The technology shift is here – but is your organization ready?
As the pace of digital initiatives increases, cloud services are rolled out and new systems are put in place, visions are not enough. You need the right expertise – here and now. With interim solutions from Upgraded, you get access to experienced specialists and leaders who can immediately drive change, secure deliveries and navigate complex technical environments. Whether it’s IT strategy, system implementation or digital business models, we ensure that your transformation is sustainable, fast and effective.nabb och effektiv.

We see companies every day in the midst of a transformation with ambitious goals, but lacking the right resources to take the next step. To address this skills challenge, many of our clients choose to bring in interim consultants – experienced leaders and specialists who can immediately create results in uncertain or expansive phases.

Interim is not an “expensive solution”. It is a strategic decision that minimizes risk, speeds up implementation and secures business-critical knowledge. For every day a key role remains vacant, costs increase in the form of delays, wrong recruitments and lost revenue.

When is an interim solution particularly suitable? Here are some examples where we often step in and make a difference:

1. Green technology requires experienced hands

Electrification, hydrogen technology, and fossil-free steel not only require the right technology – they require the right people. When industry is transitioning to carbon neutrality, especially in northern Sweden, it is often difficult to find available expertise locally. With an interim solution, you get access to technical specialists and project managers who can quickly drive the work – on site or remotely – until a permanent team is in place.

2. Scale up – or scale back

Whether it’s increasing the capacity of a pilot plant, establishing new production, or decommissioning an old technical platform, temporary cutting-edge expertise is often needed. Our interim managers and technical consultants fill the gaps – from operational reliability to implementing new technology – so you don’t lose momentum at a critical stage.

3. System shifts and digital transformation

When companies change business systems, implement new platforms or migrate to cloud solutions, more than just technical knowledge is required – it requires the ability to change. IT-related changes often affect the entire organization and involve both technology, processes and people. Here, it is common for there to be a lack of internal resources to drive the transformation through at the required pace.

Upgraded brings experienced interim consultants in IT management, digital transformation and system implementation who can quickly step in as project managers, IT architects, change managers or product owners. They are used to handling complex integration projects, GDPR requirements, security issues and agile development – ​​without losing business focus.

Whether it’s implementing a new ERP system, moving critical parts to the cloud, or automating manual workflows, an interim solution can reduce the risk of errors, secure momentum, and free up time for internal resources. This makes your digital initiative faster, safer, and more efficient.

4. Temporary interruptions in leadership

Sick leave, layoffs or a manager leaving in the middle of a project – it happens. But production must not stop. By quickly appointing an interim solution, we ensure that the business maintains its stability, while you find the right person for the long-term role.

5. Innovation pressure and work peaks

In companies where innovation is part of everyday life, workloads often fluctuate. At peaks, an interim consultant can contribute new energy, pace and perspective – while giving the team some breathing room. It’s an effort that strengthens both results and the work environment.

6. Brings cutting-edge expertise to the management team

In times of rapid change, the management team also needs to be strengthened – not just with operational capabilities, but with strategic leadership. Interim consultants with experience from other industries, markets and transformations can bring new perspectives, ideas and ways of working. This can involve driving innovation, identifying new business opportunities or creating more data-driven decision support. By temporarily reinforcing the management level with expert knowledge, you can increase the pace of development – ​​without losing control.

The future is flexible – and so is your organization.

With Upgraded, you get access to a network of experienced interim managers and technical consultants who are ready to make a difference from day one. Whether it’s fossil-free production, logistics changes or production start-up – we match your challenge with the right expertise.

Ready to scale up sustainability? We’ll help you move forward.

Upgraded has signed an exclusive framework agreement with Höganäs Municipality for consultancy services at an estimated value of SEK 25 million.

We are very pleased to begin the collaboration with Höganäs Municipality – a partnership that marks a strategic step forward in our continued investment in southern Sweden, says Alexander Malmström, Team Lead, Public Sector in Region South.

Within the framework of the agreement, Upgraded will bring together competent consultants with Höganäs Municipality’s need for expertise at any given time.

We have a fantastic, diverse team of consulting brokers in southern Sweden who will support the customer in strengthening their skills within the municipality’s various administrations, continues Sinem Yedic, Teamlead in the South region.

The framework agreement will enter into force in May 2025 and Upgraded is the only supplier to have been awarded.

