Since 1980, Stantek ApS has been synonymous with solid craftsmanship. This small, traditional steel-focused company in Denmark works with a wide range of clients, from government bodies such as the Road Directorate and Banedanmark to owners of castles and estates. The Danish royal family can even be counted amongst those the company has worked with; in addition to the services provided to properties in this area, we caught up with Stantek’s owner, Michael Askø.
Stantek specialises in certified steel structures for the building and construction industry. Its work includes the supply of steel for listed buildings, as well as the complete supply and renovation of historic structures and the restoration of listed steel and metal building components. In addition to this, the company also covers steelwork for roads and railways, metal art (statues, sculptures, etc.) and much more.
Whatever the project, Stantek tackles it with a comprehensive, flexible and detailed approach, guided by decades of first-hand expertise.
Highlights of this comprehensive approach include work on the roof above the orangery at Fredensborg Palace, and the distinctive gilded stars/prison cells at Copenhagen’s
Central Police Station have also been restored. Stantek is also creating a large bronze pyramid for the Bishop’s Palace in Nykøbing Falster. The commission for the Sun Wheel located in Give (an impressive work of art by Bo Karberg, which took around six years to complete).
Stantek is certified for CE marking in accordance with DS/EN 1090, which is the main certification for steel structures, and approved for work in EXC4, the highest execution class in construction.
Stantek’s operations have been based on a strict focus on quality for more than 45 years. Throughout Denmark and beyond, the company has become known for the creativity it has brought to the world of steel construction. Combining this with its 45 years of experience, Stantek is able to find new and often ingenious solutions.
“We offer Scandinavia and the rest of the world our expertise in steel, as well as in the development and optimisation of existing structures.”
Early on in the process, the team produces drawings of a specific product so that a shared understanding of the desired solution is easier to achieve. Next, in collaboration with a 3D designer, precise illustrations are created of the project that can be realised, including, for example, a complex construction project. This demonstrates the comprehensive approach.
Stantek brings something to this field that has served it well since it was founded by Aage Jensen Stantek, a carpenter with a healthy spirit of innovation. Towards the early 1980s, one of the key trends in Denmark was houses delivered in ‘kit form’, where convenience and standardisation replaced the attention to detail inherent in fine craftsmanship. Stantek was Aage’s way of preserving the spirit of tailor-made solutions, and after several years as a foreman for various companies, he became familiar with the metalworking industry and began to realise the value he could bring to this sector by working as an independent master smith.
Stantek was founded in an empty barn near his home, where Aage took on steel-related projects for the local community and quickly gained a reputation as a jack-of-all-trades who could tackle even the most complex jobs.
Things really took off in the years that followed when Michael Askø, Aage’s son, joined the company in 1983. It was around this time that Stantek secured a major contract from the Danish railway company DSB, thanks to an engineer’s endorsement. Even more journeymen would then follow in Michael’s footsteps, including Nicklas, Michael’s own son.
In 2013, Michael took over the company, and Aage passed away shortly afterwards.
Michael continues in Aage’s spirit to carry the business forward with values that will hopefully endure for generations to come. As for what these values entail, ‘development’ and ‘versatility’ are the guiding principles of the business, and a key part of its strategy involves training new blacksmiths on an ongoing basis. Having an apprentice in the workshop acts as a breath of fresh air, whilst also benefiting the future of the profession.
With this forward-looking focus always in mind, Stantek’s workshop is a place of collaboration and communication, with strong relationships. Almost everything the company produces is carried out in this workshop, enabling Michael and the team to guarantee the highest industry standards. This includes strict quality control even when projects are being worked on at all hours of the day.
Even when faced with urgent tasks, Stantek strives to work to tight deadlines so that its customers can always rely on the best service. Just one. It is this kind of recognition that sets Stantek apart in this industry.
“Our company is based on freedom with responsibility. We are very proud of that. We deliver on time and are on the same wavelength by helping one another.”
However, this is not the only thing that sets this family-run business apart. As Michael explained: “Stantek stands out from its competitors because it is always open to dialogue, takes on any challenge, and runs a hands-on operation.” He continued: “As the owner of the business, I always keep my finger on the pulse and am actively involved in the projects. This approach also applies to our staff, who always welcome customers and guide them in the right direction. Stantek is with both you and your project from start to finish.”
In a world where this market is becoming increasingly pressured, driven by factors such as corporate mergers, it is an advantage to have a partner that is small and can pivot quickly; this is highly beneficial for those seeking the best possible service. A small company that not only specialises and establishes a firm foothold in one area, as Stantek has done within steel construction, but also adds value as a subcontractor and trendsetter. This is evident in its design of sustainable solutions, which help their clients literally build the future.
Stantek’s location in Scandinavia is yet another advantage that Michael and the team are capitalising on. Thanks to the region’s economic stability, reliable supply chains and abundance of work. The latter is particularly prevalent in Denmark, where building and construction work is a high priority, primarily in areas such as roads, railways and property renovation. As a result, Michael is looking forward to the next steps for Stantek, a company whose 46th year of operation is expected to focus on development and optimisation.
Although specific projects are still under wraps, Michael shared: “I am very optimistic about 2026, despite all the turmoil we are seeing across most of the world right now. For companies that want to succeed, it is important to adapt to the reality on the ground and stay calm, and that is exactly what we are doing.” Michael certainly knows what he is talking about, as Stantek has weathered everything from crises and recoveries to a global pandemic. Since they reopened their doors following the pandemic, the world has simply kept on moving.
Finally, referring to Stantek ApS’s recognition in this programme, Michael told us: “Stantek ApS is a small company with great potential. We have remained adaptable to new tasks and are always solution-oriented.
When it comes to the design phase, we have great flexibility and are happy to take on urgent tasks alongside other work, and we take pride in delivering products on time and without errors.” It is this unique combination that has earned this prestigious recognition as Steel Construction Company 2026 – Denmark.
Contact details
Contact: Michael Askø
Company: Stantek ApS
Website: https://www.stantek.dk/
