Abion Expands Norwegian Presence with Acquisition of Leading Domain Service Provider, Softgarden

Gothenburg, Sweden | Oslo, Norway – 5th November 2024

Abion, a European leader in Intellectual Property (IP) services, announces the acquisition of Softgarden, a Norway-based IP service provider. The acquisition strengthens Abion's presence in Norway and creates a comprehensive IP offering, by adding domain expertise to an already strong trademark and IP offering in this market.

Since its inception in 1994, Abion has built a reputation for excellence in domain name, IP management, online brand protection, and web security. The addition of Softgarden brings further depth to Abion’s portfolio by reinforcing its domain name management offering and expertise.

Strategic Expansion of Norwegian Operations

This acquisition represents a significant step forward in Abion’s commitment to building out its full-service offering in Norway. Established in 2012, Softgarden is well-known for its expertise in domain and IP management, boasting an impressive client list.

“Softgarden is a valuable addition to Abion, not only for their domain expertise but also for their outstanding market reputation. This acquisition enhances our service offering and allows us to be closer to our clients in the local markets, providing them with tailored insights while upholding the high standards of Abion’s global solutions," said Magdalena Bonde, CEO of Abion.

Complementary Expertise Strengthens Offering

Bringing in a market-leading domain provider like Softgarden complements Abion’s already well-established Norwegian trademark and IP business. In just two years since opening its office in 2022, Abion Norway ranks in the top three for trademark filings. By combining these two areas of expertise under one roof, Abion becomes one of the most comprehensive IP service provider in Norway, offering trademark management, domain management, online brand protection, and web security services to serve clients’ full IP needs.

“With a 10% market share of Norwegian trademark filings handled by Abion Norway, we've built a strong IP legal reputation in a short time earning the trust of major Norwegian and international brands. Softgarden’s experience and customer-centric philosophy perfectly complements our existing services, and together, we'll reinforce our market position and provide full-service, tech-enabled IP solutions to meet the growing needs of our customers." noted Christoffer Vedal, Abion’s Country Manager Norway and Partner.

Mutual Benefits and Shared Vision

For Softgarden, joining Abion represents an opportunity to scale its operations while maintaining the high level of service it is known for. By integrating with Abion’s advanced platform, Softgarden will have the tools and resources needed to enhance its offerings and benefit from Abion’s in-house expertise in web security, IP legal services, and online brand protection. Additionally, this partnership enables Softgarden to leverage Abion's broader geographical footprint, improving its ability to meet customer demands beyond Norway.

“Joining Abion is a natural progression for us. We've always prided ourselves on our customer-focused approach, steering clear of the typical online self-service model. With Abion’s extensive expertise, technology, and reach, we can offer our clients next-level services covering all aspects of IP management and protection. We're excited to contribute to a company that's pushing the boundaries in what is often a very traditional industry," shared Kjetil Heggenhougen, CEO, Founder, and owner of Softgarden.

Rebranding in Early 2025

As part of the integration process, Softgarden will rebrand to Abion in early 2025.

Abion was advised by EY Corporate Finance (financial advisor), Schjødt (legal advisor) and EY (financial and tax). The purchase price remains undisclosed.

For more information about Abion's services in Norway or to enquire about cooperation opportunities, please contact Christoffer Vedal directly at christoffer.vedal@abion.com. 

Mentions in media

This news has caught the attention of the industry media. Read more: 

• Managing IP - read the full article here.
• Finansavisen (One of Norway's leading business newspapers) - read the full article here.
• WTR Review - read full article here.

For press-enquiries, please contact: Emil Björnum, CMO at Abion, emil.bjornum@abion.com +46 31 720 20 00