For further information, please contact:

Alexander Malmström, alexander.malmström@upgraded.se 

Sinem Yedic, sinem.y@upgraded.se 

Upgraded People AB are experts in the placement of consultants with a specialization in the IT area. Upgraded was started in 2010 and is currently established in 5 locations and has over 1000 consultants engaged in assignments across the Nordic market. The turnover for 2024 amounted to just over 1.7 billion SEK.

Economic situation – Global economic uncertainty shapes growth prospects

The global economy is in an uncertain situation where factors such as geopolitical tensions, currency uncertainty, global trade conflicts and tariff threats play a decisive role. The war in Ukraine, Gaza and the instability in the Middle East contribute to unrest in energy and commodity markets, affecting logistics and supply chains. Right-wing governments in Europe tend to prioritize domestic investments, which can affect innovation support, public procurement and growth initiatives. For Sweden, which is one of Europe’s most export-dependent countries, developments in international markets are of central importance.

In Sweden, the weaker market situation persisted during the first quarter of 2025 and the economic situation is characterized by a continued recession but with signs of a gradual recovery. The inflation rate is slowing in Sweden, which opens the way for more interest rate cuts during the year. The first quarter has been characterized by a continued uncertain global situation with significant fluctuations in both the Swedish and global economies, which has characterized the business climate and affected the willingness to invest in most industries.

However, banks are delivering strong results thanks to high interest rates and low loan losses.

The industry is showing resilience, especially in automation and engineering. However, the automotive sector is under pressure.

Market overview IT and consulting industry

The IT industry is seeing a lukewarm start to 2025. Despite the current economic situation, digitalization and new technology continue to be strong driving forces within the industry.

The IT economy is expected to grow by 4.2% in 2025, equivalent to SEK 10 billion. Companies are expected to increase their IT investments again, especially in business-financed IT.

The information and communications sector, including telecommunications and information services, is showing strong growth.

Within the public sector, demand for IT consultants is stable, especially for digitalization expertise and e-government.

According to the Swedish Technology Association, order intake for the technology industry is increasing, but to a lesser extent than in the previous quarter. However, the number of employees in Tech has decreased slightly in early 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Fragmented market with large variations

The demand for IT consultants remains high, but the market is fragmented and characterized by large variations depending on region, industry and areas of expertise. However, the volume of assignments is decreasing sharply, especially in general areas of expertise such as testing, front-end and project management. There are fewer inquiries and longer sales cycles

In Stockholm and the east, demand is high even though requirements and competition have increased.

The Gothenburg market and the west have been characterized by continued restraint and a more wait-and-see market. The automotive sector continues to show weak signals. The major players remain cautious even though expectations for the future are becoming increasingly positive.

In the south, and especially Malmö, growth and signs of gradual recovery are visible, although there is increased caution among decision-makers and many customers are cautious.

General trends are that companies continue to optimize their resources with strict budgets and a focus on finding the right skills. Competition in the consulting market remains tough. A clear trend is that requirements specifications have increased and that clients are increasingly looking for consultants who can handle multiple roles in one. The market for IT consultants is changing with high demand for cutting-edge skills and value creation. Clear offerings and ROI focus are central.

AI and cybersecurity continue to be hot topics and there is still a high demand for AI specialists. Among the most in-demand skills are AI, business system skills, Data Science and Data Engineering. There is also a continued high demand for IT and Tech specialists, especially within specific roles and areas of expertise. According to TechSverige, approximately 18,000 new specialists will be needed annually until 2028.

Opportunities in the crisis

The recession is ongoing and economic growth remains low during the first half of this year as uncertainty about future economic developments holds back private consumption and corporate investment. The National Institute of Economic Research estimates that the recovery is expected to begin in the second half of this year, but uncertainty is high and there is a risk that the weak economic development will continue longer than forecast. The future is uncertain but full of potential. Adaptation is key and it is important to understand the challenges and opportunities of the market.

Birgitta Hedegård, VD

Upgraded People continues its strong growth journey and has a turnover of SEK 930 million during the first six months of the year – an increase of 10.7% compared to the same period in 2024. The company stands by its goal of reaching an annual turnover of over SEK 2 billion in 2025.

– We see a continued positive trend where we are gaining market share and strengthening our position in several of our markets. It is a clear testament to our strong offering and the team’s ability to deliver value to both clients and candidates, says Birgitta Hedegård, CEO of Upgraded People.

During the first half of the year, Upgraded People has welcomed several new customers. In particular, the company has strengthened its position in the public sector through assignments for several municipalities. Existing customers also continue to show their trust – among others, Chalmers has signed a new framework agreement for the coming period.

