The Café Industry in Sandefjord: Companies, Statistics, and Outlook

The café industry in Sandefjord shows a mix of stability and dynamism. With 11 registered companies in the municipality, including both AS and ENK entities, the sector is relatively small-scale but features notable companies such as Oslofjord Catering AS and Hav Og Vin AS. The year 2024 marked a significant increase in the number of employees (from 58 to 260), indicating strong development in the sector. At the same time, data shows that the industry has been characterized by variations in income and operating results over the years. SmartGrunder can help entrepreneurs find suitable locations in Sandefjord for café operations, based on local conditions and market potential.

Economic trends

Sales and employees The café industry in Sandefjord has been characterized by variations over the years. Sales figures showed a decline from 2016 to 2020, followed by an increase in 2021 and a significant rise in 2024 (from NOK 19.2M to NOK 18.9M). The number of employees has also been volatile, with a sharp increase from 58 in 2023 to 260 in 2024.

Table: Annual changes in sales and employees

Conclusion The industry showed a strong increase in 2024, but uncertainty surrounds future trends. Entrepreneurs should consider both market potential and risk factors such as high competitiveness and variable income.

Registered companies

In Sandefjord, 11 companies are registered in the café industry. The most represented organisational forms are AS (6 companies) and ENK (5 companies). Some of the most well-known companies include:

• Oslofjord Catering AS (Melsomvik): 145 employees, founded in 2023, no bankruptcies.
• Hav Og Vin AS (Sandefjord): 27 employees, founded in 2010, operating result of NOK 161,000.
• Athene Invest AS (Sandefjord): 19 employees, founded in 1999, negative EBITDA of NOK -174,000.

Table: Organisational forms and company details

Conclusion The industry is dominated by AS entities, but ENKs are also present. Some companies have been in operation since 1999, while others are newly founded (such as Bymel AS, founded in 2025).

Geographic distribution

The café industry in Sandefjord is most concentrated in the Sandefjord city district, with 5 companies and 62 employees. Melsomvik has one company registration, but with 145 employees, indicating a large operation in the area.

Table: Geographic distribution

Conclusion Sandefjord is the main hub for the café industry, with a clear concentration of companies in the central area. Melsomvik has a large operation, but with no sales or operating results, which may indicate a specific operational model.

Operational efficiency and bankruptcy statistics

The café industry in Sandefjord has been characterized by variations in operating results and EBITDA over the years. Several companies have negative EBITDA, such as Athene Invest AS (-NOK 174,000) and Smakstudio AS (-NOK 56,000). At the same time, there are no registered bankruptcies in the industry, indicating a certain level of stabilization.

Table: Operating results

Conclusion The industry has a mix of companies with both positive and negative operating results. Bankruptcy is not registered, but financial challenges are evident for some companies.

The café industry in Sandefjord shows potential, especially after the strong increase in 2024. Entrepreneurs should, however, be aware of competitiveness and financial challenges. There is a clear growth in the number of employees, but this may be due to both new companies and expansion of existing businesses. It is important to assess local market potential and competitive solutions before establishing oneself.

The broader restaurant and café industry in Sandefjord has 108 companies, showing that the café industry is part of a larger market. Sales figures for the broader industry have been more stable, with an increase from NOK 245.5M in 2021 to NOK 347.1M in 2023. The number of employees has also shown strong growth, from 676 in 2021 to 851 in 2023.

Table: Peer companies in the restaurant and café industry

Conclusion The broader industry has a higher degree of stability and larger companies, which can provide entrepreneurs with a better basis for assessing market potential and competitive solutions.

The café industry in Sandefjord shows both opportunities and challenges. With strong growth in 2024 and relatively stable bankruptcy statistics, there is potential for new companies. However, it is important to be aware of financial challenges and competitiveness. The broader restaurant and café industry in the municipality provides a stronger foundation for entrepreneurs, with more companies and higher sales figures. SmartGrunder can help entrepreneurs find suitable locations and assess market potential in Sandefjord.