safety and environmental policy outlines Ekornes’ guidelines for health, safety and
environmental issues, as well as the objectives related to these topics.
Own operations All geographies
Quality, Health, Safety and Environment
Manager
Available internally S1
Ekornes
Management
Handbook – Quality,
HSE, Environment
Ekornes AS have chosen to have a management system for Quality, HSE and Environment in
accordance with the quality management standard ISO 9001 and the environmental management
standard ISO 14001. This Management handbook includes management of Quality, HSE and
Environment.
Own operations All geographies
Quality, Health, Safety and Environment
Manager
ISO 9001
ISO 14001
Available internally S1
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024
Contents
46 4746 Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report 47
Environment
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024
E1 Climate change 48-61
EU Taxonomy 61-73
E4 Biodiversity and ecosystems 74-83
E5 Resource and use and circular economy 84-96
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202448 49
ESRS E1 – Climate Change
E1 – CLIMATE RELATED IMPACTS, RISKS
AND OPPORTUNITIES
Climate-Related Risks Identification (IRO 1)
In 2024 DMA and related analysis, Ekornes identified and
assessed IROs for reporting. This served as the foundation
for evaluating the climate resilience of our business model
and strategy.
This approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of
all potential climate impacts, risks, and opportunities
across our operations. By applying this broader assessment
methodology, Ekornes can continuously improve
sustainability strategy, proactively monitor emerging risks,
and enhance our long-term resilience.
Ekornes screened its operations and value chain to identify
actual and potential sources of GHG emissions, particularly
related to Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. This includes
emissions from production processes, purchased
electricity, logistics, employee commuting, travel, etc.
The company assessed these emissions using available
spend and activity data, internal calculations, and industry
benchmarks to evaluate their contribution to global
climate change. The findings directly informed the
classification of material IROs in the DMA and the
prioritization of climate action areas.
E1 – Climate related impacts, risks and opportunities
Resilience of Strategy and Business Model:
As part of our sustainability work and responsible business
practices, Ekornes following DMA analysis has carried out
a comprehensive resilience analysis to assess the strength
of our strategy and business model in relation to climate
change.
Scope of the Resilience Analysis
(*ESRS E1-ESRS 2 SBM-3-19-(a) IRO 1)
The resilience analysis covers:
• Own operations in Norway, USA, Lithuania, and
Thailand.
• Supply chain risks related to sourcing from Europe,
Brazil, China, and other key regions.
• Logistics risks, including shipping delays due to extreme
weather.
Climate hazards and transition risks considered
As part of the physical risk assessment, Ekornes identified
key climate-related hazards relevant to its operations and
supply chain using IPCC and NGFS sources. These include:
• Flood risk and sea level rise (particularly affecting own
operations, logistics and ports)
• Droughts and heatwaves (impacting raw material supply
such as wood and leather)
• Storms and extreme precipitation (affecting shipping
and regional production facilities)
Ekornes assessed the exposure and sensitivity of its key
assets and business activities to identified hazards. For
example:
• Manufacturing facilities in Norway and Lithuania were
evaluated for flood risk.
• Leather supply from Brazil was assessed for sensitivity
to drought and deforestation-related climate shifts.
• Shipping routes were evaluated for exposure to storm
and port disruption risks.
Ekornes identified transition risks through a structured
review of current and anticipated regulatory, market, and
technology developments. The analysis was informed by a
1.5°C scenario and included:
• EU and Norwegian sustainability regulations
• Market shifts toward low-emission materials
Methodology and Timing of the Resilience
Analysis
Ekornes conducted its climate scenario analysis based on
the principles outlined in ESRS E1-ESRS 2 SBM-3-19. The
methodology follows a structured approach to evaluate
the resilience of our business model, supply chain, and
operations under different climate scenarios. The analysis
is aligned with internationally recognized frameworks,
including those proposed by the Task Force on Climate-
Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
The process involved collaborating with key internal
stakeholders, including Operations, Procurement, Finance,
and Sustainability teams.
Key Assumptions for Scenario Analysis
• Carbon Pricing: In both the 1.5°C and 2°C scenarios,
carbon pricing is expected to rise significantly,
particularly in the EU. In the 1.5°C scenario, carbon
prices will be much higher, leading to increased
operational costs and compliance costs.
• Energy Transition: A shift towards renewable energy
will occur in all scenarios, but the pace of this transition
will be faster in the 1.5°C scenario. This will lead to
increased energy costs in the short-term but potential
savings in the long-term due to energy efficiency.
• Shift to low emission materials: In the 1.5°C and 2°C
scenarios, there will be a strong policy and
market-driven push toward the use of low-emission and
circular materials. Companies will increasingly adopt
certified, recycled, or bio-based alternatives to reduce
their carbon footprint. This shift may increase material
costs in the short-term due to limited supply and higher
certification standards, but it is expected to reduce
emissions and regulatory risks over time.
• Raw Material Availability: Climate-induced disruptions,
such as wildfires, droughts, and flooding, will affect the
availability of key raw materials (e.g., leather from Brazil,
wood from Slovakia and Germany). These disruptions
are expected to be more severe in the 4°C scenario.
• Supply Chain Resilience: The 1.5°C and 2°C scenarios
will focus on building more resilient supply chains to
address potential disruptions, while the 4°C scenario
may lead to severe logistical challenges due to extreme
weather and disrupted shipping routes.
IRO identied during DMA Type of impact Scope Time horizon
Scope 3 emissions: Contributing to climate change and increasing
the GHG emissions through indirect emissions scope 3 (e.g.;
commuting, procurement, use phase of products and services).
Negative impact
Physical
Upstream,
Downstream
Medium-term,
long-term
Energy consumption and emissions: Ekornes’ operations contribute
to global climate change due to energy consumption and emissions
from manufacturing processes.
Negative impact
Physical
Own operations
Medium-term,
long-term
Supply chain GHG emissions: Sourcing products increases GHG
emissions across the value chain, particularly from transportation,
raw material extraction, and supplier operations.
Negative impact
Physical
Upstream
Medium-term,
long-term
Data driven Scope 3: Proactive disclosure of scope 3 emissions can
result in valuable insights on the business and value chain activities
that are the most emitting. Therefore, disclosing scope 3 emissions
can lead to better informed decision-making and investment choices
and improved supply chain collaboration.
Opportunity
Transition
Upstream,
Downstream
Short-term,
medium-term
Low-carbon products: Switching to low-carbon footprint products
can result in additional costs. This is due to higher production
expenses, the use of more sustainable but costly materials, and the
need for new technologies or processes. In many cases, supply chains
for low-carbon alternatives are less developed, leading to higher
procurement and operational costs.
Risk
Transition
Upstream
Medium-term
Material IROs identified
(*ESRS E1-ESRS 2 SBM-3-18)
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202450 51
Time horizons:
Ekornes’ resilience analysis is based on the following time
horizons:
• Short-term: 1–5 years.
• Medium-term: 5–10 years.
• Long-term: 10+ years.
(*ESRS E1-ESRS 2 SBM-3-AR 6)
Scenarios used in Resilience Analysis:
1.5°C Scenario (Paris Agreement-aligned)
• High regulatory pressure, increased carbon pricing,
strict sustainability compliance.
• High costs in short-term but potential long-term
business opportunities through green financing and
sustainable product leadership.
2°C Scenario (Moderate climate action)
• Moderate regulatory pressure, gradual transition to
renewable energy. moderate supplier adaption costs.
• Market-driven demand for sustainability increases
steadily.
4°C Scenario (High-Risk Climate Scenario)
• Severe physical risks (hurricanes, wildfires, extreme
heat) disrupt operations and supply chains.
• Increased insurance costs, productivity losses, and
material sourcing instability.
(*ESRS E1-ESRS 2 SBM-3-AR 7))
Results of the Resilience Analysis
The resilience analysis identified Ekornes’ climate
resilience as moderate, reflecting a balance between
strategic adaptation efforts and inherent vulnerabilities
related to the financial impact of transitioning to
low-carbon footprint products and managing Scope 3
emissions throughout the supply chain.
The material risk for Ekornes is associated with increased
costs linked to low-carbon footprint products. This
includes costs arising from adopting certified raw
materials, meeting enhanced sustainability standards, and
implementing renewable energy solutions. These factors
drive operational cost increases and necessitate supply
chain adjustments to ensure compliance with evolving
regulatory standards. Additionally, managing Scope 3
emissions across the value chain is essential to maintain
transparency and stakeholder trust, as well as to mitigate
transition risks.
Resilience Evaluation by Scenario:
• 1.5°C Scenario (Paris Agreement-aligned):
Strengths: Compliance through low-carbon materials,
renewable energy adoption, and transparent Scope 3
disclosure.
Vulnerabilities: High short-term costs from carbon pricing
and certification requirements. Increased procurement
expenses for low-carbon materials.
Opportunities: Growing market demand for sustainable
products and access to green financing.
• 2°C Scenario (Moderate climate action):
Strengths: Adaptation to market-driven sustainability
demand and gradual adoption of eco-design principles.
Vulnerabilities: Moderate costs from supplier adaptation
and compliance. Operational efficiency challenges during
the transition.
Opportunities: Stable demand for sustainable products
and incremental improvements in supply chain resilience.
• 4°C Scenario (High-Risk Climate Scenario):
Strengths: Minimal, due to high physical risk exposure and
logistics disruptions.
Vulnerabilities: Severe impacts from hurricanes, wildfires,
and disrupted supply chains. Increased production costs
and insurance premiums.
Opportunities: Limited, as economic strain may reduce
consumer focus on sustainability.
The most material risk for Ekornes is associated with
increased costs related to transitioning to low-carbon
footprint products and maintaining compliance with
evolving regulatory standards. The company’s proactive
approach to disclosing Scope 3 emissions is considered an
opportunity to gain valuable insights and enhance supply
chain collaboration. By addressing these risks and
leveraging opportunities, Ekornes aims to strengthen its
long-term climate resilience and maintain competitive
advantage.
(*ESRS E1-ESRS 2 SBM-3-19-(c))
Ability to Adjust or Adapt Strategy and Business
Model:
Ekornes will integrate climate risk actions into its broader
ESG risk management framework. This ensures that all
sustainability-related risks—including climate, social, and
governance factors—are monitored, prioritized, and
addressed within a unified system.
Uncertainties in the Resilience Analysis and Ability to Adapt
Strategy and Business Model
Ekornes acknowledges that the resilience analysis includes
uncertainties related to climate projections, carbon pricing
trajectories, supplier readiness, and market reactions. Key
areas of uncertainty include:
• The timing and scale of regulatory changes related to
emissions and sustainable products, which may vary
across regions.
• The availability and affordability of certified raw
materials, particularly under more ambitious climate
scenarios.
• The pace of consumer demand shift toward sustainable
products, which influences return on investment in
eco-design.
• The severity and frequency of physical climate events,
which remain difficult to predict for specific supply
chain locations.
To manage these uncertainties, Ekornes has focused on
scenario range analysis (1.5°C, 2°C, 4°C) and adopted a
flexible planning approach. Ekornes will continue work on
the analysis and mitigation plan to ensure that the most
at-risk assets and activities to be included in strategic
planning, investment reviews, and procurement policy
updates.
At this moment Ekornes has a moderate capacity to adjust
or adapt its business model over the short-, medium-, and
long-term:
• Asset adaptation: Investments are being made in
upgrading equipment to support energy-efficient and
circular manufacturing. Where necessary, asset renewal
and redesign are considered for product lines that are
not aligned with circularity and low-carbon
requirements.
• Product portfolio shift: Ekornes is actively
transitioning toward more durable, repairable, and
recyclable furniture designs in response to material risk
exposure and evolving customer expectations.
These efforts contribute to Ekornes’ capacity to maintain
long-term resilience, reduce climate exposure, and respond
effectively to regulatory and market shifts. However, the
company recognises that further work is required to
strengthen its preparedness, particularly in areas such as
quantifying financial impacts of physical climate risks,
enhancing supplier-level data on emissions, and integrating
sustainability more deeply into product development and
investment decisions. Ekornes is not excluded from EU
Paris-aligned Benchmarks.
[MDR-P & E1-2] POLICIES RELATED TO
CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND
ADAPTATION
Ekornes has implemented a set of policies to manage the
material impacts, risks, and opportunities related to
climate change mitigation and adaptation, energy
efficiency and renewable energy. These policies are now
presented and their link to the material IROs for E1 are
described. For details about the policies see Table for
Ekornes policies related to material IROs, page 42-45,
where all policies are listed in accordance with ESRS 2
MDR-P and ESRS E1-2.
(*ESRS E1-2-24)
Ekornes Environmental Policy
Ekornes Environmental Policy outlines how company will
improve our own environmental performance. The general
objective of the policy is to provide clearly defined
commitments related to Ekornes’ environmental
performance and environmental targets. As the company
is now in a target definition process, this policy is also
under review. The policy lists Ekornes’ standpoint and
commitments related to climate change, namely:
• Continuously and transparently improve
environmental performance
• High environmental awareness and competence
throughout the group
• Collaboration with research and development
environments, authorities and other organizations
• Publicly available environmental information
• Ensure environmental management systems are in
place to ensure coordination and follow up of
environmental work
This policy is linked to the negative impact of scope 3
and supply chain emissions, because it emphasizes
environmental performance and collaboration. It is also
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202452 53
linked to the opportunity of data driven scope 3, as the
policy is focused on structuring internal environmental
communication and using environmental management
systems to improve data governance.
Sustainability Position Paper on Climate
The Sustainability Position Paper on Climate outlines
Ekornes’ key climate and energy priorities for 2024-2026.
These include:
• Emissions reductions, through setting targets,
improving energy efficiency and transitioning to
renewable energy sources.
• Sustainable product development through eco-design
and circularity principles to minimize carbon footprint.
• Supplier engagement and collaboration
• Transparency and reporting mean Ekornes reports
climate related performance and risks and engage
stakeholders in sustainability discussions
• Continuous improvement on climate and emissions
reductions is ensured through monitoring and keeping
track of climate-related metrics and investing in
sustainable practices and technologies.
The policy addresses climate change mitigation, energy
efficiency and renewable energy deployment because
these issues are defined as key priorities for the coming
years. The policy is linked to several of the material IROs.
Scope 3 emissions and Supply chain GHG emissions tie in
with the policy as there are explicit goals of engaging with
and collaborating with suppliers and related stakeholders
to reduce emissions. Energy consumption and emissions
ties in with the policy because emissions reductions and
energy efficiency are defined as priorities for the coming
years.
Ekornes Supplier Code of Conduct
The Supplier Code of Conduct outlines Ekornes’
expectations to suppliers and business partners. It touches
on several topics, including environmental concerns and
emissions, which is relevant to E1 Climate change. The
policy demands suppliers and business partners comply
with environmental regulations and laws and suppliers are
encouraged to reduce green-house gas emissions in their
operations and products and take a precautionary
approach to environmental challenges. Additionally,
suppliers are asked to perform a self-assessment which
includes questions and mapping of energy usage.
The policy addresses climate change mitigation, energy
efficiency and renewable energy deployment through
encouraging suppliers to reduce emissions. The policy is
linked to several of the related IROs, namely Scope 3
emissions and supply chain GHG emissions as the policy
states suppliers and business partners are encouraged to
reduce emissions in their operations.
[MDR-T & E1-4] TARGETS RELATED TO
CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND
ADAPTATION
Ekornes is currently in the process of defining its climate
change and emissions reduction targets. While internal
discussions have taken place, no targets have been
finalized at this stage. A final decision on climate change
and emissions targets is expected by the end of 2025.
[MDR-A & E1-3] ACTIONS AND
RESOURCES IN RELATION TO CLIMATE
CHANGE POLICIES
As Ekornes is still in the process of defining its climate and
emissions reduction targets, there are no new specific
actions related to energy efficiency or emissions
reductions to report for 2024, apart from our ongoing
supplier assessment to improve Scope 3 emissions.
Scope 3 – Assessment of suppliers
Ekornes performs supplier assessments to make sure that
suppliers comply with laws and regulations. This
assessment also makes it easier for Ekornes to choose
appropriate suppliers and affect the work being done with
regards to energy and climate at our suppliers. Based on
this assessment, a short list of high-risk suppliers is
developed, and these go through an in-depth auditing
process. Following the audit, there will be continuous
follow-up with suppliers. If they are unable to demonstrate
compliance towards Ekornes’ Code of Conduct and
following environmental principles, it is planned to
discontinue the relationship with them.
Following the audit, there will be continuous follow-up with
suppliers to ensure that deviations are addressed within
the set time limits. If deviations are not closed, the next
step is to evaluate and escalate whether discontinuing the
relationship is a viable option for both parties. If escalation
does not lead to compliance or progress, Ekornes will
inform the entity using the supplier that the procurement
department cannot vouch for the supplier and recommend
that the cooperation be terminated. However, the decision
to discontinue will also depend on the seriousness of the
deviation, distinguishing between minor and major issues.
The assessment covers environmental issues such as
compliance with environmental laws and regulations,
monitoring systems and responsible people in place to
oversee environmental issues, environmental policy at the
supplier, actions taken to reduce GHG emissions, pollution
and waste, energy usage and efficiency, and finally water
usage.
Supplier assessments are done across Ekornes operations,
in all countries and across brands. This is a continual action,
which happens periodically, approximately every other
year, as it is an exhaustive and time-consuming exercise.
At present, it is not possible to reliably quantify the
achieved or expected GHG emission reductions resulting
from these supplier assessments and follow-up measures.
The variation in supplier operations, geographies, and
reporting maturity creates uncertainty in estimating
measurable climate impact. Ekornes continues to develop
its supplier engagement and data collection to improve
traceability and future estimation capabilities.
The implementation of supplier assessments does not
require material operational or capital expenditure, and
there is no identified risk to the ability to carry out this
activity. It is managed within existing procurement and
sustainability functions as part of standard ESG due
diligence.
[E1-1] TRANSITION PLAN FOR CLIMATE
CHANGE MITIGATION
Ekornes is currently in a target definition process, and
while there have been several discussions internally, a final
decision will be made on GHG emissions reduction targets
during 2025. Ekornes has also performed a resilience
analysis and plan, looking into the resilience of our
operations in light of different climate change scenarios.
Based on our future targets and the resilience plan, our
goal is to develop a transition plan in upcoming years.
(*ESRS E1-1-16-(a)-(b)-(c)-(d)-(e)-(f)-(g)-(h)-(i)-(j))
[E1-5] ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND
MIX
Accounting principles for energy consumption and
energy intensity
Total energy consumption is disclosed in accordance with
ESRS E1-5. Total energy consumption related to own
operations covers the purchased and generated quantities
of electricity and district heating for manufacturing, our
warehouses and distribution centers in Norway, Lithuania,
Thailand and USA, as well as fuel consumption in owned
and leased vehicles. Electricity use from sales offices is also
included.
Energy consumption data is reported by each market per
energy type, except for electricity, where the breakdown is
done based on estimates using country energy mix, as
Policy IRO addressed Climate change topic addressed
Ekornes Environmental Policy
• Negative impact of scope 3 emissions
• Negative impact of supply chain GHG emissions
• Opportunity of data driven scope 3 emissions
• Climate change mitigation
• Energy efciency and
renewable energy deployment
Sustainability Position Paper on
Climate
• Negative impact of scope 3 emissions
• Negative impact of supply chain GHG emissions
• Negative impact of energy consumption and emissions
• Risk of switching to low carbon footprint products
• Climate change mitigation
• Energy efciency and
renewable energy deployment
Ekornes Supplier Code of Conduct
• Negative impact of scope 3 emissions
• Negative impact of supply chain GHG emissions
• Climate change mitigation
• Energy efciency and
renewable energy deployment
Summary of policies related to climate change mitigation and adaptation
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202454 55
Energy consumption and mix
Year 2024
(MWh)
Unit
1
Fuel consumption from coal and coal products
- MWh
2
Fuel consumption from crude oil and petroleum products
497,96 MWh
3
Fuel consumption from natural gas
2 685,97 MWh
4
Fuel consumption from other fossil sources
- MWh
5
Consumption of purchased or acquired electricity, heat, steam, and cooling from fossil sources
29 673,20 MWh
6 Total fossil energy consumption (MWh) (calculated as the sum of lines 1 to 5) 32 857,13 MWh
Share of fossil sources in total energy consumption (%)
46 %
7
Consumption from nuclear sources (MWh)
- MWh
Consumption of purchased or acquired electricity, heat, steam, and cooling from nuclear sources
371,36 MWh
Total nuclear energy consumption (MWh) 371,36 MWh
Share of consumption from nuclear sources in total energy consumption (%)
1 %
8
Fuel consumption for renewable sources, including biomass (also comprising industrial and
municipal waste of biologic origin, biogas, renewable hydrogen, etc.) (MWh)
173,76 MWh
9
Consumption of purchased or acquired electricity, heat, steam, and cooling from renewable
sources (MWh)
- MWh
10
The consumption of self-generated non-fuel renewable energy (MWh)
5 874,46 MWh
11 Total renewable energy consumption (MWh) (calculated as the sum of lines 8 to 10) 6 048,21 MWh
Share of renewable sources in total energy consumption (%) 53 %
Total energy consumption (MWh) (calculated as the sum of lines 6, 7 and 11) 39 276,43 MWh
Energy intensity per net revenue
Total energy consumption from activities in high climate impact sectors per net revenue from
activities in high climate impact sectors (MWh/Million NOK)
10,28
MWh / M
NOK
Production of self-generated non-fuel renewable energy (MWh)
1006,00 MWh
described in detail below. All data calculations are based on
actual numbers, except for sales offices, which have been
estimated.
Fuel consumption from natural gas stems from the
Morganton, Lithuanian and Fetsund facilities.
Fuel consumption from renewable sources stems from
district heating at the Ålesund office.
The sources of electricity consumed has been estimated
according to the country’s energy mix (Norway, USA,
Lithuania and Thailand), based on energy distribution
statistics from the International Energy Agency (www.iea.
org). This provided an overview per country of how much
electricity stems from fossil sources, nuclear sources and
renewable sources. These numbers were then aggregated
to provide Group level electricity consumption per energy
source.
Ekornes self-generates renewable energy at the Tynes,
Aure, Grodås and Ikornnes facilities through offcuts from
the wood production. The generated heat is either
distributed internally to the facility or like at the Ikornnes
facility it is sold to the neighborhood and donated to the
swimming pool in the nearby area. Some of the
self-generated energy is consumed and some of it is either
sold or donated. The consumed self-generated energy is
shown in the table below. Self-generated energy that is
sold is not included in the energy consumption figures, but
listed as a separate line item. The amount of MWh own
generation of renewable energy from wooden heating is
estimated from a calorific value of 4,69 kwh/kg according
to the NS 3165 standard.
Energy use from sales offices and regular offices is
estimated based on energy consumption from other
operations, looking at energy consumption per employee
for manufacturing operations. This data is scaled to
account for sales offices and regular offices consuming less
energy per employee compared to the manufacturing sites.
For 2025 Ekornes will base electricity from sales offices
and regular offices based on actual consumption. The
energy mix of the consumed energy is determined using a
global average energy mix, considering Ekornes has offices
all around the world.
Ekornes energy intensity per net revenue for 2024 was
calculated as the total energy consumption in MWh
divided by the revenue in million NOK. Net revenue entails
revenue from our manufacturing activities and wholesale
and retail trade, which are considered Ekornes’ high
climate impact sectors. The figure for revenue used in the
calculation is as reported on page 126 of the Financial
statements. The revenue used in the calculation is
NOK 3 818 988 000,00. The methodology for calculating
total energy consumption is described in the above
chapter. The energy consumption is either directly related
to manufacturing or sales, or support these objectives.
Consequently, there is no difference in scope when
comparing total energy consumption and total net
revenue.
Energy consumption and energy mix – quantitative data
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202456 57
Emissions within Scope 3 are calculated using a mix of
spend data and activity data with assistance from
third-party suppliers, namely Normative, CEMAsys,
transportation companies and other suppliers. Some
emissions are manually calculated or estimated internally
at Ekornes. All calculation methodologies use appropriate
emissions factors for the given emissions category. For
calculations related to scope 3, all Ekornes locations in
Norway, Thailand, USA and Lithuania have been included.
The following emissions categories are not considered
significant for Ekornes and are therefore not included in
scope 3 calculations: C3 Fuel and energy-related activities,
C8 Upstream leased assets, C10 Processing of sold
products, C11 Use of sold products, C13 Downstream
leased assets, C14 franchises and C15 Investments. C3
Fuel and energy-related activities is not considered
significant because direct fuel combustion (Scope 1) and
purchased electricity use (Scope 2) already capture the
majority of emissions related to energy consumption. The
upstream fuel extraction and refining processes related to
these energy sources, while theoretically relevant for
upstream emissions of purchased fuels and purchased
electricity, are considered minimal in comparison to other
significant Scope 3 categories such as Purchased Goods &
Services and Transportation. Ekornes does not produce or
distribute energy but solely purchases electricity for
operational use. C8 Upstream leased assets and C13
Downstream leased assets are considered insignificant
because the financial range of both of these categories is
small relatively to the other categories. C10 Processing of
sold products is not considered significant because
Ekornes’ products do not require further processing or
transformation before use by the end consumer. C11 Use
of sold products is not considered significant because
Ekornes’ products do not emit CO2 during the customers’
use of them. C14 Franchises is not relevant because
Ekornes does not operate franchises. C15 Investments is
not relevant because Ekornes doesn’t have any financial
investments or client services. No material biogenic
emissions were identified within scope 3.
A higher degree of uncertainty is present in the input data,
especially due to mostly relying on spend data to calculate
GHG emissions. 24,21% of emissions are calculated using
primary data obtained from suppliers or value chain
partners, through EPDs for specific products or based on
activity data. Spend data is the basis for most other
emissions estimates. Activity data has been used for less
than 1% of emissions (0,48%), and GHG emissions from
end of life (see details in accounting principles below) is
calculated based on EPD data. As this emissions category is
substantial, it drives up the fraction of emissions based on
primary data.
C1 Purchased goods and services iinclude upstream
GHG emissions related to production and processing of
purchased raw materials required in the production
process and packaging, third-party production and other
goods and services not captured elsewhere. These GHG
emissions are calculated based on spend data in
Normative.
C2 Capital goods include upstream GHG emissions
related to capital expenditures on capital goods purchased
or acquired by Ekornes. These GHG emissions are
calculated based on spend data in Normative.
C4 Upstream transportation and distribution includes
C4 Upstream transportation and distribution includes
GHG emissions related to transportation and distribution
that Ekornes pays for. This includes inbound
transportation of raw materials and packaging materials
(including return transportation of reused packaging
materials), third-party distribution and transportation of
third-party production volumes. It also includes GHG
emissions related to transportation and distribution to
distribution centers and retail facilities of sold products in
vehicles not owned or controlled by Ekornes and
emissions related to storage in third-party warehouses
and distribution centers and retail facilities. Emissions in
this category were calculated based on a mix of spend (in
Normative) and emissions reports from transportation
companies.
C5 Waste generated in operations includes downstream
GHG emissions related to waste treatment of waste from
Ekornes manufacturing sites. Waste was reported in kilos
divided into waste fractions and treatment methods
(recycled, energy recovered, landfilled). Emissions were
calculated based on relevant emissions factors through
CEMAsys.
C6 Business traveling includes GHG emissions related to
business-related travel activities of Ekornes’ employees
paid for by Ekornes, including third-party transportation
services, reimbursed transport in employees own vehicles
(mileage allowance) and reimbursed accommodation.
[E1-6] GROSS SCOPES 1, 2, 3 AND TOTAL
GHG EMISSIONS
Accounting principles for GHG emissions
GHG emissions are calculated based on either direct
activity data from own operations or suppliers, or estimated
based spend data, statistics or similar activity data. The
sources of the emissions factors used in the GHG calculations
can be found in the Table Emission factors applied to scope
1-3 GHG emissions at the end of this chapter.
There is high data uncertainty related to GHG emissions,
as the estimates are based on different data types. In
particular, converting currencies to harmonize spend data
for scope 3 emissions introduces discrepancies.
Additionally, various adjustments made during the process
may not accurately reflect actual emissions. The manual
distribution of emissions across different scopes and
categories further adds to the uncertainty.
Scope 1
Scope 1 emissions refer to the direct emissions from
sources that are owned or controlled by an organization.
All Ekornes production facilities are included in Scope 1.
For Thailand there are no Scope 1 emissions. No Scope 1
emissions are registered for sales offices as there is no
transport registered as scope 1 emissions and no
stationary combustion.
Scope 1 emissions are calculated with support of an
external supplier, CEMAsys, which receive data from
Ekornes and align calculations with ESRS requirements.
Scope 1 emissions are calculated as energy consumption,
fuel usage and combustion usage multiplied by relevant
emissions factors. See Table Emission factors applied to
scope 1-3 GHG emissions at the end of this chapter for
details on sources for the emissions factors related to
Scope 1.
• Fuel for transportation: Within the category of fuel for
transportation the emissions are related to fuel for own
trucks and cars for internal transportation between the
factories in Norway. The other factories do not have
such transportation internally. These numbers are
based on actual volume usage of diesel and petrol.
• Stationary combustion: The emissions related to
stationary combustion is related to the burning of
Natural gas at the US and Lithuania facilities, oil at the
Ikornnes facility and propane at the Fetsund facility.
These numbers are based on actual volume usage of
natural gas, oil and propane.
• Chemical process: Ekornes’ scope 1 emissions
additionally reflect emissions from polyurethane
production. Emissions from this production process is
based on actual emissions data from the manufacturing
facility based on volume produced and the ingoing CO2
in the production process.
Biogenic emissions not included in Scope 1 include CO2
emissions from the combustion of biomass, biofuels and
biogas at our manufacturing sites or in company vehicles.
For Ekornes biogenic emissions arise from transportation
fuel combustion (diesel) and burning of wood chips for
energy recovery. This was calculated based on activity data.
Scope 2
Scope 2 emissions cover emissions resulting from
electricity consumption in all Ekornes locations, including
the manufacturing facilities in Norway (including the
showroom Ekornes-bua), USA, Lithuania and Thailand, as
well as district heating to the Showroom facility in
Aalesund (Ekornes-bua). Scope 2 emissions are calculated
with support of an external supplier, CEMAsys, which
receive data from Ekornes about the kWh of electricity and
district heating and use appropriate emission factors to
calculate GHG emissions and further align calculations
with ESRS requirements . The Scope 2 emissions data are
calculated based on actual input kwh numbers. See Table
Emission factors applied to scope 1-3 GHG emissions at
the end of this chapter for details on emission factor
sources for Scope 2.
For the location-based calculation, emission factors used
are based on statistics from the International Energy
Agency. These emission factors are updated annually to
keep up with changes in energy mix in individual countries.
For the market-based calculation, default emission factors
related to the residual mix have been used. Ekornes has not
bought Guarantees of Origin nor RECs in 2024, and so the
emission factors represent the untracked or unclaimed
energy. For Thailand, the location-based emission factors
were applied in the market-based calculations, as there
was no emission factor available for residual mix in these
regions.
No material biogenic emissions were identified within
scope 2.
Scope 3
Scope 3 emissions cover indirect emissions from Ekornes’
value chain, both upstream and downstream, including
emissions associated with the 8 categories listed below.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202458 59
Meals during travel are not included. The GHG emissions
are calculated based on travel agency reports for flight
travel, internal calculations for flights, and spend data for
the remaining activities through Normative.
C7 Employee commuting includes GHG emissions related
to Ekornes’ employees’ commute from home to work and
from work to home. This has been estimated based on
average commutes in km (country statistics) for Norway,
Thailand, Lithuania and USA and emissions factors showing
CO2eq per km travelled. The emission factor represents
unknown fuel and average sized car. The estimated GHG
emissions does not include employees at Ekornes’ sales
offices, as they usually work from customer sites and
significant emissions for this employee group is included in
C6 Business traveling. The estimate covers employee
commuting emissions from 89% of Ekornes employees, the
total amount of employees that work in our manufacturing
operations, either directly or as administration and
management. When reporting for 2025, the plan is to
perform a survey to map commuting mode of
transportation and distance from home to work location. In
addition to emissions from fuel used during commutes
(Tank-To-Wheel), the emissions linked to production of fuel
volumes have been estimated (Well-To-Tank). An emission
factor for unknown fuel and average sized car has been
used to calculate these emissions. These emissions were
estimated and calculated outside of Normative, and then
added to the Normative results to provide a total overview.
C9 Downstream transportation includes GHG emissions
related to transportation and distribution of sold products
from Ekornes facilities to retailers that Ekornes does not
pay for. Ekornes pays for the transportation of 98,04% of
its products, and retailers pay for the remaining 1,96%
(evaluated based on value of sold products). The emissions
related to transportation of sold products that Ekornes
does not pay for has been based on the emissions for the
transportation that Ekornes does pay for, and scaled to the
value of sold products where retailers pay for
transportation. Exact data for value of sold products is
available for Ekornes and Svane, with detailed breakdown
between sold products where transportation is paid by
Ekornes and its retailers. The value of sold products is also
available for IMG, but not the breakdown between who
pays for transportation. The distribution for Ekornes and
Svane has been used to estimate emissions from
transportation IMG does not pay for. These emissions
were estimated and calculated outside of Normative, and
then added to the Normative results to provide a total
overview.
C12 End-of-life treatment of sold products iincludes
GHG emissions related to waste treatment at the end of
life of Ekornes’ furniture and its packaging. The GHG
emissions are calculated based on data from
Environmental product declarations (EPD) calculated by
sold products. One product is considered as representative
of all products in each key product group (power recliners,
recliners, dining chairs, sofas). Svane does not currently
have EPDs for beds. The end of life emissions for beds was
estimated based on EPD data for sofas. These emissions
were estimated and calculated outside of Normative, and
then added to the Normative results to provide a total
overview.
IMG Sales companies and Ekornes China
GHG emissions for IMG sales companies and Ekornes
China did not have detailed data available. Emissions tied
to these operations were calculated based on relevant
spend and compared to GHG emissions from similar
suppliers where detailed data was available. Here the
assumption is that the IMG sales companies have similar
emissions patterns as suppliers that are close in spend
amount. These emissions were estimated and calculated
outside of Normative, and then added to the Normative
results to provide a total overview. The emissions in
question were linked to emission category C1, C2, C6
and C9.
Several measures have been implemented to avoid double
counting. Spend from sales companies and production
facilities have been distributed across relevant categories.
Spend items related to suppliers that provide readily
calculated GHG emissions have been removed from this
spend overview and added manually to Normative. There
have been several internal audits and quality checks to
ensure appropriate distribution across relevant emissions
categories.
Total GHG emissions
Total location-based GHG emissions are calculated
according to ESRS, by adding Gross Scope 1, Gross Scope
2 (location-based) and Gross Scope 3 Total together.
Market-based GHG emissions are calculated according
to ESRS, by adding Gross Scope 1, Gross Scope 2
(market-based) and Gross Scope 3 together.
