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Today, the company is involved in local property investments in Grimstad as well as building materials and construction in Norway and the rest of Europe. The roots of JBU's Norwegian and global business activities date back to the company's long history in the shipping industry, starting in 1930. The red flag with the white "U" that waves high over shipping vessels is a familiar trademark to many people in the Norwegian and international shipping industry. The Ugland family has been involved in the sector for over 70 years and has witnessed many changes in this period. Today's uncertain times are not an exception. The company is currently evaluating potential future investments in this area after having recently divested itself of all shipping activities. It is still unclear what direction the company may take but it is not ruling out future involvement in this market. This area of business was closely tied to the Japanese shipbuilding industry, as the Tsuneishi shipyard in Japan built over 35 new vessels for JBU. Future new projects are a possibility, but that decision has not been finalized. For those familiar with the southern coast of Norway, the South Coast Technology Center is a sprawling business campus that houses not only 'new economy' start-ups but also the tried and true services and products of established technology companies. According to Kjell Rune Staddeland, JBU's managing director, the rationale behind this JBU investment is to provide an environment where IT innovation and development can prosper. Not only is JBU involved in the financial support of the properties, it has also invested in some of the companies themselves. Ugland Bygg, a subsidiary of JBU, consists of specialized companies focusing on the professional building construction market. Today, a large number of buildings across Norway and Europe use products by Grimstad Garasjene, the market leader in Northern Europe for garages. Other subsidiaries include Uldals Dorer og Vinduer, a top manufacturer of Norwegian wooden windows and doors, and Ugland Hus & Hytter, which produces and sells pre-fabricated wooden homes in the country's southern coastal area. JBU has been successful with a diversified range of activities such as shipping operations, information and environmental technology development, and professional building materials production. As far as Kjell is concerned, the secrets of success are clear. "Our tradition goes back to around 1200 and our business since that time has been successful by always seeking new innovative solutions, and being able to see the possibilities in business areas where they have not been seen before," he concludes.
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