STRAX: NOTICE TO THE AGM

The shareholders of Strax AB (publ), Reg. No. 556539-7709, with its registered office in Stockholm, Sweden, are hereby summoned to the annual general meeting to be held on Wednesday 26 May 2021.

Due to the extraordinary situation resulting from the covid-19 pandemic, the Annual General Meeting will be carried out through advance voting (postal voting) pursuant to temporary legislation. No meeting with the possibility to attend in person or to be represented by a proxy will take place. Strax welcomes all shareholders to exercise their voting rights at the Annual General Meeting by voting in advance in accordance in the order described below.

Preconditions for participation in the Meeting

Shareholders who wish to participate, through advance voting, in the Meeting must

firstly             be included in the shareholders’ register prepared by Euroclear Sweden AB as of Tuesday 18 May 2021,

secondly        notify the company of their participation in the Meeting by casting their advance votes in accordance with the instructions under the heading “Advance voting” below so that the advance vote is received by the company no later than on Tuesday 25 May 2021.

Nominee registered shares

To be entitled to participate at the Annual General Meeting, in addition to providing notification of participation, shareholders whose shares are held in the name of a nominee must have their shares re-registered in their own name so that the shareholder is recorded in the share register on Tuesday 18 May 2021. Such registration may be temporary and is requested from the nominee in accordance with the nominee’s procedures and such time in advance as the nominee determines. Voting right registrations completed not later than the second banking day after Tuesday 18 May 2021 are taken into account when preparing the register of shareholders.

Advance voting

The shareholders may exercise their voting rights at the meeting only by voting in advance, so called postal voting in accordance with section 22 of the Act (2020:198) on temporary exceptions to facilitate the execution of meetings in companies and other associations.A special form shall be used for advance voting. The form is available on the company’s website www.strax.com. The advance voting form is considered as the notification of participation at the Annual General Meeting.

The completed voting form must be received by the company no later than on Tuesday 25 May 2021. The completed form shall be sent by e-mail to ir@strax.com. The form may also be sent by post to Strax AB, Mäster Samuelsgatan 10, SE-111 44 Stockholm. The shareholder may not provide special instructions or conditions in the voting form. If so, the vote (in its entirety) is invalid. Further instructions and conditions are included in the form for advance voting.

If the shareholder votes in advance by proxy, a power of attorney shall be enclosed with the form. If the shareholder is a legal entity, a certificate of incorporation or a corresponding document shall be enclosed with the form.

Right to request information

The board of directors and the managing director are required to, upon request from shareholders and if the board of directors believes that it can be done without material harm to the company, provide information that may affect a matter on the agenda, the company’s or its subsidiaries financial situation and the company’s relation to another group company, pursuant to Chapter 7 Section 32 of the Swedish Companies Act (Sw. aktiebolagslagen). A request for such information shall be sent by post to Strax AB, Mäster Samuelsgatan 10, SE-111 44 Stockholm or by e-mail to ir@strax.com, no later than on Sunday 16 May 2021. The information will be made available at the company’s head office at Mäster Samuelsgatan 10, SE-111 44 Stockholm and at www.strax.com no later than on Friday 21 May 2021. The information will also be sent, within the same period of time, to any shareholder who so has requested and who has stated its address.

Proposed agenda

  1. Appointment of chairman for the Meeting
  2. Election of one or two persons who shall approve the minutes 
  3. Preparation and approval of the voting list
  4. Determination of whether the Meeting has been duly convened
  5. Approval of the agenda
  6. Presentation of the annual report and the auditors’ report as well as the consolidated financial statements and the auditors’ report for the group for the financial year 2020
  7. Decision regarding the adoption of the income statement and the balance sheet, as well as the consolidated income statement and the consolidated balance sheet
  8. Decision regarding appropriation of the company’s earnings in accordance with the approved balance sheet
  9. Decision regarding discharge from liability of the members of the Board of Directors and the CEO
  10. Decision on
    1. the number of Directors and deputy Directors, and
    2. the number of auditors
  11. Decision on the remuneration that shall be paid to:
    1. the Board of Directors, and
    2. the auditor
  12. Election of the members of the Board of Directors, potential deputy members of the Board of Directors
    1. Bertil Villard
    2. Anders Lönnqvist
    3. Pia Anderberg
    4. Ingvi Tyr Tomasson
    5. Gudmundur Palmason
  13. Election of Chairman of the Board of Directors
  14. Election of auditor
  15. Presentation of the board of directors’ remuneration report for approval
  16. Proposal to authorize the Board of Directors to resolve upon issue of new shares, warrants and/or convertibles
  17. Proposal to authorize the Board of Directors to resolve to repurchase and transfer own shares

    Resolution proposals

    Election of a chairman at the Meeting (item 1)
    The nomination committee proposes that the chairman of the board of directors Bertil Villard, or the person proposed by the nomination committee if he has an impediment to attend, is elected chairman of the Meeting.

    Election of one or two persons to approve the minutes (item 2)
    Per Åhlgren, as a representative for GoMobile Nu AB, or the person or persons proposed by the nomination committee if he has an impediment to attend, are proposed to be elected to approve the minutes of the Meeting together with the chairman. The task of approving the minutes of the Meeting also includes verifying the voting list and that the advance votes received are correctly reflected in the minutes of the meeting.

    Preparation and approval of the voting list (item 3)
    The voting list proposed for approval is the voting list prepared by the company, based on the shareholders’ register for the Meeting and the advance votes received, as verified by the persons elected to approve the minutes.

    Resolution on the allocation of the company’s earnings (item 8)
    The Board of Directors proposes that the company’s results shall be carried forward.

    Determination of the number of members of the board of directors (item 10a)
    The nomination committee proposes that the number of members of the Board of Directors shall be five.

    Determination of the number of auditors (item 10b)
    The nomination committee proposes that the number of auditors shall be one (1) authorized accounting firm.