Retrospective Milestones and target years
Base
year
2024
Comparative 2024
%
2024/
2023
2025 2030 (2050)
Annual %
target /
Base year
Scope 1 GHG Emissions
Gross Scope 1 GHG emissions
(tCO2eq)
830
tCO2eq
N/A
830
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Percentage of Scope 1 GHG emissions
from regulated emission trading
schemes (%)
0 % N/A 0 % N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Scope 2 GHG Emissions
Gross location-based Scope 2 GHG
emissions (tCO2eq)
1 593 N/A 1 593 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Gross market-based Scope 2 GHG
emissions (tCO2eq)
13 965 N/A 13 965 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Signicant scope 3 GHG emissions
Total Gross indirect (Scope 3) GHG
emissions (tCO2eq)
87 595
tCO2eq
N/A
87 595
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
1 Purchased goods and services
65 676
tCO2eq
N/A
65 676
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
2 Capital goods
684
tCO2eq
N/A
684
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
3 Fuel and energy-related Activities
(not included in Scope1 or Scope 2)
- N/A - N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
4 Upstream transportation and
distribution
13 490
tCO2eq
N/A
13 490
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
5 Waste generated in operations
289
tCO2eq
N/A
289
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
6 Business traveling
945
tCO2eq
N/A
945
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
7 Employee commuting
6 178
tCO2eq
N/A
6 178
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
8 Upstream leased assets - N/A - N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
9 Downstream transportation
242
tCO2eq
N/A
242
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
10 Processing of sold products - N/A - N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
11 Use of sold products - N/A - N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
12 End-of-life treatment of sold
products
91
tCO2eq
N/A
91
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
13 Downstream leased assets - N/A - N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
14 Franchises - N/A - N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
15 Investments - N/A - N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Total GHG emissions
Total GHG emissions (location-based)
(tCO2eq)
90 017
tCO2eq
N/A
90 017
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Total GHG emissions (market-based)
(tCO2eq)
102 390
tCO2eq
N/A
102 390
tCO2eq
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Biogenic emissions:
Biogenic emissions not included in
Scope 1 GHG emissions
tCO2eq 1 138
Gross Scopes 1, 2, 3 and Total GHG Emissions
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202460 61
Accounting principles for GHG Intensity
GHG intensity based on net revenue for 2024 was
calculated as the total GHG emissions in tCO2eq divided
by the revenue in million NOK. GHG int<ensity is
calculated using both the market-based and location-based
total GHG emissions. As with energy intensity, net revenue
entails revenue from our manufacturing activities and
wholesale and retail trade, which are considered Ekornes’
high climate impact sectors. The figure for revenue used in
the calculation is as reported on page 126 of the Financial
statements. The revenue used in the calculation is
NOK 3 818 988 000,00. The methodology for total
GHG emissions is described above.
Total GHG Emissions location based per net revenue (tCO2eq / Million NOK) tCO2eq/m NOK 23,57
Total GHG Emissions market based per net revenue (tCO2eq / Million NOK) tCO2eq/m NOK 26,81
GHG Intensity based on net revenue
Emission factors applied to scope 1-3 GHG emissions
Activity data Source of emission factor applied in calculations
Scope 1
• DEFRA, UK Government GHG Conversion Factors for Company Reporting (2024)
• Norwegian Environment Agency (Miljødirektoratet, Nasjonale standardfaktorer) (2024)
• EPA Environmental Protection Agency, Emissions Factors for Greenhouse Gas inventories (2024)
Scope 2
• IEA, International Energy Agency (2024)
• AIB, Association of issuing bodies (2024)
• Green-e, unweighted average for all 27 eGrid subregions, calculated by CEMAsys (2024)
• Energy Statistics Data Browser (2024)
• Fjernkontrollen (2024)
• DEFRA, UK Government GHG Conversion Factors for Company Reporting (2024)
• Ecoinvent 3.11 (2024)
• OFV, Opplysningsrådet for veitrakken (2024)
• Norsk Elbilforening (2024)
Scope 3
C1 Purchased goods and services
• Normative: Exiobase (3.8.2) (2019)
• Normative: DESNZ, UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2024)
C2 Capital goods
• Normative: Exiobase (3.8.2) (2019)
• Normative: DESNZ, UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2024)
C4 Upstream transportation and distribution
• Normative: Exiobase (3.8.2) (2019)
• Normative: DESNZ, UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2024)
• Transportation companies: Eco-transit
• Transportation companies: EU Small Emitters Tool
• Transportation companies: EcoTransIT World
• Transportation companies: Database HBEFA 3.2 (Handbook Emission Factors for Road Transport)
• Transportation companies: SCAC code-based emissions factors (annually updated, Swedish Clean Air &
Climate Research Program)
C5 Waste generated in operations
• CEMAsys: DEFRA (2024)
• CEMAsys: Ecoinvent 3.11
C6 Business travels
• Normative: Exiobase (3.8.2) (2019)
• Normative: DESNZ, UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2024)
• Berg-Hansen: ICAO, International Civil Aviation Organization Carbon Emissions Calculator
• Berg-Hansen: GreenView Hotel Footprinting Tool
• Ayvens Leasing Company: Emisoft
Ayvens Leasing Company: Emisoft C7 Employee commuting
• Internal estimates: DEFRA (2024)
• Internal estimates: DEFRA (2024)
C9 Downstream transportation:
• Normative: Exiobase (3.8.2) (2019)
• Normative: DESNZ, UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2024)
• Transportation companies: GHG emissions established according to standard ISO 14083:2023
(Greenhouse gases—Quantication and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions—Freight transport)
• Transportation companies: For two of the transportation companies the emissions factor sources were
not disclosed
• Transportation companies: EU Small Emitters Tool
• Transportation companies: EcoTransIT World
• Transportation companies: Database HBEFA 3.2 (Handbook Emission Factors for Road Transport)
• Transportation companies: SCAC code-based emissions factors (annually updated, Swedish Clean Air &
Climate Research Program)
C12 End-of-life treatment of sold products (based on EPD information)
• Ecoinvent 3.6 (2019)
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202462 63
Definitions
Taxonomy-eligible economic activity means an economic
activity that is described in the delegated acts supplementing
the Taxonomy Regulation, irrespective of whether that
economic activity meets any or all the technical screening
criteria laid down in those delegated acts.
An economic activity is Taxonomy-aligned where it
complies An economic activity is Taxonomy-aligned where
it complies with the technical screening criteria and it is
carried out in compliance with the minimum safeguards
regarding human and consumer rights, anti-corruption and
bribery, taxation, and fair competition. To meet the technical
screening criteria, an economic activity contributes
substantially to one or more environmental objectives
while not doing significant harm to any of the other
environmental objectives
Taxonomy-non-eligible economic activity means any
economic activity that is not described in the delegated
acts supplementing the Taxonomy Regulation.
Taxonomy-eligible and Taxonomy-aligned
economic activities
The Ekornes Group have examined all economic activities
carried out by the group to see which of these are eligible
and also aligned in accordance with the Taxonomy
Regulation.
Appendix
Page 21
Revenues Opex Capex
0%
100%
1% 1%
98%
10%
2%
88%
Aligned
Eligible, not aligned
Non-eligible
Appendix
Page 21
Revenues Opex Capex
0%
100%
1% 1%
98%
10%
2%
88%
Aligned
Eligible, not aligned
Non-eligible
The table below includes the activities that qualify as
eligible. Information on the extent to which the economic
activities are also aligned is assessed in each activities
section below and in the KPI templates presented in the
chapter “KPIs and accounting policies”.
CCM 4.24 Production of heat/cool from bioenergy
In the factory at Ikornnes Ekornes has a facility producing
heat using wood pellets. In 2023 and 2024 Ekornes
incurred CapEx for a new boiler related to this facility. The
wood pellets are purchased from an external vendor. This
vendor only source forest biomass from Norway but have
no records of where their vendors source the wood.
Therefore, the company is not able to assess if the activity
complies with the substantial contribution criteria and has
assessed the activity as non-aligned.
Additionally, the factory has a facility using woodchips from
the production that produce heat. In 2024 the facility has
been upgraded incurring CapEx. The factory also delivers
heating to a housing area close to the factory which
generates revenue. The woodchips used from the
production is off cuttings from wood sourced from Europe
(Slovakia and Germany) and the greenhouse gas emissions
savings are at least 80% in relation to the GHG emission
saving methodology. However, the activity does not comply
with the DNSH-criteria for pollution. Based on this the
activity is non-aligned.
CE 5.2 Sale of spare parts
The group delivers replacement parts/hardware for
Stressless models produced within the past 10-15 years.
The packaging of the products follows the same process as
for all Stressless products and the packaging is not made of
at least 65% recycled material. Based on this the activity is
non-aligned.
CCM 6.5 Transport by motorbikes, passenger cars
and light commercial vehicles
The Group has several leasing agreements for vehicles in
category N1. Nine new agreements were signed in 2024
and are classified as right-of-use assets according to IFRS
16, meaning that they are a part of CapEx in 2024.
Of 9 new agreements, 2 are assessed as low- and
zero-emission light duty vehicles. Based on information
from the vendors the vehicles are aligned with the
DNSH-criteria for circular economy and pollution
prevention. Additionally, based on our risk assessments
the vehicles comply with the criteria set out for climate
adaption. Based on this 2 out of 9 new agreements are
considered aligned.
CCM 6.6 Freight transport services by road
Most of the freight transport is purchased by third parties
but the Group also owns some vehicles. In 2024 two new
leasing agreements was signed, one in the US and one in
Norway. The truck in the US is non-aligned with the
substantial contribution criteria as it is not a zero-emission
heavy-duty vehicle.
The truck in Norway is assessed as aligned. It has zero
direct CO2 emissions and comply with the substantial
contribution criteria. It is also aligned with the
DNSH-criteria for circular economy and pollution
prevention, based on information from the vendors.
Additionally, based on our risk assessments the truck
complies with the criteria set out for climate adaption.
CCM 7.2 Renovation of existing buildings
In 2024 the Group has performed three renovation
projects in its buildings in Norway incurring CapEx. The
energy performance has not been evaluated before or
EKORNES – EU TAXONOMY REPORT 2024
The EU taxonomy is a cornerstone of the EU’s sustainable
finance framework and an important market transparency
tool. The taxonomy is a classification system that defines
criteria for economic activities that are aligned with a net
zero trajectory by 2050 and the broader environmental
goals other than climate.
On January 1, 2023, the new Sustainable Finance Act
(Lov om offentliggjøring av bærekraftsinformasjon i
finanssektoren mv.) implementing the EU Taxonomy
Regulation into Norwegian legislation came into effect.
Following this the Ekornes Group is required to report
on the EU Taxonomy and the reporting is performed as
a consolidated group.
The report is prepared in accordance with the Taxonomy
Regulation EU (2020/852). The technical screening
criteria for environmental goals 3-6 was not effectuated
for the financial year 2023 and is reported for the first time
for the financial year 2024.
When assessing the activities an overall initial assessment
was prepared on group level including all activities from
the EU Taxonomy for the six environmental objectives. The
list of activities was distributed to relevant stakeholders
across the group for input. All input is documented with
reference to underlying documentation to ensure accuracy
and to avoid any double counting when allocating to the
key performance indicators.
In the following section, we present the share of the Group
turnover, capital expenditure (CapEx) and operating
expenditure (OpEx) for the reporting period 2024, which
are related to non-eligible, eligible but non-aligned (eligible)
and eligible and aligned (aligned) activities, related to the
environmental objectives.
As the delegated acts are limited to specific activities, a
large part of the Ekornes Groups activities is Taxonomy-
non-eligible. The reason is that the main activities in the
Ekornes Group is not yet included in the EU Taxonomy.
It is expected to be considered in future revisions of the
delegated acts.
For details and templates, see the chapter “KPI’s and accounting policies” below.
Sector ID Activity
Energy CCM 4.24 Production of heat/cool from bioenergy
Services CE 5.2 Sale of spare parts
Transport CCM 6.5 Transport by motorbikes, passenger cars and light commercial vehicles
Transport CCM 6.6 Freight transport services by road
Construction and real estate CCM 7.2 Renovation of existing buildings
Construction and real estate CCM 7.3 Installation, maintenance, and repair of energy efciency equipment
Construction and real estate CCM 7.5
Installation, maintenance and repair of instruments and devices for
measuring, regulation and controlling energy performance of buildings
Construction and real estate CCM 7.6 Installation, maintenance and repair of renewable energy technologies
64 65
after the renovation and company is not able to assess the
substantial contribution criteria. Based on this Ekornes has
classified the activity as non-aligned.
CCM 7.3 Installation, maintenance, and repair of
energy efficiency equipment
The Group has incurred CapEx and OpEx, on several of its
locations, related to installation and maintenance of
heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Some of
them are defined as one of the individual measures
specified in the substantial contribution criteria. For these
activities Ekornes have assessed that they are aligned with
the DNSH-criteria for climate adaption through our
climate assessment. Part of the activity is aligned.
CCM 7.5 Installation, maintenance and repair of
instruments and devices for measuring, regulation
and controlling energy performance of buildings
In 2024 façade elements for sun shading has been installed
in the factory building in Ikornnes. The cost is capitalized.
The investment has a solar shading function which is one of
the individual measures specified in the substantial
contribution criteria. The activity also complies with the
DNSH-criteria set out for climate adaption based on our
climate assessment. Based on this the activity is assessed
as aligned.
CCM 7.6 Installation, maintenance and repair of
renewable energy technologies
At the factory site in Fetsund three new heatpumps have
been installed and the cost is capitalized. A major
maintenance project of the seawater heating facility in
Sykkylven has also been completed and the cost
recognized as OpEx. Both activities are listed as one of the
individual measures in the substantial contribution criteria,
installation and maintenance of heat pumps. Further based
on our climate assessments the activities comply with the
DNSH-criteria for climate adaption. Based on this the
activities are assessed as aligned.
Minimum safeguards
The minimum safeguards (MS) are built on four pillars:
human rights, taxation, corruption, and fair competition.
The MS include all procedures implemented to ensure that
economic activities are carried out in alignment with:
• OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (OECD
MNE Guidelines)
• UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
(UNGPs), including the principles and rights set out in
the eight fundamental conventions identified in the
Declaration of the International Labor Organization on
Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work
• The International Bill of Human Rights
Ekornes’ accountability for respecting human rights,
taxation, fair competition and avoiding corruption extends
throughout the value chain.
Ekornes follows a two-dimensional assessment approach
to assess compliance with MS. On the one hand, adequate
processes have been implemented to prevent negative
impacts (procedural dimension). On the other hand,
outcomes are monitored to check whether the processes
are effective (outcome dimension).
Ekornes Group understands that the behavior of all
employees and other actors along the value chain plays a
central role in complying with MS. Ekornes takes this
responsibility seriously by following the ethical business
conduct principles for daily business activities, which are
manifested in the Group’s Code of Conduct covering all
four MS topics. Moreover, the Ekornes Group has been a
signatory of the United Nations Global Compact since
2009 and is committed to integrating the 10 principles of
ethical business conduct into its business strategy and
operations.
Regarding the supply chain and business relationships,
Ekornes expects the same ethical business conduct from its
suppliers as from its own entities. Therefore, the MS
requirements are an integral part of business contracts and
the Supplier’s Code of Conduct. The Supplier’s Code of
Conduct aims to promote and enforce practices relating to
human rights, ethics, and the protection of the
environment and safety. Ekornes expects each supplier to
respect the Group’s ethical principles and ensure that the
Code of Conduct is followed by all employees and
subcontractors. Moreover, supplier selection and
evaluation processes include human rights,
anti-corruption, and anti-bribery due diligence.
Human rights (Including labor and consumer rights)
The Final Report on Minimum Safeguards from the
Platform on Sustainable Finance notes that several
countries, including Norway, have adopted mandatory
human rights and environmental due diligence legislation
at a national level. The Norwegian Transparency Act, which
entered into force in July 2022, promotes enterprises’
respect for fundamental human rights and decent working
conditions. This law ensures public access to information
about companies’ impact on human rights and decent
working conditions. Ekornes has complied with legislative
requirements and considers itself aligned with the
Minimum Safeguards of the EU Taxonomy. Information
about Ekornes’ human rights work and the Transparency
Act is available on the company website.
Based on UNGPs and the OECD MNE Guidelines,
including the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for
Responsible Business Conduct, Ekornes has implemented
a six-step approach to identify, prevent, and, if necessary,
mitigate and remediate any actual and potential negative
impacts on human rights.
Ekornes’ human rights statement, which describes its
strategy, high-impact areas, and the processes and
measures taken to prevent negative human rights impacts,
is publicly available on the website. The strategy for
combating human rights violations is based on a thorough
impact analysis, which takes into account geographical and
sectoral specifications. The impact analysis includes
business units, subsidiaries, business partners, and the
value chain. Human rights impacts were prioritized, and
processes were adjusted or implemented to tackle
significant risks. Measures to prevent and mitigate actual
and potential adverse human rights impacts were
identified and implemented. The processes ensure that
remedial action is taken promptly in the event of an acute
human rights violation, and if necessary, compensation is
provided to affected individuals. The effectiveness of these
processes is monitored through internal reviews regularly.
Any person who feels that their human rights have been
violated by the activities of Ekornes internally can contact
the whistleblower channel. Any reaction to the business or
an actor in the value chain can be reported through the
Transparency Act channel. This is monitored by an internal
team of supply chain experts, overseeing both internal and
external processes of the value chain.
In 2024, there were no complaints or breaches related to
human rights internally. Moving forward, Ekornes will
continue communicating and raising awareness about the
internal whistleblowing channel. Additionally, Ekornes
conducted a self-assessment for all suppliers in the value
chain. Following the previous year’s self-assessment,
Ekornes is conducting 8 supplier audits. Furthermore,
Ekornes has initiated actions toward a high-risk category
(transport) and has introduced new category-specific
self-assessments for suppliers globally.
Corruption and Bribery
Ekornes has zero tolerance for corruption and bribery. The
control mechanisms to prevent corruption and bribery in
the business units and value chains are based on a risk
assessment, including geographical and sectoral criteria.
Anti-corruption is an integral part of the Code of Conduct
and internal control.
Ekornes has an Anti-Corruption Policy that strictly
prohibits all forms of corruption, bribery, and unethical
influence. Neither Ekornes nor its employees shall engage
in ‘smearing’ or any similar practices to gain special
advantages or privileged access.
In the financial year 2024, no relevant court cases have
been identified in relation to corruption and bribery.
Taxation
In 2024, there were no breaches related to taxation.
Ekornes has a global presence and must comply with
various taxation systems worldwide. In line with its ethical
business values, tax governance and tax compliance are key
elements of oversight. Ekornes is committed to complying
with all relevant tax laws and regulations.
Ekornes adheres to its established Global Tax Strategy and
Transfer Pricing Principles. Comprehensive details are
outlined in the Financial Handbook to ensure compliance
with tax laws.
Fair competition
Ekornes carries out its activities in a manner consistent
with all applicable competition laws and regulations, taking
into consideration the competition laws of all jurisdictions
in which its activities might have anti-competitive effects.
Through the Code of Conduct, Ekornes pursues the goal of
achieving and maintaining lively competition in a free
market environment for the entire Ekornes Group,
establishing a corporate culture of fair competition.
In 2024, there were no breaches related to fair
competition.
KPI’s and accounting policies
The key performance indicators (“KPIs”) include the
turnover KPI, the CapEx KPI and the OpEx KPI. For
presenting the Taxonomy KPIs, Ekornes uses the
mandatory templates provided in the delegated acts.
The Groups consolidated financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS), refer to detailed accounting
principles in “Notes to the consolidated financial
statements”.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202466 67
Proportion of turnover from products or services associated with Taxonomy-aligned economic activities – disclosure covering year 2024
Comparative gures for activity CE 5.2 is not reported as 2024 is the rst year of reporting for this activities.
Biodiversity (16)
Circular Economy (15)
Pollution (14)
Water (13)
Climate Change Adaptation (12)
Climate Change Mitigation (11)
Biodiversity (10)
Circular Economy (9)
Pollution (8)
Water (7)
Climate Change Adaptation (6)
Climate Change Mitigation (5)
Financial year 2024 Year Substantial contribution criteria DNSH criteria (“Does Not Signicantly Harm”)(8)
Economic Activities (1) Code(2) Turnover
(3)
Proportion
of Turnover, year
2023
(4)
Minimum
Safeguards
(17)
Proportion of
Taxonomy-
aligned (A.1.)
or -eligible (A.2.)
turnover, year
2023 (18)
Category
enabling
activity (19)
Category
transitional
activity (20)
Text MNOK %
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N % E T
A. TAXONOMY-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
A.1. Environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned)
Turnover of environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned) (A.1) - 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 %
Of which enabling - 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 % E
Of which transitional - 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 % T
A.2. Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable activities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities)(7)
EL;N/EL EL;N/EL EL;N/EL EL;N/EL EL;N/EL EL;N/EL
Production of heat/cool from bioenergy CCM 4.24 0 % EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
Sale of spare parts CE 5.2 10 0 % N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL 0 %
Turnover of Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable
activities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities) (A.2)
10 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 %
A. Turnover of Taxonomy-eligible activities(A.1+A.2) 10 0 %
0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 %
B. TAXONOMY-NON-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
Turnover of Taxonomy-non-eligible activities 3 809 100 %
TOTAL 3 819 100%
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202468 69
Financial year 2024 Year Substantial contribution criteria DNSH criteria (“Does Not Signicantly Harm”)(22)
Economic Activities (1) Code(2) OpEx (3) Proportion of
OpEx, year 2023
(4)
Minimum
Safeguards (17)
Proportion of
Taxonomy-
aligned (A.1.)
or -eligible (A.2.)
turnover, year
2023 (18)
Category
enabling
activity (19)
Category
transitional
activity (20)
Text MNOK %
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N % E T
A. TAXONOMY-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
A.1. Environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned)
Installation, maintenance and repair of energy
efciency equipment
CCM 7.3 0 0 % Y Y
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y
0 % E
Installation, maintenance and repair of
renewable energy technologies
CCM 7.6 1 1 %
Y Y N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 % E
OpEx of environmentally sustainable activities
(Taxonomy-aligned) (A.1)
1 1 % 1 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 %
Of which enabling
1 1 %
1 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 % E
Of which transitional
- 0 % %
0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
0 % T
A.2. Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable activities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities)(22)
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
Installation, maintenance and repair of energy
efciency equipment
CCM 7.3
1 1 %
EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
1 %
OpEx of Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable activities
(not Taxonomy-aligned activities) (A.2)
1 1 %
1 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 %
1 %
A. OpEx of Taxonomy eligible activities(A.1+A.2) 2 2 % 2 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 %
1 %
B. TAXONOMY-NON-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
OpEx of Taxonomy-non-eligible activities 85 98%
TOTAL 86 100%
The comparative information for 2023 is corrected to not include activities CCM 6.2, CCM 6.5 and CCM 8.2 as they did not fall under the EU Taxonomy OpEx denition.
Proportion of OpEx from products or services associated with Taxonomy-aligned economic activities – disclosure covering year 2024
Biodiversity (16)
Circular Economy (15)
Pollution (14)
Water (13)
Climate Change Adaptation (12)
Climate Change Mitigation (11)
Biodiversity (10)
Circular Economy (9)
Pollution (8)
Water (7)
Climate Change Adaptation (6)
Climate Change Mitigation (5)
70 71
Proportion of CapEx from products or services associated with Taxonomy-aligned economic activities – disclosure covering year 2024
Financial year 2024 Year Substantial contribution criteria DNSH criteria (“Does Not Signicantly Harm”)(22)
Economic Activities (1) Code(2) CapEx (3) Proportion of
CapEx, year 2023
(4)
Minimum
Safeguards (17)
Proportion of
Taxonomy-
aligned (A.1.)
or -eligible (A.2.)
turnover, year
2023 (18)
Category
enabling
activity (19)
Category
transitional
activity (20)
Text MNOK %
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y; N;
N/EL
Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N % E T
A. TAXONOMY-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
A.1. Environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned)
Transport by motorbikes, passenger cars and light
commercial vehicles
CCM 6.5 1 1 % Y Y
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
Y Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y 0 %
T
Freight transport services by road CCM 6.6 0 0 % Y Y
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
0 %
T
Installation, maintenance and repair of energy efciency
equipment
CCM 7.3 0 0 % Y Y
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
0 % E
Installation, maintenance and repair of instruments and
devices for measuring, regulation and controlling energy
performance of buildings
CCM 7.5 0 0 % Y Y
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
0 % E
Installation, maintenance and repair of renewable energy
technologies
CCM 7.6 0 0 % Y Y
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
0 % E
CapEx of environmentally sustainable activities
(Taxonomy-aligned) (A.1)
2 2 % 2 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 %
Of which enabling 2 2 % 2 %
0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 % E
Of which transitional - 0 % %
Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 0 % T
A2. Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable activities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities)(15)
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
EL;
N/EL
Production of heat/cool from bioenergy CCM 4.24 3 4 % EL
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
0 %
Transport by motorbikes, passenger cars and light
commercial vehicles
CCM 6.5 3 3 % EL
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
5 %
Freight transport services by road CCM 6.6 1 1 % EL
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
1 %
Renovation of existing buildings CCM 7.2 1 1 % EL
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
0 %
Installation, maintenance and repair of energy efciency
equipment
CCM 7.3 1 1 % EL
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
0 %
Acquisition and ownership of buildings CCM 7.7 - 0 % EL
N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL
26 %
CapEx of Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable activities
(not Taxonomy-aligned activities) (A.2)
9 11 % 11 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 34 %
A. CapEx of Taxonomy-eligible activities(A.1+A.2) 11 12 % 12 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 %
B. TAXONOMY-NON-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
CapEx of Taxonomy-non-eligible activities 77 88 %
TOTAL 88 100%
Biodiversity (16)
Circular Economy (15)
Pollution (14)
Water (13)
Climate Change Adaptation (12)
Climate Change Mitigation (11)
Biodiversity (10)
Circular Economy (9)
Pollution (8)
Water (7)
Climate Change Adaptation (6)
Climate Change Mitigation (5)
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202472 73
Nuclear energy related activities
The undertaking carries out, funds or has exposures to research, development, demonstration and deployment of innovative
electricity generation facilities that produce energy from nuclear processes with minimal waste from the fuel cycle
No
The undertaking carries out, funds or has exposures to construction and safe operation of new nuclear installations to
produce electricity or process heat, including for the purposes of district heating or industrial processes such as hydrogen
production, as well as their safety upgrades, using best available technologies.
No
The undertaking carries out, funds or has exposures to safe operation of existing nuclear installations that produce
electricity or process heat, including for the purposes of district heating or industrial processes such as hydrogen
production from nuclear energy, as well as their safety upgrade
No
Fossil gas related activities
The undertaking carries out, funds or has exposures to construction or operation of electricity generation facilities that
produce electricity using fossil gaseous fuels
No
The undertaking carries out, funds or has exposures to construction, refurbishment, and operation of combined heat/cool
and power generation facilities using fossil gaseous fuels.
No
The undertaking carries out, funds or has exposures to construction, refurbishment and operation of heat generation
facilities that produce heat/cool using fossil gaseous fuels.
No
TURNOVER KPI
Denition
The proportion of Taxonomy-aligned economic activities
in the total turnover has been calculated as the part of
net turnover derived from products and services associ-
ated with Taxonomy-aligned economic activities (nume-
rator) divided by the net turnover (denominator), in each
case for the nancial year from 1 January 2024 to 31
December 2024.
The denominator of the turnover KPI is based on the
consolidated net turnover in accordance with paragraph
82(a) of IAS 1. Refer to the line-item operating revenues
in the consolidated income statement in the consolidated
nancial statements.
The numerator of the turnover KPI is dened as the net
turnover derived from products and services associated
with Taxonomy-aligned economic activities. No such
activities are identied.
CAPEX KPI
Denition
The CapEx KPI is dened as Taxonomy-aligned CapEx
(numerator) divided by the total CapEx (denominator).
Total CapEx consists of additions to tangible and
intangible xed assets during the nancial year, before
depreciation, amortization, and any remeasurements,
including those resulting from revaluations and
impairments, as well as excluding changes in fair value.
It includes acquisitions of tangible xed assets (IAS 16),
intangible xed assets (IAS 38) and right-of-use assets
(IFRS 16). Goodwill is not included in CapEx, because it is
not dened as an intangible asset in accordance with IAS
38. CapEx for the reporting period 2024 is the sum of
additions in note 11 and new leasing agreements in
note 12.
The numerator consists of Taxonomy-aligned CapEx
that is directly related to assets associated with
Taxonomy-aligned activities or CapEx related to output
from Taxonomy-aligned activities. Refer to the KPI tables
for list of included activities.
OPEX KPI
Denition
The OpEx KPI is dened as Taxonomy-aligned OpEx
(numerator) divided by the total OpEx (denominator).
Total OpEx consists of direct non-capitalised costs that
relate to research and development, building renovation
measures, short-term leases as well as all forms of
maintenance and repair. This includes:
Research and development expenditure recognized as
an expense during the reporting period in the income
statement. In line with the consolidated nancial
statements (paragraph 126 of IAS 38), this includes all
non- capitalised expenditure that is directly attributable to
research or development activities.
The volume of non-capitalised leases was determined in
accordance with IFRS 16 and includes expenses for short-
term leases and low-value leases. Even though low-value
leases are not explicitly mentioned in the Disclosures
Delegated Act, company has interpreted the legislation as
to include these leases.
Maintenance and repair expenditures were determined
based on the maintenance and repair costs incurred
during the year. The related cost items can be found in
various line items in the income statement, including
production costs (maintenance in operations), sales and
distribution costs (maintenance logistics) and administra-
tion costs (such as maintenance of IT systems). This also
includes building renovation measures.
In general, this includes costs for services and mate-
rial costs for daily servicing, as well as for regular and
unplanned maintenance and repair measures. These costs
are directly allocated to the PP&E. This does not inclu-
de expenditures relating to the day-to-day operation of
PP&E, such as raw materials, cost of employees operating
the machinery, electricity or uids that are necessary to
operate PP&E. Amortisation and depreciation are also
not included in the OpEx KPI. Other operating expenses
directly linked to activities with turnover and activities
related to selling, general, and administration are not
considered as applicable for the calculation of the OpEx
KPI. The relevant costs are related to note 5, 6 and 12 in
the consolidated nancial statements.
The numerator consists of Taxonomy-aligned OpEx
that is directly related to costs associated with Taxo-
nomy-aligned activities or OpEx related to output from
Taxonomy-aligned activities
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202474 75
ESRS E4 - Ecosystems and
Biodiversity
[ESRS 2 IRO-1] DESCRIPTION OF
PROCESS TO IDENTIFY AND ASSESS
IRO FOR E4
Ekornes recognizes the critical role of biodiversity in
maintaining a sustainable supply chain and mitigating
environmental risks. As part of its double materiality
assessment, the company has identified key biodiversity
and ecosystem impacts, risks and opportunities (IRO)
associated with its operations and value chain.
Impact Identification and Assessment
Ekornes has analysed the value chain to understand what
parts of it are the most vulnurable to biodiversity changes
and conducted a series of discussions and interviews with
internal and external stakeholders to identify material
impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity. These discussions
and subsequent assessments highlighted that the most
critical biodiversity impacts occur upstream in the value
chain.
As part of the double materiality assessment process,
Ekornes mapped its value chain and conducted further
assessments through workshops to identify potential
biodiversity impacts and risks. The approach included:
• A full inventory of impacts, risks, and opportunities
across the value chain.
• Validation through interviews and workshops with
internal stakeholders.
• Identification of eight biodiversity impacts across the
upstream supply chain, own operations, and
downstream activities.
• Evaluation using specific criteria such as scale, scope,
irremediability, and likelihood to determine the most
significant impacts.
Dependencies Identification and Assessment
During the impact assessment process, Ekornes identified
dependencies on biodiversity and ecosystem services
across its operations and value chain. These dependencies
are directly linked to key business functions and supply
chain stability. Examples include:
Dependency on Raw Materials and Sustainable
Sourcing
• Impact: Ekornes relies heavily on raw materials such
as wood, leather, steel, and textiles. The availability and
stability of these materials are critical for operations.
However, sourcing practices influence ecosystem
degradation, including deforestation, soil depletion, and
biodiversity loss. There is also growing market and
regulatory pressure to transition to fully sustainable
sourcing.
• Dependency: Access to raw materials is the core
dependency, but ensuring that these materials are
sourced sustainably is necessary to mitigate
environmental risks, meet regulatory requirements
(e.g., EU Deforestation Regulation), and maintain
competitiveness.
Dependency on Sustainable Forestry for Wood
Supply
• Impact: Wood sourcing, particularly if uncertified, can
lead to deforestation and biodiversity loss, impacting
both ecosystems and long-term supply stability.
• Dependency: Reliable access to wood as a resource is
the fundamental dependency, but FSC®/PEFC-certified
wood ensures a stable and compliant supply aligned
with sustainability goals.
Dependency on Stable Ecosystems in Proximity to
Facilities
• Impact: Ekornes’ manufacturing sites and operational
activities (e.g., emissions, waste, land use) may
contribute to habitat degradation and biodiversity loss,
particularly near nature-preserved areas and sensitive
ecosystems.
• Dependency: Business continuity depends on stable
ecosystems surrounding facilities, as well as regulatory
compliance to avoid operational disruptions.
Risks and Opportunities Identification and
Assessment Approach
Ekornes employs a multi-step process to identify and
assess biodiversity-related risks and opportunities,
integrating both internal expertise and external
stakeholder perspectives. This approach includes:
Internal Workshops and Stakeholder Engagement:
• Conducted cross-functional workshops with
sustainability, procurement, compliance, finance and
operations teams to map potential risks and
opportunities.
• Engaged consultant and experts to understand external
pressures and market expectations.
Materiality and Risk Prioritization:
• Risks and opportunities were classified using a DMA
framework based on:
• Likelihood of occurrence
• Potential impact on operations, compliance, and
financial performance
• Irremediability
Scenario Analysis and Regulatory Alignment:
• Evaluated how emerging biodiversity regulations,
including the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR),
Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD),
and local biodiversity policies, may impact Ekornes’
supply chain and business model.
• Identified biodiversity-related risks, such as changes in
certification requirements, supplier availability, and
costs of sustainable materials.
Ekornes incorporates climate and biodiversity dimensions
into risk assessments by distinguishing between physical,
transition, and systemic risks and opportunities. The
evaluation is conducted through cross-functional input and
supported by external expertise. Our approach includes:
• Physical Risks: Assessed through supplier and
geography mapping to evaluate exposure to biodiversity
loss, deforestation, and habitat degradation, particularly
in sourcing regions. Internal team reviewed location-
specific risks (i.e, Brazil,) using tools such as WWF Risk
Filter and external databases (e.g., Global Forest
Watch).
• Transition Risks: Evaluated based on the potential
impact of evolving regulatory landscapes (e.g., EU
Deforestation Regulation, CSRD), shifts in customer
and investor expectations, and changes to certification
standards. Internal team assessed how supplier
readiness and material substitution could affect
compliance costs and operational continuity.
• Systemic Risks: Identified through scenario discussions
focused on long-term disruptions, such as supply chain
fragility due to ecosystem collapse or biodiversity-
linked reputational damage. This includes consideration
of compounded risks from climate and biodiversity
interlinkages.
Different risks were further prioritized using the DMA
framework.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202476 77
Summary of IROs related to Biodiversity
IRO Type of impact Scope Time horizon
Ekornes’ reliance on large amounts of raw materials contributes to
ecosystem degradation, including deforestation, soil depletion, and
biodiversity loss.
Negative impact Upstream
Medium-term,
long-term
Switching to materials from sustainable production processes can
lead to increased costs.
This is because these materials often require more responsible
sourcing, stricter environmental standards, and certications that
add expenses. Additionally, sustainable production methods may have
lower yields or involve more labor-intensive practices, raising costs
compared to conventional alternatives. Limited supply and higher
demand for sustainably produced materials can also drive-up prices.
Financial risk Upstream Medim-term
Site Biodiversity-Sensitive Area
Ikornes, Norway Habitat for bat species
Fetsund, Norway Proximity to biodiversity preservation area
MATERIAL IMPACT, RISKS AND
OPPORTUNITIES ON BIODIVERSITY
AND ECOSYSTEMS (IRO-1, SBM-3)
Ekornes’ operations and sourcing activities contribute to
ecosystem degradation, including deforestation, soil
depletion, and biodiversity loss. This impact occurs
upstream in the supply chain.
Biodiversity-Sensitive Areas Impacted
While the material impact occurs in the upstream value
chain, Ekornes also monitors biodiversity-related impacts
and risks within its own operations. The company has
identified two operational sites near biodiversity-sensitive
areas. Ekornes has not yet conducted consultations with
affected communities.
Impact Drivers and Mitigation Measures
To minimize biodiversity-related impacts and risks, Ekornes
has implemented the following mitigation measures:
• Sustainable sourcing – Commitment to sourcing 100%
FSC®/PEFC-certified wood and Leather Working
Group-certified leather to reduce deforestation risks.
• Supplier engagement – Strengthened due diligence in
high-risk sourcing regions to ensure compliance with
biodiversity and environmental protection standards.
• Eco-design principles – Integration of circular economy
models to reduce material demand and extend product
lifecycles, minimizing biodiversity-related.
