Sad, dismayed and rightly angry
“The police investigation concerns suspicion of serious crimes by suppliers and Systembolaget personnel, which we at the company are very upset about. We understand that several suppliers and a large number of store managers may be involved. We are “sad, dismayed and rightly angry”.

“The preliminary investigation results directly from our report last spring to the police of seven store managers and three suppliers for the suspected taking and offering of bribes. Exactly what the preliminary investigation may lead to, only the prosecutor can answer”.

Those who have bribed or been bribed cannot continue to work at or for Systembolaget.
“No-one is guilty until found guilty in a court of law. But our principle is crystal clear. Anyone who has bribed an employee of Systembolaget cannot continue to supply the company. Anyone who has taken bribes cannot continue to work at Systembolaget”.

“Against that background, it is best for those concerned, their colleagues and the company as a whole, that those who have been notified that they are under suspicion should contact their immediate superior and arrange to stay away from their work until the clear facts have been established. If any prosecutions are brought, we will conduct an internal investigation into breaches of the company’s policies and internal rules”.

Breaches of the company’s rules and the criminal acts that we now fear must not be repeated.
“Systembolaget has for several years worked hard to prevent impropriety and criminal activity. We have acted as soon as we had the facts. The preliminary investigation is a direct result from our report to the police last spring. But we need to do more”.

“We are therefore preparing vigorous measures to guarantee ethical practice in the company, and we assume that our suppliers are doing the same. The vast majority of suppliers to, and personnel at, the company are honest and decent. They should not have to work in an environment where they may be suspected of wrongdoing. Systembolaget must be an organization where everyone can trust everyone else and do a good job together.

Systembolaget will be providing information continuously on measures planned and performed.
“All members of personnel have been informed that we have four working parties in operation focusing on different topics: possible problems in the stores, measures arising from the preliminary investigation, an ethical enterprise programme and open communications. The Board has been informed and is giving us its full support. The government has been informed by our Chairman via both the Minister of Industry, Employment and Communications and the Minister for Public Health and Social Services.

For further information, please contact:
Björn Rydberg, Press Manager, Systembolaget
Telephone: +46-8-50331025
Mobile: +46-70-5284105