    Determination of fees for the members of the Board of Directors (item 11a)
    The nomination committee proposes that the remuneration for the members of the Board of Directors shall remain unchanged from the previous year, meaning that each member of the Board of Directors who is considered to be independent in relation to major shareholders shall receive SEK 150,000, and the chairman of the Board of Directors shall receive SEK 225,000. According to the Nomination Committee’s proposal, Bertil Villard, Anders Lönnqvist and Pia Anderberg shall be entitled to receive remuneration, whereby the Directors’ total remuneration will amount to SEK 525,000.

    Determination of fees for the auditors (item 11b)
    The nomination committee proposes that the auditors’ fee shall be paid as per current account as approved by the company.

    Election of the members of the Board of Directors, potential deputy members of the Board of Directors (item 12)
    The nomination committee proposes the re-election of Bertil Villard, Anders Lönnqvist, Gudmundur Palmason, Pia Anderberg and Ingvi Tyr Tomasson as members of the Board of Directors for the period until the end of next Annual General Meeting.

    Information on the members of the Board of Directors proposed for re-election is available at strax.com.

    Election of Chairman of the Board of Directors (item 13)
    The nomination committee proposes that Bertil Villard is re-elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

    Election of auditor (item 14)
    The nomination committee proposes re-election of PwC as auditor, with Niklas Renström as auditor in charge, for the period until the end of the next Annual General Meeting. The proposition is in accordance with the Board’s recommendation.

    Proposal to authorize the Board of Directors to resolve upon issue of new shares, warrants and/or convertibles (item 16)
    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to authorize the Board of Directors to up until the next Annual General Meeting, on one or several occasions and with or without preferential rights for the shareholders, against cash payment or against payment through set-off or in kind, or otherwise on special conditions, resolve to issue new shares, warrants and/or convertibles. However, such issue of shares must never result in the company’s issued share capital or the number of shares in the company at any time, being increased by more than a total of 10 per cent.

    The reason for the proposal and the possibility to deviate from shareholders’ preferential rights in the proposal is, among other things, to facilitate for the company to carry out acquisitions with payment in shares or to otherwise procure the financing of the company in an active and appropriate manner.

    The CEO shall be authorized to make such minor amendments to the above resolution that may prove necessary in connection with the registration with the Swedish Companies Registration Office.A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal shall only be valid where supported by not less than two-thirds of both the votes cast and the shares represented at the Meeting.

    Proposal to authorize the Board of Directors to resolve to repurchase and transfer own shares (item 17)
    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to authorize the Board of Directors to resolve on the repurchase and transfer of the company’s own shares, where the following shall apply;

    1 .Acquisition and sale of own shares shall exclusively take place on Nasdaq Stockholm.
    2. The authorization may be utilized on one or several occasions until the Annual General Meeting 2022.
    3. Shares may be repurchased to the extent that the company’s holding of its own shares, on any occasion, does not exceed ten (10) per cent of the company’s total shares. Transfer may be carried out of not more than the number of shares repurchased under this authorization.
    4. Repurchase and transfer of shares may only take place at a price within the price interval, on any occasion, recorded on Nasdaq Stockholm, which refers to the interval between the highest buying price and the lowest selling price.

    The purpose of the proposed authorization is to provide flexibility as regards the company’s possibilities to distribute capital to its shareholders and to promote more efficient capital usage in the company, which altogether is deemed to have a positive impact on the company’s share price and thereby contribute to an increased shareholder value.

    A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal shall only be valid where supported by not less than two-thirds of both the votes cast and the shares represented at the Meeting.

    Documentation pursuant to Chapter 19 Section 22 of the Swedish Companies Act will be held available on the company’s web page.

    Number of shares and votes
    At the date of this notice there are in aggregate 120 592 332 issued shares and votes in the company. The company holds no own shares as of the date of this notice.

    Processing of personal data
    More information regarding the processing of your personal data is available in Euroclear’s privacy notice that is available at Euroclear’s website, https://www.euroclear.com/dam/ESw/Legal/Privacy-notice-bolagsstammor-engelska.pdf.

    Majority requirements

    Resolutions in accordance with items 16 and 17 above shall only be valid where supported by not less than two-thirds (2/3) of both the votes cast and the shares represented at the meeting.

    Complete proposals etc.

    The annual report together with the auditor’s report and the remuneration report for the financial year 2020 and other documents will be presented by being held available at the company’s office on Mäster Samuelsgatan 10, SE-111 44 Stockholm and on the company’s website, www.strax.com, at least three weeks before the Annual General Meeting. The nomination committee’s motivated statement will be available on the address and website stated above at least four weeks before the Annual General Meeting. Copies of the documents will be sent to the shareholders who so requests and informs the company of their postal address. Further, the shareholders’ register for the meeting is made available on the address stated above and proxy forms for shareholders who would like to vote in advance through proxy are available on the company’s website as stated above.

    _______________________

    Stockholm, April 2021

    Strax AB (publ)

    The Board of Directors

     

About STRAX
STRAX is a global leader in accessories that empower mobile lifestyles. Our portfolio of accessories brands covers all major mobile product categories: Protection, Power, Personal Audio and Connectivity. In response to the ongoing pandemic, STRAX pivoted into Health & Wellness products, with an initial focus on personal protection equipment, such as face masks, gloves and sanitizers. Our success lies in a strong offline and online distribution network and best-in-class customer service, delivered by a stellar team. We develop and grow brands through an omnichannel approach, and we operate two complementary businesses: Own brands – including Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+, and licensed brands such as adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, SuperDry and WeSC – and Distribution (traditional retail, enterprises and online marketplaces). In addition to own and licensed brands, STRAX distributes over 40 major mobile accessory brands and several Health & Wellness brands with an initial focus on personal protection equipment. We sell into all key sales channels ranging from telecom operators, mass merchants and consumer electronics to lifestyle retailers, large enterprises and direct to consumers online. Founded in Miami and Hong Kong in 1995, STRAX has since expanded worldwide. Today, we have over 200 employees in 13 countries, with our operational HQ and logistics center in Germany. STRAX is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange.

