Boliden acquired Garpenberg in 1957 and exploration work has since resulted in a substantial increase in its ore reserves. Complex ore that contains zinc, copper, lead, gold and silver is mined at Garpenberg, and it is this metal mix that has contributed to the area's favourable cost position.
A decision to carry out a major expansion of operations at Garpenberg was taken in January 2011. A total of SEK 3.9 billion will be invested and will increase ore production at Garpenberg from the current level of 1.4 million tonnes to 2.5 million tonnes per annum. The expansion will be carried out between 2011 and 2014, with production successively increased, starting in early 2014. Full production capacity will be reached by the end of 2015.