Most of Ekornes’ biodiversity impact is tied to ecosystems
in the upstream value chain, particularly through:
• Land Degradation in supply chain activities can result in
land-use changes and soil depletion,
• Deforestation and Land-Use Change: The sourcing of
wood and leather may contribute to deforestation and
habitat loss.
Ekornes is committed to reducing biodiversity impacts
through responsible sourcing and policies, ensuring that
procurement practices align with sustainability standards
and biodiversity conservation
[E4-1 AND SBM-3] CONSIDERATION OF
BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEMS IN
STRATEGY AND BUSINESS MODEL
Ekornes recognizes the critical role of biodiversity in
maintaining a sustainable supply chain and mitigating
environmental risks. As part of its double materiality
assessment, the company has identified key biodiversity
and ecosystem impacts, risks and opportunities (IRO)
associated with its operations and value chain.
Material impact identified:
Ekornes’ operations and sourcing activities contribute to
ecosystem degradation, including deforestation, land
degradation, soil depletion. The most significant impacts
occur upstream in the supply chain, particularly related to
wood and leather sourcing.
• Deforestation – Wood sourcing in Europe and leather
procurement from Brazil contribute to deforestation
risks, impacting ecosystems and biodiversity.
• Soil depletion – Land-use changes associated with raw
material extraction can lead to reduced soil fertility,
affecting long-term ecosystem stability.
This impact also comes with the risk that switching to
materials sourced from sustainable production processes
can lead to increased costs.
Resilience of business model and strategy to
biodiversity and ecosystems-related risks
Resilience of Ekornes strategy and business model:
Ekornes has assessed its resilience in relation to
biodiversity and ecosystems, including material risks
identified in the Double Materiality Assessment. The
company’s business model is particularly exposed to the
availability and cost of raw materials, which are essential to
production but also contribute to ecosystem degradation,
deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
To ensure long-term business resilience, Ekornes
integrates sustainable resource sourcing and risk
mitigation strategies to address these challenges.
Risk Identied Resilience Challenge Strategic Response
Reliance on raw materials
contributing to ecosystem
degradation
Ensuring a stable, sustainable supply of
certied materials without disrupting
production capacity.
• Expansion of FSC/PEFC-certied wood and LWG-
certied leather sourcing to reduce deforestation risks.
• Supplier partnerships to improve environmental practices
and secure long-term sustainable material sources.
Increased costs due to
transition to sustainable
materials
Managing cost volatility and nancial
risks associated with sourcing
higher-cost certied materials.
• Procurement strategy adjustments to secure stable
pricing and diversify sustainable supplier base.
• Exploring alternative materials and circular economy
models to reduce dependence on virgin raw materials.
Key Resilience Challenges & Strategic Responses
Focus areas of Ekornes’ Resilience Strategy
• Strengthening traceability systems for key raw
materials to prevent sourcing from biodiversity-
sensitive regions and ensure compliance with
sustainability regulations.
• Enhancing supplier due diligence to align with
biodiversity-focused regulations, such as the EU
Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), by improving
monitoring and verification processes.
• Embedding sustainable and eco-design principles into
product development to reduce reliance on virgin
materials, extend product lifecycles, and minimize
ecosystem impact.
(*ESRS E4-1-11,12))
Resilience assessment and scope of analysis:
Ekornes assessed resilience in relation to the supply chain
impact and risk associated with biodiversity and ecosystems.
Biodiversity Resilience Plan focuses on Ekornes’ operations
and value chain to identify and address biodiversity and
ecosystems-related risks and opportunities. The scope
includes the following components:
Upstream Value Chain
• Raw Material Sourcing:
• Wood: Prioritize and ensure full transition to FSC®/
PEFC-certified wood to reduce deforestation risks
and support sustainable forestry.
• Leather: Evaluate sourcing from Brazil with attention
to deforestation, animal welfare, habitat destruction,
and water-intensive practices.
• Textiles: Focus on reducing biodiversity risks from
production in regions.
• Plastics and Chemicals: Address the ecological
impacts of extraction, processing, and use in
manufacturing.
• Supplier Practices: Collaborate with suppliers to
ensure adherence to sustainable practices and
biodiversity conservation.
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Own operations and Downstream Value Chain
• Product Design and Lifecycle:
• Integration of eco-design principles to extend
product life, reduce resource use, and ensure
recyclability and repairability.
Geographic Focus
• Key sourcing regions include:
• Europe: Wood from Finland, Lithuania, Slovakia,
Germany, and Hungary. Steel from Finland, Sweden,
Germany, Italy.
• Brazil: Leather supply.
• Asia: Textiles, steel and plastics from China and
chemicals and wood from Thailand.
• Addressing local biodiversity risks in these regions is
critical to mitigating global ecosystem impacts.
(*ESRS E4-1-13-(a))
(*ESRS E4-1-13-(b))
Key Assumptions:
Ekornes Biodiversity Resilience Plan is based on the
following assumptions, which guide company’s approach to
identifying risks and opportunities and implementing
mitigation strategies:
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conditions
• Global efforts to conserve biodiversity, such as
reforestation programs and ecosystem restoration
initiatives, will continue to expand, creating
opportunities for sustainable sourcing and minimising
financial risks.
• Regions critical to Ekornes’ supply chain (e.g., Brazil,
Europe, and Asia) will face varying levels of biodiversity
risks, such as deforestation, water scarcity, and habitat
destruction, influenced by climate change and human
activities.
Regulatory Environment
• Biodiversity-related regulations, such as the EU
Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), will become
increasingly stringent, driving demand for certified and
sustainably sourced materials.
• Certification standards (e.g., FSC®, PEFC®, and
Leather Working Group) will remain key benchmarks
for responsible sourcing and biodiversity-friendly
practices.
Market Dynamics
• Consumer demand for products aligned with
biodiversity and sustainability goals will continue to
grow, influencing product design and sourcing
decisions.
Operational and Supply Chain Resilience
• Upstream suppliers will adapt to biodiversity
requirements through capacity building and improved
practices, ensuring the availability of certified materials.
Collaboration and Innovation
• Collaboration with stakeholders, including certification
bodies, NGOs, and suppliers, will enable Ekornes to
address biodiversity risks more effectively.
• Technological advancements, such as traceability tools
and resource-efficient production methods, will support
Ekornes’ efforts to mitigate biodiversity impacts.
(*ESRS E4-1-13-(c))
Time Horizons Used:
The Plan considers short-(1-5 years), medium-(5-10 years),
and long-term (10+ years) time horizons to address
biodiversity and ecosystems-related impacts and risks.
These timeframes guide Ekornes’ strategic actions and
align with global sustainability goals.
(*ESRS E4-1-13-(d)
Results of Analysis:
Ekornes’ biodiversity resilience level is moderate, primarily
due to the nature of its industry, which relies on raw
materials.
Ekornes’ resilience analysis evaluates biodiversity and
ecosystems-related risks and identifies opportunities
across its operations and supply chain. The assessment
highlights physical, transition, and systemic risks while
outlining strategic opportunities to enhance sustainability
and long-term business resilience.
Ekornes faces physical risks related to biodiversity impacts
at its manufacturing sites and within its supply chain.
Within the supply chain, deforestation and habitat loss are
key concerns, particularly in wood sourcing from Europe
and leather sourcing from Brazil. Water scarcity in critical
raw material production regions, including Brazil, China,
Thailand, and Italy, could further impact material availability
and quality, affecting long-term sourcing stability.
Transition risks arise from the increasing regulatory and
market demands for biodiversity-conscious practices.
Compliance with biodiversity-related regulations, such as
the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), may lead to
higher operational costs due to enhanced supply chain due
diligence, certification requirements, and supplier audits.
The shift to certified sustainable materials (e.g., FSC/
PEFC-certified wood, LWG-certified leather) also comes
with higher procurement costs, which could impact
profitability in the short to medium term. Additionally,
market and reputational risks arise if Ekornes does not
meet evolving sustainability expectations, potentially
affecting consumer trust and competitive positioning.
Systemic risks include the broader consequences of
global biodiversity loss, which could disrupt supply chains
and operational resilience by limiting access to critical
natural resources.
Strategic adjustments to the business model will focus on
expanding traceability systems, adopting nature-positive
procurement policies, and further integrating circular
economy principles into product design and manufacturing.
Ekornes will invest in digital traceability tools, supplier
audits, and enhanced biodiversity monitoring frameworks
to ensure compliance with evolving regulations.
By integrating biodiversity into its long-term business
strategy, Ekornes aims to mitigate risks while leveraging
opportunities for growth and resilience in a sustainability-
driven market. Continuous monitoring, investment in
traceability, and alignment with global biodiversity goals
will be essential for long-term success.
(*ESRS E4-1-13-(e))
Stakeholder Involvement:
The development of the Biodiversity Resilience Plan has
been driven by close collaboration among internal teams
and key stakeholders to ensure its effectiveness and
relevance. While the plan has not yet been formally
approved by the leadership team, approval is expected to
take place in 2025.
Internal stakeholders involved in the plan’s development
include the strategy and sustainability team, which
provided insights into biodiversity risks and opportunities
to align the plan with Ekornes’ long-term sustainability
goals. The group compliance team ensured the plan meets
regulatory requirements and aligns with global biodiversity
and ecosystem protection standards. The procurement
team assessed supply chain practices to integrate
biodiversity-friendly sourcing and reinforce responsible
material procurement.
The Head of the sustainability task force played a key role
in reviewing and providing initial approval of the plan
before its submission for further leadership approval.
[MDR-P & E4-2] POLICIES RELATED TO
BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEMS
This section covers all MDR-P requirements (in combination
with the policies overview) and topic specific requirements as
stated in E4-2 ( E4-2 20-24)
This chapter outlines the policies related to biodiversity
and ecosystems. Ekornes has implemented a set of policies
to manage impacts and risks related to biodiversity and
ecosystems, namely Ekornes’ Environmental Policy, our
Sustainability Position Paper on Nature. Additionally, the
Sustainable Leather Sourcing Policy and the FSC
Certification Policy ensures responsible material sourcing,
thus preventing direct operational harm to ecosystems.
Currently none of the policies address social
consequences of the impacts. The most senior level
accountable for implementing policies at Ekornes is CEO.
For details about the policies see Table for Ekornes
policies related to material IROs, page 42-45, where all
policies are listed in accordance with ESRS 2 MDR-P and
ESRS E1-2.
(*ESRS E4-2-20-21)
Ekornes Environmental Policy
Ekornes Environmental Policy is a high-level companywide
document outlining how organisation will improve own
environmental performance and be a driving force in the
sustainability work within the industry. The general
objective of the policy is to provide clearly defined
commitments related to Ekornes’ environmental
performance and environmental targets. Focusing among
other topics on biodiversity and ecosystems, the policy
outlines Ekornes’ commitment to choose good materials
with a long service span and to the greatest extent from
recycled resources. This is directly linked to mitigation of
the material negative impact of over-consumption of raw
materials, which could contribute to ecosystem
degradation.
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The policy specifically targets climate change, pollution
and direct exploitations. The policy supports traceability
of products and raw materials.
Sustainability Position Paper on Nature
The Sustainability Position Paper on Nature outlines
Ekornes’ key biodiversity priorities for 2024-2026. These
include minimizing negative impacts on biodiversity and
ecosystems, ensuring compliance with biodiversity
regulations and standards, and promoting ecosystem
restoration and resilience across our value chain. The
Position Paper on Nature serves as a transitional document
between the company’s General Environmental Policy and
the forthcoming Nature Policy, which is planned for
development in 2025.
For the upstream value chain, which is where the material
impacts and risks are located, this means sourcing key
materials such as leather, wool, textile, wood and steel with
a focus of avoiding deforestation and land-use changes. This
will be achieved through prohibiting materials sourcing from
areas associated with deforestation, habitat destruction or
biodiversity loss and integrating biodiversity considerations
into product design by prioritizing materials and processes
that minimize ecosystem impacts. The abovementioned
considerations show that the policy is linked to the
identified material negative impact and the financial risk.
Monitoring of the commitments outlined in the Position
Paper on Nature will be conducted through supplier audits,
biodiversity performance reviews within the supply chain.
The policy specifically targets direct exploitations and
minimizing impacts on the extent and condition of
ecosystems. The policy also supports plans on improving
traceability of products and raw materials along the value
chain. As the approach described in the policy entails
collaboration with suppliers to improve biodiversity
practices and work with suppliers to ensure sustainable
practices in material sourcing to reduce biodiversity risk
across the supply chain, the policy addresses sourcing and
consumption from ecosystems that are managed to
enhance conditions for biodiversity.
Sustainable Leather Sourcing Policy
The Sustainable Leather Sourcing Policy outlines Ekornes’
approach to responsible leather procurement, focusing on
environmental impact, animal welfare, supply chain
transparency, and regulatory compliance. It is linked to
biodiversity and ecosystems because the policy expresses
Ekornes’ commitment to source leather exclusively from
cattle bred for food production (meat and dairy), avoiding
sourcing from endangered or prohibited species. The
policy also prevents deforestation by requiring leather
suppliers do not source from deforested or protected
areas. This policy is linked to Ekornes’ negative material
impact caused by relying on large amounts of raw
materials. Through supplier management, deforestation,
soil depletion and biodiversity loss are mitigated.
The policy specifically targets direct exploitations, the
impact on the state of species and impact on ecosystems.
The policy has direct implications for Ekornes’ impacts
along the value chain, supporting traceability and
mitigating desertification through deforestation efforts. As
the policy describes how Ekornes follows up their suppliers
to ensure sustainable practices in sourcing of leather to
reduce biodiversity risk and deforestation, the policy
addresses sourcing and consumption from ecosystems
that are managed to enhance conditions for biodiversity.
FSC Certification Policy
Ekornes is a member of the FSC® Chain of Custody (COC)
Certification and complies with the FSC® Member
Instruction Manual. The manual outlines the monitoring
system required for FSC certification, including written
procedures, operating instructions, document templates,
and documentation, ensuring the responsible and
sustainable sourcing of wood-based materials.
FSC is an effective tool for implementing strict practices in
wood purchasing proven to be a solution against
deforestation and degradation. It aims to mitigate risks
related to non-compliance with FSC certification
requirements while securing a responsible supply chain.
The policy also ensures the integration of FSC principles
into procurement, warehousing, production, logistics, and
sales functions. This policy is consequently tightly linked to
the material negative impact of material sourcing
contributing to ecosystem degradation.
This policy contributes to mitigation of the following direct
impact drivers of biodiversity loss; land use change and
direct exploitations, and additionally is relevant to reducing
impact on the condition of ecosystems, as land degradation
and desertification are core elements of the FSC
Certification policy. The certification policy ensures
traceability of products and raw materials.
[MDR-T & E4-4] TARGETS RELATED TO
BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEMS
When it comes to targets related to biodiversity and
ecosystems, Ekornes is currently in a target definition
process, and while we have had several discussions
internally, a final decision will be made on biodiversity and
ecosystem targets by the end of 2025. Biodiversity offsets
have not yet been used in setting of targets.
One target has already been defined and is disclosed here
in accordance with ESRS 2 MDR-T and ESRS E4-4:
Sourcing 100% of materials from renewable,
recycled, or sustainably and environmentally
certified sources by 2030
Ekornes aims to source 100% of our ingoing materials,
including raw materials, semi-manufactured goods and
products, from renewable or recycled or sustainably
certified sources (third-party certification or internal
assessment), ensuring that no materials linked to
deforestation or high-risk biodiversity areas are used in
production.
This target is directly linked to Ekornes’ impact on
ecosystems, as the company’s reliance on large volumes of
raw materials contributes to ecosystem degradation,
including deforestation, soil depletion, and biodiversity
loss, reflected in the negative material impact related to
biodiversity. By working towards sustainable sourcing
practices, Ekornes aims to mitigate these impacts.
The target level to be achieved is 100% for each materials
category by Jan 1, 2030. The target is relative, measuring
the percentage of materials used in manufacturing that are
recycled, sustainably certified or from renewable sources.
The target covers all suppliers in Ekornes’ upstream value
chain and affects decisions made in our own operations.
The target to be monitored yearly in upcoming reporting
cycles. There is specific consideration given to high-risk
sourcing regions, such as Brazil (leather) and Europe
(wood).
The baseline value for the target is summarized in the table
below, showing what the status is for each materials
category for 2024:
Materials category Percentage
Wood
40,42%
Letaher
100%
Steel
0%
Additional group of materials to be reviewed in 2025.
The target timeline entails reaching the goal by Jan 1 2030,
with the following yearly interim goals (to be established in
2025).
Alignment with national or international policy
goals
This target aligns with the objectives of the EU Biodiversity
Strategy for 2030, which seeks to restore ecosystems,
protect biodiversity, and reduce environmental pressures
across Europe. By prioritizing responsible sourcing and
avoiding biodiversity-sensitive areas, Ekornes contributes
to the sustainable use of ecosystems, the preservation of
natural habitats, and the reduction of biodiversity loss
across its supply chain.
Methodology and Assumptions
To determine the baseline and keep track of progress,
Ekornes calculates the percentage based on procurement
data, supplier certifications, audits and environmental
impact assessments conducted by Ekornes and external
third parties. Double counting is avoided because of the
single chosen certification methodology per group of
materials.
For Ekornes to be able to reach the set target by 2030,
three main assumptions are made.
Firstly, it is assumed that there will be sufficient availability
of sustainably or environmentally certified materials. This
applies to FSC-certified wood, LWG-certified leather and
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textiles and steel. The transition to fully certified sourcing
will depend on supplier readiness and industry-wide
certification adoption rates.
Secondly, Ekornes assumes that existing and new suppliers
will be able to achieve and maintain compliance with
sustainability certifications. Ekornes will continue engaging
with suppliers through collaborative relationships and
annual audits to ensure compliance. Certified suppliers will
be prioritized over non-certified suppliers.
Thirdly, it is assumed that traceability systems for tracking
material origins (e.g. blockchain, certification databases)
will be available and further developed in the coming years.
This allows for accurate reporting and verification of
sustainable sourcing.
Conclusive Scientific Evidence and alignment with
existing policy goals
Although Ekornes has not conducted its own scientific
impact modeling for biodiversity loss, the target is
informed by global biodiversity science and policy
frameworks, including the EU Biodiversity Strategy for
2030, including the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)
and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity
Framework. Both frameworks call for deforestation-free
supply chains and sustainable material sourcing as key
drivers for biodiversity restoration. The target is also
aligned with industry certifications such as FSC
Certification for wood, Leather Working Group (LWG)
standards for leather and ISO Environmental Management
systems.
Stakeholder Involvement in Target Setting
Internally at Ekornes, the supply chain team, the
sustainability team and company leadership have been
involved in developing and defining this target. In 2025
Ekornes aims to continue involving a broader group of
stakeholders.
Tracking Progress and Performance Monitoring
Ekornes already has annual supplier audits to verify
compliance with our Supplier Code of Conduct, Ekornes
Environmental Policy, Sustainable Leather Sourcing Policy
and FSC Certification. In 2025 the plan is to amplify these
supplier audits, to include monitoring of material origin to
measure percentage of materials weight that is renewable,
recyclable or certified according to third parties.
No changes made as target is new.
[MDR-A & E4-3] ACTIONS AND
RESOURCES RELATED TO
BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEMS
Ekornes has no actions to report on for 2024, but have so
far identified one action that will be implemented for 2025,
in line with our target of 100% sustainable sourcing.
Include Environmental and Biodiversity Topics in
Supplier Audits
Ekornes conducts supplier audits based on risk
assessments and the formal criteria are formalized in our
Supplier Code of Conduct. The Supplier Code of Conduct
includes general environmental compliance requirements
but does not explicitly mention biodiversity and
ecosystems. However, it encourages responsible
environmental management and compliance with
environmental laws, including sustainable material
sourcing and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction,
which indirectly support biodiversity conservation.
This action to be connected with identified impact and risk
In 2025 we aim to incorporate environmental-related
criteria, including applicable biodiversity regulations. The
audits aim to improve supplier assessment processes and
enhance collaboration strategies while strengthening
traceability and verification mechanisms. By identifying
potential risks related to deforestation and ecosystem
degradation, this action supports Ekornes’ commitment to
achieving 100% sustainable sourcing by 2030.
Environmental and biodiversity criteria will be added to
supplier assessments for material material groups,
including textiles, leather, wood and electronics. The
implementation timeline consists of risk assessment,
supplier selection, and audit planning, followed by audit
execution. All suppliers will be assessed against the added
criteria to get an overview of the status among our current
suppliers. The audits primarily address upstream supplier
engagement, impacting both suppliers and internal
procurement and compliance teams responsible for
ensuring responsible sourcing practices.
[E4-5] IMPACT METRICS RELATED TO
BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEMS
CHANGE
Biodiversity-Sensitive Raw Material Sourcing
Ekornes acknowledges that its primary impact on
biodiversity stems from raw material sourcing. To mitigate
this, the company is committed to transitioning toward
more sustainable sourcing practices. Since Ekornes does
not directly alter ecosystem conditions, its key metric for
tracking progress is the percentage of sustainably certified
raw materials procured from suppliers accredited by
recognized certification bodies, relative to total raw
material sourcing.
Among the raw materials purchased, leather and wood are
the most relevant in terms of potential deforestation
impact. To address this, Ekornes prioritize sourcing from
suppliers that adhere to strict environmental and social
certification standards. In addition, Ekornes is evaluating
the feasibility of green steel as an alternative to traditional
steel, though this initiative is still under review.
Raw Material Certication
% of sustainably certied
materials
% of all other
Wood FCS certied 40,42% 59.58%
Leather LWG certied 100% 0%
Steel Green still 0% 100%
To calculate the proportion of raw materials sourced from
sustainable certified suppliers versus all other sources,
Ekornes relys on procurement data.
For leather: All suppliers are certified by LWG, and no new
suppliers to be accepted unless they are certified.
For wood: This data includes supplier certifications,
expenditure records, and material origin documentation.
Ekornes considers FSC certification to be the most
comprehensive standard. While the rest of its wood is
certified under PEFC, the company prioritizes achieving
100% FSC certification as a key metric.
Data Collection: Procurement teams track purchases of
wood recording total volume per material number. Supplier
documentation is reviewed to verify certifications from
FSC.
Categorization:
Wood materials are categorized into two groups:
• FSC certified sourcing: Materials purchased from
suppliers with verified sustainability certifications.
• All others: Materials that do not meet certification FSC
criteria.
Calculation Formula:
The percentage of certified sustainable sourcing is
calculated as:
FSC Certified Sourcing (%)=(Volume of Certified Mtaerials/
Total Volume Purchased)×100
Reporting and Monitoring:
Procurement data will be consolidated and analyzed
periodically to track progress toward sustainability targets.
Ekornes operates two sites adjacent to biodiversity-sensitive
areas; however, no direct negative impact has been identified.
Ekornes' reliance on large amounts of raw materials
contributes to ecosystem degradation, including deforestation,
soil depletion, and biodiversity loss.
Switching to materials from sustainable production processes
can lead to increased costs
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ESRS E5 – Resource Use and
Circular Economy
This chapter outlines the policies, targets and actions
related to resource use and circular economy, as well as
relevant information about Ekornes’ inflows and outflow.
Identification of Impacts Risks and opportunities
Ekornes has identifyied and currently addressing the
material impacts and risks associated with resource use
and the circular economy. Our approach involves a
comprehensive assessment of both our operations and
value chain.
Company has reviewed our assets and activities to
uncover both existing and potential impacts, risks, and
opportunities related to resource management and
circular economy principles. This assessment spans not
only our internal operations but also extends to both
upstream and downstream elements of our value chain.
IIRO identied Type of IRO Value chain allocation Time Horizon
Ekornes products contribute to global waste generation throughout
the lifecycle, increasing resource consumption and disposal challenges.
Negative impact
Own operations,
Downstream value chain
Medium-term,
long-term
As a production company, Ekornes depends on raw materials, leading to
resource exploitation and increased pressure on nite natural resources.
Negative impact
Upstream value chain,
Own operations
Medium-term,
long-term
Designing recyclable and durable products and furniture can increase
costs. This is because it often requires higher-quality materials,
advanced engineering, and more complex manufacturing processes.
Ensuring recyclability may involve specialized material selection,
disassembly-friendly designs, and compliance with circular economy
standards, all of which can add to production expenses. Additionally,
durability testing, certications, and potential redesigns to balance
longevity with sustainability further contribute to higher upfront costs
for manufacturers.
Risk Upstream value chain
Medium-term,
long-term
Impact, Risks, and Opportunities Identification
and Assessment
Ekornes has conducted a series of discussions and
interviews with internal and external stakeholders to
identify material impacts related to circularity. These
discussions and subsequent assessments highlighted that
the most critical circularity impacts, risks and
opportunities occur across the value chain. The approach
to IRO identification included:
• Identification of circularity IROs across material
sourcing, product design, and waste management and
creation of the initial long list.
• Validation of the list through interviews and
workshops with internal stakeholders and external
experts.
• Assessment using specific criteria scale, scope,
irremediability, and likelihood to determine the most
significant impacts.
As part of the further IRO identification process, Ekornes
has identifies and assessed risks and opportunities related
to circularity. These risks and opportunities were first
identified through a structured process that included:
• Internal discussions and workshops with key internal
stakeholders and external experts to determine
potential risks and opportunities.
• Assessment using magnitude and likelihood of
occurrence to determine material risk and
opportunities by internal stakeholders.
During the assessment process, internal stakeholders
identified Ekornes’ main production facilities as the key
units in terms of resource inflows, outflows, and waste
generation.
As part of the IRO identification process, Ekornes placed
significant focus on the key material resources within its
supply chain, particularly:
• Wood from Europe (Finland, Lithuania, Slovakia,
Germany, Hungary) and Thailand
• Leather from Brazil
• Textiles from Norway, Belgium, China, and Italy
• Plastics from Norway, Finland, and China
• Chemicals from Norway, Lithuania, and Thailand
• Steel from Finland, Sweden, Germany, Italy, Thailand,
and China
• Electronics from China
[MDR-P & E5-1] POLICIES RELATED TO
RESOURCE USE AND CIRCULAR
ECONOMY
Ekornes has implemented a set of policies to manage the
material impacts and risks related to resource use and the
circular economy. For details about the policies see Table
for Ekornes policies related to material IROs, page 42-45,
where all policies are listed in accordance with ESRS 2
MDR-P and ESRS E1-2.
Ekornes Environmental Policy
Ekornes Environmental Policy expresses Ekornes’
commitment to improving its environmental performance
and be a driving force for sustainability within its industry.
Resource efficiency and circular design are central to the
Environmental policy. The policy addresses both material
impacts and the one risk related to E5, because resource
efficiency and circular design can reduce the negative
impacts of waste pollution through increased recycling, as
well ass reducing resource depletion through reuse.
Ekornes Quality Policy
Ekornes Quality Policy outlines Ekornes’ overall quality
policy, which is to deliver products and services that satisfy
our customers’ assumed expectations and needs. These
expectations are defined in the product specification
used in manufacturing and ensure high product quality.
The policy addresses both material impacts related to E5.
High quality products can reduce the need for use of finite
natural resources because the furniture can last longer and
be reused by several users before it reaches end of life and
recycling.
Sustainability Position Paper - Circularity
The Sustainability Position Paper Circularity outlines
Ekornes’ commitment to embedding circularity principles
across our value chain. The Position Paper covers which
key principles guide Ekornes’ circularity efforts, Ekornes’
approach to circularity and the key activities linked to
managing risks and seizing opportunities related to
circularity. The policy addresses both material impacts
related to E5, as the position paper addresses how Ekornes
will reduce waste, increase circularity and improve
sourcing practices to reduce resource exploitation.
Compliance handbook
This compliance specification outlines the standards and
requirements that furniture products must meet to ensure
safety, durability, and compliance with relevant regulations
and industry standards. The policy addresses Ekornes
negative impact of waste generation if products are not
properly recycled, as compliance with industry standards
can facilitate recyclability and therefore mitigate this risk.
It is also linked to the potential risk of rising costs due to
recyclability and durability of products.
Summary
In summary, the policies are designed to address the
following matters:
• Transitioning away from use of virgin resources,
including relative increases in use of secondary
(recycled) resources (*ESRS E5-1-15-(a))
• Sustainable sourcing and use of renewable resources
(*ESRS E5-1-15-(b))
• The overarching approach to circular transition within
Ekornes’ product portfolio.
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[MDR-T & E5-3] TARGETS
RELATED TO RESOURCE USE
AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY
When it comes to targets related to resource use and circular
economy, Ekornes is currently in a target definition process,
and while we have had several discussions internally, a final
decision will be made on circularity and resource use targets
by the end of 2025.
One target has already been defined and is disclosed here in
accordance with ESRS 2 MDR-T and ESRS E5-3:
Integration of circular principles in design and manufacturing
processes
Ekornes aims to design 100% of new products with circularity
as core focus by 2026 and aim to extend this to all products
by 2030. All designs will adhere to circularity principles,
focusing on durability, repairability and recyclability, with
modularity as a core design feature.
The unit of measurement is a percentage, counting the
proportion of products designed according to circular
principles. The target measures how many products are
designed according to circularity principles. The methodology
consists of counting and having an overview of what
principles guide the design and manufacturing process for
each product. The metrics needed to measure progress
on this target is the number of (new) products designed in
line with circular principles. No assumptions were made
to define the target. Currently, some product ranges are
designed purposefully according to circular principles, such
as the Stressless
®
dining chairs. The target is not based
on conclusive scientific evidence, as this is not relevant to
the target. The target is reviewed yearly, through a manual
counting process.
This target is linked to the Sustainability Position Paper
on Circularity. The target is connected to mitigation of the
actual negative impact that Ekornes activities and products
could have on global waste generation. The target covers
all Ekornes brands and geographical regions company
operates in, mainly related to Ekornes’ own operations, but
also purchasing and procurement. The target addresses the
increase of circular product design, as it promotes design
for durability, dismantling, repairability and recyclability. The
target relates to the following layers in the waste hierarchy:
a) prevention, b) preparing for re-use, c) recycling. The
target has been set on a voluntary basis, but more and more
regulation both in Norway and internationally is pushing
companies to take action on circularity, notably the Ecodesign
for Sustainable Products Regulation.
[MDR-A & E5-2] ACTIONS
AND RESOURCES RELATED
TO RESOURCE USE AND
CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Develop circular economy standards for the furniture industry
through CEN
Ekornes is actively engaged in driving discussions and
progress when it comes to circularity in the field of furniture,
notably through the company’s involvement in the Norwegian
Design Industry working group for sustainability. Ekornes has
through this also participated in developing a new circular
economy standards for the furniture industry under CEN
Technical committee (TC207-WG10) – Furniture circularity,
which is a part of the European Standardization Committee.
The first standard (EN 17902 Furniture Circularity –
Evaluation method for dis/re-assembly capability) was
published in January of 2024. This is an ongoing action
and Ekornes has been involved in circularity standards
discussions for several years. The HSE Manager is the
primary person involved in this work, representing Ekornes
in the committee meetings and bringing findings back to the
company. Circular economy standards will make it easer for
both Ekornes and others in the furniture industry to adapt
their business models and product portfolios to circularity,
and so this action is highly relevant for all impacts and risks
related to circularity. Developing circular economy standards
and participating in industry discussions can reduce the-
negative impacts of global waste pollution and increase
recycling, and also reduce resource exploitation. More
recyclable and durable furniture could be more expensive to
produce and design, but being involved with design standards
early on could lessen this risk.
[E5-4] RESOURCE INFLOWS
In alignment with the established requirements, Ekornes
offer an overview of our resource inflows for the year 2024
to enable an understanding of the resource use in our own
operations and upstream value chain.
Material Inflows Overview
Ekornes is dependent on several types of raw materials,
semi-manufactured goods and products in its production
of furniture and packaging for the final products. These
resource inflows are sourced from various countries around
the world and are utilized in the manufacturing processes
across the company’s eight production facilities. The column
for sourcing region refers to the origin of the material inflows.
Inow type Material / Product Sourcing region
Raw material Wood Europe (Slovakia and Germany)
Raw material Leather Brazil
Raw material Textiles Norway, Belgium, China, Italy
Raw material Yarn Austria
Raw material / semi-manufactured goods or parts Plastic components Norway, China
Raw material / semi-manufactured goods or parts Wadding Norway
Raw material / semi-manufactured goods or parts Steel Finland, Sweden, China
Semi-manufactured goods or parts Aluminum Norway, Sweden, Vietnam China, Italy
Semi-manufactured goods or parts Electrical components China
Raw material Chemicals Germany, Sweden
Raw material Glue Sweden
Packaging Cardboard Norway, Lithuania, Thailand, USA
Packaging Styropor Norway, Lithuania, Thailand, USA
Packaging Plastic wrap Norway, Lithuania, Thailand, USA
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report88 89
Wood: Ekornes sources wood from European forests either
as veneer, solid wood or plywood. The veneer is further dried
down, laminated and processed into wooden components
used for recliners and dining chairs. The solid wood is for
detailing and visible wooden finishes, processed internally,
and the plywood is used as construction material for beds,
recliners and sofas.
Leather: The leather sourced is genuine bovine leather
tanned externally and further cut and sewn in Ekornes
facilities globally.
Textile: The textiles are sourced globally and have different
composition. The range of textiles vary from textiles with high
wool content such as the Silva, Calido and peony textiles as
well as mixture textiles with recycled polyester. Ekornes also
have a range of textiles made entirely of polyester.
Yarn: The yarn is used in the 3D knitting process, a
production process which reduces waste as the knits covers
in the exact shape for dining chairs.
Plastic components: The plastic components are injection
molded plastic for materials such as polypropylene,
polyethylene and polyoxymethylene. Ekornes are phasing in
more recycled plastic in these components.
Wadding: The wadding is produced from polyester and
is used as a middle layer between the cover and the
polyurethane foam.
Chemicals: Ekornes mainly produces its own polyurethane
foam, both injection-molded, and block molded, from
chemicals. Other chemicals include varnish, adhesives, glue,
stain, protective coatings, hardener, release agents and
chemical solvents.
Steel: The steel is mainly pipes and wires, which is processed
further in Ekornes own facilities in Norway and Thailand and
distributed to other factories. Steel also includes fasteners.
Aluminum: The aluminum used is die cast aluminum parts
molded for bases of recliners and footstool in the Stressless
collection.
Electrical components: The electrical parts are finished
components such as actuators, power supplier and batteries.
These are mounted into the relaxers, sofas and beds.
Cardboard: Carboard is used as outer layer for packaging
purposes, whilst Styropor is used as an inner layer for
the Stressless products to ensure a safe transport to the
destination of the product. Newer products are launched
without Styropor packaging.
Styropor: Styropor is used to package finished goods, to
protect them during transportation.
Resource inflows - numerical
The following reporting requirements are provided with data
at Ekornes Group level. For each of the required disclosures
the relevant accounting principles are described in a separate
section.
Sustainable sourcing of biological materials
Sustainable sourcing of biological materials is important for
Ekornes, and continuous efforts are made to source materials
from certified suppliers. The table below summarizes the
weight and percentage of different biological materials
that are sourced sustainably through various certification
schemes.
Biological material Weight total Percentage sustainably sourced Certication scheme used
Wood 6 021.96 tons 40,42%
FSC
®
C163127
PEFC
Leather 1 533,40 tons 100,00% Leather Working Group
Textile 17,33 tons 99,14%
Oeko-tex
EU Eco ower
Yarn 1,49 tons - -
Cardboard 1 208,21 tons - -
Total 8 782,00 tons 45,68% See abovementioned schemes
Inow Weight Unit
Technical inows
13,787.04 Tons
Biological inows 8 782.40 Tons
Total weight of inows 22,569.44 Tons
Overall total weight of products and materials
(*ESRS E5-4-31-(a))
Materials Weight total Weight recycled Percentage recycled
Wood 6,021.96 tons - -
Leather 1 533,40 tons - -
Textiles 67,76 tons 16,08 tons 23,92 %
Yarn 1,49 tons - -
Cardboard 1208,21 tons 688,68 tons 55,00 %
Plastic components 7 847,54 tons 5 493,28 tons 70,00 %
Wadding 180,00 tons - -
Steel 1 968,52 tons 905,66 tons 46,01 %
Aluminum 649,69 tons 617,20 tons 95,00 %
Electrical components 246,00 tons - -
Plastic wrap 26.74 tons - -
Chemicals 2 741,11 tons - -
Styropor 77,02 tons 77,02 tons 100%
Total 22 569,44 7,797.92 34.55%
Recycled materials in Ekornes products
The total weight, recycled weight and percentage of recycled
content in materials, components and products in production
for 2024 is described in the following. There are no
secondary reused materials, components nor products.
