CUSTOMER STORY

Sif Group’s Successful Public Listing Transition
Maximizing Investor Communications

When a company transitions from private to public status, as Sif Group did in 2016 by listing on the Euronext stock exchange, it enters a critical phase of enhanced communication. This change demands a strategic focus on transparent, timely communication with all stakeholders, from shareholders to potential investors. Public listing not only brings regulatory requirements but also necessitates proactive public relations to foster a positive market reputation. Before its listing, Sif Group, a family-owned business, operated with limited public visibility. The listing marked a significant shift, requiring the company to heighten its focus on corporate communications and financial disclosures. This pivotal moment called for Sif Group to adapt its operations and seek broader exposure while meeting the diverse needs of regulatory and business communications.

image courtesy of: Sif Netherlands b.v.

A Glimpse into Sif Group

Sif Group, a pioneer in sustainable and offshore wind energy manufacturing, has been at the forefront of the industry since 1948. From its humble beginnings as a family-owned steel structure manufacturer, it has grown into a publicly-traded company specializing in offshore wind monopile foundations. With over 600 employees and facilities in Roermond and Rotterdam, Sif Group is committed to safety, efficiency, quality, and minimal environmental impact in its production processes.

Fons van Lith, Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Affairs at Sif Group, has been instrumental in driving the company’s financial communications. His role encompasses managing financial information, complying with reporting requirements, and liaising with the Executive and Supervisory boards.

The transition to a public company brought unique challenges for Sif Group, particularly in attracting media attention and informing stakeholders about stock-impacting events. Fons identified the need for an upgraded communication infrastructure to address these challenges. Presspage emerged as the ideal solution, offering simplicity, efficiency, and reliable support. The exclusive partnership between Presspage and Euronext Corporate Services additionally provides Sif Group with the opportunity to distribute content directly through Euronext LIVE, incorporate real-time share price updates with Share Price Live, and conduct online shareholder meetings using Company Webcast.

image courtesy of: Sif Netherlands b.v.

Streamlining Communication for Investor Relations

Enhanced News Dissemination:

The stock exchange listing brought a critical need for Sif Group to disseminate information accurately and promptly. Presspage facilitated the distribution of vital financial and corporate news through multiple channels simultaneously, including direct syndication to Euronext LIVE, and integration with Sif’s share price data and investor webcasting. The platform ensured compliance with mandatory disclosure requirements, enabling the company to reach a wider audience, including shareholders, potential investors, and the media.

Balanced Stakeholder Services:

Presspage’s technology allowed Sif Group to cater to diverse audiences with precision, ensuring balanced communication for different news types. Post implementation, with one easy workflow, they were able to publish trading updates and other regulated content directly to their investor relations newsroom, distribution lists, and social channels. All with one click of a button keeping the insider circle very limited and with the assurance the content publishing and distribution is all done at exactly the same time.

Consistent Narrative:

One of the challenges of corporate communications and investor relations, especially in a large company, is maintaining a consistent narrative. Presspage’s system allowed various team members to access and use the system while ensuring a uniform style and tone in all communications. This consistency is vital in reinforcing Sif Group’s brand identity and message across different platforms and stakeholder groups.

Streamlined Reporting:

Transitioning from annual to more frequent quarterly reporting, Sif Group faced a significant increase in its reporting workload. Presspage simplified this process, making it easier to manage and disseminate regular financial updates. This efficiency was critical in maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring timely communication with the market

“Once a company is listed, you get different types of news – news that’s interesting for the stock market specifically and news that’s interesting to employees or clients and that does not have an immediate stock market relevance. With the Presspage system, you can serve both stakeholder groups equally.”

Fons van Lith
Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Affairs, Sif GROUP

image courtesy of: Sif Netherlands b.v.

Streamlined Reporting:

Focused Audience Reach:

With Presspage, Sif Group could access extensive, predefined media contact lists, enabling them to quickly disseminate information to a targeted audience. This feature was particularly beneficial in reaching out to financial and corporate media, enhancing the company’s visibility and presence in the investor community.

Centralized Performance Analysis:

Presspage provided Sif Group with advanced analytics tools, offering insights into the reach and impact of their communications. These metrics included audience engagement data, such as read and open rates, enabling the company to measure the effectiveness of its releases and refine its communication strategies accordingly.

Efficient Information Filing and Distribution:

The Presspage system streamlined the dual requirement of filing information with authorities and leading media for listed companies in Europe. This feature significantly reduced manual work, allowing the team to focus on high-value activities and strategic communication planning.

24/7 Support:

The 24/7 availability of the Presspage platform alongside robust customer support was a significant advantage for Sif Group. This support provided the company with the assurance and assistance needed to manage its Investor Relations communications effectively.

Expanding Beyond Financial Communications

Sif Group’s partnership with Presspage has evolved from focusing solely on financial and corporate releases to encompassing marketing communications. This expansion signifies the company’s growing influence and its commitment to strengthening its Investor Relations and overall PR efforts.

Sif Group’s journey from a family-run business to a publicly listed company highlights the critical role of effective investor communications. By integrating Presspage into its operations, Sif Group has not only streamlined its communication processes but has also positioned itself as a trusted source for analysts, shareholders, and stakeholders. The exclusive partnership between Presspage and Euronext Corporate Services provides Sif Group with the opportunity to distribute content directly through Euronext LIVE, incorporate real-time share price updates with Share Price Live, and conduct online shareholder meetings using Company Webcast.

Visit Sif Group’s Investor Page ->

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