Every year, a business gala is organized to celebrate the local business community in Ystad. During the business gala held on January 24, 2025, the Managing Director of Polykemi Ola Hugoson was awarded the prestigious Honorary Prize.
In addition to the honor, the award includes a diploma recognizing his long commitment and significant contributions to the local business community. The motivation read:
This year's honorary award goes to a person who truly deserves recognition as a business owner and entrepreneur, especially considering his long-standing commitment and the impressive contributions he has made. From company to subsidiary, the development took off — it was clear early on that this person possesses unique expertise. Despite logistical advantages elsewhere, he chose to stay in Ystad and continue his journey. He also demonstrates a strong willingness to give back, something that both Ystad’s business and community life have benefited from. With Yfront, he has shown his drive to improve the municipality and enhance the business environment."
The award ceremony at the gala
The prize was presented by Paula Nilsson, Chair of the Municipal Executive Board in Ystad. On her Instagram, she wrote:
"I had the honor of presenting this year’s Honorary Prize to Ola Hugoson #polykemi! This prize is awarded to a person who has made a significant impact through their dedication, top-level achievements, and contributions that have left a lasting legacy for the future – so well-deserved!"
A longtime entrepreneur and initiator
Ola Hugoson is not only a long-standing business leader but also one of the founders of Yfront, a politically independent group of entrepreneurs. Additionally, Ola Hugoson, together with Lars Hugosson, previously received the Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2010 for their work with Polykemi and Rondo Plast.
The Honorary Prize was established in 2014 and has since been awarded to individuals who, in various ways, have contributed to Ystad’s business community. Ystad’s Business Gala is an annual event organized by Ystad Municipality and Företagarna Ystad in collaboration with Radio Active and Ystads Allehanda. The purpose of the gala is to celebrate the local business community and present awards in categories such as Entrepreneur of the Year, Ambassador of the Year, and New Entrepreneur of the Year.