Case Studies

Past Projects

Transforming an Idea into a Sustainable Business Reality
Client: GreenQuip Group
Industry: Sustainable Construction Access Equipment

Challenge: GreenQuip Group, a retail chain focusing on sustainable construction access equipment, needed to evolve from an ambitious idea into a tangible, market-ready concept. They required strategic guidance, a robust business plan, and operational leadership to attract investor funding and establish their presence across Eastern Europe and the Baltics.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:
Services Deployed:

  • A2: Conceptualization Workshop
  • A3: Conceptualization Roadmap & Plan
  • A4: Conceptualization Business Plan Overview
  • A5: Conceptualization Feasibility Pilot Study
  • I2: Personnel Management/Staffing (Interim CEO)


Initial Steps:

  • Conducted a Conceptualization Workshop (A2) to collaboratively refine GreenQuip’s innovative idea.
  • Developed a detailed Roadmap & Plan (A3) providing a strategic framework for business operations.
  • Created a Business Plan Overview (A4) summarizing the concept and strategies for potential investors.


Feasibility and Strategic Execution:

  • Undertook a Feasibility Pilot Study (A5) to assess market viability, financial sustainability, and potential challenges.
  • Provided an Interim CEO (I2) for strategic leadership, bringing expertise in sustainable business practices and operational planning.


Outcome:

  • Stepford Consulting’s strategic and operational guidance successfully transformed GreenQuip’s concept into a scalable and investment-attractive business.
  • With the interim leadership and a compelling business framework, GreenQuip secured funding from investors, enabling them to expand across Eastern Europe and the Baltics.
  • The company established a strong brand identity as a pioneer in the circular economy, offering sustainable solutions in the construction access equipment industry.


Client Testimonial:

  • “From concept to reality, the journey has been exhilarating and successful,” says Linards Stafeckis, Country manager LV of GreenQuip Group.


Website: www.greenquip.pl

Key Insights:

  • Stepford Consulting’s approach was integral in moving GreenQuip from an early-stage concept to a market-ready enterprise.
  • The collaboration underscored the importance of detailed planning, feasibility studies, and strategic leadership in transforming ideas into successful businesses.
  • GreenQuip’s journey highlights the potential of sustainable business models in today’s environmentally-conscious market.
Transforming Business Strategy for Market Leadership
Client: Markskydd I Väst AB
Industry: Ground Protection and Temporary Access Solutions

Challenge: Markskydd I Väst AB, specializing in ground protection mats and temporary access solutions, sought to expand their market presence and revitalize their business strategy. Facing stagnant sales and low market visibility, they needed a comprehensive overhaul to enhance their operational efficiency and market position.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • A2: Conceptualization Workshop
    • A3: Conceptualization Roadmap & Plan
    • I2: Personnel Management/Staffing (General Manager, Director of Sales & Marketing)

  2. Strategic Development and Implementation:
    • Facilitated a Conceptualization Workshop (A2) to identify new business opportunities and streamline processes.
    • Developed a Conceptualization Roadmap & Plan (A3) to guide strategic decision-making and market expansion.
    • Provided key executive roles, including a General Manager and Director of Sales & Marketing (I2), to drive operational and sales excellence.

  3. Key Results:
    • Achieved a 279% increase in turnover, demonstrating the effectiveness of the newly implemented business and marketing strategies.
    • Significantly enhanced brand visibility, establishing Markskydd I Väst AB as a recognized name in the industry.
    • Implemented CRM and integrated business systems to improve customer engagement and streamline operations.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “Working with Stepford was transformative for MSIVAB. Their insight into market dynamics and hands-on management style propelled us to new heights,” says Tommy Magnusson, COO of Markskydd I Väst AB.