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report90 91
Accounting principles for numerical resource inflow
calculations
Wood: The weight of wood inflows is based on actual used
wood products and components. The weight of wood is
estimated based on the converting factor for dried beech
wood (Fagus sylvatica) given by the Norwegian Hardwood
association (Foreningen Norske Lauvtrebruk). The dried
density factor is given at 680 kg/ m3. Consumption data
showed wood in volume and this conversion factor was used
to obtain an estimated weight. There is no recycled content in
the wood inflows.
Leather: The weight of leather inflows is based on actual m2
usage through 2024 for Stressless and IMG, as Svane does
not use leather in their products. To estimate the weight of
the leather a conversion factor for weight per area was used.
Data from suppliers showed between 720-1120g per m2 and
an average of this was used.
All leather used in Ekornes production is certified through the
Leather Working Group (LWG). There is no recycled content
in the leather inflows.
Textiles: The weight of textile inflows is based on actual
usage through 2024 for Stressless and estimated for
IMG and Svane based on revenue split among the three
brands. Actual usage for Stressless is provided in meters
and multiplied by the breadth of the textile rolls. Then the
m2 is used to estimate the weight of the textile, based on a
conversion factor for weight per area. Data from suppliers
showed between0,332kg/m2 and 0,485kg/m2 and the
midrange was used to estimate weight.
Ekornes considers a material is sustainably sourced when
it is sourced from a certified supplier. Textile used in
manufacturing is certified, either according to Oeko-tex
or EU Eco Flower. Most of the textile is certified according
to Oeko-Tex, while the remaining textile is EU Eco Flower-
certified. It was not possible to calculate the exact split
between the two certification schemes. While the focus is
put on biological materials for this disclosure requirement,
Ekornes uses a range of biological and synthetic materials,
and often they are combined. Oeko-tex and EU Eco Flower
are certifications that cover both types of textiles. It was
therefore decided to disclose the percentage of certified
textile, including both biological and synthetic materials.
Approximately 30% of the textile used by Stressless in 2024
contained recycled materials. The percentage of recycled
content varied from 60% to 100%. A weighted average
showed that the recycled textile contained approximately
80% recycled content. The weighted average was based on
sales data for Stressless and which textile had been used. On
average, the total textile collection for Stressless contains
approximately 24% recycled materials. It is assumed that
Svane and IMG have the same rate of recycled content in
their textile collections.
Yarn: The weight of yarn inflows is based on actual usage
data for all brands. There is no recycled content in the yarn
inflows.
Plastic components: The weight of plastic components is
based on actual usage data for Stressless biggest supplier,
which accounts for 95% of all used plastic. The remaining
plastic for Ekornes components is estimated to account for
the remaining 5%. Plastic components weight was estimated
for IMG and Svane based on revenue split among the three
brands. Actual use of plastic from Stressless’s main supplier is
estimated by calculating the average weight of the different
plastic components (0,373 kg) and multiplying this by the
total amount of plastic components. The number of plastic
components is estimated internally, based on purchasing data.
The percentage of recycled content in plastic components
(70%) is determined through dialogue with suppliers,
who have confirmed the share of recycled material in
their delivered plastic components to Ekornes (based on
raw material input from January through October 2024
specifically used to produce components for Ekornes).
For some plastic components, the recycled content on
component level was not available, and the average as
reported by other suppliers was used.
Wadding: The weight of wadding inflows is based on data
from suppliers on how much has been procured from them
for all brands through 2024. There is no recycled content in
the wadding inflows.
Steel: The weight of steel inflows is based on actual usage
data in 2024 for Stressless and Svane and estimated for IMG
based on revenue split across the three brands. The actual
usage data is based on supplier data and internal data.
The recycled content in steel is provided by suppliers.
The recycled content varies from 20% to 77%. The
recycled content was calculated per steel type, using the
corresponding recycling rate. In total, approximately 46% of
the steel inflows are recycled.
Aluminum: The weight of aluminum inflows is based on
actual usage in 2024. The recycled content of 95% is
provided and documented by the aluminum supplier.
Electrical components: The weight of electrical components
is based on actual usage data for all brands through 2024.
The usage is counted in pieces of electrical components, and
the amount of pieces is multiplied by the average weight of
the components. The weight of the components is provided
through suppliers.
There is no recycled content in the electrical components.
Chemicals. The weight of chemicals inflows is based on
actual usage data for 2024 for all brands and locations.
There is no recycled content in the used chemicals.
Cardboard: The weight of cardboard inflows is based on
actual usage data for 2024 for all brands and locations.
The recycled content of 55% is obtained through dialogue
with suppliers.
Styropor. Total weight of styropor inflows was based on
the use of styropor for Norway and the US. This weight
was scaled based on cardboard data, as this was a materials
category where use data was available for all locations.
Cardboard was chosen because it is also a materials category
used for packaging.
The Styropor used in the transportation of finished goods
are 100% from recycled materials. Ekornes has a closed-loop
recycling flow with the supplier to recycle all the styropor
material from the Ekornes facilities in Norway. The material is
certified by REDcert2.
Plastic wrap. Total weight of plastic wrap inflows was based
on the use of plastic wrap for Norway and the US. This weight
was scaled based on cardboard data, as this was a materials
category where use data was available for all locations.
Cardboard was chosen because it is also a materials category
used for packaging.
There is no recycled content in the plastic wrap.
Total weight of inflows
When disclosing the overall total weight of technical and
biological materials used to manufacture key products
during the reporting period, the weight of the components
and materials that end up in the final product, as well as
the weight of the packaging (cardboard) used for the final
products has been considered. The accounting principles per
material type are described previously.
Biological inflows include wood, leather, textile (26%
biological content: wool), yarn and cardboard.
Technical inflows include steel, aluminum, textile (74%
technical content: polyester, polyamid) glue, plastic
components, wadding, electrical components, chemicals and
styropor.
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report92 93
[E5-5] RESOURCE OUTFLOWS
Design of Products in line with Circular Economy
Principles
This chapter showcases how Ekornes designs products and
chooses materials in line with circular economy principles and
promotes recirculation of products, materials and waste after
the first cycle of use.
Description of key products placed on the market
• Recliners
• Sofa
• Chairs
• Beds
(*ESRS E5-5-35)
Circular principles in design of key products
The table below summarizes how circularity principles are
currently reflected in the design of our products.
Expected durability of products
(*ESRS E5-5-36-(a))
Ekornes produces high-quality and durable furniture. While
no formal service life estimate has previously been published,
a structured approach has now been used to estimate
product durability by product group, based on internal
testing, industry benchmarks, and available product data.
There is currently no harmonized industry-wide method
for calculating service life in the furniture sector. However,
durability requirements used by Ekornes are aligned with
standard thresholds:
• In structural durability, Ekornes recliners, sofas and
chairs are tested externally following standard 100 kg
weight and 100,000 cycles.
• Beds: While mechanical durability testing is not
currently performed on fully assembled beds, Ekornes
conducts extensive testing on individual components
such as pocket springs (EN 1957:2012) and wooden
frames. These components have demonstrated
excellent long-term performance, supported by a 25-
year warranty against frame and spring breakage. The
number of claims related to these components is low.
Compared to leading domestic competitors who also
offer 25-year warranties, Ekornes’ beds are estimated
to perform at a similar durability level.
Group of product
Durability rate comparing to
industry practice
Recliners
100%
Sofas 100%
Chairs 100%
Beds 100%
Circular principle Ekornes consideration of circular principle Key products
Durability
All key products are made with high quality materials and craftsmanship to enable
long product lifespans.
Recliners, Sofa,
Chairs, Beds
Reusability
All key products have a high value on the secondhand market due to high product
quality and long product life.
Recliners, Sofa,
Chairs, Beds
Repairability
Because Ekornes products have a classic and timeless design and the core product
offering is not changed frequently, spare parts are available in our warehouses,
because these parts are still used in new products. This makes it easier for
customers to repair products.
Recliners, Sofa,
Chairs, Beds
Disassembly Stressless® Dining chairs are modular based and designed for easy disassembly.
Chairs, specically
Stressless Dining Chairs
Recycling
Recycling is dependent on products being disassemblable and being composed of
recyclable materials. Dining chairs are the only product now designed to account
for disassembly. All key products contain components which are recyclable, though
100% of the product cannot be recycled.
Chairs, specically
Stressless Dining Chairs
Circular business
models
Ekornes has dened following circularity target: Ekornes aims to design 100% of
new products with circularity as core focus by 2026 and aim to extend this to all
products by 2030 and making step towards achieving it. Circular design principles
are already partially implemented for new products, enabling the transition to a
more circular business model.
Chairs, specically
Stressless Dining Chairs
Due to the lack of full-system mechanical testing and
limited end-of-life data, a conservative 100% durability
estimate is used. Future reporting years aim to refine
this through additional testing, warranty data, and
customer surveys.
Durability estimates have been developed using the
following inputs:
• Testing data from durability tests, including load
capacity and cycle testing (e.g. back and seat durability
tests).
• Comparison to industry standards, such as NS-EN
1728:2012.
• Warranty periods offered across all product groups,
used as a reference point for minimum durability.
Note: These are best estimates based on available testing
data and assumptions. Actual service life may vary
depending on use environment and maintenance.
Limitations and Forward Plan
• While testing data provides a strong basis for estimating
durability, Ekornes has not yet systematically collected
end-of-life data from customers, and therefore exact
service lifespans in real-world conditions are not verified.
• Acknowledging the need for improved data, Ekornes
plans to refine these estimates in future reporting years
through customer surveys, warranty data, and product
returns analysis.
(*ESRS E5-5-36-(a))
Repairability rating of products
There is no established rating system for repairability in
furniture in the EU and Norway does not operate with a
repairability rating. Once this has been established Ekornes
will rate our products according to the system. Until then,
Ekornes discloses on this issue in more qualitative ways,
by using the structure of a repairability rating used in
electronic products.
France launched a Repairability Index in 2021 for
five electronic products (TVs, smartphones, washing
machines, lawn mowers and laptop). The requirements
the Repairability Index was based on are helpful in guiding
a disclosure of the repairability of Ekornes’ product
range. The table below highlights the Repairability Index
Requirements that are most relevant for furniture and
describes how Ekornes products and customer interaction
tries to meet the requirements.
(*ESRS E5-5-36-(b))
Repairability
Index
Requirement
Ekornes consideration of requirement Key products
Availability of technical
documentation (such as
instructions for use and
maintenance)
Instructions for use and maintenance are available for many Ekornes products,
through our website. There are also video tutorials on YouTube that consumers can
watch for step-by-step guidance. Stressless also provides care kits for fabric and
leather which allow Stressless owners to take care of their recliners and chairs while
the furniture is in use.
Recliners,
Sofa,
Chairs,
Beds
Ease of disassembly
(number of steps needed
to disassemble, tools
needed, characteristics
of fasteners)
Ease of disassembly depends on the product range. For instance, the Stressless
®
Dining Chairs. Most components in the dining furniture from Stressless
®
such as legs,
frame, covers and seats are separable, encouraging circular use. If needed, they can be
taken apart by the user and replaced. Products that are fully disassemblable have
disassembly instructions. Recliners, home ofce chairs, sofas and beds are not yet
designed intentionally for disassembly, but Ekornes is working on implementing
disassembly as design criteria for new products.
Chairs, s
pecically
Stressless
Dining Chairs
Spare parts availability
Ekornes has high availability of spare parts, as our designs are timeless, and similar
components are used across different product ranges. The process for customers to
obtain spare parts is not streamlined, but the customer can contact the distributor/
retailer where the product was purchased and request spare parts. Where possible,
Ekornes supplies customers with spare parts.
Recliners,
Sofa,
Chairs,
Beds
Spare parts price
As Ekornes has various product groups and models it is challenging to provide a
concise overview of the price of our spare parts. Some parts are small, such as a screw,
whereas other parts are bigger, such as an armrest. This inuences the price.
Transportation cost and other material handling might also inuence the total cost of
spare parts. If a spare part is asked for within the warranty period, the customer incurs
no costs.
Recliners,
Sofa,
Chairs,
Beds
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report94 95
Resource outflows: Waste Recyclable content of products
The rate of recyclable content in Ekornes’ products and
their packaging is an important measure. The table below
shows the percentage recyclable content in the four key
product group.
Accounting principles
For each key product group, one model was selected to
be used as the basis for the recyclable content estimates.
The inflows and components in the model were then
analyzed by the Head of Risk and Compliance to assess
whether the given material or part can be recycled. The
weight of the recyclable components was then calculated,
based on actual data from the bill of materials, to get the
total recyclable weight of the model. The weight of the
recyclable content was divided by the total weight of the
model, to give the percentage recyclable content of the
model.
Because one model is chosen to represent all products
within one product group, the provided percentage is
an estimate. Within one product group there are several
models, and each model might also have different
variations. This estimate thus provides a broad overview of
recyclable content in Ekornes’ final products.
Cardboard, plastic wrap and styropor are all composed of
mono-materials and thus easily recyclable.
Waste
Ekornes is currently working on finalizing our waste
management strategy. In the following chapters current
waste management practices are described. The reporting
is done at Ekornes Group level.
Key product group Percentage recyclable content Main barriers to 100% recyclability
Recliners
77% Foam, polyester bre, glue and paint not recyclable
Dining chairs 98% Polyester textile not recyclable
Sofas 8% Only steel components are recyclable
Beds 20% Only steel springs are recyclable
Key packaging material group Percentage recyclable content Main barriers to 100% recyclability
Cardboard
100% -
Styropor 100% -
Plastic wrap 100% -
(*ESRS E5-5-37-(a), (b)-(i), (ii), (iii), (c)-(i), (ii), (iii), (d))
Resource outows Units Weight
Waste generated (total) Tons 2 569
Waste diverted from disposal (total) Tons 1 01 1
Hazardous waste (total) Tons -
Preparation for reuse Tons -
Recycling Tons -
Other recovery operations Tons -
Non-hazardous waste (total) Tons 1 011
Preparation for reuse Tons 215
Recycling Tons 796
Other recovery operations Tons 0
Waste directed to disposal (total) Tons 1 558
Hazardous waste (total) Tons 202
Incineration Tons -
Landll Tons 66,1
Other disposal operations Tons -
Unknown disposal operations Tons 135,9
Non-hazardous waste (total) Tons 1 356
Incineration Tons 941
Landll Tons 391
Other disposal operations Tons 25
Non-recycled waste (total) Tons 1 558
Non-recycled waste (percentage) % 60,6%
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202496 97Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report
Social
S1 Own workforce 98-106
Accounting principles
Waste calculations are based on data available during the
fiscal period from our eight production sites, with complete
data from all factories. The actual data from the factories
(direct measurements) has been combined to provide an
overview for the Ekornes Group’s total waste. The amount
of waste sent to landfill in 2024 was higher than previous
years, due to Hurricane Helena in September 2024
(Morganton, US).
Hazardous waste accumulates in the factories in Norway,
Lithuania and Thailand. All hazardous waste in Norway
is sent to landfill. For Lithuania and Thailand there is no
available data on handling of hazardous waste at our sites,
nor for the country level handling of hazardous waste. It
is consequently not possible to make an estimate that is
reliable. Hazardous waste for Lithuania and Thailand has
therefore been placed in the row called “Unknown disposal
operations”.
WASTE COMPOSITION
Ekornes’ waste streams
• Defect products and product components
• Overproduction, obsolete products in inventory
• Production waste
• Scraps and leftover material
• Water waste
• End of life waste (consumer waste stream)
• Packaging waste from resource inflows
• Transportation waste
Ekornes’ waste is composed of several materials:
• Biomass, including wood and cardboard
• Metals
• Plastics
• Textiles
• Hazardous materials; Chemicals, oils, varnish
• Electrical waste
• Residual waste
Ekornes has additionally several waste streams which
are a direct recycling process between the factory and
supplier. The styropor is 100% recycled and re-used in a
closed loop between Ekornes and the supplier, as well as
the wadding polyester fiber in the Norwegian facilities. For
thread spools, a byproduct from the tread used for seams,
the spools are directly transported to a plastic supplier for
grinding and production of new products.
Contents
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 202498 99
1. ESRS S1 - Own workforce
S1 – OWN WORKFORCE
RELATED IMPACTS, RISKS AND
OPPORTUNITIES IRO 1-SBM 3
The table below lists the material IROs identified for S1
Own workforce. All our permanent or temporary
employees across all operational regions are the subject of
impacts, risks and opportunities.
Connection between workforce impacts and
business strategy
Ekornes recognizes that its workforce is a key factor in
ensuring long-term business sustainability and operational
excellence. The company’s strategic focus on secure
employment, fair working conditions, and employee
well-being is embedded in its business model.
The Double Materiality Assessment (DMA) identified that
ensuring permanent employment contracts, competitive
wages, and safe working conditions directly enhances
workforce stability and satisfaction. These elements, in
turn, drive productivity, reduce turnover, and contribute to
maintaining high product quality and customer
satisfaction—key pillars of Ekornes’ business success.
To support a motivated workforce, Ekornes aligns its
policies with international labor standards and best
practices, ensuring that the company provides equitable
opportunities and fosters good and healthy work
environment. The company’s commitment to workforce
well-being informs strategic decisions, such as talent
development initiatives, workplace safety programs, and
social dialogue efforts to strengthen employee relations
across all operational sites.
Ekornes continuously assesses its workforce-related risks
and opportunities and adapts its strategy to address
emerging challenges, including evolving labor market
trends, regulatory requirements, and workforce
expectations.
Ekornes doesn’t operate in the regions with high risk of
forced or child labour.
There have been no Incidents, complaints and severe
human rights impacts.
Workforce Risks and Opportunities in the
Sustainability Transition
Ekornes is currently in the process of developing its
sustainable transition plans, which will define how the
company adapts to climate-related challenges and
opportunities. At this stage, it is not yet possible to
evaluate how these changes will impact the workforce.
Impact Type of impact
Value chain
allocation
Time Horizon
Providing permanent contracts and enabling a healthy life through
good working conditions can enhance employee well-being,
satisfaction and a more motivated and engaged workforce
Positive actual
Own operations
(Thailand)
Short-term,
medium-term,
long-term
Manufacturing environments are not 100% safe, posing risks to
employee health and safety despite mitigation efforts.
Negative actual
impact related to
individual incidents
Own operations
Short-term,
medium-term,
long-term
Potentially Affected Workforce Groups:
Ekornes has identified the group of employees that can
potentially be the most affected based on internal
expertise and discussions. The group identified is
employees in production and manufacturing roles:
• Employees in production facilities may face higher
exposure to workplace safety risks.
• Ekornes mitigates these risks through strict health and
safety protocols and polices and regular training.
[MDR-P & S1-1] POLICIES RELATED TO
OWN WORKFORCE
People Policy
The People Policy is a high-level framework that outlines
Ekornes commitment to managing its workforce in a fair,
inclusive, and ethical manner across all regions. The policy
is connected to S1 / Own workforce through covering key
aspects of employment and working conditions, ensuring
that employees across different regions are treated fairly
and equitably. The policy also addresses Health, Safety and
Environmental Management practices. The policy thus
addresses all material impacts related to S1.
The People Policy integrates human rights and labour
rights of people in own workforce. Furthermore, it
supports workforce engagement and well-being through
structured approaches to performance management,
career development, compensation, and benefits. It also
addresses measures to remedy human rights impacts by
integrating social protection, ensuring that employees
receive adequate remuneration and support.
The Ekornes People Policy is aligned with key international
frameworks including the UN Guiding Principles on
Business and Human Rights, the ILO Core Conventions,
the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, and
the UN Global Compact Principles. It sets clear
expectations for ethical conduct, equal treatment, and
decent working conditions across all regions, supporting
human rights, fair labour practices, and a safe, inclusive
workplace culture.
Compliance with these standards is monitored through
structured HR governance, internal audits, the People
Engagement & Performance (PEP) process, whistleblowing
mechanisms, and regular employee feedback. Global and
local HR teams ensure implementation through aligned
processes, with oversight provided by the “grandfather
principle” in key decisions. These mechanisms ensure
Ekornes’ commitments are embedded in everyday
operations.
Sustainability Position Paper – Our People
The Sustainability Position Paper – Our People outlines the
company’s guiding principles, approaches, and interim
measures related to workforce management while Ekornes
finalizes the ongoing process of updating its sustainability
strategy, targets, priorities and actions. It serves as a
foundation for future policies and strategies that align with
emerging global workforce standards. The policy is linked
to S1/ Own workforce by committing to a safe, inclusive,
and productive workplace. The policy also includes
Ekornes’ approach to health, safety and wellbeing. The
policy addresses all material impacts related to S1. The
policy outlines Ekornes’ approach to employee
engagement.
The policy integrates respect for human rights, labour
rights of people in own workforce by providing social
protection and fair labour practices. With the
non-discrimination principles and the targets to foster an
inclusive culture, Ekornes integrates measures to remedy
human rights impacts.
Whistleblowing at Ekornes
The policy describes the Global whistleblowing procedure
of Ekornes AS and all group companies. It fosters a
transparent and ethical work environment where
employees feel safe to report concerns without fear of
retaliation. It addresses the material impact related to
good working conditions, as Ekornes considers being able
to voice concerns is a prerequisite for good working
conditions.
The whistleblowing mechanism applies to all employees
across Ekornes’ global operations. Employees are
encouraged to report concerns related to bullying,
harassment, discrimination, any violations of laws, internal
policies, or regulations. This shows the policy is linked to
remedying human rights impacts. Ekornes ensures that
employees who report wrongdoing are protected from any
form of retaliation. To engage employees Ekornes has
structured a process that allows employees to report
concerns confidentially and, if preferred, anonymously.
There is alignment with nationally recognised instruments
(Norwegian Employment Law).
Health, Safety and Environmental Policy
The Health, Safety and Environmental Policy outlines
Ekornes’ approach and objectives related to health, safety
and the environment. This policy addresses the impact
related to health and safety. There is alignment with
nationally recognised instruments (Norwegian
Employment Law).
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024100 101
Ekornes Management Handbook – Quality, HSE,
Environment
Ekornes as chosen to have a management system for
Quality, HSE and Environment in accordance with the
quality management standard ISO 9001 and the
environmental management standard ISO 14001. The
Management handbook includes management of Quality,
HSE and Environment. This policy addresses the impact
related to health and safety.
Policies referenced in this section, including the People
Policy, Whistleblowing Procedure, Health, Safety and
Environmental Policy, and the Ekornes Management
Handbook, are made available to all employees through the
company’s internal digital platforms, such as the Ekornes
intranet and TQM. These policies are also introduced
during onboarding and reinforced through manager-led
dialogues, and ongoing internal communication.
For details about the policies see Table for Ekornes
policies related to material IROs, page 42-45 where all
policies are listed in accordance with ESRS 2 MDR-P and
ESRS E1-2.
[MDR-A & S1-4] ACTIONS RELATED TO
OWN WORKFORCE
Ekornes is currently in the action definition stage and is
developing measures to address identified material
impacts, risks, and opportunities related to its own
workforce. At this stage, the company is focusing on
initiatives that promote fair working conditions and
employee well-being globally. While specific outcome-
oriented targets are not yet formalized, the primary
actions under development are embedded in ongoing
people management processes and group-wide policy
updates.
People Engagement & Performance Process
Ekornes has initiated a new People Engagement &
Performance initiative (PEP) as the main action at the
group level to align workforce practices globally. This
action aims to ensure that all initiatives under the
Performance & Engagement Process are embedded within
the broader People Policy framework, across all brands,
departments and geographies. The process is designed to
address material workforce impacts by fostering
structured engagement, improving goal-setting
consistency, and strengthening the connection between
employee performance and organizational objectives.
Phase one of the rollout was started and kept running
throughout 2024, with a target completion date at the end
of 2025. Efforts have included orientations and training
sessions to introduce the new framework.
Approach to Action Identification and Stakeholder
Involvement
Ekornes uses a combination of stakeholder engagement
through discussions and workshops, and workforce data
(e.g., turnover, absenteeism) to identify material impacts
and relevant actions. While no separate budget lines are
allocated per action, resource allocation is integrated into
existing HR planning cycles.
Employees and their representatives have not yet been
Employees and their representatives have not yet been
formally involved in setting specific targets, but insights
from annual engagement surveys and local dialogues
influence action prioritization. As PEP rolls out, Ekornes
will explore more formal avenues for participation in
shaping future targets.
Additional Information Linked to Positive Impacts
in Thailand
While most actions are integrated into general HR
practices, Ekornes promotes positive impacts for its
workforce through:
• Stable employment contracts, with a large proportion of
permanent contracts
• Fair payment practices, monitored via internal HR
reviews
Preventing Contribution to Negative Impacts
Ekornes ensures its own practices do not contribute to
negative workforce impacts through:
• Internal compliance and risk reviews at factory level
(HSE, payroll, and working hours)
• Internal policies ensuring minimum standards on health,
safety, non-discrimination, and fair pay
• Supplier Code of Conduct, which reinforces these
principles in areas with outsourced functions (e.g.,
transportation, catering)
[MDR-T & S1-5] TARGETS RELATED TO
MANAGING MATERIAL NEGATIVE
IMPACTS, ADVANCING POSITIVE
IMPACTS, AND MANAGING MATERIAL
RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES
When it comes to targets related to Own workforce,
Ekornes is currently in a target definition process for the
topic of Working Conditions, and while we have had
several discussions internally, a final decision will be made
on these targets by the end of 2025. When it comes to
health and safety, Ekornes has three targets to disclose.
Health and safety targets have been defined with
involvement of key H&S stakeholders, workforce
representatives, – safety delegates from different
department. Those targets have been further approved
through management review. For all those targets
following process is in place for identifying lessons and
improvements as a result of the performance:
Step 1. Case handling system TQM- 4 per year
Step 2. Management review
Step 3. Departmental committee meetings.
Zero injuries and accidents
Ekornes shall have a zero injuries and accidents. This
means that Ekornes shall work to avoid work-related
injuries each year. This target is listed in “Ekornes – HSE
policy and objectives”. The target level to be achieved is
zero injuries and accidents. The target relates to all
Ekornes employees, across brands and geographies. This
target is a yearly target and the target level to be achieved
is the same each year. Ekornes counts 2024 as the base year.
There is no additional estimates to this target. This target
is based on general vision are to have 0 LTI according to
internal understanding: “you can not have a target for 5
injuries per year (that are 5 to many)”.
Ekornes had 20 injuries in 2024.
Sick leave below country average and below 5%
for Norway
Ekornes has a goal that sick leave shall not exceed 5 % in
the Norwegian companies. In companies outside Norway
the sick leave shall not exceed the average level for the
respective countries. This target is listed in “Ekornes – HSE
policy and objectives”.
The target relates to all Ekornes employees, across brands
and geographies. This target is a yearly target and the
target level to be achieved is the same each year, unless the
country averages change. Ekornes will counts 2025 as the
base year for calculations.
The sick leave is calculated by dividing total number of sick
days by total work days and multiplied by 100, where
• Total Sick Days: The sum of all days employees are
absent due to sickness.
• Total Work Days (FTE): The total number of workdays
adjusted for full-time equivalent employment.
The level of the target is identified based on historic data
and internal countries standards. For Norway Norsk
Industri provide average data and this data is in
consideration together with historic data.
Zero impositions from external controls /
inspections
Ekornes has a goal to have zero impositions from external
controls/ inspections through pro-active HSE
management. This target is listed in “Ekornes – HSE policy
and objectives”. The target level to be achieved is zero
impositions. The target relates to all Ekornes employees,
across brands and geographies. This target is a yearly
target and the target level to be achieved is the same each
year. Ekornes counts 2024 as the base year.
Ekornes has 1 imposition in 2024.
[S1-2] PROCESSES FOR ENGAGING
WITH OWN WORKERS AND WORKERS’
REPRESENTATIVES ABOUT IMPACTS
Engagement with the Workforce at Ekornes
Ekornes values input from its employees and recognizes
the importance of structured workforce engagement to
ensure a fair, transparent, and inclusive work environment.
While a formalized, group-wide engagement approach is
not yet in place, the company has established workforce
engagement practices at the local level in different regions,
including Norway, Lithuania, Thailand, and the USA.
Future Improvements
Ekornes acknowledges the need for a more unified and
structured engagement approach at the group level.
Moving forward, the company aims to formalize consistent
workforce engagement policies that will be implemented
on the group level and across all locations to enhance
communication, representation, and employee
participation.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024102 103
[S1-3] CHANNELS FOR OWN
WORKFORCE TO RAISE CONCERNS
Grievance and Complaints Handling
Ekornes has a whistleblowing procedure in place that
covers grievance and complaints handling. This procedure
described how employees can proceed when they want to
report concerns confidentially and ensures that reported
issues are reviewed and addressed appropriately. Ekornes’
whistleblowing policies include provisions to protect
employees from retaliation, ensuring that employees can
report concerns without fear of negative consequences.
In cases related to Health & Safety, site-level HSE
coordinators are also involved in the investigation and
resolution process. Everyone can submit report on the
injury or wrong actions through internal system.
Availability and Accessibility
The whistleblowing procedure and reporting channe are
accessible to all employees via the company intranet. This
ensures that employees across different locations have
direct means to raise concerns when needed.
Company ensures that employees aware of those channels
through onboarding procedures and displaying information
on physical boards at the factories.
Handling and Decision-Making Process
The VP People & Culture and CFO receive and review
cases submitted through the whistleblowing channel. They
assess the nature of the case and determine the
appropriate course of action, including whether external
case management is necessary.
Remedy and Follow-Up of Negative Impacts
Ekornes’ approach to remedying negative impacts,
particularly for Health & Safety, includes:
• Immediate corrective measures to prevent further
harm;
• Investigation and root cause analysis;
• Implementation of long-term preventive actions;
• Communication back to involved employees (as
appropriate and respecting confidentiality);
• Updates to training or operational procedures when
needed.
These steps aim to ensure that issues raised through the
grievance mechanism result in meaningful improvements.
Tracking and Monitoring
Tracking of reported cases is done manually, and there is
currently no system in place to measure the effectiveness
of the remediation process.
As of today, Ekornes has not formally measured employee
trust in the grievance mechanisms. However, the company
plans to introduce structured methods for tracking trust
and effectiveness in the future.
[S1-6] CHARACTERISTICS OF EKORNES’
EMPLOYEES
Ekornes had 2461 employees at the end of 2024, with
most employees based in Norway and Thailand.
Total Number of Employees Headcount – 2024
(ESRS Table 2 include ref to fin.stat)
Employee Headcount by Gender (end of year)
(ESRS Table 1)
Category Number Percentage
Norway 972
39%
Thailand 881 36%
Lithuania 256 10%
USA 80 3%
Other regions 272 11%
Total Employees 2,461 100%
Gender Number of Employees
Male 1,304
Female 1,157
Other 0
Not Reported 0
Total Employees 2,461
Employee Headcount by gender and contract type
The company’s stance is that permanent employment is the
main rule. Over 90% of Ekornes employees are employed
full-time.
Category Female Male Other*
Not
Disclosed
Total
Number of employees (headcount) 1,157
1,304 0 0 2461
Number of permanent employees (headcount) 1,157 1304 0 0 2461
Number of temporary employees (headcount) - - - - -
Number of non-guaranteed hours employees (headcount) - - - - -
Number of full-time employees (headcount) 1018 1212 2230
Number of part-time employees (headcount) 139 92 231
Norway Thailand USA Lithuania Other Total
Number of employees who have left Ekornes 85
300 18 48 51 502
The turnover rate for 2024 was 20.4%. Redundancies due
to slowing production in Thailand accounts for most of the
turnover.
Accounting principles
Total Number of Employees Headcount :The information
presented in this section is based on actual data from
internal systems across our operations, as Ekornes does
not have one unified system. Factory managers provided
data from the systems they use. All employee numbers are
provided as headcount and not FTEs. All employee
numbers represent year-end values.
For the geographical breakdown of employees, data
represents all employees. This is in line with what was
reported in the financial statements on page 167 and in
ESRS 2 (page 26).
To report gender distribution across the entire organization,
Ekornes used available data from our manufacturing
operations, which represent the largest and most structured
segment of our workforce. The manufacturing population
provided the following headcount by gender:
• Male: 1,106
• Female: 946
• Other: 0
• Not Reported: 0
• Total (Manufacturing): 2,052 employees
From this data, Ekornes calculated the gender distribution
within the manufacturing workforce as follows:
• Male: 53%
• Female: 47%
Note: For reporting clarity and consistency, this is
presented as approximately 53% male and 47% female,
recognizing minor rounding.
These proportions were then applied to the total
organizational headcount of 2,461 employees to estimate
gender distribution across the entire group. This results in
the following estimated gender distribution for the full
workforce:
• Estimated Male Headcount: 1,304
• Estimated Female Headcount: 1,157
To estimate employee turnover and the corresponding
turnover rate for the entire Ekornes Group, company used
Lithuania as a reference point, where we have both the
number of leavers and the headcount and that represent
the most balanced turnover rate per year based on historic
data:
• Lithuania Headcount: 256
• Leavers in Lithuania: 48
This gives a turnover rate of 18.8% in Lithuania.
Employee turnover and turnover rate
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024
104 105
This rate has been further applied as an estimated average
turnover rate for the rest of the organization. From
internal workforce data, Ekornes identified that 272
people are employed in countries or roles not covered by
the detailed manufacturing turnover data. For these
employees, Ekornes applied the 18.8% turnover rate.
By combining the known leavers from manufacturing
operations with the estimated leavers from the rest of the
organization:
• Known Manufacturing Leavers: 451
• Estimated Non-Manufacturing Leavers: 51
• Total Estimated Leavers: 502
Estimated Turnover Rate – Full Group
502/2.461 = approx 20.4%
Assumptions
• The turnover rate in Lithuania is used as a proxy for
average turnover across the organization.
• The manufacturing turnover data is complete and
accurately reflects exits in those roles.
• Non-manufacturing employees experience similar
turnover dynamics as those in Lithuanian
manufacturing.
• The total group headcount of 2,461 is accurate and
includes all full-time employees.
Ekornes does not currently comprehensively register
reasons for employees leaving the company.
Estimation of Full-Time and Part-Time
Employment
Ekornes does not currently track full-time equivalent (FTE)
status or part-time contracts across the full group in a
centralized system. To estimate the company-wide
breakdown of full-time and part-time employees, Ekornes
relied on structured data from our manufacturing
operations, which represent the largest and most
systematically tracked segment of our workforce.
Within manufacturing operations, the headcount is as
follows:
• Total manufacturing headcount: 2,052
• Full-time employees:
• Female: 836
• Male: 1,034
• Total: 1,870
• Part-time employees:
• Female: 110
• Male: 72
• Total: 182
This results in a manufacturing-based ratio of
approximately 91.1% full-time and 8.9% part-time.
These percentages were then applied to the total company
headcount of 2,461 to estimate the employment status
across the full organization. The assumption is that the
ratio observed in manufacturing is a reasonable proxy for
the overall workforce, considering the dominance of
full-time contracts and the limited presence of part-time
work in other business areas.
Assumptions:
• The full-time/part-time ratio in manufacturing is used as
a representative proxy for the entire company.
• The nature of work outside manufacturing supports the
assumption of a similar or even higher proportion of
full-time employment.
• All figures are reported as headcount, not FTE, and
reflect year-end values.
• No double-counting of individuals; each employee is
counted once.
Ekornes plans to explore enhanced tracking of part-time
and FTE status across all operations for future reporting
cycles, in line with the requirements of the ESRS.
