Ericsson Moves Headquarters from Kista to Hagastaden Amid Local Challenges

Ericsson has announced a major relocation of its headquarters from Kista to Hagastaden, marking a significant shift for the Swedish telecom giant and impacting the Kista district. The move is scheduled in phases between 2028 and 2033 and involves leasing 71,000 square meters of new office space within five properties in Hagastaden. Three new buildings — Wave, Trinity, and Ekeblad — will be constructed to accommodate this expansion.

CEO Börje Ekholm highlighted that the decision was made after careful evaluation of office needs and locations to best suit the company’s future requirements. The relocation represents the largest office rental in Sweden by rental value and the second largest area lease in Europe since 2020.

The decision to leave Kista was influenced in part by escalating crime issues in the area, which Ericsson found increasingly problematic over recent years. This has raised concerns for Kista, a district now facing high vacancy rates and the threat of becoming a "ghost town." Stockholm’s finance mayor, Karin Wanngård, welcomed Ericsson’s long-term investment in Hagastaden and revealed plans to form a property development company focused on reviving Kista.

However, opposition voices expressed criticism, with opposition leader Christofer Fjellner accusing the city administration of neglecting Kista’s struggles and proposing the creation of a dedicated "Kista commission" to address the area’s decline.

Annica Ånäs, CEO of Atrium Ljungberg, the developer behind Hagastaden, emphasized the importance of creating an environment that fosters growth for globally leading companies like Ericsson and helps attract talent to Stockholm.

This relocation highlights major corporate and urban development dynamics in Stockholm, as Ericsson transitions to a new strategic location while Kista grapples with the repercussions of losing one of its largest corporate tenants.