Norwegian business leaders increase AI investments

Major Norwegian business entities are significantly increasing their investments in artificial intelligence. Petter Stordalen, head of the Strawberry Group, announced plans to invest hundreds of millions of kroner into AI over the coming years. As part of this strategy, the group has acquired stakes in the AI companies Spinner and Verk through the PR agency Storm.

Stordalen noted that AI is being integrated into various departments, including accounting and housekeeping, to improve efficiency and precision without necessarily reducing headcount. He characterized the shift as an evolution rather than a revolution.

Simultaneously, Aker is actively pursuing AI startups. Matts Johansen of Aker Biomarine has been meeting with entrepreneurs to identify promising technologies. Through the Runway venture fund and technology environment, Aker is evaluating companies like Digel, which focuses on factory efficiency, and Tasteforge, which uses AI for product concept analysis.