[S1-8] COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
COVERAGE AND SOCIAL DIALOGUE
Collective bargaining:
The percentage of Ekornes employees covered by
collective bargaining agreements:
• Norway: 76%
• Lithuania: 1,5 %
• USA: 0% (no unions)
• Thailand: 0% (no unions)
• Total: 30.1%
(*ESRS S1-8-59)
(*ESRS S1-8-60-(c))
Collective Bargaining Coverage Social Dialogue
Coverage Rate Employees – EEA Employees – Non- EEA Workplace representation
0-19% Lithuania USA, Thailand
20-39%
40-59%
60-79% Norway
80-100% Norway, Lithuania
Accounting Principles and Methodology
The collective bargaining coverage rate has been
calculated by aggregating the number of employees in
manufacturing operations who are covered by collective
bargaining agreements during the reporting period and
dividing this by the total number of manufacturing
employees within Ekornes.
This approach reflects a robust baseline, as manufacturing
roles constitute the majority of Ekornes’ total workforce.
Assumptions and Scope of Estimate
To estimate the total group coverage rate of 30.1%,
Ekornes extrapolated the dynamics observed in our key
manufacturing countries to the broader organizational
context. While some operations—such as in Norway—have
strong collective bargaining structures, others, including
Thailand and the USA, do not have active union
representation.
For remaining locations where specific data is not currently
available, we have assumed a similar pattern of coverage:
some with moderately high representation and others with
little or no union activity. This balanced assumption reflects
the diversity of legal, cultural, and operational
environments in which Ekornes operates globally.
As data quality improves across the group, especially in
administrative or sales functions, we will refine these
estimates and expand reporting coverage accordingly.
Social Dialogue:
• Norway – 100%
• All employees are covered by workers reps and
union reps
• Lithuania – 100%
• All employees are covered by a committee that
consists of 3 employee reps and 3 employers reps.
Global coverage 49.8%
[S1-10] ADEQUATE WAGES
Ekornes confirms that all its employees receive an
adequate wage in line with applicable benchmarks set by
local HR teams.
Accounting principles:
Applicable benchmarks for an adequate wage are
determined per country by the local HR and payroll teams
at Ekornes, ensuring alignment with local economic
conditions and industry standards
(*ESRS Prescribed table as per AR 70, Table 1)
(*ESRS S1-8-60-(b), (c), S1-8-63-(a) and S1-8-AR 70)
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report
106 107
[S1-11] SOCIAL PROTECTION
All Ekornes employees are covered by social protection
through public programs or benefits provided by the
company across all major life events.
Accounting principles:
Social protection refers to all measures that provide access
to health care and income support in cases of challenging
life events, such as loss of employment, sickness requiring
medical care, parental leave (subject to country specific
requirements, some countries only have maternity leave),
employment injuries or acquired disability, and retirement.
The disclosure is based on the coverage of operations
workforce and the best assumption is that the same rule is
applicable for all other (administrative and sales)
employees. Assumption that all employees covered by
social protection through public programs or benefits
provided by the company is based on available data
covering manufacturing employees.
[S1-14] HEALTH AND SAFETY METRICS
This section describes the coverage, quality and
performance of the health and safety management system
established at Ekornes to prevent work-related injuries.
Accounting principles
All employees covered by our health and management
system are also covered by our Health and Safety policy,
see further information on page 99/100. When
considering recordable work-related accidents, Ekornes
considers accidents that cause absence from work for
one shift/day or more. Recordable work-related accidents
rate is calculated as the number of accidents per 1 million
hours worked and covers own employees. For recordable
work-related ill-health, Ekornes does not record this
information and so cannot disclose it. For future reporting
cycles Ekornes will aim to provide actual data on ill-health
among employees.
88 Health and Safety gures for Ekornes employees Unit Value
A
Percentage of own workforce covered by health and safety management system % 100
B
Fatalities as a result of work-related injuries and work-related ill health # 0
C
Recordable work-related accidents (lost time injuries) H1 # 20
C
Recordable work-related accidents (H1 value) rate 4,4
D
Recordable work-related ill health # -
E
Days lost to work-related injuries and fatalities from work-related accidents days 165
107
Tables and additional information
in relation to chapters of the report
Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024
A1 IRO 2 Data points that derive from other EU legislation 108-111
Contents
108 109
TABLES AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IN RELATION TO CHAPTERS OF THE REPORT
A1 IRO 2 Data points that derive from other EU legislation
The table below contains all disclosure requirements and related data points originating from other EU legislation as set out in Annex B
of ESRS 2, indicating where the data points can be found in the annual report and which data points are assessed as non-material.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024
Disclosure Requirement Data Point Description SFDR reference Pillar 3 reference Benchmark regulation EU Climate Law reference Materiality Page
ESRS 2 GOV-1 21 (d) Board`s Gender Diversity paragraph X X Material 20
ESRS 2 GOV -1 21 (e) Percentage of independent board members X Material 20
ESRS 2 GOV-4 30 Statement of due diligence X Material 24
ESRS 2 SBM-1 40(d) i) Participation in activities related to the fuel sector X X X Not Material N/A
ESRS 2 SBM-1 40(d) ii) Participation in activities related to the chemicals production X X Not Material N/A
ESRS 2 SBM-1 40(d) iii) Participation in activities related to controversial weapons X X Not Material N/A
ESRS 2 SBM-1 40(d) iv) Participation in activities related to cultivation and production of tobacco X Not Material N/A
ESRS E1-1 14 Transition plan to reach climate neutrality by 2050 X Material 53
ESRS E1-1 16 g) Undertakings excluded from Paris-aligned Benchmarks X X Material 51
ESRS E1-4 34 GHG emission reduction targets X X X Material 53
ESRS E1-5 37 Energy consumption and mix paragraph X Material 53
ESRS E1-5 38
Energy consumption from fossil sources disaggregated by sources (only high
climate impact sectors)
X Not Material N/A
ESRS E1-5 40-43 Energy intensity associated with activities in high climate impact sectors X Not Material N/A
ESRS E1-6 44 Gross Scope 1, 2, 3 and Total GHG emissions X X Material 59
ESRS E1-6 53-55 Gross GHG emissions intensity X X Material 60
ESRS E1-7 56 GHG removals and carbon credits X Not Material N/A
ESRS E1-9 66 Exposure of the benchmark portfolio to climate-related physical risks X Material, Phase In N/A
ESRS E1-9 66 a) Disaggregation of monetary amounts by acute and chronic physical risk X Material Phase in N/A
ESRS E1-9 66 c) Location of signicant assets at material physical risk X Material, Phase in N/A
ESRS E1-9 67 c) Breakdown of the carrying value of its real estate assets by energy-efciency classes Material, Phase In N/A
ESRS E1-9 69 Degree of exposure of the portfolio to climate- related opportunities X Material, Phase in N/A
ESRS E2-4 28
Amount of each pollutant listed in Annex II of the EPRTR Regulation (European
Pollutant Release and Transfer Register) emitted to air, water and soil
X Not Material N/A
ESRS E3-1 9 Water and marine resources X Not Material N/A
ESRS E3-1 13 Dedicated policy X Not Material N/A
ESRS E3-1 14 Sustainable oceans and seas X Not Material N/A
ESRS E3-4 28 c) Total water recycled and reused X Not Material N/A
ESRS E3-4 29 Total water consumption in m3 per net revenue on own operations X Not Material N/A
ESRS 2 SBM-3 E4 16 a) i) Activities negatively affecting biodiversity sensitive areas X Material 76
ESRS 2 SBM-3 E4 16 b)
Material negative impacts with regards to land degradation, desertication or
soil sealing
X Material 76
ESRS 2 SBM-3 E4 16 c) Operations that affect threatened species X Material 76
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Sustainability report Sustainability report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024110 111
ESRS 2 E4-2 24 b) Sustainable land/agriculture practices or policies X Not Material N/A
ESRS 2 E4-2 24 c) Sustainable oceans/seas practices or policies X Not Material N/A
ESRS 2 E4-2 24 d) Policies to address deforestation X Material 79/80
ESRS E5-5 37 d) Non-recycled waste paragraph X Material 96
ESRS E5-5 39 Hazardous waste and radioactive waste paragraph X Material 96
ESRS 2 SBM-3 S1 14 f) Risk of incidents of forced labour X Material 98
ESRS 2 SBM-3 S1 14 g) Risk of incidents of child labour X Material 98
ESRS S1-1 20 Human rights policy commitments X Material 99
ESRS S1-1 21
Due diligence policies on issues addressed by the fundamental International
Labor Organisation Conventions 1 to 8
X Material 99
ESRS S1-1 22 Processes and measures for preventing trafcking in human beings X Not Material N/A
ESRS S1-1 23 Workplace accident prevention policy or management system X Material 100/101
ESRS S1-3 32 c) Grievance/complaints handling mechanisms X Material 100/103
ESRS S1-14 88 b) and c) Number of fatalities and number and rate of work-related accident X X Material 106
ESRS S1-14 88 e) Number of days lost to injuries, accidents, fatalities or illness X Not Material N/A
ESRS S1-16 97 a) Unadjusted gender pay gap X X Not Material N/A
ESRS S1-16 97 b) Excessive CEO pay ratio X Not Material N/A
ESRS S1-17 103 a) Incidents of discrimination paragraph X Not Material N/A
ESRS S1-17 104 a) Non-respect of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights and OECD Guidelines X X Not Material N/A
ESRS 2 SBM-3 S2 11 b) Signicant risk of child labour or forced labour in the value chain X Not Material N/A
ESRS S2-1 17 Human rights policy commitments X Not Material N/A
ESRS S2-1 18 Policies related to value chain workers X Not Material N/A
ESRS S2-1 19
Non-respect of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights principles and OECD
guidelines
X X Not Material N/A
ESRS S2-1 19
Due diligence policies on issues addressed by the fundamental International
Labor Organisation Conventions 1 to 8
X Not Material N/A
ESRS S2-1 4 36
Human rights issues and incidents connected to its upstream and downstream
value chai
X Not Material N/A
ESRS S3-1 16 Human rights policy commitments X Not Material N/A
ESRS S3-1 17
Non-respect of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights, ILO principles or and
OECD guidelines
X X Not Material N/A
ESRS S3-4 36 Human rights issues and incidents X Not Material N/A
ESRS S4-1 16 Policies related to consumers and end-users X Not Material N/A
ESRS S4-1 17 Non-respect of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights and OECD guidelines X X Not Material N/A
ESRS S4-4 35 Human rights issues and incidents X Not Material N/A
ESRS G1-1 10 b) United Nations Convention against Corruption X Not Material N/A
ESRS G1-1 10 d) Protection of whistle-blowers X Not Material N/A
ESRS G1-4 24 a) Fines for violation of anti-corruption and anti-bribery laws X X Not Material N/A
ESRS G1-4 24 b) Standards of anti-corruption and anti-bribery X Not Material N/A
The Board of Directors
Ekornes QM Holding AS
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2023 | Sustainability report112 113
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Board of directors Ekornes Qm Holding AS Report of The Board of Directors | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024
As we entered 2024, the furniture industry continued to
face headwinds from high inflation and increased living
costs. With disposable income constrained, consumer
spending remained cautious, shifting away from furniture
and household items. This trend contributed to a continued
normalization of sales from the elevated pandemic-driven
peak in 2022. Throughout the year, volatile market
conditions persisted, impacting demand and resulting in a
9% decline in revenues compared to 2023. However,
despite lower volumes, revenues were still above
pre-pandemic levels, supported by higher prices
materializing across the portfolio alongside positive
currency effects.
In response to lower activity, Ekornes continued its
disciplined approach in adapting to softer market
conditions. The Group has during recent years consistently
implemented operational and financial initiatives to
streamline the organization, enhance cost control, optimize
its product portfolio and adjust pricing. These efforts have
enabled Ekornes to gradually improve profitability amidst
volatile sales which translated into operating earnings
(EBIT) for 2024 increasing by 48% from the prior year.
A more positive sales trajectory emerged in the second half
of 2024, with order intake gradually improving. In the
fourth quarter, order intake increased by 19% compared to
the same period in 2023, strengthening the order reserve
and positioning Ekornes better for the next year than one
year earlier. Furthermore, the positive sales development
has continued in the first quarter 2025, indicating a gradual
market recovery.
Demonstrating resilience under challenging market
conditions, Ekornes has during 2024 reduced its leverage
ratio in line with the company’s bond covenants. Through
initiatives focused on safeguarding cash flow — including
reducing working capital and temporarily limiting
investments — Ekornes has built a strong cash position,
closing the year with NOK 910 million in cash. This financial
flexibility ensures the Group remains well-positioned to
sustain profitability while adapting operations to evolving
market conditions.
Ekornes remains committed to continuous development of
its unique brands, delivering smart and stylish seating
solutions of exquisite quality to consumers worldwide.
Strategic priorities centre on elevating customer appeal
through digital upgrades, lifting point-of-sale experiences,
and strengthening consumer-oriented market initiatives.
Combined with ongoing organizational modernization and
continuous optimization of operations and supply chains,
these efforts will support margin improvements, securing
long-term competitiveness and future growth.
As part of modernizing the organization, the Group is
working actively to secure the right competence for the
future. In 2024, the company streamlined its executive
management team from twelve to six members, appointing
new leaders within strategy, marketing and operations,
Ruihai Zhao (1965), Chair
Position: Chair and CEO of Qumei Group.
Education: MBA (Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business, China), degrees in
global business management from Tsinghua University, China and University of
Minnesota, USA.
Experience: Founder and chair of Qumei Home Furnishings Group, with more
than 30 years’ experience of the furniture industry.
Mogens Falsig (1950), representitative of Qumei, Europe
Position: Board member and CEO of Ekornes QM Holding AS.
Education: PhD in Chemistry, University of Aarhus, Denmark.
Experience: More than 25 years’ experience in Furniture industry.
Report of
The Board of Directors
114 115
The Board of Directors
alongside the CEO hired in 2023. Effective from 1 September
2024, this transformation aims to increase flexibility,
accelerate decision-making, and create a more agile
organization. In February 2025, the new management team
was finalized with the hire of a new Chief Commercial
Officer. Further strengthening its organizational structure,
Ekornes is also reviewing its the mid-level management
setup.
Despite softer market and volatile sales, Ekornes delivered
a resilient performance in 2024 with improved profitability
and a strengthened financial position. Leveraging strong
brands, an extensive distribution network and diversified
product offering, the company remains well-positioned to
navigate challenging markets. With a flexible operating
model and clear strategic priorities, Ekornes is set to
maintain profitability while positioning the company for
long-term success and deliver on its vision to improve
everyday living for consumers worldwide.
Company history and ownership
Ekornes QM Holding AS was founded 4 January 2018 with
the purpose of acquiring the Ekornes Group. In May 2018,
an offer was made to purchase the shares of all Ekornes
shareholders. The share purchase was completed in August
2018 and Ekornes AS was delisted from the Oslo Stock
Exchange in October 2018.
Norwegian ultimate parent company Ekornes QM Holding
AS is a subsidiary of Qumei Home Furnishings Group. The
Qumei group owns 94.12% of the shares in Qumei Runto
S.à.r.l and Hillhouse owns the remaining shares.
Qumei Runto S.à.r.l owns 100% of the shares in Ekornes
QM Holding AS. The Ekornes Group is the only operational
part of the Ekornes QM Holding Group. The consolidated
financial statements comprise the financial statements of
the parent company Ekornes QM Holding AS and its
subsidiaries as at 31 December 2024. Ekornes QM Holding
AS had as at 31 December 2024 100% shareholding and
voting rights in Ekornes AS who in turn has a 100%
ownership share and voting rights for all other consolidated
companies.
Nature of the business and strategy
Ekornes owns and manages the brands Stressless
®
, IMG,
Svane
®
and Ekornes
®
, and markets these through selected
distributors in many countries.
Sales primarily target the home furnishings market, where
Stressless
®
and IMG are marketed globally, while Svane
®
is
marketed in the Nordic region and selected markets in
Central Europe.
Stressless
®
is the Group’s premium brand, and investments
are made to maintain and expand consumer awareness.
IMG’s goal, on the other hand, is to build a strong brand
awareness among furniture distributors, positioning itself
in the mid-range price segment.
The Group sells its products in more than 4 000 outlets in
48 markets worldwide, either through own sales companies
or via importers. These are primarily furniture chains and
independent retailers, but other relevant distribution
channels are also deployed.
The group has several important intangible assets, for more
information refer to note 11 in the consolidated financial
statements.
The Group’s corporate headquarters are located at
Ikornnes in Sykkylven, Norway. The Group has sales offices
in Norway, Denmark, Finland, Germany, the UK, France,
Spain, the US, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong. Japan, Thailand,
New Zealand and Australia.
Production takes place at eight factories as follows:
Norway (5), Thailand (1), the USA (1) and Lithuania (1).
As at 31 December 2024, Ekornes employed a total of
2 461 people, of which about 39% were employed in
Norway.
Financial performance
Ekornes QM Holding Group generated operating revenue
of NOK 3 819 million in 2024, down 9% from NOK 4 219
million in 2023. The decline largely reflects weaker
consumer spending on household items and furniture as
the overall cost of living has risen. A reduction in volumes
was partly offset by increased product prices and positive
currency effects.
Underlying revenue from the Stressless
®
was NOK 2 832
million (3 142), revenue from IMG was NOK 741 million
(825), while revenue from Svane
®
amounted to NOK 246
million (253).
Total operating expenses for the year amounted to NOK
3 664 million, an 11% decline from NOK 4 114 million in
2023, mainly reflecting lower capacity and lower activity.
Cost of goods sold decreased 24% to NOK 1 127 million
(1 481), corresponding to a 29% share of total revenues
(35%). The improvement was driven by lower raw material
costs following a decline in prices combined with proactive
tender processes through the year.
Payroll expenses amounted to NOK 1 148 million for the
year, slightly down from NOK 1 171 million in 2023 as
reduced capacity was partly offset by salary adjustments
in line with inflation and bonus expenses for the year.
Other operating expenses, including transportation and
marketing costs, ended at NOK 1 013 million compared to
NOK 1 105 million in 2023. As a share of operating
revenues, other operating expenses were 27%, in line with
2023. 2024 included a net gain of NOK 60 million from
the sale of the former IMG facility in Vietnam which was
finalized in the fourth quarter.
In 2024, research and development costs totalling NOK
38 million (44) were recognised in expenses. These costs
relate to salaries and other expenses, as well as the
depreciation of capitalized R&D costs.
The subsidiary Ekornes AS has four ongoing development
projects receiving tax deduction for research and
development through the rights-based tax deduction
scheme SkatteFUNN for Norwegian companies.
Deductions for 2024 have been recognized as a reduction
of payroll expenses by NOK 2.0 million (NOK 0 million in
2023) and other operating expenses by NOK 1.7 million
(NOK 0 million in 2023).
Costs directly associated with the development of a fixed
operating asset are included in the capitalized value of the
asset if all the criteria for capitalization have been met.
Expenses that arise early in the project phase, as well as
maintenance costs, are recognised in expenses as they
arise. Capitalized development costs totalled NOK 0.0
million in 2024 (0.0).
Operating earnings (EBIT) for the year came in at NOK
155 million, up from NOK 105 million in 2023. This
corresponds to an EBIT margin of 4.1% compared to 2.5%
a year earlier. The increase is attributable to higher prices,
stringent cost control, currency effects and effects from
improvement initiatives taken across operations. Those
factors more than compensated for lower revenues.
Net financial items were negative NOK 217 million (-249),
driven by financial expenses of NOK 403 million (385).
Earnings before tax for the year were negative NOK 63
million (-144). Tax benefit is calculated at NOK 21 million
compared to NOK 3 million in 2023. This gave a net loss of
NOK 42 million compared to a net loss of NOK 141 million
for 2023.
Cash flow
Net cash flow from operating activities for the year
amounted to NOK 243 million, down 46% from NOK 452
million in 2023. In 2023, Ekornes significantly reduced
inventory in response to slower post-pandemic sales,
which more than offset the increased earnings in 2024.
Working capital stood at NOK 1 046 million at the end of
the year (1 061). During the year, inventory increased by
NOK 2 million. As the order intake and reserve picked up in
the fourth quarter, the inventory is currently at a satisfactory
level to handle incoming orders. Trade receivables
decreased by NOK 5 million and trade payables increased
by NOK 12 million.
Net cash flow from investing activities was a negative NOK
10 million for the year compared to an outflow of NOK 67
million in 2023. The improvement was due to proceeds of
NOK 69 million from the sale of two factories in Vietnam
which was finalised in the fourth quarter. As part of the
initiatives to safeguard operations through times of softer
markets, Ekornes temporarily reduced investments in
2023 and the first half of 2024 to ensure adequate cash
flow generation. The investment level has started to
gradually increase to modernize the organization and
develop production facilities, a trend expected to continue
going forward.
Net cash flow from financing activities was negative NOK
168 million, all related to payment of lease liabilities and
quarterly instalments of NOK 32 million on bank debt
which started in the second quarter 2024. This compares
to positive NOK 23 million in 2023, which included a
refinancing in the first quarter, replacing debt with a new
NOK 1.2 billion bond and a NOK 1.6 billion credit facility.
In addition, the company issued new share capital,
receiving proceeds of NOK 352 million in 2023.
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The net increase in cash and cash equivalents during the
year was NOK 65 million, and as at 31 December 2024, the
total holding of cash and cash equivalents stood at NOK
910 million, up from NOK 835 million one year earlier. The
board considers the Group’s liquidity position to be
satisfactory.
*Working capital = trade receivables + inventory – trade payables
Balance sheet
As at 31 December 2024, Ekornes had total assets of NOK
8 075 million, compared with NOK 7 960 million 12
months earlier. Book value of properties, plants and
equipment amounted to NOK 1 332 million. Total
intangible assets totalled NOK 4 408 million, of which
brand name and goodwill accounted for NOK 1 399 million
and NOK 1 561 million, respectively.
Total equity was NOK 3 715 million at the end of 2024,
corresponding to an equity ratio of 46.0%, slightly up from
45.4% one year earlier.
Total interest-bearing debt at the end of the period
amounted to NOK 2 704 million (excluding capitalization),
down NOK 96 million from the previous year, equal to
instalments paid on the bank debt.
Ekornes refinanced its bond and bank debt in the first
quarter 2023. The current debt structure includes a NOK
1 200 million bond loan and a NOK 1 504 million term loan
with DNB and Sparebanken Møre. The bank loan matures
in March 2026, while the bond loan matures in September
2026. The bank loan includes NOK 32 million in quarterly
instalments until maturity.
The bond was issued on 10 March 2023 by Ekornes QM
Holding AS and was listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange on
29 June 2023 under the name “Ekornes QM Holding AS
23/26 FRN Floor C”. Ekornes has call options to redeem
the bond prior to maturity. See note 18 for more
information.
Financial covenants and bond agreement
The bond agreement is subject to a set of financial
covenants, including a minimum liquidity of NOK 350
million and a maximum leverage ratio of 4.75 at the end of
the fourth quarter 2024. The maximum allowed leverage
ratio will go down to 4.5 by the end of first quarter 2025
and remain at 4.5 thereafter.
The covenants are measured quarterly on a 12-month
rolling basis for Ekornes QM Holding Group. The bond
agreement also includes restrictions on dividend payments
from Ekornes QM Holding AS, and the company is
currently not in position to distribute any dividends.
As at 31 December 2024, Ekornes was compliant with all
covenant requirements in the bond agreement. The
leverage ratio at the end of the fourth quarter 2024 was
4.18, well within the maximum allowed.
See note 18 for more information on interest-bearing loans
and credit facilities as at 31 December 2024.
Dividend
The bond and bank agreements include restrictions on
dividend payments from the issuer, and Ekornes QM
Holding AS is not in position to distribute any dividends for
the financial year 2024.
Allocation of net profit
It is proposed that the company Ekornes QM Holding AS’s
net loss for the year, in the amount of NOK 96,7 million, is
transferred from other equity. The company’s equity and
liquidity are deemed to be satisfactory.
Going concern
In accordance with section 3-3 of the Norwegian
Accounting Act, it is hereby confirmed that the financial
statements have been prepared on the assumption that the
entity is a going concern. The board considers that the
annual financial statements for Ekornes QM Holding AS,
and the Group provide a true and fair picture of the
company’s results for the 2024 financial year and the
company and Group’s financial position at the close of the
year.
Risk exposure and risk management
Ekornes’ business risk relates to fluctuations in the
economic cycle, changes in market conditions, competitors,
political and legal conditions as well as general patterns of
consumption in the markets in which the Group operates.
During recent years, the furniture industry has experienced
significant volatility and rapidly changing market conditions,
with overall higher prices and increased interest rates
constraining consumer finances, shifting spending away from
home refurbishing and furniture. As a result, Ekornes has
faced lower economic activity affecting demand for its
products, its sales channels and other parts of the value chain.
Addressing the softer markets, the company implemented
throughout 2023 and 2024 several initiatives to protect
profitability and reduce costs, including portfolio
optimization, renegotiations of terms with partners and
suppliers and rightsizing of operational capacity.
Ending 2024, Ekornes’ combined order reserve was up
25% from the end of 2023, while order receipts during the
fourth quarter increased by 19% from the same period in
2023, indicating an improving market sentiment. However,
demand for Ekornes’ products is continuously fluctuating
and with market visibility still low, the Group is monitoring
the situation closely, considering relevant measures and
mitigating actions beyond those outlined above may be
introduced.
Ekornes has production facilities in Norway, Lithuania,
Thailand and the USA. This implies that the company’s
market, currency and sourcing risks are naturally
diversified, at the same time as the company’s
competitiveness is affected by changes in exchange rates
versus the Norwegian krone. The Group seeks to minimize
this risk by various forms of hedging, including currency
forward contracts. Product development and the launch of
new concepts are part of Ekornes’ growth strategy. How
the market responds to new products is always uncertain.
In addition, there is always a risk of unforeseen operational
problems which may result in costs and earnings deviating
from predictions.
Product development and the launch of new concepts are
part of Ekornes’ growth strategy. How the market responds
to new products is always uncertain. In addition, there is
always a risk of unforeseen operational problems which
may result in costs and earnings deviating from predictions.
Market and business risk
Ekornes seeks to develop products and concepts that can
provide international market opportunities. Distribution of
sales across several markets offers possibilities for
continued growth, at the same time as it spreads market
risk and reduces the Group’s dependence on individual
markets and individual customers. Ekornes’ business risk
relates to economic cycles, market conditions, political and
legislative regulations and changes in the competitive
climate, as well as the general pattern of consumption in
the markets in which it operates. The Group competes in a
fragmented international market, with many players on
both the production and the distribution side. The most
significant structural changes with respect to the players’
size have been, and remain, on the distribution side. With
respect to furniture manufacturing, a growing proportion
takes place in low-cost countries in Europe and Asia.
Ekornes is aware of the challenges these changes entail and
seeks to respond through continuous improvements in its
production processes, sourcing, market concepts, product
development and business relations.
Financial risk
Financial risk for Ekornes relates primarily to fluctuations
in exchange rates (the NOK against other countries’
currencies) and to credit risk, i.e., the ability of the Group’s
customers to repay what they owe.
Foreign exchange risk
Ekornes’ competitiveness is over time affected by
movements in the value of the NOK in relation to other
currencies. The Group sells its products internationally and
bills its customers largely in the respective countries’
domestic currencies.
The Group manages all matters relating to foreign
currencies and foreign exchange risk from its head office.
Currency hedging is an integrated part of operational
activities. As part of the Group’s efforts to reduce its
currency risk/exposure, it also seeks to purchase goods and
services for use in Norway from abroad, when this is
cost-effective. This, combined with the Group’s
distribution, sales and marketing activities, along with the
associated administrative organization required, provides a
natural operational hedge for the exchange rate risk
(natural hedging) associated with part of its cash flow.
In addition to natural hedging, the Group makes use of
forward contracts for further currency hedging. This does
not reduce the long-term foreign exchange risk but
provides predictability within the hedging period.
Customer and credit risk
The Group’s customers are largely furniture retailers, and
there are more than 4 000 customers, with the largest
individual customer representing around 1% of total
revenues. The Group’s customer and credit risk is
considered low. Trade receivables are followed up on an
ongoing basis, to detect payment irregularities and limit
bad debts.
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Interest rate risk
The Group’s interest rate risk is associated with both
short-term borrowings and the bond and bank debt. Loans
at floating interest rates constitute an interest rate risk for
the Group’s cash flows. The Group has a stable financial
structure with significant available liquidity.
Operational risk
At any given time, Ekornes is exposed to the risk of
unforeseen operational incidents, which may lead to higher
operating costs and lower earnings than predicted and
expected. To reduce the financial consequences of
unforeseen events, the Group has insurance covering
losses deriving from major incidents or lengthy business
interruptions.
To ensure operational efficiency, the Group has good
systems and routines for maintenance, training and quality
assurance – all factors which help to reduce the risk of
operational non-conformance.
Supplier risk
A crucial element in Ekornes’ strategy for ensuring efficient
operations is reliable access to raw materials and other
input factors of consistent quality, including securing
distribution and transportation capacity. The Group seeks
to always have at least two or three actual or potential
suppliers for its strategically most important input factors.
In some cases, however, this is neither possible nor
expedient. The objective is nevertheless that sole-supplier
situations should be the exception and preferably avoided
altogether.
Regulatory risk
Ekornes operates in a global market where changes in trade
policies and import regulations can materially affect
demand and profitability. The recent introduction of tariffs
by the US administration may lead to increased product
costs for end consumers, potentially reducing sales volumes,
altering competitive dynamics, and putting pressure on
margins. Ekornes continuously monitors regulatory
developments and evaluates mitigation measures, but
escalating trade barriers or abrupt regulatory shifts in key
markets remain a risk to future performance.
Markets
Ekornes discontinued segment reporting for the brands
Stressless
®
, IMG and Svane
®
from the fourth quarter 2024.
Maximizing efficiency across operations, Ekornes leverages
its eight production facilities to optimize capacity utilization
across brands. This includes also various degrees of shared
back-office functions and commercial organization. Over
time, cost allocation between the brands has gradually
become less meaningful as operations have become more
integrated, making segment-specific profitability irrelevant
as a steering mechanism. Revenue figures for brands will
still be disclosed alongside a review of main markets.
The Nordics
The Nordic markets faced a challenging first half of 2024,
as high inflation and peak interest rates constrained
consumer spending and led to lower store footfall. This had
the greatest impact on the premium Stressless
®
segment,
with some customers opting for lower-priced alternatives
such as IMG.
However, the second half of the year saw a gradual
recovery, supported by easing interest rates in Denmark
and Sweden, while expectations of rate cuts in Norway for
2025 further boosted consumer confidence. Sales picked
up, particularly in Norway and Denmark, where Stressless
®
demonstrated resilience. The fourth quarter was especially
strong, with Black Friday and the Christmas season
delivering solid sales and a healthy order intake. Svane
®
also performed well in the second half as product portfolio
optimization has supported both sales and margins.
For the full year, the Nordics contributed NOK 698 million
in revenue, up 6% from 2023 and representing 18% of total
revenue, compared to 16% in the prior year. The growth
was primarily driven by price increases. Norway remained
the largest market, accounting for NOK 537 million, up
10% year-over-year, while the rest of the Nordic region
saw a slight decline.
Europe
The European market remained soft in 2024, with Central
and Southern Europe particularly affected by weak
consumer activity amid a slowing economy. Revenue for
the region ended at NOK 1 190 million, marking a 10%
decline from the previous year.
Germany, the largest market in Central Europe, was
especially weak as the struggling German economy weighed
on the furniture industry. Rising bankruptcies and a general
reluctance among businesses to invest further dampened
economic activity, leading to a 12% revenue decline for
Central Europe, which totaled NOK 640 million for the year.
Given Germany’s significance in the region, this decline had
a material impact. These difficult market conditions
resulted in highly volatile sales, with significant fluctuations
between countries and even from week to week.
Despite these headwinds, branded furniture has proven
more resilient, with the premium Stressless
®
brand holding
up better than IMG due to its strong market recognition.
Meanwhile, the UK market performed relatively well, with
revenue of NOK 322 million, in line with 2023. Cooling
inflation during the year and a rebound in retail spending
over the summer supported a more stable sales
environment in this market.
North America
North America remained Ekornes’ largest market in 2024,
generating NOK 1 318 million in revenue, accounting for
35% of total sales. While revenues declined 12% year-over-
year, this reflects normalization following the extraordinary
sales surge during the Covid-19 pandemic which was
strongest in North America. Despite the softer market,
Ekornes maintained a strong position, particularly with the
Stressless
®
brand, which continues to benefit from high
retailer and consumer loyalty.
Newer, fast-growing categories such as dining furniture
continued to perform well, contributing to the brand’s
resilience. However, while other retail sectors have started
to recover slightly, the furniture sector seems to be lagging.
Store traffic remained somewhat subdued, but seasonal
campaigns and product launches have supported sales
momentum. With its strong market position and
comprehensive distribution network, Ekornes continues
to adapt and is well positioned to grow in the North
American market.
Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific region delivered a mixed performance in
2024, with total revenues (including other markets)
declining 17% year-over-year to NOK 613 million.
Australia and New Zealand performed relatively well,
with branded furniture continuing to sell well through the
region’s largest retailers. While revenues were slightly
down from 2023, targeted seasonal campaigns and an
enhanced digital marketing strategy helped sustain sales.
Japan, on the other hand, experienced softer demand as
declining real wages weighed on consumer spending,
leading to lower store traffic and reduced activity across
the furniture sector.
In China, a sharp drop in sales at the start of the year
followed an exceptionally strong end to 2023, with retailers
being fully stocked at the start of the year. This resulted in a
45% revenue decline for the full year. The broader
economic backdrop, particularly a struggling real estate
sector, dampened new housing sales and furniture
purchases. However, the second half of the year saw a
gradual recovery, supported by several government
stimulus measures, including direct consumer subsidies
aimed at boosting household consumption. Ekornes
remains committed to strengthening its market presence in
China by expanding its network of mono-brand Stressless
®
showrooms, designed to channel customers toward larger
flagship stores.
Production
Due to volatile sales and large variations in market
conditions around the world, capacity utilization at
Ekornes’ production facilities varied throughout the year.
However, the company has high operational flexibility to
adapt swiftly to changes in market conditions.
On 29 September 2024, the hurricane “Helene” swept
through North Carolina in the US and flooded the
Morganton community where Ekornes has an assembly
facility for Stressless
®
sofas. The facility was closed for eight
weeks during the fourth quarter pending repairs and was
fully operational again in December 2024. Ekornes
experienced overall limited financial impact from the
closure as sofa orders were quickly rerouted and handled
by production facilities in Norway and Lithuania, utilizing
the company’s vast operational footprint.
The overall capacity varies also with the number of models
being produced and will also be affected by the production
of new models as they normally will have a longer
production time in the beginning.
Ekornes has also leveraged synergies through cross-
productional collaboration between production sites.
Production capacity may also be rightsized through
adjustments in working hours or number of employees.
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Related parties
The Group’s related parties comprise members of the
board and management, as well as companies those
individuals’ control or have a significant influence over.
No material transactions were undertaken with related
parties during the period.
The working environment and the employees
Ekornes recognizes that its employees are the Group’s
most important resource. The Group therefore wishes to
promote a healthy, safe and fair working environment,
offering equal opportunities regardless of gender, ethnicity
or religion, in line with prevailing legislation and
regulations. As at 31 December 2024, Ekornes employed a
total of 2 461 people. Of the total number of employees,
61% work outside Norway.
Ekornes gives high priority to the safety of its workforce
and aims for zero work-related personal injuries. The
Group is working actively in the areas of prevention and
emergency preparedness to reduce the number of
personal injuries incurred. There were 20 lost-time injuries
in 2024, compared with 15 injuries in 2023. This gives an
H1-value for the period of 4.4, compared to 2.6 the year
before. Attention to this issue has been lifted into 2025.
The Group had a sickness absence rate of 3.7% in 2024,
unchanged from 3.7% the year before.
Ekornes places great emphasis on meeting the objective of
the Norwegian Anti-Discrimination Act and Accessibility
Act (Likestillings- og diskrimineringsloven). The company
makes an annual statement of equality and
non-discrimination for the legal companies Ekornes AS and
Ekornes Beds AS in Norway, which is available from the
company’s website www.ekornes.com/nb-no/
samfunnsansvar.
See the chapter “Sustainability statement” and section
“Social” for more information.
