In a defined contribution plan the company makes fixed contributions to a separate legal entity and has no obligation to make any further contributions. Costs are charged to the consolidated income statement when the benefits are earned.
In a defined benefit plan benefits accrue to employees and former employees based on their salaries at the time of retirement and the number of years of service. The Group bears the risk of ensuring that the promised retirement benefits are paid. The Group has both defined contribution and defined benefit pension plans. Commitments for retirement and family pensions for salaried employees in Sweden are secured through an insurance policy with Alecta. There are no other pension agreements for the personnel, management and Board of Directors.