Hexatronic Group, a key player in the fiber-optic manufacturing industry, is significantly expanding its operations with a new production line dedicated to fiber-optic cables at its primary facility in Hudiksvall, Sweden.
This initiative aligns with a long-term supply agreement with Danish power cable manufacturer NKT, focusing on increasing capacity to meet rising demand for submarine cables. With the planned investment, annual capacity for submarine cable production is set to soar from approximately SEK 150-200 million (around €13.5–18.1 million) to over SEK 500 million (about €45.2 million), depending on the mix of products produced.
The Hudiksvall facility stands out as Hexatronic’s largest production site and serves as a center of excellence for advanced fiber cable and microduct manufacturing. The site already hosts an operational submarine fiber-optic cable production line, making it a strategic hub for the company’s ambitions in this growing market.
According to Rikard Fröberg, President and CEO of Hexatronic Group, the demand for submarine cable solutions is on the rise. He explained that this growth is propelled by factors including the electrification and digitalization of society, the expansion of offshore energy initiatives, and the increasing need for resilient communication infrastructure. “This investment allows us to further strengthen our competitiveness in an important and growing segment,” Fröberg stated confidently.
The new production line is not just about increasing capacity; it’s also about reinforcing partnerships. Hexatronic’s investment will enable the company to better support NKT under the new supply agreement that extends through 2032, catering specifically to growing requirements driven by offshore wind and subsea communication infrastructure.
The operational timeline for the new production line is ambitious, with commissioning expected by 2028. This indicates a proactive approach to meet future demands and bridge any gaps that may arise in project execution timelines. Will Hendrikx, COO and Deputy CEO of NKT, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “Securing capacity from this new submarine cable production line supports our ability to execute future projects effectively.”
Hexatronic’s strategic move reflects a larger trend within the industry. As more regions pivot toward renewable energy sources, the need for robust, efficient communication and energy transmission infrastructures becomes paramount. The company’s actions signal its readiness to not only adapt to the market’s evolving landscape but also to take a leading role in shaping the future of submarine cable production.