Sustainability
The Ekornes Group has made quality furniture for over
90 years. Sustainability has been part of the company’s
heritage and history throughout that time. The Group aims
to make more from less and continue to produce
long-lasting quality products that reduce the environmental
footprint through the lifecycle. The mindset is that a
sustainable Ekornes shares the value it creates between its
shareholders, employees and the communities affected by
its operational activities.
Ekornes aims to take a leading position in creating a more
sustainable value chain. These efforts alone will not change
the world but aim to make a difference and set new
standards for the industry. See the chapter “Sustainability
statement” for more information. The signing of the board
of director`s report include the sustainability statement.
Report on corporate governance
Risk management and internal control
The board of directors places a high priority on managing
risk and has and is responsible to ensure that the company
has good risk management and internal controls in
accordance with the regulations that apply to its business
activities.
The board conducts an annual review of the company’s
most important areas of risk exposure, and its internal
control arrangements. Ekornes’ risk management is based
on the principle that risk assessment is an integral part of
all business activities. As a company with global operations,
Ekornes is exposed to various risk factors of a financial and
operational nature, which may affect business activities
and the company’s financial position.
The systems and procedures related to risk management
and internal control shall ensure efficient operations,
timely and correct financial reporting, and compliance with
the laws and regulations to which the company is subject.
The rules and guidelines take into account the extent and
nature of the company’s activities and the integration of
stakeholder considerations in the company’s value creation
through its corporate values, ethical guidelines and
corporate social responsibility policies.
The internal control systems relating to the field of
accounting/finance comprise job descriptions, procedures,
control routines and guidelines/templates for organizing
and performing the company’s financial reporting and for
its content/quality. Together with supervision of the
organization and performance of Health, Safety and
Environment (HSE) activities, this is intended to ensure
that the company operates in compliance with relevant
laws and regulations, and its internal rules and guidelines.
Evaluation of operational risk, which includes marketing
and sales developments, production and developments in
the raw materials markets, are among those areas that are
continuously reported to and reviewed by the board of
directors. Relevant areas of risk, including exchange rates,
HSE, internal auditing, finance and IT, as well as strategic
risk, are reviewed no less than once a year.
Ekornes considers it important that the Group’s values and
ethical guidelines form an integral part of its business
operations. The company guidelines, laid down in
“Objectives and Values for the Ekornes Group” and “Code
of Conduct”, provide guidance for employees in order to
reduce the possibility of the company being placed in
situations that may harm its reputation or financial
standing. It is expected that employees and business
associates comply with them. In addition, routines have
been established for the reporting and follow-up of
wrongdoing and other causes for concern, and efforts are
constantly being made to further develop and follow up the
Group’s corporate social responsibility.
Ekornes QM Holding AS and Ekornes AS have no provisions
in the articles of association that regulate the appointment
and replacement of members of the board of directors.
Ekornes QM Holding AS and Ekornes AS have no provisions
in the articles of association and no mandates that authorize
the board of directors to resolve that the Issuer shall buy
back or issue own shares.
Management reports monthly to the board of directors on
key operational developments, including project risk
assessments, and on financial performance. In addition,
quarterly financial reports are prepared and distributed to
the financial market, in accordance with the Oslo Stock
Exchange’s recommendation.
The Transparency Act
The act relating to enterprises’ transparency and work on
fundamental human rights and decent working conditions
(the Transparency Act) entered into force on 1 July 2022.
The Transparency Act is applicable to the Ekornes Group,
and the Group must comply with the obligations of the
Transparency Act as at 1 July 2022.
The core of the Transparency Act is the company’s duty to
conduct due diligence on fundamental human rights and
decent working conditions in line with the OECD Guidelines
for Multinational Enterprises. The duty to conduct due
diligence requires the Company to identify, assess, prevent,
and mitigate possible adverse impacts on fundamental
human rights and decent working conditions. The due
diligence shall include an assessment of the Company’s
own operations, its supply chains and business partners.
The Transparency Act further imposes an obligation on
Ekornes to publish an account of the information the Group
has become aware of during its due diligence. The purpose
is to ensure the public access to information about the
Group’s due diligence and the results thereof. The board of
directors will ensure that the Group publishes the account
in accordance with the guidelines of the Transparency Act
before the deadline 30 June 2025. The statement will be
available on https://www.ekornes.com/en/sustainability.
Insurance for board members and general manager
Ekornes has liability insurance for directors and officers in
all Group companies and the insurance covers claims made
anywhere in the world resulting from a claim first made
against insured persons during the policy period. The limit
of liability is NOK 100 million per claim and in the annual
aggregate.
Shares and shareholders
At the close of 2024, Ekornes QM Holding AS had a total of
30 000 outstanding shares, all of which were held by one
shareholder Qumei Runto S.à.r.l in Luxembourg.
As at 31 December 2024, Ekornes QM Holding AS has
100% voting and ownership in all other Group companies
through Ekornes AS.
Events after the balance sheet date
No significant events have occurred between the balance
sheet date and the date of publication of the financial
statements which have materially affected the Company’s
financial position, and which should have been reflected in
the financial statements presented here.
Outlook
After a challenging start to 2024 with subdued demand for
furniture, Ekornes ended the year with a healthy growth in
order intake and order reserve compared to both the same
period of 2023 and the previous quarter. This positions the
company better in a volatile market environment than one
Report of The Board of Directors | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Report of The Board of Directors122 123
year ago. Furthermore, the positive sales developments
have continued into 2025, indicating a gradual market
recovery despite volumes still well below elevated
pandemic levels.
However, recently introduced tariffs by the US
administration and trade restrictions have created
substantial regulatory uncertainty and reduced visibility.
This has led some retailers to be cautious with inventory
buildup while volatility in order intake has increased from
week to week and between regions. The Group monitors
the situation closely and will implement relevant measures
if required. Ekornes also expects to pass on most of the cost
increases incurred by the tariffs and has some flexibility in
its supply chain and operating model to adapt to potential
changes with a vast international footprint and
comprehensive sourcing network.
Ekornes is also well positioned to maintain profitability in
evolving market conditions while simultaneously continuing
to position the organization well for the future. Focus areas
include intensifying efforts to elevate customer appeal by
upgrading point-of-sale experiences and strengthening
market initiatives. In parallel, Ekornes continues to
maximize operations and supply chain efficiencies through
optimization and consolidation of its global manufacturing
footprint, supporting cost-effective structures and
improved margins.
Modernizing the organization to ensure long-term
competitiveness, investments are expected to gradually
increase from today’s temporarily very low levels. These
strategic priorities support continuous development of
Ekornes’ strong brands and underpin the Group’s
commitment to deliver smart and stylish seating solutions
of exquisite quality to consumers worldwide.
Ruihai Zhao
Chair
Mogens Falsig
Director and CEO
Oslo, 29 April 2025
The board of Ekornes QM Holding AS
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Report of The Board of Directors124 125
Ekornes QM Holding Group
Consolidated nancial statements
ANNUAL ACCOUNTS 2024
Page
Consolidated income statement 126
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 127
Consolidated balance sheet 128 - 129
Consolidated statement of cash ow 130
Consolidated statement of changes in equity 131
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
Note 1 - Accounting principles 132 - 135
INCOME STATEMENT
Note 2 - Revenue per brand and markets 136
Note 3 - Salary and personnel expense 137
Note 4 - Remuneration management and board of directors 138
Note 5 - Other operating expenses 139
Note 6 - Research & development 139
Note 7 - Net nancial items 140
Note 8 - Tax related costs 140 - 141
Note 9 - Earnings per share 142
BALANCE SHEET
Note 10 - Estimation uncertainty 143
Note 11 - Property, plant, equipment and intangible assets 144 - 147
Note 12 - Leasing agreements 148 - 149
Note 13 - Other receivables and other liabilities 150
Note 14 - Inventory 150
Note 15 - Accounts receivable 151
Note 16 - Cash and bank deposits 152
Note 17 - Shares and shareholders 153
Note 18 - Interest-bearing loans and credit facilities 154 - 155
Note 19 - Reconciliation for liabilities arising from nancing activities 156
OTHER
Note 20 - Financial risk 157 - 159
Note 21 - Group entities 160
Note 22 - Subsequent events 160
Consolidated income statement
(Figures in NOK 000) Notes Y 2024 Y 2023
Operating revenues 2 3 818 988 4 219 006
Cost of goods sold 14 1 126 583 1 480 731
Payroll expenses 3 , 4 1 148 141 1 170 811
Depreciation and write downs 11 , 12 312 258 324 021
Other operating expenses 5 , 6, 11, 12 1 012 970 1 104 613
Net other losses (gains) 20 64 238 33 914
Total operating expenses 3 664 191 4 114 090
OPERATING EARNINGS 2 154 797 104 916
Financial income and expenses
Financial income 7 151 057 91 994
Net gains (losses) on foreign exchange 7 34 231 44 784
Financial expenses 7 402 739 385 495
Net financial items -217 452 -248 717
Earnings before tax -62 655 -143 800
Tax expense 8 -20 579 -3 297
EARNINGS FOR THE YEAR -42 076 -140 503
Basic earnings per share 9 -1 402,5 -4 683,4
Diluted earnings per share 9 -1 402,5 -4 683,4
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
(Figures in NOK 000)
Y 2024 Y 2023
Earnings for the year -42 076 -140 503
Other comprehensive income
Items which may be reclassified to profit and loss:
Translation differences 140 616 48 848
Total other comprehensive income 140 616 48 848
Total Comprehensive Income For The Period 98 540 -91 655
The following notes form an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
The following notes form an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Consolidated income statement126 127
Consolidated balance sheet Consolidated balance sheet (contd.)
(Figures in NOK 000)
Notes 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Buildings and sites 11 860 435 897 837
Machinery and equipment 11 203 703 231 350
Operating movables and fixtures 11 19 510 24 269
Asset under construction 11 29 161 20 953
Right-of-use assets 12 219 311 208 686
Total property, plant and equipment 1 332 120 1 383 094
Software and licenses 11 67 164 50 081
Goodwill 11 1 561 115 1 561 115
Customer relations 11 1 196 494 1 175 475
Brand name 11 1 398 822 1 439 495
Deferred tax assets 8 184 098 129 699
Total non-current intangible assets 4 407 692 4 355 865
Other receivables and investments 17 610 24 269
Total non-current financial assets 17 610 24 269
Non-current assets classified as held for sale 11 0 16 835
Total non-current assets 5 757 422 5 780 064
Current assets
Inventory 14 717 479 715 538
Trade receivables 15 513 155 517 775
Value of forward contracts 20 0 20 735
Other short-term receivables 13 176 348 90 341
Cash and bank deposits 16 910 395 835 314
Total current assets 2 317 378 2 179 703
TOTAL ASSETS 8 074 800 7 959 767
(Figures in NOK 000)
Notes 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Contributed equity
Share capital 17 150 150
Premium paid 3 159 324 3 159 324
Total contributed equity 3 159 474 3 159 474
Retained earnings
Translation difference 382 671 242 055
Other equity 172 595 214 671
Total retained earnings 555 266 456 726
Total equity 3 714 740 3 616 200
Non-current liabilities
Pension liabilities 3 8 442 7 143
Provisions 23 711 5 545
Deferred tax 8 766 028 773 669
Lease liabilities 12 174 347 164 556
Interest-bearing debt - Bond 18 1 194 439 1 187 660
Interest-bearing debt - Bank 18 1375236 1 498 938
Total non-current liabilities 3 542 202 3 637 512
Current liabilities
Trade payables 184 542 172 073
Public charges payable 71 451 59 878
Tax payable 8 35 373 33 786
Value of forward contracts 20 22824 0
Interest-bearing debt - Bank 18 128 000 96 000
Other current liabilities 13 311 525 281 714
Lease liabilities 12 64 143 61 434
Total current liabilities 817 858 704 884
Liabilities classified as held for sale 11 0 1 171
Total liabilities 4 360 060 4 343 567
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 8 074 800 7 959 767
The board of Ekornes QM Holding AS
Oslo, 29 April 2025
Ruihai Zhao
Chair
Mogens Falsig
Director and CEO
The following notes form an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
The following notes form an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Consolidated balance sheet | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Consolidated balance sheet128 129
(Figures in NOK 000) Notes Y 2024 Y 2023
Cash flows from operating activities
Earnings before tax (EBT) -62 655 -143 800
Tax paid for the period 8 -60 931 -46 731
Depreciation and write downs 11 , 12 312 258 324 021
Change in inventory 14 -1 941 481 645
Change in trade receivables 15 4 620 -43 527
Change in trade payables 12 469 -17 845
Change in other time limited records 38 873 -101 592
Net cash flow from operating activities 242 695 452 171
Cash flows from investing activities
Proceeds from sale of PP&E 11 70 633 779
Payments for purchase of PP&E 11 -81 010 -68 232
Net Cash flows from investing activities -10 377 -67 453
Cash flows from financing activities
Payment of lease liabilities 12 , 19 -71 519 -71 643
Proceeds from issue of share capital 17 0 352 000
Proceeds from bond borrowings 18 0 1 200 000
Repayment of bond borrowings 18 0 -2 020 000
Repayment of bank borrowings 18 -96000 -1 037 500
Proceeds from bank borrowings 18 0 1 600 000
Net cash flow from financing activities -167 519 22 857
Change in net cash & cash equivalents 64 798 407 575
Effect of exchange gains / (losses) on cash and cash equivalents 10 282 -1 140
Net cash & cash equivalents at the start of the period 16 835 314 428 879
Net cash & cash equivalents at the close of the period 16 910 395 835 314
Restricted cash at the end of the period 24 296 21 932
Unrestricted cash at the end of the period 886 099 813 382
Consolidated statement of cash flow Consolidated statement of changes in equity
(Figures in NOK 000)
Share capital
Premium paid Translation difference Other Total equity
Equity 31.12.2022 120 2 807 354 193 207 355 174 3 355 855
Earnings for the period 0 0 0 -140 503 -140 503
Other comprehensive income 0 0 48 848 0 48 848
Capital increase 30 351 970 0 0 352 000
Equity 31.12.2023 150 3 159 324 242 055 214 671 3 616 200
Equity 31.12.2023 150 3 159 324 242 055 214 671 3 616 200
Earnings for the period 0 0 0 -42 076 -42 076
Other comprehensive income 0 0 140 616 0 140 616
Equity 31.12.2024 150 3 159 324 382 671 172 595 3 714 740
In the statement of cash flow, cash and bank deposits are recognised as cash. The restricted cash at 31 December 2024 are related to the
payment of employee tax deductions in Norway.
The following notes form an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Consolidated statement of changes in equity | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Consolidated statement of cash flow130 131
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
REPORTING ENTITY AND PRESENTATION
Ekornes QM Holding AS is a limited company registered in Norway, with main office located in Ikornnes.
The consolidated financial statements comprise Ekornes QM Holding AS and consolidated subsidiaries (Ekornes QM Holding Group). The
Group Ekornes QM Holding include the group Ekornes and its holding companies. Ekornes is the largest furniture manufacturer in Norway,
and owns the brands Ekornes
®
, Stressless
®
, Svane
®
and IMG.
Stressless
®
is one of the world’s most well-known brands within the furniture industry, while Ekornes
®
, Stressless
®
and Svane
®
are the most
well-known furniture brands in Norway. IMG is best known in Australia and the USA. Manufacture takes place at the Group’s eight factories.
The Group has five factories in Norway, one in the USA, one in Thailand and one factory in Lithuania. Products are sold in large parts of the
world through own sales companies or through importers. Ekornes’ business idea is to develop and manufacture products that are outstanding
with respect to comfort and functionality, and whose price and design appeal to a wide audience.
Ekornes QM Holding AS’ consolidated financial statements for 2024 were approved at a board meeting on 29 April 2025. The consolidated
financial statements were proposed for final adoption at the ordinary General Meeting on 29 April 2025.
Presentation
The functional currency is determined for each company in the Group, based on the currency in the primary economic environment in which
each individual company operates. Ekornes QM Holding AS’ functional currency is Norwegian Kroner (NOK). The presentation currency for
the consolidated financial statements of Ekornes QM Holding is Norwegian Kroner (NOK).
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with equable accounting principles for similar transactions and
events under otherwise same conditions. The accounting principles have been applied consistently by all group companies.
STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE
The Ekornes QM Holding AS`s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS
®
Accounting Standards as
adopted by the EU and are mandatory for financial years beginning on or after 1 January 2024, and Norwegian disclose requirements
listed in the Norwegian Accounting Act as of 31.12.2024.
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND DISCLOSURES
No changes in IFRS effective for the 2024 financial statements are relevant this financial year.
MAIN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
(A) PRINCIPLES FOR CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial statements of the parent company and its subsidiaries as at 31 December
2024. As at 31 December 2024, Ekornes QM Holding AS has 100% voting and ownership in all other group companies through Ekornes AS.
See Note 21 for a list of subsidiaries included in the consolidated financial statements of Ekornes QM Holding AS.
(i) Acquisitions
The purchase of subsidiaries is recognized in accordance with the acquisition method at the date on which the group obtains control. Both
consideration and assets acquired are measured at fair value. Any excess value attributable to goodwill is tested annually for impairment.
Transaction costs are recognized as expense in the consolidated financial statements.
(ii) Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the group. Control exists when the group has the power, directly or indirectly, to govern the financial
and operating policies of an entity to obtain benefits from its activities. In assessing control, potential voting rights that may be exercised or
converted are taken into account. Subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences
until the date that control ceases. Ekornes has no associates or jointly controlled enterprises.
(iii) Elimination of transactions at consolidation
Translation differences arising from the translation of net investments in foreign operations are recognized in the statement of
comprehensive income.
For all foreign operations, the translation differences are presented on separate line under equity (reserve for translation differences).
(B) DERIVATIVES
The Group makes use of derivatives to hedge currency risks arising from its operational, financing and investment activities. In accordance
with its treasury policy, Ekornes does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. Derivatives are recognized at
their fair value on acquisition. Gains or losses deriving from reassessment to changed fair value are recognized in profit and loss immediately.
(C) PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
(i) Own assets
Items of property, plant and equipment are stated in the balance sheet at acquisition cost less accumulated depreciation (see below) and
impairment losses (see accounting policy I). The acquisition cost of self-constructed assets includes the cost of materials, direct labor and an
appropriate proportion of production overheads. When substantial parts of a non-current tangible asset have different useful lives, they are
deemed to be separate components for accounting purposes.
(ii) Subsequent costs
In the acquisition cost of an item of property, plant or equipment, Ekornes includes the cost of replacement of parts of any such item, when
the expenditure is expected to bring future economic benefits to the Group, and the cost of the replaced parts can be measured reliably.
The carrying amount of the replaced part is deducted. All other expenses are recognized in profit and loss as they accrue.
(iii) Depreciation
Ordinary depreciations are charged linearly to profit or loss over estimated useful life for each individual operating asset. Land is not
depreciated.
(D) INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangible assets that are purchased separately are initially measured at cost recognized as intangible asset when the group has control of
the asset, future economic benefits are expected to flow to the group and the cost can be reliably measured. For intangible assets included
in a business combination cost has been measured at fair value at the transaction date. Subsequently, intangible assets are recognized at
cost less accumulated amortization and possible impairment. Intangible assets with definite lifetime are depreciated over useful life. Useful
life and depreciation method for intangible assets with definite life are assessed at least once a year. Linear depreciation is used for the
intangible assets, as this is considered the best way to reflect the use of the assets. Profit or loss from disposal of intangible assets are
calculated as the difference between net sales revenue and the recognized value of the asset and is reported as part of other income or
other expenses in the operating result of the income statement.
(i) Research and Development
Expenses relating to research activities are recognized in profit and loss as they incur. Development costs are capitalized to the extent that the
product or process is technically and commercially feasible, and Ekornes has sufficient resources to complete their development. Capitalized
costs include materials costs, direct payroll costs and a share of directly attributable overheads. Capitalized development costs are recognized
at acquisition cost less accumulated depreciation and write-downs. Capitalized development costs are depreciated linearly over the asset’s
estimated useful life.
(iii) Goodwill
Goodwill is recognised as the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the amount of any non-controlling interest and deducted by
the net of the acquisition-date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. Goodwill is not depreciated but is
tested at least annually for impairment. In connection with this, goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating
units that are expected to benefit from synergies from the business combination.
(iv) Customer relations and brands
The value of customer relations and brands arising from the acquisition of subsidiaries is valued at acquisition cost less accumulated
depreciation, which is allocated linearly over expected useful life. Costs relating to the in-house development and maintenance of brand
names and other intangible assets are recognized as expenses in the income statement in the period they are incurred. Any acquisition of
such assets is recognized in the balance sheet.
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes132 133
(E) TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES
Trade and other receivables are stated at cost less a provision for bad debts.
(F) INVENTORY
Inventory is recognized at the lower of acquisition cost and net sales price. Net sales price is the estimated sales price under ordinary
operating conditions, less estimated expenses for completion, marketing and distribution. Acquisition cost is based on the first-in/first-out
principle and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories and bringing them to their present location and condition.
Self-produced goods include variable costs and fixed overheads which can be allocated on the basis of normal operating capacity.
(G) IMPAIRMENTS
An impairment arises when the book value of an asset or cash-generating entity (assessment entity) exceeds its recoverable value.
Impairment write-downs are recognized in profit and loss. The recoverable amount is defined at the higher of the asset or cash-generating
entity’s fair value less sales costs and value in use.
(H) EQUITY
Dividends are recognized as a liability in the period in which they are approved. Any proposed dividend remains part of equity until the
date of its final approval.
Translation differences
Translation differences arise in connection with exchange-rate differences of consolidated foreign entities. Exchange-rate differences in
monetary amounts (liabilities or receivables) which are in reality a part of a company’s net investment in a foreign entity are also included as
translation differences. If a foreign entity is sold, the accumulated translation difference linked to the entity is reversed and recognised in the
statement of comprehensive income in the same period as the gain or loss on the sale is recognised.
(I) EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
(i) Defined-contribution pension plans
Liabilities in respect of contributions to defined-contribution pension plans are recognized as an expense in profit and loss as they accrue.
(ii) Defined-benefits pension plans
Net liabilities in respect of defined-benefit pension plans are calculated separately for each plan. This is achieved by estimating the amount
of future benefit that employees have earned in return for their service in the current and prior periods. These future benefits are
discounted to determine their present value, and the fair value of any plan assets is deducted to arrive at a net liability. When the benefits
of a plan are improved, the portion of the increased benefit relating to past accruals is recognized as an expense in profit and loss on a
straight-line basis over the average period until the benefits become vested. To the extent that the benefits vest immediately, the expense
is recognized immediately in profit and loss. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized directly in equity when they arise.
(J) REVENUE
(i) Revenue
IFRS 15 requires that the Group, for each contract with a customer, identify performance obligations, determine the transaction price,
match the transaction price to the performance obligation if the contract encompasses more than one performance obligation, decide if
operating revenues must be recognized over time or on one date, and recognize operating revenues on the date of or over the period for
the fulfilment of the delivery liability concerned.
The Group’s most important performance obligation derives from products made to the customer’s specification and orders. To determine
at when the performance obligation is fulfilled and control of the delivered products are transferred to the customer, Ekornes use the
principles of Incoterms. Thus, it is the Incoterms principles that determine when the performance obligation is fulfilled, and control of the
products are transferred to the customer. When control is achieved by the customer, all risks related to the products are transferred from
Ekornes to the customer. At the point when the performance obligation is fulfilled, control is transferred and the customer bears the risks
with the products, the Group recognizes operating revenues.
The Group’s most important discretionary judgement with respect to applying IFRS 15 relates to the calculation of the transaction price.
This is because the price to the customer includes several different discounts and bonuses. The estimation of bonuses for the year requires
the exercise of discretionary judgement.
A breakdown of The Group’s operating revenues by segment and customer location may be found in Note 2 “Revenue per brand and markets”.
(ii) Government grants
Grants that compensate the Group for the acquisition cost of an asset are recognized as a reduction in the asset’s acquisition value.
Grants that compensate for expenses incurred are recognized as a cost reduction in the financial statements covering the same
period as the expenses they are intended to cover.
(K) LEASES
Lease amounts representing variable payments based on such factors as specific cost elements in related services or usage, lease amounts for
short-term leases of a duration of up to 12 months as well as lease amounts for low value leases covering such elements as PCs and other office
equipment, is expensed as Other expenses over the lease term.
(L) TAX
Tax on the year’s profit comprises tax payable and deferred tax. Tax is included in profit and loss with the exception of tax that is recognized
directly in equity or in other comprehensive income. Tax payable comprises the expected tax payable on the year’s taxable earnings at the
rate applicable on the balance sheet date, plus any corrections in tax payable for previous years. Deferred tax is calculated on temporary
differences between the recognized values of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and their value for tax purposes.
The following temporary differences are not taken into account:
Initial recognition of assets or liabilities which affect neither profit/loss in the accounts or for tax purposes, as well as differences relating to
investments in subsidiaries that are not expected to be reversed in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are measured
on the basis of expected future tax rates applicable to group companies in which temporary differences have arisen. Deferred tax liabilities
and assets are recognized at nominal value. Deferred tax assets are capitalized only to the extent that it is probable that the asset may be
utilized in connection with future taxable profits. Deferred tax assets are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the tax
assets will be utilized.
(M) STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Ekornes QM Holding group uses the indirect method to present cash flows from operating activities. Interest received as well as interest
paid are included in cash flows from operating activities. Dividends paid are included in cash flows from financing activities.
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes134 135
Discontinue segment reporting
The division into product areas is based on the Group’s management and internal reporting structures and Ekornes QM Holding Group’s
business was prevously divided into the segments/product area Stressless, IMG and Svane.
Ekornes have since 2020 moved from segment focused organization, towards a matrix organization. Ekornes remains committed to
maximizing efficiency across its operations, leveraging its eight production facilities to optimize capacity utilization across brands. This
includes also various degrees of shared back-office functions and commercial organization. Over time, cost allocation between the brands
has gradually become less meaningful as operations have become more integrated, making segment-specific profitability reporting not
relevant as a steering mechanism. All internal reporting to the board of directors and to the group management is from October 2024 based
on the new reporting structure.
As a result, Ekornes will discontinue segment reporting, though revenue figures for each brand and marked will continue to be disclosed.
(Figures in 000 NOK ) Y 2024 Y 2023Operating revenues by brand®Stressless2 832 022 3 141 558IMG 740 507 824 548®Svane246 459 252 901Total 3 818 988 4 219 006
Operating revenues by marketsNorway 536 701 489 961Other Nordic 161 319 165 763Central Europe 640 373 726 503Southern Europe 227 802 279 144UK/Ireland 322 157 321 941USA/Canada/Mexico 1 317 615 1 499 873Japan 111 039 129 544Australia 297 024 308 733China 99 816 179 977Other Markets 105 141 117 567Total 3 818 988 4 219 006
Note 2 Revenue per brand and markets
Board of Directors’ declaration on the remuneration policy applying to senior executives
A major element of the remuneration policy established with respect to Ekornes QM Holding AS and its subsidiaries is that executives
should be offered competitive terms, with a salary comparable to similar positions in their national labour markets. The Company has
established performance-related bonus schemes that form a major part of the overall compensation package offered to profit-centre
managers. Salary and other remunerations are mainly adjusted in accordance with developments in salary/price levels in the country in
which the position is located. If the board terminates the CEO, 12 months’ salary without holiday pay and pension will be paid after the
ordinary notice period of 6 months.
Pension commitments
A Group pension scheme (defined contribution plan) has been established for employees of the Group’s Norwegian companies and in most
of its foreign subsidiaries. The Group also has certain pension liabilities expensed continuously. For accounting purposes, pension schemes
are treated in accordance to IAS 19. Norway’s new AFP early retirement scheme is deemed to be a defined benefit multi-enterprise scheme.
In principle, the liability shall be calculated and recognised. However, the scheme’s current administrator is, for practical reasons, unable to
perform these calculations. Until these calculations are made, the new AFP early retirement scheme must be recognised as a defined
contribution scheme. See table below.
Mandatory occupational pension scheme
Pursuant to the Norwegian Mandatory Occupational Pensions Act, all the Group’s Norwegian subsidiaries must establish a pension scheme
for their employees. These companies have pension schemes that comply with Norwegian law.
Pension costs
The pension costs of the Group for the financial year was NOK 51,1 (53,4) million, which is almost entirely comprised of defined contribution
pension; only two companies in the Group operate with defined benefit pension; Ekornes K.K in Japan and Ekornes S.A.R.L in France.
Pension liabilities
The accumulated pension liabilities as at 31 December 2024 are related to the defined benefit plans in Japan and France. The pension
liabilities are calculated by actuaries and presented below. Based on the limited participation and liabilities, the plans are considered of low
materiality and significance for the Group.
Bonus-based incentives
Ekornes QM Holding Group has bonus-based remuneration for all employees in the operating companies who do not have any other
personal bonus scheme. The bonus-based remuneration will be based on achieved results for 2024.The bonus is paid on a pro rata basis
according to the number of months employed during the year. Only those employed as at 31 December 2024, as well as those retiring
during 2024, are entitled to receive a bonus for 2024. For accounting purposes, the bonus is treated as a cash bonus.
See Note 4 for details of remuneration and salary paid to CEO and board of directors.
(Figures in NOK 000)2024 2023Payroll expenses 950 480 968 194Employer’s national insurance contributions 95 150 99 737Pensions 51 116 53 371Other personnel costs 51 394 49 508Total personnel expenses 1 148 141 1 170 811Average number of full-time equivalents 2 561 2 703
(Figures in NOK 000)31.12.2024 31.12.2023Accumulated pension liabilities 8 442 7 143
Note 3 Salary and personnel expenses
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes136 137
Note 4 Remuneration to group management and board of directors
The Group’s related parties comprise members of the board and management, as well as companies those individuals control or have a
significant influence over.
Ruihai Zhao, who chairs the board of directors, is one of the primary shareholders of Qumei Home Furnishings Group. The IMG furniture
previously sold in the Chinese market through Qumei’s stores in China is from 2024 sold through Ekornes China Co. Ltd. The Group had
MNOK 0 in revenue related to sales to Qumei Home Furnishings Group in 2024 (MNOK 33,1 in 2023).
Individual bonus agreements were entered into with group management for 2024. The bonuses payable to group management are
included in salary in the table below. The following tables show the renumeration to CEO, as well as to the members of the boards of
operating company Ekornes AS and the Group
Remuneration to CEO in 2024Other Total (Figures in NOK 000) Salary Pension costrenumerationremunerationTine Hammernes Leopold 4 228 104 0 4 332Total remuneration 4 228 104 0 4 332
Remuneration to CEO in 2023
Other Total (Figures in NOK 000) Salary Pension costrenumerationremunerationFredrik Ødegård Nilsen - Interim CEO to 10 September 2023 3 082 99 4 3 142Tine Hammernes Leopold - Appointed from 11 September 2023 1 145 99 0 1 244Total remuneration 4 226 199 4 4 386
Remuneration to Board of directors
(Figures in NOK 000) 2024 2023Total remuneration 3 260 3 425
The following is related to renumeration to auditor, both group auditor and other auditors:
*Vietnam - Sale of the two factories
On 4 January 2023, Ekornes announced that the group will concentrate operations in Thailand, discontinue activities in Vietnam, and
reduce the workforce by approximately 700 FTEs. Ekornes has made substantial investments in the production facility in Thailand to
enable the concentration of all Asian operations at one location.
The two factories in Vietnam including leasing agreements were sold in October 2024 and was held for sale in balance sheet 31.12.2023.
NOK 60 million in gain from the sale of the assets in Vietnam was included in “Other operating expenses” as at 31.12.2024.
Ekornes has received 100% of the sales proceed of MUSD 8,0. 80% of the proceeds was received in 2024 and 15% was received in
February 2025, after both buyer and seller had paid the necessary taxes and fees including submitted the application for change of land use
right certificate to the Vietnamese authority. The last 5% was received in March 2025.
Auditing fees are stated ex. VAT.
In 2024, research and development costs totalling NOK 38 million (NOK 44 million in 2023) were recognised in expenses. These costs
relate to salaries and other expenses, as well as the depreciation of capitalised R&D costs.
Costs directly associated with the development of a fixed operating asset are included in the capitalised value of the asset if all the criteria
for capitalisation have been met. Expenses that arise early in the project phase, as well as maintenance costs, are recognised in expenses as
they arise. Capitalised development costs totalled NOK 0 million in 2024 (NOK 0 million in 2023).
The subsidiary Ekornes AS has four ongoing development projects receiving tax deduction for research and development through the
rights-based tax deduction scheme SkatteFUNN for Norwegian companies. Deductions for 2024 have been recognized as a reduction of
payroll expenses by NOK 2.0 million (NOK 0 million in 2023) and other operating expenses by NOK 1.7 million (NOK 0 million in 2023).
(Figures in NOK 000)Breakdown of other operating expenses 2024 2023Transport and other distribution cost 333 560 372 409Marketing cost 181 750 167 533Commission to representatives 81 337 85 968Market support 58 045 70 690ICT Cost 84 903 75 853Maintenance expenses 44 317 42 499Guarantee cost of returns/warranties 61 928 87 108Gain sale of factories* -60 327 0Other 227 459 202 553Total 1 012 970 1 104 613
(Figures in NOK 000)
Breakdown of auditing fees 2024 2023Statutory auditing services 11 009 9 954Other certification services 675 564Other non-auditing services 346 251Tax advisory services 401 648Total 12 431 11 417
NOTE 5 Other operating expenses
NOTE 6 Research & Development
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes138 139
NOTE 7 Net financial items
*Refinancing bond and bank loan March 2023
On 10 March 2023, Ekornes QM Holding AS issued a NOK 1 200 million senior secured floating rate bond issue due 10 September 2026
with ticker EKO02 (ISIN: NO0012855537). The net proceeds from the bond issue was used to refinance (in whole) the outstanding bond
issue with ticker EKO01 (ISIN: NO0010848401) and general corporate purposes. In conjunction with the new bond issue, Ekornes bought
back EKO01 bonds from existing bondholders participating in the new bond issue, at a price of 103% of par. Ekornes called the remaining
EKO01 bonds at a price of 101,84% of par and the bond was repaid on 30 March 2023.
Ekornes QM Holding AS has in March 2023 obtained NOK 1 600 million in term loan from DNB and Sparebanken Møre to refinance its
existing debt. The old loans were repaid to DNB and Sparebank Møre on 30 March 2023.
Transaction costs related to the issue of the bond and the bank loan has been amortized over the period from the settlement date to the
maturity date of the bond and bank loan. The effective interest method has been used in calculating the amortised cost of the financial
liability and in the allocation and recognition of the interest expense in income statement over the period.
(Figures in NOK 000)2024 2023Interest income 148 857 90 650Financial income 2 200 1 344Total financial income 151 057 91 994Gain/(loss) on foreign exchange 34 231 44 784Interest expenses* 400 276 382 573Financial expenses 2 463 2 923Total financial expense 402 739 385 495Total financial items -217 452 -248 717
(Figures in NOK 000)
(Figures in NOK 000)
The Group recognises deferred tax assets and liabilities net only if the Group has a legal right to set them off against each other, and only
deferred tax assets and liabilities within the same tax regime.
As at 31 December 2024, the Group had a tax-loss carryforward of NOK 253,7 million. NOK 236,5 million of this was capitalised as at 31
December 2024. Deferred tax assets relating to tax-loss carryforwards in one of our subsidiaries have not been recognised as at 31 December
2024 since the company does not expect to utilise the loss in the foreseeable future.
Reconciliation of effective tax rate: 2024 2023Earnings before tax -62 655 -143 800Tax calculated at 22% (22 %) -13 784 -31 636Effect of other tax rates -7 087 26 280Permanent differences -3 470 551Adjustment in respect of current income tax of previous years 3 762 1 507Tax expense -20 579 -3 297Deferred tax assets 184 098 129 699Deferred tax liabilities 766 028 773 669Net deferred tax -581 930 -643 971
NOTE 8 Tax related costs
Net deferred tax 2024 2023Intangible assets-662 517 -658 937Property, plant & equipment-65 271 -80 671Inventory62 118 62 054Receivables1 941 1 902Provisions17 454 11 202Pensions2 968 2 636Other items9 362 -9 390Tax-loss carried forward52 014 27 233Net Deferred tax at 31.12-581 930 -643 971
Tax expense included in net result: 2024 2023Period taxes:Tax payable in the period 59 971 54 942Deferred taxChanges in deferred tax liability-80 550 -58 239Tax expense -20 579 -3 297
Expensed tax payable is higher that the Group`s tax payable in the balance sheet as of 31. December 2024. This is because parts of the
year`s tax payable in foreign subsidiaries has been paid in advance.