  5. Website: www.markskydd.se

    Insights and Learnings:
    • Stepford Consulting’s strategic guidance was crucial in transforming Markskydd I Väst AB’s business operations, leading to significant growth.
    • The case underscores the importance of strategic planning, leadership, and integrating technology in business transformation.
    • Markskydd I Väst AB’s success highlights the potential of reinventing business models to achieve market leadership in a competitive environment.
Digital Transformation: Orlen SA – Revolutionizing Digital Engagement
Client: Orlen SA
Industry: Energy and Petrochemicals

Challenge: Orlen SA, a major player in the energy sector with a diverse portfolio including fuel stations, petrochemical products, and renewable energy, faced the challenge of modernizing their digital presence to align with their growing and evolving business needs. They required a comprehensive digital overhaul to enhance customer engagement, streamline processes, and showcase their commitment to sustainability.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • B2: Digital Transformation Workshop
    • B3: Ecommerce Blueprint/Map
    • B4: Process Integration Roadmap
    • B5: UI/UX & Website Structure Plan
    • B6: Website Mockup
    • B6a: Website Development
    • B8: Professional Website Photography

  2. Digital Revamp and Execution:
    • Facilitated a Digital Transformation Workshop (B2) to define Orlen SA’s digital objectives and create a roadmap for digital innovation.
    • Developed a comprehensive E-commerce Blueprint (B3), integrating their wide range of services and products for a streamlined digital experience.
    • Created a Process Integration Roadmap (B4) to align Orlen’s technological infrastructure with their business goals.
    • Designed an intuitive UI/UX & Website Structure Plan (B5) to enhance user engagement and accessibility.
    • Developed a Website Mockup (B6) to visualize the new digital interface, ensuring it resonates with Orlen’s brand and customer needs.
    • Executed Website Development (B6a) with a focus on responsive design, interactive elements, and e-commerce integration.
    • Conducted Professional Website Photography (B8) to capture the essence of Orlen’s services and brand identity.

  3. Impactful Outcome:
    • Successfully transformed Orlen SA’s digital presence, aligning it with their innovative and sustainable business model.
    • Enhanced customer interaction and digital accessibility, positioning Orlen as a leader in digital innovation in the energy sector.
    • Established a cohesive and modern digital platform that effectively communicates Orlen’s commitment to clean energy and sustainability.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “Stepford Consulting’s expertise in digital transformation has been a game-changer for Orlen. Their strategic approach and execution have catapulted our digital presence to new heights, reflecting our commitment to innovation and sustainability,” says Johanna Cszaikowska, Process Design Engineer of Orlen SA.

  5. Website: www.orlen.pl/en

    Key Insights:
    • The comprehensive digital overhaul by Stepford Consulting exemplifies the transformative power of digital strategies in enhancing business processes and customer engagement.
    • Orlen SA’s digital transformation journey underscores the importance of aligning digital platforms with business values and objectives, particularly in the energy sector.
    • This case study highlights the potential of integrating digital solutions to streamline operations and foster sustainable business practices.
Digital Transformation: PlayNow by Play – Streamlining a Modern TV Services Website
Client: PlayNow (Subsidiary of Play Telecommunications)
Industry: TV Streaming Services

Challenge: PlayNow, a dedicated TV services platform under Play Telecommunications, sought a significant update to their website to align with the modern standards of TV streaming interfaces. The goal was to create an engaging, user-centric, and visually appealing website mirroring the ease and appeal of leading streaming service platforms.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • B5: UI/UX & Website Structure Plan
    • B6: Website Mockup
    • B6a: Website Development
    • B8: Professional Website Photography

  2. Website Enhancement Process:
    • Developed a UI/UX & Website Structure Plan (B5) to enhance user interaction, ensuring easy navigation and a contemporary look.
    • Created a Website Mockup (B6) that resonates with the aesthetics and functionality of top-tier TV streaming services.
    • Executed Website Development (B6a) focusing on a responsive, interactive design, and seamless content integration.
    • Conducted Professional Website Photography (B8) to elevate the visual impact and authenticity of the website’s design.

