From humble beginnings to a rugged legacy, founder Göran Åstrand
In 2000, Göran Åstrand laid the foundation for Expando, a company that would go on to become a trusted partner in the defense industry. As we mark our 25th anniversary, Göran reflects on the journey, the challenges, and the vision that still drives us forward.
Before Expando, Göran gained valuable experience working with DDC (Data Device Corporation), a U.S.-based company. “You don’t learn much from success; it’s the challenges that teach you the most. I’ve always carried those lessons forward,” Göran explains.
After years of developing expertise in rugged electronics and working closely with the defense sector, Göran launched Expando in 2000. The company started small, with a team of just four or five people. Through various business projects, Göran met Otto Johnson, whose addition to the team marked a turning point.
“Otto brought expertise in rugged computing, and together we expanded our product portfolio,” Göran recalls. Recognizing Otto’s capabilities, Göran eventually appointed him as CEO. “It was clear Otto was the right person to take the helm as we grew.”
A natural fit with defense and space
Expando has always focused on serving the defense sector, working across air, sea, and space domains. “Our longstanding collaboration with some of the largest defense companies made it a natural choice to focus on military applications,” Göran says.
Expando’s entry into the space market was a natural progression. “We initially started by selling components to the space sector. Over time, the market transformed significantly with the emergence of ‘New Space’—the rapidly growing private sector within space technology. It’s an industry that shows no signs of slowing down,” Göran predicts.
The secret to Expando’s success
When asked what has made Expando so successful, Göran emphasizes relationships.
“Customer care is everything. We’ve built great communication and trust with our customers, but it doesn’t stop there. The same applies to our suppliers and partners. Strong relationships in both directions are critical.”
Göran also reflects on how perceptions of the defense industry have shifted. “For many years, working in defense wasn’t something to boast about. We flew under the radar. But times have changed, and the importance of our work is now widely recognized.”
The turning point: A strategic acquisition
Expando’s story took another significant turn when Göran’s longtime friend Anders Börjesson entrepreneur and founder of Tisenhult group, entered the picture. When a third party expressed interest in acquiring Expando, Göran sought Anders’ advice. “Three days later, Anders came back with his own offer. He saw a well-run, profitable company with great potential,” Göran shares.
Together with Otto, Göran welcomed Anders’ involvement, knowing it would bring fresh energy and ideas to the company. “It’s important to have someone who can shake things up and push us to think differently,” he says.
A vision that endures
For Göran, the company name symbolizes his personal philosophy: “I found the name ‘Expando’ in a dictionary years ago. It stood for growth and development, which is exactly what I wanted—for myself and for the company. And that’s still what we do today—drive development and expand possibilities.”
Göran is proud of how far Expando has come: “The name on the building’s façade represents years of hard work and ambition. Seeing it there today fills me with pride.”
25 years of experience, innovation, and dedication
As we celebrate this milestone, Expando remains committed to its vision of delivering cutting-edge rugged computing and electronics to the defense, space and aerospace sectors. With a strong foundation, enduring customer relationships, and a focus on innovation, the future looks brighter than ever.