 

STRAX: Urbanista introducerar Los Angeles – solcellsdrivna hörlurar med oändlig speltid

STRAX dotterbolag Urbanista, det svenska livsstilsvarumärket inom audio, lanserar Urbanista Los Angeles, världens första självladdande, trådlösa hörlurar med aktiv brusreducering, som drivs av Powerfoyle™ solcellsmaterial. Med avancerad grön teknik omvandlar Los Angeles alla former av ljus, utomhus som inomhus, till energi för att leverera praktiskt taget oändlig speltid.

För att leverera denna obegränsade ljudupplevelse har Urbanista samarbetat med Exeger, ett svenskt innovationsföretag, som har skapat en banbrytande solcellsteknik. Exegers material, Powerfoyle™, omvandlar alla typer av ljus till ren energi och kan integreras sömlöst i vilken produkt som helst. För första gången driver den nu hörlurar, vilket möjliggör oändlig energi för musikälskare runt om i världen.

”Initiativet med hörlurar som drivs med sol och ljus är ett väldigt värdeskapande för användaren och vi ser en stor potential försäljningsmässigt för produkten. Samtidigt är vi både stolta och glada att vara en del att introducera grön energi till denna produktkategori, ett initiativ som passar mycket väl in i STRAX arbete för hållbarhet. Urbanista har de senaste åren tagit imponerande steg på produktutvecklingssidan och har en stark portfölj av hörlurar som använder den senaste tekniken och som stödjer den funktionalitet som användarna i dag kräver och denna banbrytande produkt är ett välkommet tillskott till produktportföljen.” säger Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB.  

”Detta är början på en revolution inom konsumentelektronik. I nära samarbete med Urbanista lanserar vi nu världens första självdrivna trådlösa hörlurar. Jag tror starkt att när användare väl upplever friheten med oändlig energi finns det ingen anledning att gå tillbaka till att koppla in en USB-laddare till vägguttaget. Vi är väldigt glada över den här produkten och är övertygade om att människor runt om i världen kommer att älska den,” säger Giovanni Fili, VD, Exeger.

För mer information, kontakta Gudmundur Palmason, CEO hos STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50.

Om Urbanista
Urbanista grundades 2010 i Stockholm, Sverige utav kärlek för städer och ett urbant liv. Våra produkter är rotade i skandinavisk tradition och är inspirerade av musik, konst, mode och urban kultur. Vi tror på att livsstil- och audioprodukter inte bara ska låta bra, men också se bra ut. Idag är våra produkter tillgängliga i över 90 länder och säljs i 30 000 butiker över hela världen.

Om Exeger
Exeger är svenskt företag med en unik solcellsteknologi som konverterar all form av ljus till elektronisk energi. Med sin tåliga och flexibla design kan materialet Powerfoyle integreras sömlöst i alla produkter som gynnas av att vara självförsörjande på ström. Powerfoyle kan förbättra alla konsumentelektronikprodukter som den integreras i, genom att ge förlängd eller evig batterilivslängd, vilket gör att man sätter makten till den senaste tekniken direkt i händerna hos konsumenten. Genom att revolutionera sättet att se på tillgänglig energi, gör Exeger produkter både smartare och mer hållbara – med en vision att nå ut till en miljard människor. För mer information, besök www.exeger.com /www.powerfoyle.com

Om STRAX
STRAX är en marknadsledande global specialist inom tillbehör för en mobil livsstil. Vår varumärkesportfölj för mobila tillbehör omfattar alla större produktkategorier: Protection, Power, Personal Audio och Connectivity. Som ett svar på den pågående pandemin har vi utökat vår verksamhet med ett nytt produktsegment: personlig skyddsutrustning, där vi inledningsvis fokuserar på personlig skyddsutrustning som ansiktsmasker, handskar och desinfektionsmedel. Hemligheten bakom våra framgångar är ett starkt distributionsnät – både offline och online – och marknadens bästa kundservice. Vi utvecklar och marknadsför varumärken genom en ”omni-channel strategi” och har två kompletterande verksamheter: Egna varumärken – Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+ och licensierade varumärken som adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, Superdry och WeSC – samt Distribution (traditionell butiksförsäljning, företags- och nätmarknadsplatser). Förutom egna och licensierade varumärken distribuerar STRAX mer än 40 större varumärken för mobiltillbehör samt ett flertal varumärken för personlig skyddsutrustning. Försäljningen sker i alla nyckel-försäljningskanaler som telekomoperatörer, konsumentelektronik, lifestyle retailers och direkt till konsument online.STRAX grundades i Miami och Hongkong 1995 och har sedan dess vuxit världen över. I dag har STRAX cirka 200 anställda i 13 länder, med operativt huvudkontor och logistik- och distributionscenter i Tyskland.STRAX är noterat på Nasdaq Stockholm.

STRAX: Urbanista introduces Los Angeles – Solar powered headphones with virtually infinite playtime

STRAX subsidiary Urbanista, the Swedish lifestyle audio brand, announces Urbanista Los Angeles, the world’s first self-charging, wireless active noise cancelling headphones, powered by Powerfoyle™ solar cell material. Using advanced green technology, Los Angeles converts all forms of light, outdoor and indoor, into energy to deliver virtually infinite playtime.

To deliver this limitless audio experience, Urbanista has teamed up with Exeger, a Swedish innovation company, that has created a groundbreaking solar cell technology. Exeger’s Powerfoyle™ converts any form of light into clean energy and can be seamlessly integrated into any design. For the first time, it is now powering headphones, enabling endless energy to music lovers around the world.

“The initiative with solar and light powered headphones is an extremely strong value proposition for the user and we see very solid business potential in this product. At the same time, we are both proud and happy to take part in introducing clean energy into this category, an initiative that fits very well into STRAX’s ongoing work with sustainability. Urbanista have over the past few years taken very impressive steps in product development and have a solid range of in-ear and over-ear headphones using the latest technologies and supporting the functionality demanded by consumers, this groundbreaking product is a very welcome addition to the strong Urbanista product portfolio” says Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB.

“This is the start of a revolution in consumer electronics. In close collaboration with Urbanista, we now launch the world’s first self-powered wireless headphone. I strongly believe that once users experience the freedom of endless energy, there’s no way we’re going back to plugging a USB charger into the wall. We are extremely excited about this product and confident that people around the world are going to love it” says Giovanni Fili, CEO, Exeger.