  3. Revitalized Digital Presence:
    • Transformed PlayNow’s website into a state-of-the-art TV streaming platform, offering an immersive and user-friendly experience.
    • Streamlined the website’s layout and functionality, boosting user engagement and satisfaction.
    • Elevated the brand identity of PlayNow, showcasing its commitment to providing a top-notch streaming experience.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “Stepford Consulting’s expertise in digital transformation brought a fresh, dynamic perspective to our PlayNow platform, help making it a go-to destination for TV streaming services,” says Arkadius Krokowski, Digital Department Director PLAY

  5. Website: www.playnow.pl

    Key Insights:
    • PlayNow’s website refresh highlights the importance of keeping digital platforms updated to match industry standards and user expectations in TV streaming services.
    • The project emphasizes the necessity of a user-focused design approach to ensure engagement and satisfaction in a highly competitive digital environment.
    • This transformation showcases how effective UI/UX design, coupled with strategic development, can rejuvenate a brand’s digital presence and user interaction.
Branding: Open Revive – Reinventing for Sustainability and Global Reach
Client: PA Hede AB/Open Revive (OR)
Industry: Sustainable Procurement and Supply Chain for Construction and Agriculture

Challenge: PA Hede AB, specializing in sustainable procurement, particularly in recycled plastics for construction and agriculture, needed a complete new brand to reflect their commitment to sustainability and prepare for international expansion. Their goal was to establish a distinctive brand identity that underscored their expertise in green-materials and versatility in the industry.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • C2: Brand Evolution Workshop
    • C3: Concept Moodboard
    • C4: Name Brainstorming
    • C5: Logo Creation
    • C6: Brand Book
    • C8: Print Media Design
    • I2: Personnel Management/Staffing (Concept Developer, HR Manager)

  2. Branding Strategy and Execution:
    • Held a Brand Evolution Workshop (C2) to create the Open Revive brand, focusing on their sustainable and versatile business model.
    • Developed a Concept Moodboard (C3) that visually encapsulated Open Revive’s commitment to the circular economy and sustainability.
    • Engaged in Name Brainstorming (C4) to conceptualize a name resonating with their global vision and environmental focus, yet showcasing their open source/ing mentality towards suppliers.
    • Created a new Logo (C5) to symbolize Open Revive’s commitment to environmental sustainability, whilst having a modern minimalistic touch.
    • Compiled a comprehensive Brand Book (C6) to ensure consistent brand messaging across all platforms.
    • Designed new Print Media (C8) that reflected the new brand identity and sustainable ethos.
    • Provided strategic roles: Concept Developer for spearheading the rebranding initiative and an HR Manager for staffing alignment with the new brand direction.

  3. Impactful Outcomes:
    • Successfully created Open Revive’s brand to reflect their commitment to sustainability and market readiness for global expansion.
    • Enhanced brand identity with a focus on green materials expertise, appealing to both construction and agricultural sectors.
    • Streamlined the organizational structure to align efficiently with the (new) brand and business objectives.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “Stepford has been a pivotal in our journey towards a new brand in line with our international presence. Their strategic approach in rebranding has not only created a brand identity but also aligned our operations with our core values,” says Per Hillertz, Owner of Open Revive.

  5. Website: www.openrevive.com (website to be launched 2025)

    Key Insights:
    • The branding of Open Revive illustrates the importance of a cohesive brand identity that reflects core business values, especially in sustainability-focused industries.
    • This case highlights the integral role of strategic brand evolution in preparing a company for international markets and sustainable practices.
    • Open Revive’s journey with Stepford underscores the effectiveness of comprehensive branding services in transforming a company’s market presence and operational ethos.
Branding: Amber Grid UAB – Launching ‘Green Hydrogen’ into the Future
Client: Amber Grid UAB
Industry: Energy, Natural Gas Transmission, and Renewable Energy

Challenge: Amber Grid UAB, a leading natural gas transmission operator in Lithuania, aimed to introduce a new product, ‘Green Hydrogen,’ symbolizing a step towards a clean energy future. They needed a compelling brand identity for this innovative product and a refreshed logo for Amber Grid to align with their commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • C2: Brand Evolution Workshop
    • C3: Concept Moodboard
    • C4: Name Brainstorming
    • C5: Logo Creation
    • C6: Brand Book

  2. Innovative Branding and Design Process:
    • Conducted a Brand Evolution Workshop (C2) to strategically position ‘Green Hydrogen’ in the energy market and refresh Amber Grid’s brand identity.
    • Developed a Concept Moodboard (C3) visualizing the essence of ‘Green Hydrogen’ and Amber Grid’s commitment to renewable energy.
    • Engaged in Name Brainstorming (C4) to conceptualize a powerful and evocative name for the new green hydrogen product.
    • Designed a new Logo (C5) for both ‘Green Hydrogen’ and Amber Grid, symbolizing innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.
    • Compiled a comprehensive Brand Book (C6) to ensure consistent messaging and identity for ‘Green Hydrogen’ and the refreshed Amber Grid brand.

