Melker Schörling & Family: A Legacy of Vision, Values, and Quiet Influence

Melker Schörling, born on May 15, 1947, in Sweden, emerged from humble beginnings to become one of the nation’s most influential and discreet business magnates. His journey from a farmer’s son to a billionaire investor is a testament to his strategic acumen, deep understanding of business dynamics, and unwavering commitment to nurturing talent.

After graduating from the Gothenburg School of Business, Economics and Law in 1970, Schörling embarked on a career that saw him hold executive positions at prominent Swedish industrial companies, including Atlas Copco and Ericsson. His leadership prowess became evident when he took the helm at Fläkt Group in 1978, followed by his role as President and CEO of Crawford Door in 1984.

In 1987, Schörling’s career reached a pivotal point when he became the CEO of Securitas AB, a security services company. Under his stewardship, Securitas expanded its operations beyond Sweden, laying the groundwork for its transformation into a global security powerhouse. His strategic vision and emphasis on identifying and empowering capable leaders were instrumental in this growth.

Schörling’s investment philosophy was characterized by a focus on long-term value creation and a preference for investing in companies with strong leadership and growth potential. In 1999, he founded Melker Schörling AB (MSAB), an investment company that held significant stakes in several publicly traded firms, including Assa Abloy, Hexagon AB, Loomis, and Hexpol. His collaboration with fellow billionaire Gustaf Douglas further solidified his influence in the Swedish business landscape.

One of Schörling’s notable achievements was the public listing of MSAB on the Stockholm Stock Exchange in 2006. This move not only increased the company’s visibility but also underscored his commitment to transparency and shareholder value. However, in 2018, the Schörling family, along with partners like Stefan Persson, decided to take MSAB private, allowing for more agile decision-making and a focus on long-term strategies.

Beyond his business endeavors, Schörling was known for his humility and preference for staying out of the limelight. He believed in investing in people, often emphasizing that “a good person will make a good business.” This philosophy was evident in his approach to leadership and succession planning. In 2017, citing health reasons, he stepped down from all positions in MSAB, entrusting the company’s future to his daughters, Sofia and Märta.

Sofia Schörling Högberg and Märta Schörling Andreen, both educated at the Stockholm School of Economics, have continued their father’s legacy with distinction. As majority owners of MSAB, they oversee the family’s investments in key companies like Hexagon, AAK, Assa Abloy, Hexpol, and Securitas. Their leadership has ensured the continuity of the values and strategic vision that their father championed.

Melker Schörling’s personal life was marked by a deep connection to nature and a love for hunting, passions he carried from his childhood. He resided in Stockholm with his wife, Kerstin, and their two daughters. Kerstin, an accomplished professional in her own right, served on the boards of several companies, including Securitas AB.

On December 10, 2023, Schörling passed away peacefully at his home in Nyköping, surrounded by his family. His death marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through the companies he nurtured and the values he instilled in those around him. Colleagues and business leaders remember him as a visionary who combined strategic insight with genuine care for people.

Today, the Schörling family’s influence in the Swedish and global business arenas remains significant. Under the stewardship of Sofia and Märta, MSAB continues to thrive, upholding the principles of long-term investment, ethical leadership, and a commitment to excellence that Melker Schörling so passionately advocated.