The Group’s carry forward tax deficit has the following maturity:31.12.2024 31.12.2023No final maturity date 52 014 27 233Total tax loss carryforward 52 014 27 233
NOTE 8 Tax related costs (contd.)
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes140 141
NOTE 9 Earnings per share
2024 2023Profit for the period -42 075 921 -140 503 184Opening No. of shares 30 000 30 000Closing No. of shares 30 000 30 000Weighted average number of shares 30 000 30 000Basic earnings per share -1 402,53 -4 683,44Diluted earnings per share -1 402,53 -4 683,44
There are no instruments with a diluting effect.
NOTE 10 Estimation uncertainty
In the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies in according to IFRS, management has made several judgements and estimates. All
estimates are assessed to the most probable outcome based on the managements best knowledge. Changes in key assumptions may have
significant effect and may cause material adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities, equity and the profit for the year.
The group’s most significant accounting estimates relate to the following items:
• Impairment assessment incl valuation of goodwill, write-downs on property, plant & equipment and intangible assets
• Write-down of inventory to net realisable value
• Provision for expected credit losses on trade receivables
Impairment assessments (see note 11 for further descriptions)
The Group has made significant investments in tangible fixed assets, intangible assets and goodwill. Valuation and remaining economic life of
fixed assets and intangible assets are based on future expectations and will always involve discretionary assessments with inherent
estimation uncertainty. Goodwill is assessed for impairment annually or when there are indications of impairment, while other assets are
assessed when there are indications of impairment. Factors indicating impairment and triggering requirements for testing the value of
assets include: significant reduction in market values, significantly weaker results in relation to historical results or in relation to expected
results, significant changes in the use of assets or in the overall business strategy, including assets that are decommissioned or discontinued
and assets that are damaged or decommissioned, significant negative developments in the industry or economies, substantial reduction of
market share, significant adverse regulatory decisions and court decisions, and significant cost overruns when developing assets.
According to IAS 36 Impairment of Assets, the recoverable amount of assets is the higher of value in use and fair value less costs to sell.
Value in use, especially when using discounted cash flow methods, must be largely based on management’s discretionary estimates and
expectations, including determining appropriate cash-generating units, discount rates, estimating future performance, asset revenue-
generating capacity, margins, required maintenance investments, and future market conditions assumptions. The effects of recession and
increased macroeconomic risk can affect estimates of future earnings and the discount rate used to estimate the recoverable amount of the
assets. For the assessment of impairment of goodwill, discounted cash flow models have been used to determine recoverable amount, based
on the latest financial budgets and forecasts approved by the management. A forecast period of five years is assumed, during which the last
year has been used as a basis for calculating a terminal value based on Gordon’s growth model. Future developments in volume, sales prices
and operating margins are important factors in the Group’s impairment assessments. Expectations of future cash flows will vary over time as
a result of changes in market conditions, demand and the competitive situation, and long-term estimates of key assumptions in the individual
countries and regions will be uncertain.
Write-down of inventory to net realisable value
The cost of inventories may not be recoverable if those inventories are damaged, if they have become wholly or partially obsolete, or if their
selling prices have declined. The cost of inventories may also not be recoverable if the estimated costs of completion or the estimated costs
to be incurred to make the sale have increased. The practice of writing inventories down below cost to net realisable value is consistent with
the view that assets should not be carried in excess of amounts expected to be realised from their sale or use.
A new assessment is made of net realisable value in each quarterly reporting. When the circumstances that previously caused inventories to
be written down below cost no longer exist or when there is clear evidence of an increase in net realisable value because of changed
economic circumstances, the amount of the write-down is reversed (i.e. the reversal is limited to the amount of the original write-down) so
that the new carrying amount is the lower of the cost and the revised net realisable value.
Provision for expected credit losses of trade receivables
The Group uses a provision matrix to calculate expected credit losses for trade receivables. The provision rates are based on days past due
for groupings of various customer segments that have similar loss patterns (i.e., by geography, product type, customer type and rating, and
coverage by letters of credit and other forms of credit insurance).
The provision matrix is initially based on the Group’s historical observed default rates. The Group will calibrate the matrix to adjust the
historical credit loss experience with forward-looking information. At every reporting date, the historical observed default rates are
updated and changes in the forward-looking estimates are analysed.
The assessment of the correlation between historical observed default rates, forecast economic conditions and expected credit losses is a
significant estimate. The amount of expected credit losses is sensitive to changes in circumstances and of forecast economic conditions. The
Group’s historical credit loss experience and forecast of economic conditions may also not be representative of customer’s actual default in
the future.
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes142 143
NOTE 11 Property, Plant, Equipment and Intangible assets
*Held for sale
On 4 January 2023, Ekornes announced that the group will concentrate operations in Thailand, discontinue activities in Vietnam, and
reduce the workforce by approximately 700 FTEs. Ekornes has made substantial investments in the production facility in Thailand to
enable the concentration of all Asian operations at one location. The two factories in Vietnam including leasing agreements were classified
as held for sale in the balance sheet 31.12.2023:
Non-current assets classified as held for sale NOK 16,8 million. MNOK 15,75 is related to assets.
Liabilities classified as held for sale NOK 1,2 million.
Estimated useful lives are as follows:
• Buildings 25-50 years
• Machinery & equipment 5-16 year
• Operating movables and fixtures 2-10 years
• Licenses and patents 5 years
• Software 3 years
• No depreciation of Land property
Depreciation method, useful life and residual value are reassessed annually.
Depreciations and write-downs includes NOK 5 million in write-downs for “Software and licenses” in 2024.
Sites andMachinery Operating Asset under (Figures in NOK 000)buildingsand equipmentmovablesconstruction TotalAcquisition value 1.1.2024 1 845 854 1 206 770 131 577 20 953 3 205 154+ additions 4 429 24 700 3 108 26 446 58 683+/- reclassification* 3 386 15 372 0 -18 759 0- disposals -22 031 -15 981 -5 011 0 -43 024Currency exchange differences 15 889 14 376 4 261 521 35 045Acquisition value 31.12.2024 1 847 527 1 245 237 133 934 29 161 3 255 859
Accumulated dep. and write-downs 1.1.2024 948 017 975 420 107 307 0 2 030 744Depreciations and write-downs in 2024 54 473 70 019 7 633 0 132 125- Acc. depreciation on operating assets sold -20 118 -14 810 -4 019 0 -38 947Currency exchange differences 4 720 10 905 3 502 0 19 126Accumulated dep. And write-downs 31.12.2024 987 092 1 041 534 114 423 0 2 143 049Book value 31.12.2024 860 435 203 703 19 510 29 161 1 112 810
*Vietnam - Sale of the two factories
The two factories in Vietnam including leasing agreements classified as held for sale in the balance sheet as at 31.12.2023 were sold in
October 2024. NOK 60 million in gain from the sale of the assets in Vietnam was included in “Other operating expenses” in Y 2024.
Sites andMachinery Operating Asset under (Figures in NOK 000)buildingsand equipmentmovablesconstruction TotalAcquisition value 1.1.2023 1 834 568 1 202 593 130 689 21 234 3 189 083+ additions 12 106 24 686 5 070 15 104 56 967+/- reclassification* -11 265 11 053 0 -15 513 -15 725- disposals -975 -37 429 -6 403 0 -44 807Currency exchange differences 11 420 5 868 2 221 127 19 636Acquisition value 31.12.2023 1 845 854 1 206 770 131 577 20 953 3 205 154Accumulated dep. and write-downs 1.1.2023 889 341 935 673 101 429 0 1 926 443Depreciations and write-downs in 2023 57 500 72 312 9 092 0 138 904+/- reclassification 0 0 0 0 0- Acc. depreciation on operating assets sold -613 -34 272 -5 850 0 -40 735Currency exchange differences1 790 1 706 2 637 0 6 133Accumulated dep. And write-downs 31.12.2023 948 017 975 420 107 307 0 2 030 744Book value 31.12.2023 897 837 231 350 24 269 20 953 1 174 409
NOTE 11 Property, Plant, Equipment and Intangible assets (contd.)
Software and Customer (Figures in NOK 000)licenses Goodwillrelationships Brand name TotalAcquisition value 1.1.2024 258 423 1 561 115 1 302 291 1 656 419 4 778 248+ additions 22 021 0 0 0 22 021- disposals -24 448 0 0 0 -24 448Currency exchange differences 159 0 0 0 159Acquisition value 31.12.2024 256 155 1 561 115 1 302 291 1 656 419 4 775 981Accumulated dep. and write-downs 1.1.2024 208 342 0 331 916 216 924 757 182Depreciations and write-downs in 2024 5 039 0 69 874 40 673 115 586- Acc. depreciation on operating assets sold -24 448 0 0 0 -24 448Currency exchange differences 59 0 0 0 59Accumulated dep. And write-downs 31.12.2024 188 992 0 401 790 257 597 848 379Accumulated currency translation differences 1.1.2024 0 0 205 099 0 205 099Currency translation differences in 2024 0 0 90 894 0 90 894Accumulated currency translation 31.12.2024 0 0 295 993 0 295 993Book value 31.12.2024 67 164 1 561 115 1 196 494 1 398 822 4 223 594
Customer PPA values split per brands Goodwillrelationships Brand name Total®Stressless676 614 780 515 1 226 966 2 684 095IMG 884 501 415 979 171 856 1 472 336Book value 31.12.2024 1 561 115 1 196 494 1 398 822 4 156 431
Intangible assets
Goodwill is not depreciated in the consolidated financial statements, but is tested annually for impairment.
Customer relationships and brand names are depreciated on a straight-line basis over estimated lifetime. Estimated lifetime customer
relationships are rated at 25 years for Stressless and 20 years for IMG. For brands, the estimated lifetime is estimated at 50 years for
Stressless and 20 years for IMG. Depreciation expense is included in ordinary depreciation in the income statement.
In connection with the purchase price allocation, excess values were identified related to brand names, customer relationships, real estate
and fixed assets.
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes144 145
NOTE 11 Property, Plant, Equipment and Intangible assets (contd.) NOTE 11 Property, Plant, Equipment and Intangible assets (contd.)
(Figures in NOK 000) Potential impairment at following changes in forecast period and terminal value Change EkornesGrowth in sales -1 % 0EBITDA-margin -1 % 0Discount rate (WACC) +1 % 0
Impairment assessment goodwill
The Group has performed an impairment assessment of goodwill at 31 December 2024 in accordance with IAS 36 . Book value of goodwill
was NOK 1 561 million at 31. December 2024. The group represent the lowest level within the entity at which the goodwill is monitored for
internal management purposes. When performing impairment testing and measuring recoverable amount, value in use is calculated for the
group. Management projections are based on budget for 2025 approved by the Board of Directors. Cash flow projections beyond the
forecast period is estimated by extrapolating the projections using a steady growth rate for subsequent years equivalent to the expected
inflation rate of 2,0%. When calculating value in use the future expected cash flows after tax are discounted applying an appropriate
discount rate (WACC) after tax of 9,6%.
The most important assumptions when estimating future cash flows is management projections of revenue growth and operating margin. In
the forecast period, the average expected growth rate is expected to be 7,5% for the group. Operating margins are expected to increase.
Based on management impairment assessment at 31 December 2024, recoverable amount is higher than carrying amount , and the Group
has concluded that it will not be necessary to make any impairments in the financial statements for 2024. Management has performed
sensitivity analysis for changes in key assumptions when estimating recoverable amount. The outcome of the sensitivity analysis performed
at 31 December 2024 is presented in the table below.
Discontinue segment reporting and Impairment
Ekornes has discontinue segment reporting , but have performed impairment testing of goodwill for Stressless and IMG at 31 December
2024. Recoverable amount is higher than carrying amount for both brands.
Intangible assets
These are some of the company’s most important intangible assets:
- Registered trademarks (Ekornes
®
, Stressless
®
, IMG og Svane
®
)
- Registered domains
- Patents
- Registered designs
- Distribution network (international)
- Market concept
- Product consepts
- Manufacturing expertise
- International marketing
- International sourcing
With the exception of some patents and domains, none of these assets has been included in the balance-sheet.
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes146 147
Depreciations and write-downs includes NOK 8,7 million in write-downs for “Software and licenses” in 2023.
Software and Customer (Figures in NOK 000)licenses Goodwillrelationships Brand name TotalAcquisition value 1.1.2023 247 116 1 561 115 1 302 291 1 656 419 4 766 941+ additions 11 265 0 0 0 11 265- disposals 0 0 0 0 0Currency exchange differences 42 0 0 0 42Acquisition value 31.12.2023 258 423 1 561 115 1 302 291 1 656 419 4 778 248Accumulated dep. and write-downs 1.1.2023 199 543 0 263 093 176 251 638 887Depreciations and write-downs in 2023 8 778 0 68 823 40 673 118 274+/- reclassification 0 0 0 0 0- Acc. depreciation on operating assets sold 0 0 0 0 0Currency exchange differences 21 0 0 0 21Accumulated dep. And write-downs 31.12.2023 208 342 0 331 916 216 924 757 182Accumulated currency translation differences 1.1.2023 0 0 154 956 0 154 956Currency translation differences in 2023 0 0 50 144 0 50 144Accumulated currency translation 31.12.2023 0 0 205 099 0 205 099Book value 31.12.2023 50 081 1 561 115 1 175 475 1 439 495 4 226 166
Customer PPA values split per brands Goodwillrelationships Brand name Total®Stressless676 614 757 556 1 255 065 2 689 234IMG 884 501 417 919 184 430 1 486 850Book value 31.12.2023 1 561 115 1 175 475 1 439 495 4 176 085
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024
NOTE 12 Leasing agreements (contd.)
Lease liabilitiesUndiscounted lease liabilities and maturity of cash outflows 2024 2023Less than one year 65 360 64 633One to five years 164 252 154 149More than five years 27 760 33 763Total undiscounted lease liabilities 257 371 252 545Total lease liabilitiesCurrent lease liabilities 64 143 61 434Non-current lease liabilities 174 347 164 556Total cash outflows for leases 71 436 71 643Interest expense on lease liabilities 7 226 7 541Short term leases and low-value leases recognized on a straight-line basis as expense 3 950 1 278
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes148 149
The Group has entered into several different operational leasing agreements. The leasing agreements are primarily associated with
non-Norwegian subsidiaries. The operating movables and machinery are leased in a 3-5-year period, while several of the office and
warehouse have a longer time frame.
Practical expedients applied
The Group has elected to apply the practical expedient and does not recognise lease liabilities or right-of-use assets for leases presented in
the table below:
• Short-term leases (defined as 12 months or less) or
• Low value assets (< NOK 25 000)
Variable lease payments
In addition to the lease liabilities below, the Group is committed to pay variable lease payments for some of their leases. The variable lease
payments are expensed as incurred.
Extension options
Several agreements involve a right of renewal which may be exercised during the last period of the lease terms. The Group assesses at the
commencement whether it is reasonably certain to exercise the renewal right.
Restrictions
The leases do not contain any restrictions on the Group’s dividend policy or financing. The Group does not have significant residual value
guarantees related to its leases to disclose.
(Figures in NOK 000) Operating Machinery and Office, warehouse TotalRight-of-use assetsmovablesequipmentand sitesAcquisition cost 1.1.2024 34 123 6 401 405 960 446 484Addition of right-of-use assets- New leasing agreements 6 419 0 511 6 930- Excisting leasing agreements adjusted or extended 76 49 55 773 55 898Disposals 0 0 0 0Currency exchange differences 565 52 15 266 15 883Acquisition cost 31.12.2024 41 182 6 503 477 510 525 195Accumulated depreciation and impairment 1.1.2024 23 270 5 119 209 409 237 798Depreciation 7 558 611 56 378 64 547Disposals 0 0 0 0Currency exchange differences 460 18 3 061 3 539Accumulated depreciation and impairment 31.12.2024 31 288 5 747 268 848 305 884Carrying amount of right-of-use assets 31.12.2024 9 895 756 208 661 219 311
(Figures in NOK 000) Operating Machinery and Office, warehouse TotalRight-of-use assetsmovablesequipmentand sitesAcquisition cost 1.1.2023 25 403 5 994 353 525 384 922Addition of right-of-use assets- New leasing agreements 4 889 133 24 611 29 632- Excisting leasing agreements adjusted or extended 3 244 66 23 753 27 062Disposals 0 0 -1 270 -1 270Currency exchange differences 587 209 5 340 6 136Acquisition cost 31.12.2023 34 123 6 401 405 960 446 484Accumulated depreciation and impairment 1.1.2023 17 188 4 267 150 084 171 539Depreciation 6 142 1 101 59 074 66 316Disposals 0 0 -159 -159Currency exchange differences -59 -249 410 101Accumulated depreciation and impairment 31.12.2023 23 270 5 119 209 409 237 798Carrying amount of right-of-use assets 31.12.2023 10 853 1 283 196 551 208 686
NOTE 12 Leasing agreements
(Figures in NOK 000)Other receivables31.12.2024 31.12.2023Other receivables related to the production cycle 12 573 9 848Prepayments to suppliers 4 881 2 321Prepaid expenses 45 668 48 802Prepaid tax and VAT refunds due 29 846 17 902Other 83 380 11 469Total other receivables 176 348 90 341
Other current liabilities31.12.2024 31.12.2023Salaries payable 152 283 135 928Accrued bonus/market support to customers 41 474 43 134Accrued other marketing costs 9 034 10 292Accrued cash discounts to customers 3 275 3 272Accrued commission to sales staff 8 245 5 498Accrued administrative costs 6 328 11 303Advances from customers (contract liabilities) 15 939 13 572Accrued interest Bond 2 513 2 838Accrued freight 13 073 7 510Other 59 363 48 367Total other liabilities 311 525 281 714
NOTE 13 Other receivables and other liabilities
NOTE 14 Inventory
(Figures in NOK 000)31.12.2024 31.12.2023Inventory finished goods 274 790 295 153Inventory semi-finished 74 507 70 600Inventory raw materials 368 182 349 785Total 717 479 715 538
All amounts are net after write-downs of 31.12.2024.
Accounts receivables are non-interest bearing. The Group has more than 4,000 customers, with the largest group of stores accounting
for around 5,5 per cent of sales revenues. The largest single customer accounts for around 4,0 per cent of total sales revenues. Bad debts
are classified as other operating expenses in profit and loss. See Note 20 for details of credit and foreign exchange risks relating to trade
receivables.
NOTE 15 Accounts receivable
The change in provisions for bad debts is as follows:(Figures in NOK 000) 2024 2023Opening balance 1. January 17 250 12 846Actual bad debts in the year -708 780Change in bad debt provisions 20 584 5 185Closing balance 31. December 38 542 17 250
(Figures in NOK 000)Trade receivables 31.12.2024 31.12.2023Receivables related to revenue from contracts with customers - external 551 697 535 025Total accounts receivables (Gross) 551 697 535 025Allowance for expected credit losses 38 542 17 250Total accounts receivables (Net) 513 155 517 775
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes150 151
As of 31.12.2024, the Group had the following currency exposure with respect to its group account scheme:
Amount in Exchange rate Amount in Currency 000 currency31.12.2024000 NOKNOK 826 866 1,00 826 866USD 807 11,35 9 160GBP 1 705 14,22 24 248DKK 5 466 1,58 8 644JPY 103 236 0,07 7 468NZD 559 6,36 3 559Total deposits in group account scheme 879 945
EUR -16 349 11,80 -192 842AUD -1 252 7,03 -8 804SGD -234 8,33 -1 946SEK -11 346 1,03 -11 678Total drawn down on group account scheme -215 270Total group account 664 675
NOTE 16 Cash and bank deposits
In the statement of cash flow, cash and bank deposits are recognised as cash. Total restricted cash is NOK 24,3 million at 31.12.2024 (NOK
21,9 million at 31.12.2023). The restricted cash at 31 December 2024 are related to the payment of employee tax deductions in Norway.
All the Norwegian subsidiaries in the Ekornes Group and its subsidiaries in Finland, Lithuania, Denmark, France, Germany, UK and the US
participate in a multi-currency group account scheme, with the parent company Ekornes AS as the principal account holder. The parent
company agrees permitted drawdowns on the group accounts for each individual subsidiary. All participants are jointly and severally liable
for the amount at any time outstanding on the group account. The parent company has entered into agreements with respect to credit
facilities with DNB. See also Note 18.
(Figures in NOK 000) 31.12.2024 31.12.2023Cash and bank deposits 910 395 835 314
Shareholder Country No. of shares held PercentageQumei Runto S.à.r.l. Luxembourg 30 000 100 %
NOTE 17 Shares and shareholders
The Norwegian ultimate parent company Ekornes QM Holding AS is a subsidiary of Qumei Home Furnishing Group Co., Ltd in China.
Qumei Home Furnishing Group Co., Ltd is listed on Shanghai Stock exchange. Qumei Group owns 94,12% of the shares in Qumei Runto
S.à.r.l and Hillhouse investment owns the remaining shares.
As at 31 December 2023 and 31 December 2024, Ekornes QM Holding’s registered share capital comprised 30 000 ordinary shares.
All shares have a face value of NOK 5.00. All shares in the company have equal voting and dividend rights. All shares give equal rights to
the company’s net assets. Ekornes QM Holding AS has no treasury shares as at 31 December 2023 or 31 December 2024.
The calculation of earnings per share and diluted earnings per share is shown in Note 9 Earnings per share.
As at 31 December 2023 and 31 December 2024, the company’s sole shareholder was
As at 31 December 2023 and 31 December 2024, the board has been granted the following authorisations:
The board has been granted no authorisations.
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes152 153
NOTE 18 Interest-bearing loans and credits facilities (contd.)
NOK 128 million of the bank debt are classified as short term borrowing 31. December 2024. The bond and bank debt is measured at
amortized cost using the effective interest method. The effective interest method amortisation is included as finance cost in the income
statement.
Other current liabilites include accrued bond interest of 9.3 million and accrued bank interest of 0.3 million. The interest was paid in
March 2025.
Financial covenants related to the bond
The bond agreement is subject to a set of financial covenants, including a minimum liquidity of NOK 350 million and a maximum leverage
ratio of 8.0 at issuance. The maximum allowed leverage ratio has a gradual step-down mechanism towards 4.5 by first quarter 2025:
(i) 5.25:1 for the Relevant Period ending on 30 September 2024
(ii) 4.75:1 for the Relevant Period ending on 31 December 2024 and
(iii) 4.50:1 for any Relevant Period thereafter.
The covenants are measured quarterly on a 12-month rolling basis for Ekornes QM Holding Group. The bond agreement also includes
restrictions on dividend payments from Ekornes QM Holding AS, and Ekornes QM Holding AS is not in position to distribute any dividends.
Since the refinancing and on 31 December 2024 Ekornes was compliant with all covenant requirements in the bond agreement. According
to bond terms the net Interest-bearing debt (including leasing liabilities) is NOK 2 032,1 million at 31 December 2024 and 12-month
rolling adjusted EBITDA is NOK 486,0 million. Ekornes had positive one-offs of MNOK 24,6 Y 2024 (Mainly cost in payroll and gain of
MNOK 60,3 related to sale of factories in Vietnam), with positive one-offs of MNOK 53,0 in Q4 2024. The leverage ratio at the end of the
fourth quarter 2024 was 4,18 well below the maximum allowed of 4,75 at 31 December 2024.
The changes in interest-bearing debt through the period 1. January to 31. December 2024 are as follows:
(Figures in NOK 000)Currency NOKIssue Amount 1 200 000Nibor 3M 4,67 %Margin 8,00 %Coupon 12,67 %Tenor / redemption: 42 months /3,5 yearsSettlement Date: 10.03.2023Maturity Date: 10.09.2026
(Figures in NOK 000)External interest-bearing debt Bond Bank loan TotalOpening balance 1. January 1 187 660 1 594 938 2 782 599Repayment of borrowings 0 -96 000 -96 000Net Amortization borrowing cost 6 779 4 298 11 077Closing balance external debt 31. December 1 194 439 1 503 236 2 697 675
NOTE 18 Interest-bearing loans and credits facilities
The Group regularly assesses its capital structure and risk profile. Total interest-bearing debt as at 31 December 2024 amounted
to NOK 2 697.7 million (NOK 2 782.6 million in 2023). In March 2023, Ekornes successfully refinanced outstanding debt with a
NOK 1 200 million bond loan and bank facility of NOK 1 600 million with DNB and Sparebank Møre.
The new financing structure strengthens the financial position and supports the strategy for long-term profitable growth.
Long-term borrowing agreement 31 December 2024
Ekornes QM Holding AS has in March 2023 obtained NOK 1 600 million in term loan from DNB and Sparebanken Møre to refinance
its existing debt. The old loans were repaid to DNB and Sparebank Møre on 30 March 2023.
The loan is secured with a share pledge in Ekornes AS and material sales companies in Germany, UK and US. The loan has quarterly
installments at NOK 32 million,- four times per year with the first instalment 30 June 2024. Interest expenses are paid quarterly.
Final maturity in March 2026. NOK 128 million are classified as short term borrowing 31. December 2024 (NOK 96 million as at
31. December 2023).
Since the refinancing and as at 31 December 2024, Ekornes was compliant with all covenant requirements in the bank agreement.
The leverage ratio for the bank loan at the end of the fourth quarter 2024 was 1.76 well below the maximum allowed. The calculation
for the bank leverage ratio do not include the bond.
Ekornes AS has also NOK 175 million in undrawn overdraft facility in DNB and Sparebanken Møre at 31 December 2024.
Senior Secured Bond at 31 December 2024
On 10 March 2023, Ekornes QM Holding AS placed NOK 1,200 million in 3.5-year senior secured floating rate bonds due 10 September
2026 with ticker EKO02 (ISIN: NO0012855537). The net proceeds from the bond issue was used to refinance (in whole) the outstanding
bond issue with ticker EKO01 (ISIN: NO0010848401) and general corporate purposes. The bond is secured with a share pledge in Ekornes
QM Holding AS. No instalments are payable before maturity in September 2026 and interest expenses are paid quarterly. NIBOR is
adjusted at the end of each quarter and at 31. December 2024 the coupon was 12,67%. From 10 March 2025 the coupon is 12,45%.
The application for the EKO02 bonds to be listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange was approved by the Financial Authority of Norway 29 June
2023. In conjunction with the new bond issue, Ekornes bought back EKO01 bonds from existing bondholders participating in the new bond
issue, at a price of 103% of par. Ekornes called the remaining EKO01 bonds and the bond was repaid on 30 March 2023.
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes154 155
Reconciliation of changes in liabilities arising from financing activities is shown in the tables below:
(Figures in NOK 000)
NOTE 19 Reconciliation for liabilities arising from financing activities NOTE 20 Financial risk
Interest-rate risk
Interest-rate risk is the risk of fluctuations in future cash flows from a financial instrument as a result of changes in market rates. The
Group’s exposure to interest rates is primarily related to its short-term and long-term borrowings at floating interest rates. Loans at
floating interest rates represent an interest-rate risk for the Group’s cash flow, which is partly offset by the opposite effect of cash and cash
equivalents at floating interest. The borrowing portfolio is currently at a floating rate of interest, which means the Group is affected by
changes in interest rates. At the close of 2024, the Group had total interest-bearing debt of NOK 2 697,7 million. The Group has a stable
financing structure. Lenders are well-reputed Norwegian banks and a bond listed on Oslo Stock exchange. The table below shows sensitivity
to a potential change in interest rates on that part of the Group’s affected borrowings. The estimate is based on actual loans at the end
of 2024, and by keeping all other variables remaining constant the Group’s profit/loss and equity before tax will be affected as follows by
changes in debt instruments at floating interest rates.
The Group operates in many markets, on both the sales and purchasing sides. This means the company has a natural spread with respect to
its market, foreign exchange and sourcing risk. For The Group, financial risk is largely associated with fluctuations in exchange rates (NOK vs
other countries’ currencies), interest rate risk deriving from changes in interest rates and credit risk in the form of the ability of the Group’s
customers to pay what they owe (trade receivables).
Customer and credit risk
The Group sells its products to distributors through its own sales companies and the customers are generally furniture retailers. The
Group has more than 4,000 customers, with the largest group of stores accounting for around 5,5 per cent of sales revenues. The largest
single customer accounts for around 4 per cent of total sales revenues. Routines have been established to ensure that sales are made
to creditworthy customers and within specific credit limits to lessen market and credit risk. Customer and credit risk is considered
low. Outstanding receivables are followed up on an ongoing basis and efforts are made to keep them at a reasonable level. An analysis
of expected losses is carried out at the close of each reporting period. The estimation reflects the probability-weighted outcome, the
time-value of money and reasonable and verifiable information about events and actual conditions available on the reporting date. Trade
receivables will generally be written off if they have fallen due for payment one year or more in the past and no debt recovery process
is ongoing. Based on the fact that The Group generally has B2B customers, few receivables overdue and historically few bad debts, the
assessment of expected losses has not led to any material change in the provision for bad debts as at 31 December 2024. The provision
matrix will be based on historical experiences, updated with todays expectations for the future customized to the customers characteristics
(brand, geography, maturity on customer relations). The table below show details of the Group’s exposure to credit risk on trade receivables
using a provision matrix.
Increase/decrease Effect on profit/ Effect before tax (Figures in NOK 000)in base pointsloss before taxon equity31.12.2024 100 27 040 27 040 31.12.2023 100 28 000 28 000
31.12.2024 Total Not due <30 d 30-60d 60-90d >90dTrade receivables - gross 551 697 390 751 70 853 13 454 13 009 63 632Expected default rate 7,0 % 0,2 % 0,2 % 1,2 % 42,8 % 50,2 %Expected credit losses 38 542 736 141 160 5 569 31 936
31.12.2023 Total Not due <30 d 30-60d 60-90d >90dTrade receivables - gross 535 025 392 253 87 616 16 508 5 543 33 105Expected default rate 3,2 % 0,2 % 0,4 % 1,2 % 29,8 % 43,2 %Expected credit losses 17 250 768 335 196 1 650 14 300
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Group manages this risk by
ensuring, as far as possible, that it always has sufficient liquidity available to meet its obligations both under normal and challenging
circumstances, and without incurring unacceptable losses or risk of damaging the Group’s reputation. At the close of 2024, the Group had
cash reserves of NOK 910,4 million in the form of bank deposits, of which NOK 24,3 million was restricted to the payment of employees’
tax deductions. In addition, the Group had unused drawing facility of NOK 175.0 million. The board considers the Group’s liquidity situation
to be satisfactory. The table below shows a maturity analysis for the Group’s financial liabilities based on contractual, non-discounted
payments. When a counterparty has a choice about when an amount is to be paid, the liability is included at the earliest date the business
can expect to receive payment. Financial liabilities which must be repaid upon demand are included in the ”<1 year” column.
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes156 157
Interest-bearing Interest-bearing Total liabilities from (Figures in NOK 000) debt - Bonddebt - Bank Lease liabilitiesfinancing activitiesLiabilities 1.1.2024 1 187 660 1 594 938 225 990 3 008 588Financing activities with cash settlement 0 -96 000 -71 519 -167 519Financing activities without cash settlementChanges in leases 0 0 84 019 84 019Other 6 779 4 298 0 11 077Liabilities 31.12.2024 1 194 439 1 503 236 238 490 2 936 165Hereof:Non-current liabilities 1 194 439 1 375 236 174 347 2 744 022Current liabilities 0 128 000 64 143 192 143
Interest-bearing Interest-bearing Total liabilities from (Figures in NOK 000) debt - Bonddebt - Bank Lease liabilitiesfinancing activitiesLiabilities 1.1.2023 2 020 000 1 037 500 229 916 3 287 415Financing activities with cash settlement -820 000 562 500 -71 643 -329 143Financing activities without cash settlementChanges in leases 0 0 67 717 67 717Other -12 340 -5 062 0 -17 401Liabilities 31.12.2023 1 187 660 1 594 938 225 990 3 008 588Hereof:Non-current liabilities 1 187 660 1 498 938 164 556 2 851 155Current liabilities 0 96 000 61 434 157 434
NOTE 20 Financial risk (contd.) NOTE 20 Financial risk (contd.)
Foreign exchange risk
The Group sells its products internationally, and bills its customers primarily in the respective countries’ own currencies. The Group
manages all matters related to currency and foreign exchange risk from head office. Currency hedging is an integral part of the Group’s
operational activities.
As part of the company’s efforts to reduce its foreign exchange risk/currency exposure the Group also seeks to purchase goods and services
for use in Norway on international markets, where cost-effective. Together with the Group’s distribution, sales and marketing activities, and
associated administrative organization, this provides natural operational hedging of the company’s foreign exchange risk (natural hedging)
for part of its cash flow. In addition to natural hedging, the company uses forward contracts for additional currency hedging. This does not
reduce the long-term foreign exchange risk, but provides predictability within the hedging horizon. According to the group’s strategy, 80
per cent of the expected currency exposure in the coming six-month period is hedged in currencies where the expected annual exposure
exceeds NOK 75 million, and correspondingly for 50 per cent of the expected exposure in the coming 6-12-month period. Financial risk
is primarily associated with fluctuations in exchange rates and the ability of the Group’s customers to pay what they owe. The Group’s
competitiveness is affected, over time, by movements in the value of the NOK in relation to other currencies. The Group actively seeks to
limit this risk.
The following average exchange rates applied to forward contracts exercised in 2024:
Valuta/ Volume Volume Average exchange rate Currency(Figures in NOK 000)(Figures in Currency 000)(In NOK)AUD 154 194 22 080 6,98 DKK 80 600 52 205 1,54 EUR 462 547 40 375 11,46 GBP 139 154 10 955 12,70 USD 299 760 28 430 10,54
(Figures in NOK 000 )Market value of forward contracts 31.12.2024 31.12.2023Share in 2024 0 20 735Share in 2025 -22 824 0Total -22 824 20 735
Total net other (losses)/gains comprises: 2024 2023Realised (losses)/gains on new forward contracts -20 680 -57 302Change in value of realised and unrealised contracts -43 558 23 388Net other (losses)/gains -64 238 -33 914
New forward contracts
In 2023 and 2024, the Group entered into forward contracts, and all realised and unrealised gains and losses associated with these
contracts are recognised in net other gains/(losses). All contracts that are open as at 31 December 2024 fall due for payment in the next 12
months. As at 31 December 2024, the market value of existing forward currency contracts came to negative NOK 22,8 million.
Classifications of financial assets and financial liabilities 31. December 2024
Classifications of financial assets and financial liabilities 31. December 2023
Fair value through Amortised cost Bank Amortised cost Other (Figures in NOK 000)profit and loss and receivables financial liabilities Cash & cash equivalents 0 910 395 0Stocks & shares in other enterprises 1 557 0 0Forward currency contracts -22 824 0 0Trade & other current receivables 0 689 503 0Non-current receivables 0 16 052 0Long-term debt related to bond issued 0 0 1 194 439Long-term debt to credit institutions 0 0 1 375 236Short-term debt to credit institutions 0 0 128 000Trade & other current payables 0 0 567 518TOTAL -21 266 1 615 951 3 265 193
Fair value through Amortised costAmortised cost Other (Figures in NOK 000)profit and lossBank and receivablesfinancial liabilities Cash & cash equivalents 0 835 314 0Stocks & shares in other enterprises 1 633 0 0Forward currency contracts 20 735 0 0Trade & other current receivables 0 608 116 0Non-current receivables 0 22 636 0Long-term debt related to bond issued 0 0 1 187 660Long-term debt to credit institutions 0 0 1 498 938Short-term debt to credit institutions 0 0 96 000Trade & other current payables 0 0 513 664TOTAL 22 368 1 466 066 3 296 263
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes158 159
(Figures in NOK 000)Remaining term (years)31.12.2024 <1 1 to 2 2 to 3 3 to 5 > 5 TotalFinancial liabilitiesInterest-bearing debt - Bond 0 1 200 000 0 0 0 1 200 000Interest-bearing debt - Bank 128 000 1 376 000 0 0 0 1 504 000Leasing 64 143 55 521 45 659 63 072 10 095 238 490Trade payables and other liabilities 567 518 11 855 11 855 0 8 442 599 670Total 759 661 2 643 376 57 514 63 072 18 537 3 542 160
(Figures in NOK 000)Remaining term (years)31.12.2023 <1 1 to 2 2 to 3 3 to 5 > 5 TotalFinancial liabilitiesInterest-bearing debt - Bond 0 0 1 200 000 0 0 1 200 000Interest-bearing debt - Bank 96 000 128 000 1 376 000 0 0 1 600 000Leasing 61 487 53 164 41 277 60 266 9 797 225 990Trade payables and other liabilities 513 664 2 773 2 773 0 7 143 526 352Total 671 151 183 936 2 620 049 60 266 16 940 3 552 342
The following subsidiaries are included in Ekornes QM Holding AS’s consolidated financial statements. Ekornes QM Holding AS has 100%
voting and ownership in all other group companies through Ekornes AS.
