Centragruppen is deeply committed to supporting Ukraine in the ongoing war. The company has recently donated 10 million NOK to Fritt Ukraina, marking the largest single donation in Centra Group’s history.
“Hopefully, this is a meaningful contribution,” says Christian Stabell Eriksen, co-owner and working chairman of the company.
It’s About More Than Money
Eriksen emphasizes that the support goes beyond the monetary aspect.
“Our contribution is one thing, but we hope Centragruppen’s initiative will inspire more Norwegian companies to support Ukraine,” he says.
Eriksen notes that the donation was initially sparked during last year’s holiday season and has grown into a substantial effort involving the board, owners, and administration.
“It’s important to highlight that at Centragruppen, our support for Ukraine is a joint effort among the board, owners, and administration,” says Christian Stabell Eriksen.
CEO Joins the Transport Missions
Per Christian Johannesen, CEO of Centragruppen, has personally participated in several of Fritt Ukraina’s transports.
“It’s moving to see the gratitude in the soldiers’ eyes as they receive the equipment we deliver. Meeting soldiers who have just been in combat and will return to the front the next day shows how crucial these deliveries are for them,” shares Per Christian Johannesen.
Johannesen has been part of delivering vehicles and equipment to Ukraine, specifically to a unit in the Ukrainian intelligence service that operates drones.
“It feels incredibly fulfilling to have contributed even a small part to this,” says Per Christian Johannesen.
We Must Wake Up
“This is a war that affects more than just Ukraine – it threatens our neighboring countries and Europe’s freedom. We believe people in all countries should have the right to decide their own direction,” says Christian Stabell Eriksen.
“We need to wake up! I’m concerned that the war is being forgotten in the media, even though it’s more brutal than ever,” he adds.
This is What We Stand For
With its strong belief in freedom and action, Centragruppen aims to contribute to a safer world. Eriksen also highlights that Norway has seen a substantial financial gain from the war – estimated at 2 trillion NOK – which increases the country’s responsibility to contribute more actively.
“Norway’s contribution has been lacking, and we have values we must stand by,” he says.
According to Eriksen, Fritt Ukraina’s impressive work through direct support to the front lines and practical deliveries has strengthened Centragruppen’s trust in the organization. Additionally, it’s great that personal involvement is also an option, he says.
Eriksen ends with a clear message to the Norwegian people and the business community:
“It’s possible to contribute. Both financially and through personal involvement. This is what we stand for,” says Christian Stabell Eriksen.
A Remarkable Donation
“The entire Centragruppen family demonstrates courageous and unique action in a time when we desperately need those who lead by example. This is action that speaks louder than words,” says Natalia Golis, Secretary General of Fritt Ukraina.
“The contribution from Centragruppen is an extraordinary donation, and I look forward to ensuring the delivery to those in need alongside our donors,” she says.
Fritt Ukraina is now launching its largest matching project so far. Centragruppen’s donation will be matched with contributions from a Ukrainian partner organization’s donors, allowing them to deliver equipment, vehicles, and drones valued at 1.6 million euros to selected units they work with on the front lines in Ukraine, Golis explains.
“Our donors play a crucial role not only in delivering directly to those who need it at the front and thus helping save lives, but also in reminding businesses and individuals that this concerns us all,” says Golis.
She also quotes Gunnar Sønsteby: “We must not take for granted the fundamental values upon which our democracy is built. We should use every opportunity to remind one another of the importance of maintaining a vibrant and engaged democracy.”
“Ukrainians are giving their lives to defend these values and the belief in human dignity. The least we can do is support them when we can,” says Natalia Golis.
About Centragruppen
Centragruppen is a Norwegian corporate group and family business. After divesting from the grocery chains Ultra and Centra, which the family originally founded, Centragruppen has focused on investments in the stock and real estate markets.