For further information please contact Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50.

About Urbanista
Urbanista was born in 2010 in Stockholm, Sweden out of love for cities and urban life. Our products are rooted in Scandinavian tradition and inspired by music, arts, fashion and urban culture. We believe that lifestyle audio products should not only sound great, but also look good. Today, our products are available in over 90 countries, and sold in 30,000 stores worldwide. For more information visit www.urbanista.com

About ExegerExeger is a Swedish company with a unique solar cell technology that converts all form of light into electrical energy. With its resilient and flexible design, the material named Powerfoyle can be seamlessly integrated into all products that benefit from being self-powered. Powerfoyle can enhance any consumer electronic product it’s integrated into with extended or even eternal battery life, putting the power of cutting edge solar technology directly into the hands of consumers. By revolutionizing the perception of available energy, Exeger makes products both smarter and more sustainable – with the vision to touch the everyday lives of a billion people. For more information visit www.exeger.com | www.powerfoyle.com

About STRAX
STRAX is a global leader in accessories that empower mobile lifestyles. Our portfolio of accessories brands covers all major mobile product categories: Protection, Power, Personal Audio and Connectivity. In response to the ongoing pandemic, STRAX pivoted into Health & Wellness products, with an initial focus on personal protection equipment, such as face masks, gloves and sanitizers. Our success lies in a strong offline and online distribution network and best-in-class customer service, delivered by a stellar team. We develop and grow brands through an omnichannel approach, and we operate two complementary businesses: Own brands – including Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+, and licensed brands such as adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, Superdry and WeSC – and Distribution (traditional retail, enterprises and online marketplaces). In addition to own and licensed brands, STRAX distributes over 40 major mobile accessory brands and several Health & Wellness brands with an initial focus on personal protection equipment. We sell into all key sales channels ranging from telecom operators, mass merchants and consumer electronics to lifestyle retailers, large enterprises and direct to consumers online. Founded in Miami and Hong Kong in 1995, STRAX has since expanded worldwide. Today, we have over 200 employees in 13 countries, with our operational HQ and logistics center in Germany. STRAX is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange.

STRAX: Bokslutskommuniké för räkenskapsåret 2020

STRAX fördubblade sin onlineförsäljning och ett rekordresultat för EBITDA efter att framgångsrikt lanserat produktkategorin Personlig skyddsutrustning
  • Koncernens försäljning för perioden 1 januari – 31 december 2020 uppgick till 112 (114) MEUR, och bruttomarginalen uppgick till 26,3 (24,5) procent.
     
  • Koncernens resultat för perioden 1 januari – 31 december 2020 uppgick till 0,7 (-1,7) MEUR, motsvarande 0,01 (-0,01) euro per aktie. Resultatet för perioden påverkades negativt med 2,5 (2,4) MEUR relaterat till nedgång av värdet på aktierna i ZAGG.
  • EBITDA under perioden 1 januari – 31 december 2020 uppgick till 8,5 (8,3) MEUR.
     
  • Eget kapital per den 31 december 2020 uppgick till 18,2 (20,1) MEUR motsvarande 0,15 (0,17) euro per aktie.
  • STRAX tecknade ett 30 MEUR låneavtal med Proventus Capital Partners och räntebärande skulder refinansierades.
  • För att stödja fortsatt tillväxt inom produktsegmentet Personlig Skyddsutrustning etablerade STRAX en dedikerad finansiering om 20 MUSD för att tillvarata den fulla potentialen.
     
  • STRAX lanserade Airpop ”air wearables” varumärket globalt och samtidigt i alla försäljningskanaler.
     
  • STRAX och Erikson Consumer, som ingår i Jam Industries-koncernen, har ingått ett exklusivt avtal om distribution av STRAX alla egna och licensierade mobiltillbehör på den kanadensiska marknaden.
  • STRAX och HMD Global (The Home of Nokia mobile phones) ingick i ett globalt partnerskapsavtal om att gemensamt utveckla och distribuera nya spännande mobiltillbehör under varumärkesnamnet Nokia som trådlösa högtalare, TWS hörlurar och mobilskal för de senaste Nokia smartphones. 
     
  • STRAX inledde ett samarbete med 4ocean om utveckling och tillverkning av 4ocean Signature iPhone Case som tillverkas av återvunnen plast från havet.
      Väsentliga händelser efter periodens utgång
  • Ett bud för samtliga utestående ZAGG aktier godkändes den 18 februari 2021. Budet var på nuvarande aktiekurs-nivå och har därmed ingen påverkan på resultatet men bidrar med cirka MEUR 2,5 i likvida medel, med en potentiell uppsida av 0,25 USD per aktie om vissa villkor är uppfyllda motsvarande 159,4 TUSD.

    ”STRAX har återigen bevisat sin förmåga till förändring genom att anpassa sig till de ovanliga och utmanande tiderna under 2020 och prestera ett rekordår avseende EBITDA, 100% tillväxt i e-handel och expanderat till ett nytt affärsområde inom personlig skyddsutrustning. För 2021 förväntas försäljningen av smartphones återvända till hälsosam tillväxt genom utrullningen av 5G, som STRAX kommer att gagnas av eftersom en av de starkaste drivarna bakom försäljning av tillbehör är nyförsäljning av telefoner. Samtidigt kommer vi fortsatt att kunna dra nytta av segmentet personlig skyddsutrustning och en accelererad tillväxt inom e-handel” säger Gudmundur Palmason, VD, STRAX
     

    För mer information, kontakta Gudmundur Palmason, VD, STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50.

    Denna information är sådan som Strax AB är skyldigt att offentliggöra enligt EU:s marknadsmissbruksförordning och lagen om värdepappersmarknaden. Informationen lämnades, genom ovanstående kontaktpersons försorg, för offentliggörande den 25 februari 2021 kl. 08:55 CET.