  3. Impactful Outcomes:
    • Successfully established a distinct brand identity for ‘Green Hydrogen,’ positioning it as a key player in the sustainable energy market.
    • Enhanced brand identity with a focus on green materials expertise, appealing to both construction and agricultural sectors.
    • Streamlined the organizational structure to align efficiently with the new brand and business objectives.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “The guidance and expertise from Stepford Consulting in branding ‘Green Hydrogen’ have been instrumental in its market introduction. Their thoughtful approach in aligning our new product with the Amber Grid brand was exactly what we needed,” says Mr. Vytautas Plunge, Information System Engineer at Amber Grid.

  5. Website: www.ambergrid.it

    Key Insights:
    • The branding of ‘Green Hydrogen’ by Amber Grid UAB illustrates the importance of a cohesive brand identity that reflects core business values, especially in sustainability-focused industries.
    • This case highlights the integral role of strategic brand evolution in preparing a company for international markets and sustainable practices.
    • Amber Grid UAB’s journey with Stepford underscores the effectiveness of comprehensive branding services in transforming a company’s market presence and operational ethos.
Branding: Vinted – Subtle Yet Impactful Logo Upgrade
Client: Vinted
Industry: Online Marketplace for Second-hand Clothing and Accessories

Challenge: Vinted, a prominent Lithuanian online marketplace for second-hand clothing, needed a subtle upgrade to their logo to refresh their brand identity. The goal was to modernize their logo while maintaining the essence that resonates with their vast user base, emphasizing their commitment to sustainable fashion.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • C2: Brand Evolution Workshop
    • C3: Concept Moodboard
    • C5: Logo Creation

  2. Logo Refresh Process:
    • Held a Brand Evolution Workshop (C2) to understand Vinted’s brand history and future aspirations.
    • Developed a Concept Moodboard (C3) to visualize possible directions for the logo refresh.
    • Created a new Logo (C5), subtly enhancing the existing design to reflect a more modern, yet familiar look.

  3. Impactful Outcome:
    • Successfully refreshed Vinted’s logo, introducing a modern touch while preserving the brand’s recognizable identity.
    • Reinforced Vinted’s position as a leader in the online second-hand marketplace, while aligning with the evolving digital landscape.
    • The subtle logo upgrade mirrored Vinted’s dedication to sustainability and staying relevant in a dynamic market.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “The logo refresh perfectly encapsulates Vinted’s spirit. It’s a small change, but it’s significant in aligning our brand with our growth and ongoing mission,” says Paulus Zebrauskas, Expansion Program Manager at Vinted.

  5. Website: www.vinted.se

    Key Insights:
    • This case study highlights the effectiveness of a subtle yet impactful logo upgrade in enhancing a brand’s modern appeal.
    • Vinted’s logo refresh demonstrates the the importance of maintaining brand recognition while evolving the visual identity. The collaboration with Stepford Consulting shows how strategic branding can reinforce a company’s position and adapt to the changing market dynamics without losing its core essence.
Żabka – Crafting a Comprehensive Branding Manual
Client: Żabka Polska
Industry: Retail Convenience Stores

Challenge: Żabka Polska, a leading chain of convenience stores in Poland and Central Europe, sought to create a comprehensive branding manual to ensure consistent branding across its expanding network. The aim was to define clear guidelines that reflect Żabka’s commitment to convenience, community integration, and innovative services.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • C1: Consultation
    • C2: Brand Evolution Workshop
    • C3: Concept Moodboard
    • C6: Brand Book

  2. Development of Branding Guidelines:
    • Provided Consultation (C1) to align with Żabka’s strategic brand objectives and market positioning.
    • Conducted a Brand Evolution Workshop (C2) to explore and solidify Żabka’s brand identity and values.
    • Developed a Concept Moodboard (C3) to visualize Żabka’s brand essence and thematic elements.
    • Created a comprehensive Brand Book (C6), detailing guidelines on logo usage, color schemes, typography, store aesthetics, and communication strategies.

