How do we build attractive, sustainable, and resilient communities in an era marked by rapid change? That was one of the central questions addressed when PLACExNordic was held in Skellefteå as part of Society Expo 2026. Over the course of a few intensive days, place developers, investment promoters, destination organizations, researchers, municipal leaders, and innovation stakeholders from across Sweden and various parts of the world gathered to share experiences, build relationships, and discuss the communities of the future.

When Johan Rockström and Mattias Klum took the stage at Sara Kulturhus on Friday, there was a great deal of interest. Nearly 650 people gathered to attend a lecture where research, statistics, and powerful stories about nature were woven together into a message about the state of the planet – and the opportunity we still have to influence its future.

How do you tell the story of a social transformation that is still underway? Linus Johansson, Creative Director at Try New Things, was a guest on Morgonkaffet this morning. The conversation provided insight into the work behind the Society Expo Exhibition and how hundreds of meetings with residents, businesses, associations, and other stakeholders helped shape the narrative of Skellefteå’s development.

From an acute housing shortage to rising vacancy rates in just a few years. At Skebo’s industry seminar, representatives from the housing sector gathered to discuss the lessons that can be learned when a market changes faster than planning and construction processes.