    Om STRAX
    STRAX är en marknadsledande global specialist inom tillbehör för en mobil livsstil.
    Vår varumärkesportfölj för mobila tillbehör omfattar alla större produktkategorier: Protection, Power, Personal Audio och Connectivity. Som ett svar på den pågående pandemin har vi utökat vår verksamhet med ett nytt produktsegment: personlig skyddsutrustning, där vi inledningsvis fokuserar på personlig skyddsutrustning som ansiktsmasker, handskar och desinfektionsmedel. Hemligheten bakom våra framgångar är ett starkt distributionsnät – både offline och online – och marknadens bästa kundservice. Vi utvecklar och marknadsför varumärken genom en ”omni-channel strategi” och har två kompletterande verksamheter: Egna varumärken – Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+ och licensierade varumärken som adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, SuperDry och WeSC – samt Distribution (traditionell butiksförsäljning, företags- och nätmarknadsplatser). Förutom egna och licensierade varumärken distribuerar STRAX mer än 40 större varumärken för mobiltillbehör samt ett flertal varumärken för personlig skyddsutrustning. Försäljningen sker i alla nyckel-försäljningskanaler som telekomoperatörer, konsumentelektronik, lifestyle retailers och direkt till konsument online. STRAX grundades i Miami och Hongkong 1995 och har sedan dess vuxit världen över. I dag har STRAX cirka 200 anställda i 13 länder, med operativt huvudkontor och logistik- och distributionscenter i Tyskland. STRAX är noterat på Nasdaq Stockholm.

STRAX: Year-end report for the financial year 2020

STRAX doubled online sales and delivered a record year in EBITDA after successfully launching the Health & Wellness product category
  • The Group’s sales for the period January 1 – December 31, 2020, amounted to MEUR 112 (114), with a gross margin of 26.3 (24.5) percent.

  • The Group’s result for the period January 1 – December 31, 2020, amounted to MEUR 0.7 (-1.7) corresponding to EUR 0.01 (-0.01) per share.The result for the period was negatively affected by MEUR 2.5 (2.4) related to the decline in value of the Zagg shares.EBITDA for the period January 1 – December 31, 2020, amounted to MEUR 8.5 (8.3).
  • EBITDA for the period January 1 – December 31, 2020, amounted to MEUR 8.5 (8.3).
     
  • Equity as of December 31, 2020 amounted to MEUR 18.2 (20.1) corresponding to EUR 0.15 (0.17) per share.
     
  • STRAX signed a senior secured loan facility in the amount of MEUR 30 with Proventus Capital Partners, refinancing existing interest-bearing credit facilities.
  • STRAX secured a MUSD 20 facility under an existing loan agreement with Proventus Capital Partners to support the growth of the Health & Wellness product category.
  • STRAX launched the Airpop “air wearables” brand worldwide and simultaneously across all sales channels.
  • STRAX and Erikson Consumer, a Jam Industries company, signed an exclusive distribution agreement in Canada for all STRAX own and licensed mobile accessories brands.
  • STRAX and HMD Global formed a global partnership to jointly develop and distribute a new range of Nokia-branded accessories, such as wireless speakers, TWS headphones and protective cases for some of the latest Nokia smartphones.
  • STRAX and 4ocean announced a collaboration to develop and manufacture 4ocean Signature iPhone cases made from recycled ocean plastic.

    Significant events after the end of the period

    A bid for all outstanding shares in ZAGG shares was approved February 18, 2021. The bid level was at the current share price so will not have an effect for the P&L but will contribute with approximately 2.5 MEUR in cash, with a potential upside of USD 0.25 per share if certain conditions are met corresponding to an additional USD 159.4 thousands.

“STRAX once again proved its ability to change and adopt during the unusual and challenging times in 2020, with a record year in EBITDA, more than 100% growth in e-commerce sales as well as successfully expanding into Health & Wellness. For 2021 smartphone sales are expected to return to healthy growth through increased 5G adoption, which will benefit STRAX as the sale of handsets is one of the key drivers for mobile accessories sales. At the same time, we will be able to continue to benefit from the Health & Wellness segment and accelerate the growth in e-commerce sales,” says Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX
 

For further information please contact Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50.
 

This is information that STRAX AB is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out above, at 08:55 CET on February 25, 2021.

About STRAX
STRAX is a global leader in accessories that empower mobile lifestyles. Our portfolio of accessories brands covers all major mobile product categories: Protection, Power, Personal Audio and Connectivity. In response to the ongoing pandemic, STRAX pivoted into Health & Wellness products, with an initial focus on personal protection equipment, such as face masks, gloves and sanitizers. Our success lies in a strong offline and online distribution network and best-in-class customer service, delivered by a stellar team. We develop and grow brands through an omnichannel approach, and we operate two complementary businesses: Own brands – including Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+, and licensed brands such as adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, SuperDry and WeSC – and Distribution (traditional retail, enterprises, and online marketplaces). In addition to own and licensed brands, STRAX distributes over 40 major mobile accessory brands and several Health & Wellness brands with an initial focus on personal protection equipment. We sell into all key sales channels ranging from telecom operators, mass merchants and consumer electronics to lifestyle retailers, large enterprises and direct to consumers online. Founded in Miami and Hong Kong in 1995, STRAX has since expanded worldwide. Today, we have over 200 employees in 13 countries, with our operational HQ and logistics center in Germany. STRAX is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange.

STRAX: To support growth of the Health & Wellness category STRAX have secured a MUSD 20 dedicated financing to capture the full potential

As previously communicated, the newly established health & wellness business is progressing well. We have secured multiple sub-distribution agreements and retail listings for both Airpop and AVO+ and Airpop is furthermore selling well on its direct to consumer website and across our seller managed online marketplaces. The enterprise channel has also responded favorably to the Airpop face masks, which do provide more comfort and protection for extended wear in the workplace.

The PPE bulk business has furthermore enjoyed solid wins and we have recently been awarded a long-term arrangement with major international agencies where deliveries have commenced now in the fourth quarter and will extend well into 2021. These orders have a longer cash conversion cycle, primarily due to the fact this market is in a supply deficiency and suppliers offer no or limited payment terms.

To capture the full potential in the category STRAX secured a third tranche under the existing loan agreement with Proventus Capital Partners (“PCP”), dedicated to the health & wellness category, in the amount of MUSD 20. Initially STRAX will draw down MSUD 5 under the dedicated tranche to finance existing orders. STRAX will make further draw-down’s when needed to secure future orders.