  3. Brand Identity Consolidation:
    • Successfully defined a cohesive brand manual for Żabka, encapsulating its ethos of freshness, convenience, and local community engagement.
    • Ensured brand consistency across all franchises and communication channels, reinforcing Żabka’s position as a leader in the convenience store sector.
    • Strengthened the brand’s image as an innovative and customer-centric retailer in Central and Eastern Europe.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “Stepford Consulting’s expertise in branding has been valuable in formulating our brand guidelines. The new branding manual perfectly captures the essence of our brand, streamlining our branding efforts as we expand,” says Adam Jar. Seredmicki, Marketing Manager Zabka.

  5. Website: www.zabka.pl

    Key Insights:
    • The creation of a branding manual for Żabka Polska is a testament to the importance of cohesive and clear brand guidelines in supporting business expansion and maintaining brand integrity.
    • This case study illustrates how effectively articulated brand values and visual elements can enhance brand consistency and recognition in a fast-growing retail network.
    • Żabka’s strategic focus on branding illustrates the crucial role of clear communication and visual identity in establishing a strong presence in the competitive retail market.
AI Engineering: Enhancing Sales Efficiency with AI for a Leading Audio Streaming Company
Client: A Leading Audio Streaming Service
Industry: Digital Media and Entertainment

Challenge: A global leader in audio streaming needed to integrate AI, specifically ChatGPT, into their ad sales team workflow to enhance efficiency and customer interaction.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • D1: AI & BI Consultation
    • D2: AI & BI Workshop
    • D8: AI & BI Docs & Maps

  2. AI Integration for Sales Optimization:
    • Conducted AI & BI Consultation (D1) to understand and enhance the sales workflow.
    • Hosted an AI & BI Workshop (D2) for planning and integrating ChatGPT into sales processes.
    • Developed AI & BI Docs & Maps (D8) to guide the sales team in effective AI utilization.

  3. Outcome:
    • Integrated ChatGPT into the sales department processes, enhancing efficiency and customer engagement.
    • Streamlined sales processes with AI, with the aim to improving communication and sales outcomes.
    • Equipped the sales team with advanced AI tools for better customer interaction.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “The integration of AI with Stepfords guidance has helped our sales operations” – Sales manager, Leading Audio Streaming Company.

  5. Website: Not applicable due to client privacy.
AI Engineering: H&M Group’s Subsidiary – Streamlining with Centralized AI Integration
Client: A Subsidiary of H&M Group
Industry: Fast-Fashion Retail

Challenge: A key subsidiary of H&M Group needed to integrate AI processes into existing platforms for enhanced operational efficiency and customer engagement.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • D2: AI & BI Workshop
    • D8: AI & BI Docs & Maps

  2. Efficient AI Integration for Enhanced Operations:
    • Hosted an AI & BI Workshop (D2) to align AI integration with subsidiary’s needs.
    • Developed AI & BI Docs & Maps (D8) for guiding successful AI process integration.

  3. Outcome:
    • Successfully integrated AI processes, improving operational efficiency for the subsidiary.
    • Enhanced customer engagement and streamlined internal systems with AI insights.
    • Aligned AI integration with H&M Group’s overall technological advancement strategies.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “Stepford’s support in AI integration has effectively enhanced our operational systems, resulting in improved service efficiency for our client, H&M,” – Johann Freudenberg, Technology Manager, ModaTech Solutions.

