Business Resilience: 700 Years of Strategy and Sustainable Innovation

Resilience in business is not just about quick wins but rather building for the long term. Through history and nature, two unique examples highlight the power of sustainable growth and adaptability: the 700-year-old company Stora Enso and the 400-year-old Greenland shark. These teach us that business resilience depends on purpose-driven innovation, strategic patience, and a focus on sustainability.

1. Building for Longevity: Business Resilience Over Quick Wins

Lessons from Stora Enso’s 700-Year Journey

Founded in 1288 as a copper mining company, Stora Kopparberg evolved with market demands, transforming into Stora Enso—a leader in sustainable forestry and renewable packaging. This shift demonstrates the impact of aligning a business with sustainable practices, building resilience to outlast market shifts. Forbes notes that purpose-led transformation builds enduring brands, as Stora Enso shows.

Resilience as a Strategic Choice

Business resilience requires a mission beyond quarterly targets. Leaders focused on sustainable growth benefit from external insights, which bring cross-industry knowledge and “best-of-world” strategies. Using external expertise can highlight alternative pathways for companies to build resilience beyond short-term pressures.

 AI-driven innovation enabling sustainable business practices.

2. Strategic Patience: Thriving Without the Urgency to Be First

The 400-Year Lesson from the Greenland Shark

The Greenland shark grows less than a centimeter per year, demonstrating patience and resilience in one of the harshest environments. For businesses, this translates into the strategic patience required for long-term value, rather than quick gains, especially as AI emerges as a game-changer in strategy.

Long-Term AI Strategy for Sustainable Impact

According to Gartner, businesses with a long-term AI strategy see greater returns. Consulting partners with a focus on sustainable, AI-driven innovation provide valuable guidance, turning AI into a strategic asset that aligns with long-term goals. See James Larsson’s insights on AI’s role in shaping business resilience.

 Companies house certificate in 1288. Stora Enso’s journey from copper mining to sustainable forestry and packaging.

3. Sustainable Innovation: Purpose-Driven AI and Technology Alignment

Stora Enso’s Evolution from Mining to Sustainability

True innovation goes beyond technology to embrace purpose. Stora Enso, by aligning operations with renewable practices, has built a resilient, sustainable brand. Deloitte emphasizes that purpose-driven companies outperform others, with Stora Enso exemplifying this approach.

Using AI for Sustainable Innovation

AI offers immense potential for business resilience through sustainable practices, optimizing logistics and reducing waste. PwC reports that AI-led sustainability could add trillions to the global economy. External consulting aligns AI investments with the company’s mission, building resilience beyond profit.

4. Cultivating a Resilient, AI-Ready Culture

Building a Culture of Adaptability

Just as the Greenland shark has adapted to harsh conditions, resilient companies build a culture ready for disruption. Boston Consulting Group (BCG) states that companies fostering an “AI-first” culture are better prepared for future disruptions, creating resilience and innovation-readiness.

Consulting for a Future-Proof Culture

Creating an AI-ready culture takes time and strategic insight. Working with a consultant can integrate best practices from diverse industries, building resilience and preparing teams for future challenges.

Conclusion: The Long View in Business Resilience

The Greenland shark and Stora Enso illustrate that resilience, adaptability, and purpose are timeless. Leaders today must ask: How can we ensure our company’s resilience in the years to come?

Partnering with experienced consultants can provide insights to guide companies through change. Embracing a long-term approach fosters resilience, allowing businesses to evolve, innovate, and leave a lasting legacy in an AI-driven future.

🧐 Curiosa Corner: Fascinating Facts Behind the Blog