The third tranche from Proventus Capital Partners is for a term of 18 months and the full amount is denominated in USD. The loan will carry a Euribor +7.5 percent interest rate, in line with current market pricing, as well as the average financing costs currently paid. The construction is a combined purchase order and receivable funding, enabling the tranche not to affect the existing loans from a financial covenant perspective.

“I am very pleased we have managed over MEUR 20 sales this year in PPE products.
In a challenging year this has been a very welcome contribution to sales and profitability and for the future we see this forming into a solid part of the STRAX overall proposition. With this dedicated credit line of MUSD 20 we can capture the full potential in the category and I am happy to see PCP has once again proved to be a very business minded and strong financial partner for STRAX” says Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB.

“We are happy to be able to support STRAX in their fast growing and promising health & wellness category. It is a very specific and tailored solution for these special circumstances and is a good complement to STRAX Group’s existing debt facilities” says Henrik Bjerklin, Investment Director, Proventus Capital Partners.

For further information please contact Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50.

About Proventus Capital Partners
Proventus Capital Partners provides tailored funding solutions to mid-sized companies in Northern Europe. We act as strategic financial partners to companies who need additional funds to expand, make acquisitions, refinance their balance sheets or restructure their operations. Over the last 15 years, we have engaged and invested in well over 100 companies and helped them maximize their potential.

About STRAX
STRAX is a global leader in tech accessories that empower mobile lifestyles. Our portfolio of accessories brands covers all major product categories: Protection, Power, Personal Audio and Connectivity. In response to the ongoing pandemic, STRAX has recently pivoted into Health & Wellness, with an initial focus on personal protection equipment, such as face masks, gloves and sanitizers. Our success lies in a strong offline and online distribution network and best-in-class customer service, delivered by a stellar team.

We develop and grow brands through an omnichannel approach, we operate two complementary businesses: Own brands including Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+, and licensed brands such as adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, SuperDry and WeSC  and Distribution (traditional retail, enterprises and online marketplaces). In addition to own and licensed brands, STRAX distributes over 40 major mobile accessory bands and several health and wellness brands. We sell into all key sales channels ranging from telecom operators, mass merchants and consumer electronics to lifestyle retailers, large enterprises and direct to consumers online.

Founded in Miami and Hong Kong in 1995, STRAX has since expanded worldwide. Today, we have over 200 employees in 13 countries, with our operational HQ and logistics center in Germany. STRAX is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange.

STRAX: För att stödja fortsatt tillväxt inom produktsegmentet Personlig Skyddsutrustning har STRAX etablerat en dedikerad finansiering om 20 MUSD för att tillvarata den fulla potentialen

Som tidigare har kommunicerats har vårt nyetablerade produktsegment Personlig Skyddsutrustning har utvecklats väl. Vi har landat flera avtal med underleverantörer och återförsäljare för både Airpop och AVO+. Airpop säljer dessutom bra både på den egna webbplatsen och på våra återförsäljares onlinemarknadsplatser. Företagskunderna har också visat stort intresse för andningsmasken Airpop, som ger ökad bekvämlighet och bättre skydd på arbetsplatsen.

Försäljningen och leveranserna av större partier personlig skyddsutrustning har också gått bra och vi har nyligen ingått ett långsiktigt avtal med stora internationella aktörer där leveranserna kommer att starta nu under fjärde kvartalet och utökas under 2021.

För att tillvarata den fulla potentialen i produktsegmentet har STRAX etablerat en tredje kreditfacilitet under det befintliga låneavtalet med Proventus Capital Partners (”PCP”), dedikerat till produktsegmentet Personlig Skyddsutrustning om totalt 20 MUSD. Initialt har STRAX dragit ned 5 MUSD av den dedikerade faciliteten för att finansiera befintliga order. STRAX kommer att dra ner ytterligare belopp när behovet uppstår för att finansiera framtida order.

Den tredje kreditfaciliteten från Proventus Capital Partners har en löptid på 18 månader och är baserad i USD. Lånet löper med en ränta om LIBOR + 7,5 procent, i linje med nuvarande marknadsprissättning och i linje med de nuvarande genomsnittliga finansieringskostnaderna. Konstruktionen för faciliteten är en kombination av order- och fordringsfinansiering, vilket möjliggjort att denna facilitet ej påverkar befintliga covenanter (särskilda villkor) enligt befintligt låneavtal.

– Jag är mycket nöjd med att vi har lyckats uppnå en försäljning över 20 MEUR detta året avseende personlig skyddsutrustning. Under ett år som varit fullt av utmaningar är detta ett mycket välkommet bidrag till försäljning och lönsamhet och för framtiden ser vi detta formas till en bestående del av STRAX totala erbjudande. Med denna dedikerade facilitet om 20 MUSD kan vi fånga den fulla potentialen i produkt segmentet och jag är tacksam att PCP återigen har visat sig vara mycket affärsmässiga och en stöttande finansiell partner för STRAX, säger Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB.

– Vi är glada att vi kan stödja STRAX i deras snabbväxande och lovande produktsegment Personlig Skyddsutrustning. Detta är en specifik och skräddarsydd finansieringslösning som passar de omständigheter som råder för segmentet och därmed kan vi erbjuda en komplett finansieringslösning för STRAX, säger Henrik Bjerklin, Investment Director, Proventus Capital Partners.

För mer information, kontakta Gudmundur Palmason, CEO hos STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50.

Om Proventus Capital Partners
Proventus Capital Partners tillhandahåller skräddarsydda finansieringslösningar till medelstora företag i Nordeuropa. Vi agerar som strategisk och finansiell partner till företag som behöver kapital för att expandera, göra förvärv, refinansiera existerande lån eller omstrukturera sin verksamhet. Under de senaste 15 åren har vi investerat i fler än 100 företag och hjälpt dem att maximera sin potential.