  5. Website: www2.hm.com/sv_se/index.html
Supply Chain Management: Volvo Group – Focused Optimization for Efficiency
Client: Volvo Group
Industry: Automotive and Transportation

Challenge: A specific department within the vast Volvo Group needed to optimize its supply chain, focusing on material sourcing. The objective was to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and align with the company’s overall commitment to sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • E2: SCM Strategy Workshop
    • E3: SCM Product Lifecycle, Supply Chain Plan, Product Line Analysis
    • E4: SCM Procurement/Purchasing Analysis

  2. Targeted Supply Chain Enhancement:
    • Conducted an SCM Strategy Workshop (E2) tailored to the unique needs of the specific Volvo Group department, with a focus on identifying key areas for supply chain improvement.
    • Performed a detailed Product Lifecycle, Supply Chain Plan, and Product Line Analysis (E3), examining existing processes and outlining strategies for enhanced efficiency.
    • Undertook a comprehensive Procurement/Purchasing Analysis (E4) to identify cost-saving opportunities and streamline procurement practices.

  3. Strategic Improvements:
    • Identified and implemented targeted strategies to optimize the department’s supply chain, resulting in enhanced operational efficiency.
    • Developed actionable recommendations for refining procurement processes, leading to more efficient material sourcing and cost reductions.
    • Facilitated alignment with Volvo Group’s global standards for sustainability and efficiency.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “Working with Stepford helped with focused improvements to our material sourcing supply chain processes. Their expertise supported our team for efficiency and sustainability within our specific operational context,” – says Josefin Karlsson, Project Manager at Volvo Group supply chain partner.

  5. Website: www.volvogroup.com

    Key Insights:
    • Volvo Group’s supply chain optimization showcases the effectiveness of specialized consultancy in refining operational processes within large organizations.
    • This project exemplifies how targeted improvements can yield significant enhancements in efficiency and sustainability, aligning with overarching corporate objectives.
    • The success achieved in a specific department underlines the potential impact of focused supply chain strategies in multinational companies.
Supply Chain Management: Uncovering Truths – Skanska’s Journey to Sustainable Sourcing
Client: Skanska AB
Industry: Construction and Development

Challenge: Skanska required verification of a supplier’s environmental sustainability claims to ensure compliance with their standards. The objective was to validate these claims and assist in alternative sourcing if necessary.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • E3: SCM Product Lifecycle, Supply Chain Plan, Product Line Analysis
    • E5: SCM Material Sourcing – Flexible Rate

  2. Verification and Strategic Sourcing:
    • Conducted a comprehensive analysis (E3) to validate the supplier’s sustainability claims.
    • Engaged in strategic material sourcing (E5), identifying a compliant and sustainable alternative supplier.

  3. Outcome:
    • Revealed inaccuracies in the original supplier’s sustainability claims, necessitating alternative sourcing.
    • Enabled Skanska to align their supply chain with environmental standards, fortifying their commitment to sustainable practices.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “The expertise of Stepford Consulting was crucial in scrutinizing our supplier’s claims, leading us to a more sustainable partnership,” says Thomas Jörgenson, PM Sustainable Procurement at Skanska.

  5. Website: www.skanska.com
Sustainability & Circular Economy: Transforming Hazardous Waste Management for a Scandinavian Car Wash Chain
Client: A Major Scandinavian Car Wash Company
Industry: Automotive Service

Challenge: The client needed expert consultancy to manage hazardous wastes effectively and reduce waste management costs.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:

  1. Services Deployed:
    • G1: Sustainable Waste Management Consultancy
    • G3: Hazardous Waste Management Brokerage Service

  2. Efficient Waste Management Solutions:
    • Provided specialized consultancy (G1) for optimizing hazardous waste processes.
    • Brokered effective waste management services (G3), enhancing compliance and efficiency.
    • Achieved significant cost reductions, improving the company’s sustainability profile.

  3. Outcome:
    • Enhanced waste management efficiency and compliance.
    • Reduced hazardous waste management costs by €2 million annually.
    • Strengthened the company’s environmental responsibility and sustainability.

  4. Client Testimonial:
    • “The brokerage services from Stepford Consulting led to €1.2 million annual savings. Their expertise was key in enhancing our waste management and sustainability efforts,” – Senior Environmental Officer, Major Scandinavian Car Wash Company.

