Running a business today comes with a lot of challenges. Costs are rising, employees expect more, and technology keeps changing how work gets done. On top of that, businesses need to think long-term — how to grow while also being fair to their employees and contributing to society. Daniel de Sousa, CEO of Rillion, and Johan Lindholm, President of the Swedish Trade Union Confederation (LO), sat down to discuss these issues. Their conversation touched on wages, AI, and how businesses can create workplaces where people feel valued.
Finding the balance: business growth and employee well-being
Rising costs, changing expectations
Inflation and higher living expenses are squeezing both employees and businesses. Many employees are struggling to keep up, especially in industries where wages haven’t increased enough.
For employers, this creates a tough situation. How do you stay profitable while making sure employees feel secure? “People today expect more from their jobs,” Daniel said. “It’s not just about money. They want stability and fairness.”
Sweden’s labor market paradox
Despite an 8% unemployment rate, some industries — like construction — can’t find enough skilled workers. At the same time, young people entering the workforce often accept low pay and poor conditions just to get experience. “We need to rethink how we prepare people for work,” Johan said. “Companies need to find the courage to invest in a “new” workforce who may not have the experience yet but can grow with the job and the business.” If businesses want a stable workforce in the future, they need to invest in training and hiring a wider range of people.
Workplace culture and fairness
Why collective agreements matter
Collective agreements set wages and working conditions, but not every company is on board. At Rillion, it’s on the agenda for the future, and Daniel is positive about it. “We want to build a workplace where people feel truly valued,” he said. “Unions offer another perspective on that, and it’s important to listen to different voices so we can keep improving how we work.”
But some companies see it differently. The Tesla labor dispute has raised big questions about whether Sweden’s labor system is changing. “This isn’t just about one company,” Johan said. “If businesses start ignoring agreements, it weakens the whole system.”
Investing in people pays off
Daniel believes that businesses do better when they take care of their employees. Sweden’s approach — balancing competition with social responsibility — has been a big advantage.
“Some companies focus too much on short-term profits,” he said. “But the best ones invest in people. When employees feel valued, they work harder and stay longer.”
At Rillion, fairness and long-term thinking remain a priority.
AI, automation, and the future of work
Will AI take jobs or create them?
AI is changing industries, but Daniel doesn’t see it as a threat. “Technology has always created new kinds of work,” he said. “AI isn’t replacing jobs — it’s changing what they look like.”
At Rillion, AI helps automate repetitive tasks, freeing finance teams to focus on bigger decisions. “Our customers aren’t stuck in busywork anymore,” Daniel explained. “They’re able to think more strategically.”
Keeping the human element
But automation also raises concerns. In service jobs, will AI make workplaces feel less human?
Johan worries about the impact on fields like healthcare and social services. “Young workers in these areas are already under pressure,” he said. “If we focus too much on efficiency, we risk losing what makes these jobs meaningful.”
Technology should help people, not replace human connection.
How businesses can make a real impact
Moving beyond symbolic efforts
Many companies talk about social responsibility, but is it making a real difference?
“Hiring interns or donating to causes looks good on paper,” Johan said. “But does it actually change lives?”
To have a real impact, businesses need to go further. We’re talking hiring from underrepresented groups, investing in employee growth, and ensuring fair conditions at every level.
Why fair business is smart business
Rising inequality doesn’t just affect workers — it affects businesses too. If wages don’t keep up and instability grows, companies will feel the effects.
“We always talk about economic growth,” Johan said. “But if we let inequality widen, we’ll all pay the price.”
Daniel agreed. “A successful company isn’t just about numbers,” he said. “It’s about taking care of the people who make that success possible.”
Final thoughts: building businesses that last
Daniel and Johan both believe the companies that think beyond profits will be the ones that succeed. Whether it’s fair wages, AI, or labor rights, businesses that support their employees will have a stronger future.
At Rillion, that means focusing on fairness, collaboration, and smart innovation. “We believe in growing responsibly,” Daniel said. “By investing in people, using technology wisely, and supporting fair labor practices, we’re building a company that benefits everyone.”
The companies that understand this won’t just survive — they’ll lead the way.