The subsidiaries J. E. Ekornes USA, Inc and International Mobel Group USA, Inc was merged with Ekornes Inc. as of January 1, 2024.
Ekornes Beds GmbH and IMG Vietnam Co are dormant pending dissolution. All formalities have been submitted to the local government.
NOTE 21 Group entities
Company Primary business activity Registered office DomicileEkornes AS HQ , production and Sales Ikornnes NorwayJ. E. Ekornes ApS Sales Odense DenmarkEkornes K.K Sales Tokyo JapanOY Ekornes AB Sales Helsinki FinlandEkornes Inc. Sales Somerset, NJ USEkornes Ltd. Sales London UKEkornes Möbelvertriebs GmbH Sales Hamburg GermanyEkornes S.A.R.L Sales Pau FranceEkornes Iberica SL Sales Barcelona SpainEkornes Singapore PTE. Ltd Sales Singapore SingaporeEkornes Pty Ltd Sales Sydney AustraliaEkornes Asia Pacific Co Ltd Sales Bangkok ThailandEkornes China Co Ltd Sales Shanghai ChinaEkornes Taiwan Ltd. Sales Taipei TaiwanEkornes Hong Kong Co, Ltd Sales Hong Kong ChinaEkornes Beds AS Production and sales Fetsund NorwayEkornes Beds GmbH Dormant Hamburg GermanyIMG Holdco AS Holding Ikornnes NorwayIMG (Vietnam) Co, Ltd Dormant Binh Duong VietnamIMG Australia PTY Ltd Sales Melbourne AustraliaEkornes (Thailand) Limited Production Chachoengsao ThailandIMG New Zealand Limited Sales Auckland New ZealandEkornes Lithuania UAB Production Panevezys Lithuania
No significant events have occurred between the balance sheet date and the date of publication of the financial statements which have
materially affected the Company’s financial position, and which should have been reflected in the financial statements presented here.
NOTE 22 Subsequent events
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding 2024 | Notes160 161
Ekornes QM Holding AS
Financial statements
ANNUAL ACCOUNTS 2024
Page
Income statement
162
Balance sheet
163 - 164
Statement of cash ow
165
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
Note 1 - Accounting principles
166
Income statement
Note 2 - Other operating expenses
167
Note 3 - Net nancial items
167
Note 4 - Tax related costs
168
Balance sheet
Note 5 - Subsidiary
168
Note 6 - Balance with related parties
169
Note 7 - Share capital and shareholder information
169
Note 8 - Shareholders' equity
169
Note 9 - Interest-bearing loans and credit facilities
170 - 171
Other
Note 10 - Subsequent events
172
(Continued on next page)
(Figures in NOK 000) Notes 2024 2023
Operating income and operating expenses
Other operating expenses 2 2 942 3 414
Total operating expenses 2 942 3 414
Operating profit -2 942 -3 414
Financial income and expenses
Income from subsidiaries 3 155 011 212 505
Other interest income 3 2 655 6 268
Other interest expenses 3 , 9 278 665 312 028
Net financial items -120 999 -93 255
Earnings before tax -123 941 -96 670
Tax expense 4 -27 267 -21 267
EARNINGS FOR THE YEAR -96 674 -75 402
Brought forward
Allocated to/from other equity 8 -96 674 -75 402
Net brought forward -96 674 -75 402
ASSETS (Figures in NOK 000) Notes 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
Assets
Non-current assets
Investments in subsidiaries 5 5 667 114 5 667 114
Deferred tax assets 4 47 378 20 111
Total non-current assets 5 714 492 5 687 225
Current assets
Debtors
Other short-term receivables 4 369 3 835
Receivables from group companies 6 445 011 559 248
Total receivables 449 381 563 083
Cash and bank deposits 15 332 111 500
Total current assets 464 713 674 583
Total assets 6 179 204 6 361 808
Income statement for Ekornes QM Holding AS Balance sheet for Ekornes QM Holding AS
Balance sheet | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Income statement162 163
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES (Figures in NOK 000) Notes 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
Equity
Contributed equity
Share capital 7, 8 150 150
Share premium 8 3 159 324 3 159 324
Total contributed equity 3 159 474 3 159 474
Retained earnings
Other equity 8 319 004 415 677
Total retained earnings 319 004 415 677
Total equity 3 478 478 3 575 151
Non-current liabilities
Interest-bearing debt - Bond 9 1 194 439 1 187 660
Interest-bearing debt - Bank 9 1 375 236 1 498 938
Total non-current liabilities 2 569 675 2 686 599
Current debt
Trade creditors 248 304
Interest-bearing debt - Bank 9 128 000 96 000
Other current debt 2 803 3 754
Total current debt 131 051 100 058
Total liabilities 2 700 727 2 786 657
Total equity and liabilities 6 179 204 6 361 808
Balance sheet for Ekornes QM Holding AS (contd.)
(Figures in NOK 000)
Note
2024 2023
Cash flow from operations
Profit before income taxes -123 941 -96 670
Group contribution not received 3 -155 011 -212 505
Change in trade payables -56 -196
Change in other accruals 9 592 -60 499
Net cash flow from operations -269 416 -369 870
Cash flow from investments
Group contribution from subsidiary 269 248 0
Net cash flow from investments 269 248 0
Cash flow from financing
Proceeds from issue of share capital 7, 8 0 352 000
Proceeds from bond borrowings 9 0 1 200 000
Repayment of bond borrowings 9 0 -2 020 000
Repayment of bank borrowings 9 -96 000 0
Proceeds from bank borrowings 9 0 1 600 000
Repayment on borrowings from Ekornes AS 6 0 -829 881
Net cash flow from financing -96 000 302 119
Exchange gains / (losses) on cash and cash equivalents 0 0
Net change in cash and cash equivalents -96 168 -67 751
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period 111 500 179 251
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period 15 332 111 500
The board of Ekornes QM Holding ASOslo, 29 April 2025
Ruihai Zhao
Chair
Mogens Falsig
Director and CEO
Statement of cash flow for Ekornes QM Holding AS
Statement of cash flow | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Balance sheet164 165
BASIC PRINCIPLES – ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION
The financial statements comprise the income statement, the balance sheet, cash flow statement and notes to the financial statements. They
have been prepared in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and generally accepted accounting practice in Norway, as applicable
at 31 December 2024. The notes are therefore an integral part of the financial statements for the year.
The financial statements are based on the fundamental principles of historic cost, comparability, going concern, congruenceand prudence.
Transactions are recognized at the value of the consideration on the date of the transaction. Revenues are recognized when they are earned
and costs are matched with earned revenues.
The accounting principles are elaborated below. Assets/liabilities relating to the production cycle, and items falling due for payment within a
year of the balance date, are classified as current assets/current liabilities. Current assets/current liabilities are valued at the lower/higher
of acquisition cost and fair value. Fair value is defined as the estimated future sales price, less anticipated sales costs. Other assets are
classified as non-current assets. Non-current assets are valued at acquisition cost. Non-current assets, whose value falls over time, are
depreciated. If the value of an asset is impaired and the impairment is not expected to be of a temporary nature, the value of the non-current
asset is written down. Similar principles normally also apply to liabilities.
FOREIGN CURRENCY
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated based on monthly exchange rates. Monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are
translated at the rate of exchange on the balance sheet date. Translation differences are recognized in profit and loss as gain/loss on foreign
exchange. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured at historic cost in a foreign currency are translated at the exchange rate in
effect when the transaction takes place. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are recognized at fair value are translated to NOK at the
exchange rate in effect when fair value is determined.
SUBSIDIARIES
Subsidiaries are valued at cost in the company accounts. The investment is valued as cost of the shares in the subsidiary, less any impairment
losses An impairment loss is recognised if the impairment is not considered temporary, in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. Impairment losses are reversed if the reason for the impairment loss disappears in a later period.
Dividends, group contributions and other distributions from subsidiaries are recognised in the same year as they are recognised in the
financial statement of the provider. If dividends / group contribution exceed withheld profits after the acquisition date, the excess amount
represents repayment of invested capital, and the distribution will be deducted from the recorded value of the acquisition in the balance
sheet for the parent company.
FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
Loans, borrowings and payables are recognised at fair value net of directly attributable transaction costs. After initial recognition, interest-
bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The effective interest
method amortisation is included as finance costs in the income statement. Payables are measured at their nominal amount when the effect
of discounting is not material.
MAJOR INDIVIDUAL TRANSACTIONS
The effects of major individual transactions are shown on separate lines in the income statement and/or commented on in the notes.
RELATED PARTIES
Related parties are defined as group companies, major shareholders, directors of the Company or its subsidiaries, and senior executives.
Agreements relating to the remuneration paid to the board of directors and senior executives are detailed in note 2.
DEFERRED TAX AND TAX EXPENSE
Deferred tax liabilities are calculated on the basis of temporary differences between the carrying values recognized in the financial
statements for the year and the carrying values recognized for tax purposes. A nominal tax rate is used for calculation purposes. Positive and
negative differences are set off against each other within the same period. A deferred tax asset arises if temporary differences give rise to a
future tax deduction. The tax expense for the year comprises changes in deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets as well as tax payable
for the financial year.
Note 1 Accounting principles
Note 2 Salary and personnel expense and other operating expenses
The company has no employees. Neither the Chairman of the Board, nor the General Manager, has any bonus agreement or any severance
pay agreement. The Board has received board remuneration from the subsidiary Ekornes AS. Ruihai Zhao, who chairs the board of
directors, is one of the primary indirect shareholders of the company through his share of Qumei Home Furnishings Group.
Auditing fees are stated including VAT.
The following is related to renumeration to auditor:
Interest expenses to Ekornes AS*
In July 2021, Ekornes QM Holding acquired the remaining 9.5% of the shares in Ekornes Holding AS from Ruisi Holding Company Limited
for NOK 741 million. Ekornes QM Holding AS and Ekornes Holding AS merged in December 2021. Ekornes QM Holding AS had 100%
voting and ownership of Ekornes Holding AS. The transaction was funded with internal loan from Ekornes AS of NOK 741 million and with
an interest rate of NIBOR 3 M and 6,5% margin. The loan including accrued interest was paid to Ekornes AS in March 2023.
Note 3 Net financial items
(Figures in NOK 000) 2024 2023
Financial income
Group Contribution form Ekornes AS 155 011 212 505
Other interest income 2 655 6 268
Total financial income 157 667 218 773
Financial expenses
Interest expenses Bond 160 850 202 922
Interest expenses Bank 116 435 86 760
Interest expenses to Ekornes AS* 0 20 185
Other interest expenses 1 381 2 162
Total financial expenses 278 665 312 028
(Figures in NOK 000)
Breakdown of auditing fees
2024 2023
Statutory auditing services 940 960
Other certification services 0 21
Other non-auditing services 427 18
Total 1 367 999
(Figures in NOK 000)
Remuneration to Board of directors from Ekornes AS
2024 2023
Total remuneration 1 200 1 075
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Notes166 167
Note 7 Share capital and shareholder information
The Norwegian ultimate parent company Ekornes QM Holding AS is a subsidiary of Qumei Home Furnishing Group Co., Ltd in China.
Qumei Home Furnishing Group Co., Ltd is listed on Shanghai Stock exchange. Qumei Group owns 94,12% of the shares in Qumei Runto
S.à.r.l and Hillhouse investment owns the remaining shares.
As at 31 December 2023 and 31 December 2024, Ekornes QM Holding’s registered share capital comprised 30 000 ordinary shares. All
shares have a face value of NOK 5.00. All shares in the company have equal voting and dividend rights. All shares give equal rights to the
company’s net assets. Ekornes QM Holding AS has no treasury shares as at 31 December 2023 or 31 December 2024.
As at 31 December 2023 and 31 December 2024, the company’s sole shareholder was
As at 31 December 2023 and 31 December 2024, the board has been granted the following authorisations:
The board has been granted no authorisations.
Shareholder Country No. of shares held Percentage
Qumei Runto S.á.r.l. Luxembourg 30 000 100 %
(Figures in NOK 000) 2024 2023
Components of the income tax expense
Change of deferred tax -27 267 -21 267
Tax expense -27 267 -21 267
Basis for tax payable
Profit before taxes -123 941 -96 670
Temporary differences 123 941 96 670
Taxable income (basis for payable taxes in the balance sheet) 0 0
Reconciliation of the tax expense
Result before taxes -123 941 -96 670
Calculated tax -27 267 -21 267
Effective tax rate in % 22,0 % 22,0 %
Calculation of deferred tax/deferred tax benefit 31.12.2024 31.12.2023 Change
Other 17 401 27 164 -9 763
Accumulated loss to be brought forward -232 756 -118 579 -114 178
Total
-215 355 -91 414 -123 941
Deferred tax/(Deferred tax benefit) (22% / 22%) -47 378 -20 111 -27 267
Note 4
Tax related costs
Ekornes QM Holding AS has 100% ownership and voting right in Ekornes AS.
The company has a total tax loss carried forward of MNOK 233 as at 31 December 2024, the loss carried forward has no due date.
Note 5 Subsidiary
(Figures in NOK 000)
Other short term receivables 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
Group contribution from Ekornes AS 445 011 559 248
Total 445 011 559 248
Note 6 Balance with related parties
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Notes168 169
(Figures in NOK 000) Location
Ownership/
voting right
Result
(100%)
Equity 31.12
(100%)
Book value
31.12
Ekornes AS
Ikornnes
100 % 133 706 1 365 784 5 667 114
Book value investments in
subsidiaries at 31.12.2024
100 % 133 706 1 365 784 5 667 114
(Figures in NOK 000)
Share capital Share premium Other equity Total
Equity 31.12.2023 150 3 159 324 415 677 3 575 151
Profit for the year 0 0 -96 674 -96 674
Equity 31.12.2024 150 3 159 324 319 004 3 478 478
Note 8 Shareholders’ equity
In February 2023, Ekornes successfully refinanced outstanding debt with a NOK 1 200 million bond loan and bank facility of NOK 1 600
million with DNB and Sparebank Møre. The new financing structure strengthens the financial position and supports the strategy for
long-term profitable growth.
Long-term borrowing agreement 31 December 2024
Ekornes QM Holding AS has in March 2023 obtained NOK 1 600 million in term loan from DNB and Sparebanken Møre to refinance its
existing debt. The old loans were in Ekornes AS and was repaid to DNB and Sparebank Møre on 30 March 2023.
The loan is secured with a share pledge in Ekornes AS and material sales companies in Germany, UK and US. The loan has quarterly
installments at NOK 32 million,- four times per year with the first instalment 30 June 2024. Interest expenses are paid quarterly.
Final maturity in March 2026. NOK 128 million are classified as short term borrowing 31. December 2024 (NOK 96 million as at
31. December 2023).
Since the refinancing and as at 31 December 2024, Ekornes was compliant with all covenant requirements in the bank agreement.
The leverage ratio for the bank loan at the end of the fourth quarter 2024 was 1.76 well below the maximum allowed. The calculation
for the bank leverage ratio do not include the bond.
Senior Secured Bond at 31 December 2024
On 10 March 2023, Ekornes QM Holding AS placed NOK 1,200 million in 3.5-year senior secured floating rate bonds due 10 September
2026 with ticker EKO02 (ISIN: NO0012855537). The net proceeds from the bond issue was used to refinance (in whole) the outstanding
bond issue with ticker EKO01 (ISIN: NO0010848401) and general corporate purposes. The bond is secured with a share pledge in Ekornes
QM Holding AS. No instalments are payable before maturity in September 2026 and interest expenses are paid quarterly. NIBOR is
adjusted at the end of each quarter and at 31. December 2024 the coupon was 12,67%. From 10 March 2025 the coupon is 12,45%.
The application for the EKO02 bonds to be listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange was approved by the Financial Authority of Norway 29 June
2023. In conjunction with the new bond issue, Ekornes bought back EKO01 bonds from existing bondholders participating in the new bond
issue, at a price of 103% of par. Ekornes called the remaining EKO01 bonds and the bond was repaid on 30 March 2023.
Financial covenants related to the bond
The bond agreement is subject to a set of financial covenants, including a minimum liquidity of NOK 350 million and a maximum leverage
ratio of 8.0 at issuance. The maximum allowed leverage ratio has a gradual step-down mechanism towards 4.5 by first quarter 2025:
(i) 5.25:1 for the Relevant Period ending on 30 September 2024
(ii) 4.75:1 for the Relevant Period ending on 31 December 2024 and
(iii) 4.50:1 for any Relevant Period thereafter.
The covenants are measured quarterly on a 12-month rolling basis for Ekornes QM Holding Group. The bond agreement also includes
restrictions on dividend payments from Ekornes QM Holding AS, and Ekornes QM Holding AS is not in position to distribute any dividends.
Since the refinancing and on 31 December 2024 Ekornes was compliant with all covenant requirements in the bond agreement. According
to bond terms the net Interest-bearing debt (including leasing liabilities) is NOK 2 032,1 million at 31 December 2024 and 12-month
rolling adjusted EBITDA is NOK 486,0 million. Ekornes had positive one-offs of MNOK 24,6 Y 2024 (Mainly cost in payroll and gain of
MNOK 60,3 related to sale of factories in Vietnam), with positive one-offs of MNOK 53,0 in Q4 2024. The leverage ratio at the end of the
fourth quarter 2024 was 4,18 well below the maximum allowed of 4,75 at 31 December 2024.
NOK 128 million of the bank debt are classified as short term borrowing 31. December 2024. The bond and bank debt is measured at
amortized cost using the effective interest method. The effective interest method amortisation is included as finance cost in the income
statement.
Note 9 Interest-bearing loans Note 9 Interest-bearing loans (contd.)
Notes | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Notes170 171
(Figures in NOK 000)
Currency NOK
Issue Amount 1 200 000
Nibor 3M 4,67 %
Margin 8,00 %
Coupon 12,67 %
Tenor / redemption: 42 months /3,5 years
Settlement Date: 10.03.2023
Maturity Date: 10.09.2026
External interest-bearing debt Bond Bank loan Total
Opening balance 1. January 1 187 660 1 594 938 2 782 599
Repayment of borrowings 0 -96 000 -96 000
Net Amortization borrowing cost 6 779 4 298 11 077
Closing balance external debt 31 December 1 194 439 1 503 236 2 697 675
We confirm that, to the best of our knowledge, the financial statements for the period from 1 January to 31 December
2024 have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by EU, with such additional information as required by the
Accounting Act, and give a true and fair view of the Company’s and the Group’s consolidated assets, liabilities, financial
position and results of operations.
We confirm that the Board of Directors’ report provides a true and fair view of the development and performance of the
business and the position of the Company and the Group, together with a description of the key risks and uncertainty
factors that the company is facing.
We confirm that the Board of Directors’ report has been prepared in compliance with sustainability reporting standards in
accordance with the Norwegian accounting act section 2-6, and with rules established from the EU Taxonomy Regulation,
article 8 no. 4.
Confirmation from the Board of Directors and CEO
at Ekornes QM Holding AS
The Board of Directors of Ekornes QM Holding AS Oslo, 29 April 2025
Ruihai Zhao
Chair of the Board
Mogens Falsig
Director and CEO
Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024172 173
T: 02316, org. no.: 987 009 713 MVA, www.pwc.no
Statsautoriserte revisorer, medlemmer av Den norske Revisorforening og autorisert regnskapsførerselskap
To the General Meeting of Ekornes QM Holding AS
Independent Auditor’s Report
Report on the Audit of the Financial Statements
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Ekornes QM Holding AS, which comprise:
• the financial statements of the parent company Ekornes QM Holding AS (the Company), which
comprise the balance sheet as at 31 December 2024, the income statement and statement of cash
flow for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of
significant accounting policies, and
• the consolidated financial statements of Ekornes QM Holding AS and its subsidiaries (the Group),
which comprise the balance sheet as at 31 December 2024, the income statement, statement of
comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of cash flow for the year
then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including material accounting policy information.
In our opinion
• the financial statements comply with applicable statutory requirements,
• the financial statements give a true and fair view of the financial position of the Company as at 31
December 2024, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended in
accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and accounting standards and practices generally
accepted in Norway, and
• the consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of the financial position of the Group
as at 31 December 2024, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended
in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as adopted by the EU.
Basis for Opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISAs). Our responsibilities
under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial
Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Company and the Group as required by
relevant laws and regulations in Norway and the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants’
International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including International Independence Standards)
(IESBA Code), and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these
requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide
a basis for our opinion.
To the best of our knowledge and belief, no prohibited non-audit services referred to in the Audit Regulation
(537/2014) Article 5.1 have been provided.
We have been the auditor of Ekornes QM Holding AS for 7 years from the election by the general meeting
of the shareholders on 28 September 2018 for the accounting year 2018.
Key Audit Matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our
audit of the financial statements of the current period. These matters were addressed in the context of our
audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a
separate opinion on these matters. The Group’s business activities are largely unchanged compared to last
year. Furthermore, Impairment assessment of goodwill and intangible assets has the same characteristics
and risks as in the prior year, and therefore continues to be an area of focus this year.
2 / 4
Key Audit Matters
How our audit addressed the Key Audit Matter
Impairment assessment of goodwill and intangible
assets
The Group has recognised goodwill of NOK 1 561
115 thousand, brand name of NOK 1
398 822
thousand, and customer relations of NOK
1
196 494 thousand at 31 December 2024.
Goodwill and other intangible assets are related to
the acquisition of Ekornes AS in August 2018.
Goodwill and other intangible assets with an
indefinite useful life is subject to impairment
assessments at least annually. No impairment loss
was recognise
d in 2024 based on management’s
impairment assessment at the balance sheet date.
Goodwill and other intangible assets are allocated
to the Group as a whole. Management determined
that the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying
amount, and consequently that no impairment was
required.
Impairment assessments require application of
management judgement related to, among other,
future cash flows and discount rate applied. We
focused on this area due to the magnitude of the
amounts of goodwill and other intangible assets
recognised, and due
to the application of
management judgement required when
determining the assumptions applied to support the
valuation of goodwill and other intangible assets.
We refer to disclosures in note 11 to the
consolidated financial statements for information on
the Group’s accounting policy for impairment of
goodwill and other intangible assets, and
explanation of management’s valuation process.
We obtained and reviewed management’s
impairment assessment of goodwill and other
intangible assets. The documentation contained an
assessment of
the Group and key assumptions
applied by management. We considered whether
the model contained the expected elements and
methodology. We found the model to be
reasonable and in accordance with our
expectations.
Our procedures to evaluate management’s
impairment assessment included challenging key
assumptions such as revenue growth, operating
margins, reinvestments and changes in net working
capital. We assessed the reasonableness of the
prognos
is compared to historical performance,
budget approved by the Board of Directors,
management forecast and long
-term strategic
plans. We also considered external available
information relevant to the industry and our own
knowledge of the industry. To assess
the
reasonableness
of the discount rate applied by
management, we compared key components with
external market data.
All together, we found management's conclusion
and assumptions to be within a reasonable range.
Further, we evaluated the adequacy of the
disclosures to the
financial statements and found
them to appropriately explain management’s
valuation process and the uncertainties inherent in
some of management’s assumptions.
Other Information
The Board of Directors and the Managing Director (management) are responsible for the information in the
Board of Directors’ report and the other information accompanying the financial statements. The other
information comprises information in the annual report, but does not include the financial statements and
our auditor’s report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the information in the
Board of Directors’ report nor the other information accompanying the financial statements.
In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the Board of Directors’
report and the other information accompanying the financial statements. The purpose is to consider if there
is material inconsistency between the Board of Directors’ report and the other information accompanying
the financial statements and the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or whether the
Board of Directors’ report and the other information accompanying the financial statements otherwise
appears to be materially misstated. We are required to report if there is a material misstatement in the
Board of Directors’ report or the other information accompanying the financial statements. We have nothing
to report in this regard.
Auditor’s report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Auditor’s report174 175
3 / 4
Based on our knowledge obtained in the audit, it is our opinion that the Board of Directors’ report
• is consistent with the financial statements and
• contains the information required by applicable statutory requirements.
Our opinion on the Board of Directors' report applies correspondingly to the statement on Corporate
Governance.
Our opinion on whether the Board of Directors’ report contains the information required by applicable
statutory requirements, does not cover the Sustainability Statement, on which a separate assurance report
is issued.
Responsibilities of Management for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation of financial statements of the Company that give a true and
fair view in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and accounting standards and practices
generally accepted in Norway, and for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements of the Group
that give a true and fair view in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as adopted by the EU.
Management is responsible for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the
preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company’s and the
Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern.
The financial statements of the Company use the going concern basis of accounting insofar as it is not likely
that the enterprise will cease operations. The consolidated financial statements of the Group use the going
concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Group or to cease
operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are
free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes
our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit
conducted in accordance with ISAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.
Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they
could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these
financial statements.
As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional
scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
• identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to
fraud or error. We design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit
evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not
detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as
fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of
internal control.
• obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures
that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the Company's and the Group's internal control.
• evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting
estimates and related disclosures made by management.
• conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting
and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events
or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company's and the Group's ability to continue
as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw
attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such
4 / 4
disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit
evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor's report. However, future events or conditions may
cause the Company and the Group to cease to continue as a going concern.
• evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the
disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events
in a manner that achieves a true and fair view.
• obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or
business activities within the Group to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements.
We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group audit. We remain
solely responsible for our audit opinion.
We communicate with the Board of Directors regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing
of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we
identify during our audit.
From the matters communicated with the Board of Directors, we determine those matters that were of most
significance in the audit of the financial statements of the current period and are therefore the key audit
matters. We describe these matters in our auditor’s report unless law or regulation precludes public
disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a matter should
not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so would reasonably be
expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication.
Report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Report on Compliance with Requirement on European Single Electronic Format (ESEF)
Opinion
As part of the audit of the financial statements of Ekornes QM Holding AS, we have performed an
assurance engagement to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements included in
the annual report, with the file name 52990054TSRF5YXFTY82-2024-12-31-0-en, have been prepared, in
all material respects, in compliance with the requirements of the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU)
2019/815 on the European Single Electronic Format (ESEF Regulation) and regulation pursuant to Section
5-5 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act, which includes requirements related to the preparation of the
annual report in XHTML format, and iXBRL tagging of the consolidated financial statements.
In our opinion, the financial statements, included in the annual report, have been prepared, in all material
respects, in compliance with the ESEF regulation.
Management’s Responsibilities
Management is responsible for the preparation of the annual report in compliance with the ESEF regulation.
This responsibility comprises an adequate process and such internal control as management determines is
necessary.
Auditor’s Responsibilities
For a description of the auditor’s responsibilities when performing an assurance engagement of the ESEF
reporting, see: https://revisorforeningen.no/revisjonsberetninger
Bergen, 29 April 2025
PricewaterhouseCoopers AS
Fredrik Gabrielsen
State Authorised Public Accountant
(This document is signed electronically)
Auditor’s report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Auditor’s report176 177
PricewaterhouseCoopers AS, Torgallmenningen 14, 5014 Bergen, P.O, Box 3984 - Sandviken, NO-5835 Bergen
T: 02316, org. no.: 987 009 713 MVA, www.pwc.no
Statsautoriserte revisorer, medlemmer av Den norske Revisorforening og autorisert regnskapsførerselskap
To the General Meeting of Ekornes QM Holding AS
Independent Sustainability Auditor’s Limited Assurance Report
Limited Assurance Conclusion
We have conducted a limited assurance engagement on the consolidated sustainability statement
of Ekornes QM Holding AS (the «Company») included in Sustainability Statement section of the Board of
Directors’ report (the «Sustainability Statement»), as at 31 December 2024 and for the year then ended.
Based on the procedures we have performed and the evidence we have obtained, nothing has come to our
attention that causes us to believe that the Sustainability Statement is not prepared, in all material respects,
in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act section 2-3, including:
• compliance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), including that the
process carried out by the Company to identify the information reported in the Sustainability
Statement (the «Process») is in accordance with the description set out in the section "[IRO-1]
Description of process to identify and assess material impacts, risks and opportunities" in the
General disclosures; and
• compliance of the disclosures in section EU Taxonomy of the Sustainability Statement with Article
8 of EU Regulation 2020/852 (the «Taxonomy Regulation»).
Basis for Conclusion
We conducted our limited assurance engagement in accordance with International Standard on Assurance
Engagements (ISAE) 3000 (Revised), Assurance engagements other than audits or reviews of historical
financial information («ISAE 3000 (Revised)»), issued by the International Auditing and Assurance
Standards Board.
We believe that the evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our
conclusion. Our responsibilities under this standard are further described in the Sustainability Auditor’s
Responsibilities section of our report.
Our Independence and Quality Management
We have complied with the independence and other ethical requirements as required by relevant laws and
regulations in Norway and the International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including
International Independence Standards) issued by the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants
(IESBA Code), which is founded on fundamental principles of integrity, objectivity, professional competence
and due care, confidentiality and professional behaviour.
The firm applies International Standard on Quality Management 1, which requires the firm to design,
implement and operate a system of quality management including policies or procedures regarding
compliance with ethical requirements, professional standards and applicable legal and regulatory
requirements.
Other Matter
The comparative information included in the Sustainability Statement was not subject to an assurance
engagement. Our conclusion is not modified in respect of this matter.
Responsibilities for the Sustainability Statement
The Board of Directors and the Managing Director (Management) are responsible for designing and
implementing a process to identify the information reported in the Sustainability Statement in accordance
with the ESRS and for disclosing this Process in the section "[IRO-1] Description of process to identify and
2 / 4
assess material impacts, risks and opportunities" in the General disclosures of the Sustainability Statement.
This responsibility includes:
• understanding the context in which the Group's activities and business relationships take place and
developing an understanding of its affected stakeholders;
• the identification of the actual and potential impacts (both negative and positive) related to
sustainability matters, as well as risks and opportunities that affect, or could reasonably be
expected to affect, the Group’s financial position, financial performance, cash flows, access to
finance or cost of capital over the short-, medium-, or long-term;
• the assessment of the materiality of the identified impacts, risks and opportunities related to
sustainability matters by selecting and applying appropriate thresholds; and
• making assumptions that are reasonable in the circumstances.
Management is further responsible for the preparation of the Sustainability Statement, in accordance with
the Norwegian Accounting Act section 2-3, including:
• compliance with the ESRS;
• preparing the disclosures in section EU Taxonomy of the Sustainability Statement, in compliance
with the Taxonomy Regulation;
• designing, implementing and maintaining such internal control that Management determines is
necessary to enable the preparation of the Sustainability Statement that is free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and
• the selection and application of appropriate sustainability reporting methods and making
assumptions and estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.
Inherent limitations in preparing the Sustainability Statement
In reporting forward-looking information in accordance with ESRS, Management is required to prepare the
forward-looking information on the basis of disclosed assumptions about events that may occur in the future
and possible future actions by the Group. Actual outcomes are likely to be different since anticipated events
frequently do not occur as expected.
Sustainability Auditor’s Responsibilities
Our responsibility is to plan and perform the assurance engagement to obtain limited assurance about
whether the Sustainability Statement is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and
to issue a limited assurance report that includes our conclusion. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error
and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to
influence decisions of users taken on the basis of the Sustainability Statement as a whole.
As part of a limited assurance engagement in accordance with ISAE 3000 (Revised) we exercise
professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the engagement.
Our responsibilities in respect of the Sustainability Statement, in relation to the Process, include:
• Obtaining an understanding of the Process, but not for the purpose of providing a conclusion on the
effectiveness of the Process, including the outcome of the Process;
• Considering whether the information identified addresses the applicable disclosure requirements of
the ESRS; and
Auditor’s Limited Assurance Report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Auditor’s Limited Assurance Report178 179
3 / 4
• Designing and performing procedures to evaluate whether the Process is consistent with the
Company’s description of its Process set out in the section "[IRO-1] Description of process to
identify and assess material impacts, risks and opportunities" in the General disclosures.
Our other responsibilities in respect of the Sustainability Statement include:
• Identifying where material misstatements are likely to arise, whether due to fraud or error; and
• Designing and performing procedures responsive to where material misstatements are likely to
arise in the Sustainability Statement. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting
from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery,
intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
Summary of the Work Performed
A limited assurance engagement involves performing procedures to obtain evidence about the
Sustainability Statement. The procedures in a limited assurance engagement vary in nature and timing
from, and are less in extent than for, a reasonable assurance engagement. Consequently, the level of
assurance obtained in a limited assurance engagement is substantially lower than the assurance that would
have been obtained had a reasonable assurance engagement been performed.
The nature, timing and extent of procedures selected depend on professional judgement, including the
identification of disclosures where material misstatements are likely to arise in the Sustainability Statement,
whether due to fraud or error.
In conducting our limited assurance engagement, with respect to the Process, we:
• Obtained an understanding of the Process by:
o performing inquiries to understand the sources of the information used by management
(e.g., stakeholder engagement, business plans and strategy documents); and
o reviewing the Company’s internal documentation of its Process; and
• Evaluated whether the evidence obtained from our procedures with respect to the Process
implemented by the Company was consistent with the description of the Process set out in the
section "[IRO-1] Description of process to identify and assess material impacts, risks and
opportunities " in the General disclosures.
In conducting our limited assurance engagement, with respect to the Sustainability Statement, we:
• Obtained an understanding of the Group’s reporting processes relevant to the preparation of its
Sustainability Statement by:
o Obtaining an understanding of the Group’s control environment, processes, control
activities and information system relevant to the preparation of the Sustainability
Statement, but not for the purpose of providing a conclusion on the effectiveness of the
Group’s internal control; and
o Obtaining an understanding of the Group’s risk assessment process;
• Evaluated whether the information identified by the Process is included in the Sustainability
Statement;
• Evaluated whether the structure and the presentation of the Sustainability Statement is in
accordance with the ESRS;
4 / 4
• Performed inquiries of relevant personnel on selected information in the Sustainability Statement;
• Performed substantive assurance procedures on selected information in the Sustainability
Statement;
• Where applicable, compared disclosures in the Sustainability Statement with the corresponding
disclosures in the financial statements and other sections of the Board of Directors’ report;
• Evaluated the methods, assumptions and data for developing estimates and forward-looking
information;
• Obtained an understanding of the Company’s process to identify taxonomy-eligible and taxonomy-
aligned economic activities and the corresponding disclosures in the Sustainability Statement;
• Evaluated whether information about the identified taxonomy-eligible and taxonomy-aligned
economic activities is included in the Sustainability Statement; and
• Performed inquiries of relevant personnel and substantive procedures on selected taxonomy
disclosures included in the Sustainability Statement.
Bergen, 29 April 2025
PricewaterhouseCoopers AS
Fredrik Gabrielsen
State Authorised Public Accountant – Sustainability Auditor
(This document is signed electronically)
Auditor’s Limited Assurance Report | Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024Annual report Ekornes QM Holding AS 2024 | Auditor’s Limited Assurance Report180 181
EKORNES QM Holding AS
Industrivegen 1, NO-6222 Ikornnes, Norway
E-mail: office@ekornes.com
www.ekornes.com
Tel. +47 70 25 52 00
Foretaksregisteret NO 820 350 022
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