The PODAB history

Focus on development and innovation

The 1950s had great significance on the history of the laundry room. The modern laundry room had become increasingly popular and the technological development of the machines had taken off. PODAB, based in Mölndal, was at the forefront of development and innovation with modern machines that were fully automatic, reversing, centrifuging and reliable. In the 1950s, PODAB grew so fast that the workers struggled to produce finished products. The company also started manufacturing herring filtration machines, which took a lot of time and resources from the primary operations.

Fighting through difficult times

Carl Johan wanted to take the next step in producing and developing washing machines. He therefore decided to build a large factory in Bollebygd where PODAB REVECENT could manufacture its own machines. However, times got harder as the market was hit with acquisitions. Competitors bought business partners and made business difficult to the extent that Carl Johan was forced to sell the factory and move the company to smaller premises in Högsbo. All in-house production disappeared and PODAB REVECENT became a retailer of laundry equipment.

PODAB delivers to all of Sweden  

1991, PODAB bought the property in Sisjön, where the head office still is today. In the early 1990s, several in-house developed products such as drying cabinets, mangles and centrifuges were produced in Bollebygd. Robert invested in new markets such as the cleaning industry and the rescue service. PODAB developed custom machines for mop washing and hotels/restaurants. In the late 1990s, the first custom built drying cabinet for protective garments was developed. Today our drying cabinets can be found at fire stations all around the world. Delivering quality products was the focus, but a large part of Robert Sellberg's success was his drive to hire people who cared for the customers. One of his talents was hiring good people who fit into his vision. Always being there for the customer became an important part of PODAB. At the end of the 1990s, PODAB covered all of Sweden with around a hundred distributors.

Patrik Wedberg, a PODAB employee who was hired in 1993 and still works at PODAB today, says:
”It has never been difficult to go to work during my 27 years. The company has an incredible unity and joy and all employees are dedicated and involved. PODAB is a fantastic company where everyone is seen and heard!” – Patrik Wedberg, Technical Specialist at PODAB. 

PODAB reaches new heights

After Robert had put together a wonderful crew that became the foundation of PODAB's thoughtful and competent way of delivering quality products, Jimmy Nilsson came into the picture. He became CEO in 2010 and turned out to meant for the job. Customer focus and value creation for customers became even more important. The company was reorganized and in 2010 it was decided that PODAB would only focus on professional laundry equipment within selected business areas. The focus shifted from doing everything for everyone to working with what we do best and giving our customers specialist expertise in every detail.

PODAB's new business concept and vision were implemented throughout the company and everyone was involved in the exciting journey. PODAB Professional Partner was established and we started working with partners across the country. They were specially trained and became PODAB's extended competence to the customer. A new supplier, Primus (Alliance Laundry Systems) gave PODAB new robust quality products that were launched with a Road Show and Sweden tour. Not to mention our in-house developed drying cabinets that exceeded all expectations. The specialists in professional laundry equipment could offer a product mix that fit perfectly into the Swedish laundry room. During the 2010s, we had all the tools in place to create carefree laundry rooms for all our customers. When PODAB turned 65, a competition was announced, and the winner got a new Dream Laundry Room. The head office was rebuilt and renovated which gave an extra push on the road to success.