Om STRAX
STRAX är en marknadsledande global specialist inom smarta tillbehör för en mobil livsstil. Vår varumärkesportfölj för mobila tillbehör omfattar alla större produktkategorier: Protection, Power, Personal Audio och Connectivity. Som ett svar på den pågående pandemin har vi nyligen utökat vår verksamhet med ett nytt produktsegment: personlig skyddsutrustning, där vi inledningsvis fokuserar på personlig skyddsutrustning som ansiktsmasker, handskar och desinfektionsmedel. Hemligheten bakom våra framgångar är ett starkt distributionsnät – både offline och online – och marknadens bästa kundservice.

Vi utvecklar och marknadsför varumärken genom en ”omni-channel strategi” och har två kompletterande verksamheter: Egna varumärken – Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+ och licensierade varumärken som adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, SuperDry och WeSC – samt Distribution (traditionell butiksförsäljning, företags- och nätmarknadsplatser). Förutom egna och licensierade varumärken distribuerar STRAX mer än 40 större varumärken för mobiltillbehör samt ett flertal varumärken inom personlig skyddsutrustning. Försäljningen sker i alla nyckel-försäljningskanaler som telekomoperatörer, konsumentelektronik, lifestyle retailers och direkt till konsument online.

STRAX grundades i Miami och Hongkong 1995 och har sedan dess vuxit världen över. I dag har STRAX cirka 200 anställda i 13 länder, med operativt huvudkontor och logistik- och distributionscenter i Tyskland. STRAX är noterat på Nasdaq Stockholm.

STRAX: Collaboration with 4ocean to support the development and manufacturing of 4ocean signature iPhone cases

STRAX is pleased to announce a collaboration with 4ocean, a purpose driven business with the mission to end the ocean plastic crisis and support the development and manufacturing of their new 4ocean Signature iPhone cases made from 4ocean Plastic™. As a part of the development process STRAX supported the material development, testing and optimization for manufacturing, design, and fulfilment of the new 4ocean Signature iPhone Case in the USA. STRAX, an environmentally conscious organization, is concerned by the size of the challenge our oceans face from plastic waste and is happy to be part of the solution by partnering with 4ocean.  Being an expert in the field of mobile accessories STRAX was able to leverage their global R&D resource and market specific knowledge to add value to 4ocean.

“We are very pleased to have been selected as the development partner of 4ocean for their venture into mobile accessories and proud at the same time to be able to support such an important cause as cleaning our oceans from plastic waste. This type of partnership is furthermore aligned with STRAX overall commitment to corporate social responsibility,” says Gudmundur Palmason CEO STRAX.

“We were so happy to work with STRAX on this huge milestone and beyond stoked to unveil the 4ocean Signature iPhone Case, our first of many products created from 4ocean Plastic™.
4ocean Plastic™ is certified ocean plastic that our professional cleanup crews have recovered and recycled into verified ocean plastic materials. The products made with this material are intended to continue raising awareness about ocean plastic pollution, serve as a reminder to live an ocean friendly lifestyle, and will help fund 4ocean’s global ocean cleanup operations,” says Alex Schulze, CEO and Co-Founder of 4ocean.

For further information please contact Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50

About 4ocean
4ocean is a purpose-driven business with a mission to help end the ocean plastic crisis by cleaning the ocean and coastlines while stopping the inflow of plastic by changing consumption habits on land. With the goal of creating an economy around cleaning the ocean, 4ocean funds its cleanup operations entirely through the sale of product purchases and its Pound+ Program. These purchases fund the removal of trash from the ocean and have resulted in pulling over 11 million pounds of pollution to date. The solution to ending ocean plastic pollution lies in stopping it on land before it enters the ocean, which is why 4ocean is tackling behavior change by educating consumers about ways to reduce their single-use plastic consumption.

About STRAX
STRAX is a global leader in tech accessories that empower mobile lifestyles. Our portfolio of accessories brands covers all major product categories: Protection, Power, Personal Audio and Connectivity. In response to the ongoing pandemic, STRAX has recently pivoted into Health & Wellbeing, with an initial focus on personal protection equipment, such as face masks, gloves and sanitizers. Our success lies in a strong offline and online distribution network and best-in-class customer service, delivered by a stellar team.

We develop and grow brands through an omnichannel approach, we operate two complementary businesses: Own brands including Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+, and licensed brands such as adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, SuperDry and WeSC  and Distribution (traditional retail, enterprises and online marketplaces). In addition to own and licensed brands, STRAX distributes over 40 major mobile accessory bands. We sell into all key sales channels ranging from telecom operators, mass merchants and consumer electronics to lifestyle retailers, large enterprises and direct to consumers online. Founded in Miami and Hong Kong in 1995, STRAX has since expanded worldwide. Today, we have over 200 employees in 13 countries, with our operational HQ and logistics center in Germany. STRAX is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange.

STRAX inleder ett samarbete med 4ocean om utveckling och tillverkning av 4ocean Signature iPhone Case

STRAX är glada över att kunna offentliggöra ett samarbete med 4ocean, en organisation vars mål är att få stopp på plastföroreningen av världens hav, och stödja utvecklingen och produktionen av deras nya iPhone-skal som tillverkas av 4ocean Plastic™ (återvunnen plast från havet). Under utvecklingen av den nya produkten 4ocean Signature iPhone Case i USA har STRAX hjälpt till med materialutveckling, testning, design och produktionsoptimering. STRAX är oroade över omfattningen av plastföroreningarna i haven och glada över att kunna vara en del av lösningen genom detta samarbete.  STRAX är specialiserade på mobiltillbehör och har med sin marknadskännedom och sina globala resurser inom forskning och utveckling kunnat bidra i utvecklingen av 4oceans senaste produkt.

– Vi är glada över att 4ocean valt oss som utvecklingspartner i deras satsning på mobiltillbehör. Vi är samtidigt stolta över att kunna hjälpa till i det viktiga arbetet med att rensa våra hav från plastavfall. Den här typen av samarbeten går i linje med STRAX samhällsansvar, säger Gudmundur Palmason, CEO hos STRAX.