Growth is driven by increasing demand for the company’s services in skills provision and strategic staffing, together with a broadened offering and improved processes.

Continued expansion in Sweden and internationally
The company sees growing interest from both the Swedish market and internationally – especially in Germany, Norway and Denmark. Despite geopolitical unrest and trade discussions with the US, Upgraded People does not see any negative impact, but rather an increased inflow of inquiries.

Demand is strong across several industry segments, including banking and insurance, defense, infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing. Areas such as cyber defense and organizational and management services are also growing in importance.

– We are convinced that success is created through long-term, value-creating collaborations. By combining action, innovation and new thinking, we create solutions that make a difference – for individuals, organizations and society, continues Birgitta Hedegård.

About Upgraded People

Upgraded People is one of Northern Europe’s fastest growing companies in skills supply and strategic staffing. We offer tailor-made solutions that match the right skills with the right context – always with people at the center. Our clients are in both the public and private sectors, and we deliver resources in Sweden, Germany, Norway and Denmark. With over 1,100 consultants on assignment, we help organizations achieve their goals and visions in a sustainable way.

Upgraded has been awarded a new framework agreement with Strängnäs Municipality for consulting services within IT and business and organizational development. The agreement extends over two years with the possibility of extension for another two years, and has a ceiling volume of SEK 25 million. The agreement is scheduled to start on August 1, 2025.

The agreement is signed with a total of five suppliers and is part of Strängnäs Municipality’s effort to strengthen its digital development and streamline operations through modernization and organizational improvements.

This is one of several new agreements that Upgraded has signed with municipalities around Sweden during the year. Most recently in May, the company announced a new agreement with the municipality of Höganäs.

“The fact that we are now trusted to deliver to Strängnäs Municipality is yet another confirmation that our expertise and our way of working meet the municipalities’ needs for sustainable development and digital transformation. We look forward to contributing our experience and energy to their important work,” says Birgitta Hedegård, CEO at Upgraded.

With the new agreement, Upgraded consolidates its position as a reliable partner to the public sector in both IT and organizational development.

About Upgraded People

Upgraded People is one of Northern Europe’s fastest growing companies in skills supply and strategic staffing. We offer tailor-made solutions that match the right skills with the right context – always with people at the center. Our clients are in both the public and private sectors, and we deliver resources in Sweden, Germany, Norway and Denmark. With over 1,100 consultants on assignment, we help organizations achieve their goals and visions in a sustainable way.

After the summer, we see that the market has started up at a faster pace than compared to the first half of the year, even though the market is still volatile. Thanks to our broad industry exposure, geographical spread and our large network of suppliers, we can balance market challenges in certain industry segments while supporting industries with high needs such as defense, banking and insurance, infrastructure and a public sector that is showing increasing strength.

Our focus forward

As we enter the fall, we will continue to work on our success factors and what makes us unique. It’s about being personal, building long-term relationships, and being the best in the industry at matching the right assignments with the right skills.

Lessons from the first half of the year

The first half of the year has given us clear evidence that we are on the right track. We continue to grow at double-digit rates and create footprints where we truly add value. With our eyes on the future, we transform challenges into inspiration and opportunities.

Ambitious goals for the fall

We strive to continue to gain market share while building an even stronger team and a culture that equips us for the future. The world around us is changing at an unprecedented pace, which places greater demands on agility and rapid movement in companies. Here we have a clear place as a facilitator and enabler.

Positive signals from the market

The market continues to gradually strengthen. We see a clear trend where more roles in operations and project management are in demand, while specialist skills remain important. The increasing demand for operations and project management skills is an indicator that more initiatives are being started, as these skills are always in demand in the early phases of projects.

Knowledge that strengthens the team

In addition to strengthening the organization with more fantastic colleagues for the fall, we continue to run our forums for broadening our skills, where we learn and develop each other for increased market and process insight, which will further increase our efficiency. In order for us to succeed in this, everyone’s contribution is important. No ideas are too small, often it is in the small suggestions that the biggest gains are found. When we share, inspire each other and dare to develop together, we grow both as a company and as individuals.

Work hard, play hard

The key to further bonding the team and strengthening collaboration and energy is simple and well-known: Work hard, Play hard. When we combine professionalism with laughter, personality and community, both internally and in our customer and supplier relationships, that’s when we are at our very best.

Says Birgitta Hedegård, CEO of Upgraded People.