  5. Website: Not applicable due to client privacy.
Cybersecurity: Coordinated Breach Response for Diverse Organizations
Client: Various Firms and Corporations (Confidential)
Industry: Legal, IT Security, Financial, Government

Challenge: A range of organizations, including law firms, financial institutions, and government agencies, faced serious cybersecurity threats. These encompassed sophisticated phishing attacks and data breaches, risking sensitive data exposure and significant financial impact.

Stepford Consulting’s Role:
  • Services Deployed:
    • D4a: Cyber Threat Intelligence
      • Providing comprehensive analysis and continuous monitoring to identify and counteract potential cyber threats.
      • Proactively adapting to evolving digital risks to safeguard critical business data and IT infrastructure.
      • Price: Starting from 375€
    • D4b: Leaked Database Analysis and Remediation
      • Expertly detecting and resolving data breaches through in-depth analysis.
      • Identifying compromised data, such as leaked email addresses, and swiftly implementing mitigation strategies.
      • Price: Starting from 2818€

Key Actions and Outcomes:
  • Successfully neutralized an advanced phishing attack at a Gothenburg law firm in November 2023, potentially saving SEK 4 million at a cost of SEK 19,000.
  • Prevented a data leak at a Stockholm auditing firm in January 2024, averting estimated risks of SEK 7 million for a service cost of SEK 30,000.
  • Conducted ongoing surveillance and leak prevention across 9 law firms, 3 IT security companies, 1 government institution, and 4 businesses in various sectors in February 2024. The estimated savings totaled SEK 79 million against a combined service cost of SEK 510,000.

Website: [Confidential due to sensitive nature of services and clients]

Key Insights:
  • The diversity of cyber threats across various industries highlights the need for specialized, adaptable cybersecurity solutions.
  • Stepford Consulting’s role in preventing considerable financial and data losses underlines the critical importance of early detection and rapid response in cybersecurity.
  • Our proactive approach and expertise in cyber threat intelligence and database leak remediation are vital for safeguarding sensitive information in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Cyberthreat: Strabag.eu (2023)

Client: Anonymous Construction Materials Firm

Situation: The client received an email from an individual claiming to be Mark.Baxter@Strabag.eu, a reputed European road construction company, purchasing construction materials for the UK. The email address, LinkedIn profile, and UK phone number +442071750433 seemed legitimate. After multiple calls with him, the client proceeded without extensive background checks.

Challenge: The client agreed to a large order of €140,800 but became suspicious when ‘Mark Baxter’ consistently failed to fulfill a requested prepayment.

Our Solution:

  • Service Used: D4b – Leaked Database Analysis and Remediation (€2818)
  • Conducted a thorough investigation using multiple OSINT layers, revealing that ‘Mark Baxter’ was not an employee of Strabag. The phone number used VPN masking and was traced to Latvia.
  • Linked the operation to Sergei Ivanov Balyatsin and a British associate, known for past bankruptcies and fraudulent activities.

 

Outcome:

  • Our service cost: €2818  (D4b)
  • Prevented loss: €140,800 (the company’s total profits for 2023)

Cyberscam: XXXXX Logistics AB (2024)

Client: Anonymous Clients in Construction and Retail

Situation: Clients were contacted by ‘XXX XXXX’ of ‘XXXXX AB’ for materials and goods. Using a Gmail address and lacking a website, the company’s clean financial record, with a turnover of 40 million SEK and 70% solidity, misled one client to ship goods on a 30-day invoice after a positive credit (UC) report.

Challenge: After shipping goods worth €37,560, ‘XXX XXXX’ and his associate disappeared with the goods.

Our Solution:

  • Services Used:
    • D3c – Comprehensive Intelligence Gathering (€4,697) and
    • D6 – Asset Tracing (5 hours at €150/hour, total €750)
  • Discovered the scam involved identity theft and company hijacking, targeting gray area businesses with clean financial records but no online presence.
  • Located the stolen goods abroad and identified the perpetrators. 

Outcome:

  • Cost of services: €5,447  (D3c & D6)
  • Prevented loss: €37,560 (minus transport costs)

Due to client confidentiality, we can’t publicly disclose all of our case studies. However, we’re happy to provide additional examples and client portfolios upon request.