– Vi är så glada över det här samarbetet med STRAX, som lett fram till denna fantastiska milstolpe. Och vi är mer än stolta över att kunna presentera 4ocean Signature iPhone Case, den första i raden av många produkter som tillverkas av 4ocean Plastic™.
4ocean Plastic™ är certifierad plast som återvunnits från haven av våra professionella medarbetare. Syftet med de produkter som tillverkas av detta material är att öka medvetenheten om plastavfall i haven. De fungerar också som en påminnelse om att vi bör ta hand om våra hav, och försäljningen kommer att bidra till att finansiera 4oceans arbete med att rensa världens hav från plast, säger Alex Schulze, CEO och medgrundare av 4ocean.

För mer information, kontakta Gudmundur Palmason, CEO hos STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50

Om 4ocean
4ocean är en organisation vars mål är att få stopp på plastföroreningarna genom att rensa haven och kusterna och samtidigt minska plastavfallet genom att förändra människors konsumtionsvanor. Med målet att skapa en ekonomi kring städning av havet finansierar 4ocean sin saneringsverksamhet genom försäljning av produkter som tillverkas av plast som samlats in och dess Pound + Program. Hittills har 5 miljoner kilo plastavfall samlats in från haven genom denna verksamhet. Lösningen på föroreningarna är att förhindra att plasten hamnar i havet, vilket är anledningen till att 4ocean även arbetar med att öka konsumenters medvetenhet om vikten av att minska användningen av engångsartiklar i plast.

Om STRAX
STRAX är en marknadsledande global specialist inom smarta tillbehör för en mobil livsstil. Vår varumärkesportfölj för mobila tillbehör omfattar alla större produktkategorier: Protection, Power, Personal Audio och Connectivity. Som ett svar på den pågående pandemin har vi nyligen utökat vår verksamhet med ett nytt produktsegment: personlig skyddsutrustning, där vi inledningsvis fokuserar på personlig skyddsutrustning som ansiktsmasker, handskar och desinfektionsmedel. Hemligheten bakom våra framgångar är ett starkt distributionsnät – både offline och online – och marknadens bästa kundservice.

Vi utvecklar och marknadsför varumärken genom en ”omni-channel strategi” och har två kompletterande verksamheter: Egna varumärken – Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+ och licensierade varumärken som adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, SuperDry och WeSC – samt Distribution (traditionell butiksförsäljning, företags- och nätmarknadsplatser). Förutom egna och licensierade varumärken distribuerar STRAX mer än 40 större varumärken för mobiltillbehör samt ett flertal varumärken inom personlig skyddsutrustning. Försäljningen sker i alla nyckel-försäljningskanaler som telekomoperatörer, konsumentelektronik, lifestyle retailers och direkt till konsument online. STRAX grundades i Miami och Hongkong 1995 och har sedan dess vuxit världen över. I dag har STRAX cirka 200 anställda i 13 länder, med operativt huvudkontor och logistik- och distributionscenter i Tyskland. STRAX är noterat på Nasdaq Stockholm.

STRAX partners with HMD Global to develop and distribute a selection of Nokia-branded accessories across the world

STRAX and HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, have formed a global partnership to jointly develop and distribute an exciting range of new Nokia-branded accessories, including the recently-announced Nokia Portable Wireless Speaker and protective cases for some of the newest Nokia smartphones. STRAX, the mobile accessories specialist, in partnership with HMD Global, will design, develop and manufacture Nokia-branded accessories, and distribute the range internationally.

HMD Global is the only major European mobile phone brand, delivering Nokia smartphones, feature phones and accessories across the globe.

“At HMD Global, we have founded our business on strategic partnerships – working with the best in the industry allows us to provide modern mobile technology accessible to everyone and deliver excellent experiences across the portfolio that you would expect from Nokia phones and accessories. As we further develop our accessories portfolio, we needed a partner that combines deep consumer market insights, design capabilities and a truly innovative spirit. All this, combined with STRAX’s ability to work with multiple distribution channels across the globe, makes this the perfect partnership. Stay tuned for new accessory announcements in the coming months,” says Alex Lambeek, Head of Accessories at HMD Global.

“It’s truly exciting to be working with HMD Global across such a trusted brand in phones and accessories.
Having formerly worked directly with Nokia as their largest accessories distributor in Europe, it is energizing and thrilling to be working in partnership with HMD Global with this iconic brand,” says Gudmundur Palmason, CEO of STRAX AB.

For further information please contact Gudmundur Palmason, CEO, STRAX AB, +46 8 545 017 50.

HMD Global press office: press@hmdglobal.com

About HMD Global
Headquartered in Espoo, Finland, HMD Global Oy is the home of Nokia phones. HMD designs and markets a range of smartphones and feature phones targeted at a range of consumers and price points. With a commitment to innovation and quality, HMD is the proud exclusive licensee of the Nokia brand for phones and tablets. For further information, see www.hmdglobal.com.  HMD Global Oy is the exclusive licensee of the Nokia brand for phones & tablets. 
Nokia is a registered trademark of Nokia Corporation.

About STRAX
STRAX is a global leader in tech accessories that empower mobile lifestyles. Our portfolio of accessories brands covers all major product categories: Protection, Power, Personal Audio and Connectivity. In response to the ongoing pandemic, STRAX has recently pivoted into Health & Wellness, with an initial focus on personal protection equipment, such as face masks, gloves and sanitizers. Our success lies in a strong offline and online distribution network and best-in-class customer service, delivered by a stellar team. We develop and grow brands through an omnichannel approach, we operate two complementary businesses: Own brands including Urbanista, Clckr, Richmond & Finch, Planet Buddies, xqisit, AVO+, and licensed brands such as adidas, Bugatti, Diesel, SuperDry and WeSC  and Distribution (traditional retail, enterprises and online marketplaces). In addition to own and licensed brands, STRAX distributes over 40 major mobile accessory bands and several health and wellness brands.We sell into all key sales channels ranging from telecom operators, mass merchants and consumer electronics to lifestyle retailers, large enterprises and direct to consumers online. Founded in Miami and Hong Kong in 1995, STRAX has since expanded worldwide. Today, we have over 200 employees in 13 countries, with our operational HQ and logistics center in Germany. STRAX is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange.