Just outside Halmstad is one of Hedin Mobility Group's most sustainable operations, Hedin Recycled. Here, car dismantling has taken on a new meaning. What was once seen as the end of a car's life is now the beginning of something new, where every used car part sold saves both resources and carbon dioxide emissions. Leading the charge is Jan Alshamani, a committed CEO with a passion for the environment, a sharp business mind and a clear vision for the future.
From business idea to making an impact
When Jan and his colleagues founded On Wheels Bildemontering in 2015, he had a clear vision: to build a profitable company in a future-proof industry. In a facility rented from the Halmstad municipality and with a strong drive to succeed, he began recycling car parts. What started as a pure business opportunity soon grew into a genuine commitment to environmental issues, and a desire to make a real difference toward a more sustainable society.
Since February 2023, the company has been part of Hedin Mobility Group and operates under the name Hedin Recycled. But the new ownership hasn’t diminished Jan's passion - quite the opposite.
"It was a big step to sell to such a large group, but it felt absolutely right. With Hedin Mobility Group as owner, our vision and goals have become even clearer. It has given me extra drive to take the company to the next level and ensure we become a natural part of the group. We can grow with the support of resources and networks while maintaining our commitment and focus on sustainability," says Jan.
What does Hedin Recycled do?
The business receives cars from insurance companies, especially salvaged cars, which are sanitized, diagnosed, and dismantled. Every part that can be reused, from engines to side mirrors, is identified, photographed, priced, and listed for sale. And the rest? It goes on to recycling, steel, aluminum, copper - nothing is left to chance. Laws, safety requirements, and environmental regulations are followed down to the last detail.
"We have more than 50,000 parts in stock. Every time we sell a used car part, we save resources and reduce climate impact. It’s a concrete contribution from a sustainability perspective."
The majority of customers are workshops, where the processes are clear and the requirements are high, matching the business's strong quality focus. Private customers account for a smaller share of sales.
A business model that reduces emissions while driving growth
That Hedin Recycled has found a sustainable way to grow is not just good for the environment, it’s also quite unique. While many companies see their climate impact grow with their business, the opposite is true here. We asked Jan what inspires him the most in leading Hedin Recycled.
"The more used parts we sell, the more new production is avoided. We are actively contributing to reducing carbon emissions. That inspires me every day," says Jan.
But it’s not just Jan’s interest and passion that are driving demand. New EU directives and insurance company requirements have made used parts the first choice for workshops. Combined with high prices for new parts and the fact that used parts can often be delivered faster, there is strong business momentum in the market.
Electric vehicles, expertise, and future challenges
Jan mentions there are challenges. Access to newer, more valuable cars is crucial, as is finding the right talent.
"It takes time to learn dismantling. We have four key people with extensive expertise who train our new employees in-house."
The growing electric car market and the transition to more electric cars bring new demands, especially around battery handling and recycling. This will require both investment and innovation.
Vision and future
The future looks bright for Hedin Recycled, and when we ask Jan what’s next, his enthusiasm shines through.
"We have several exciting projects underway. Right now, we are focusing on securing access to more cars and building up our inventory, with a particular focus on the group’s car brands. The goal is to deliver even more used spare parts to our workshops. At the same time, we are also running a project around high-voltage batteries, where the ambition is to be able to offer these to our workshops in the future. The potential is great, both in Sweden and internationally. But we’re sticking closely to our roadmap and growing with quality as our priority."
At the same time, it is clear that it is not only the business idea that makes Jan proud, but just as much the team behind the success.
"I have the privilege of working with a fantastic team. There is pride, loyalty, and a constant drive to improve. We are like a team where everyone pulls in the same direction."
And it shows. With a dedicated team of seven employees led by Jan Alshamani, Hedin Recycled is more than just car dismantling. It’s a sustainability-driven business and an important part of the solution to the automotive industry's climate challenges.