Scan Magazine | Issue 10 | Summer 2009 by Scan Client Publishing

SCAN

DRAWING ATTENTION: NEMI – NORWAY’S CARTOON STAR EXPLORE BERGEN THE HUMAN JOURNEY – FINDING YOUR ROOTS RELOCATING WITHOUT FUSS

PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

ISSUE 10

SUMMER 2009

M A G A Z I N E

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Scan Magazine | Contents

Contents COVER FEATURE

10 Lise Myhre | Drawing on Differences

DESIGN 14 We Love This | Hot Summer Stuff

SCAN TRAVEL 16 18 20 24 26

30 The Human Journey | Finding Your African Roots – in Stockholm

SCAN FOOD 32 Scandinavian Summer loving | Summer Food

COLUMN

35 Is it Just Me | Mette Lisby on Communication

SCAN BUSINESS BUSINESS FEATURES 36 Mannaz | Tailoring Talent for Business Success 40 Finnair | The Past, Present and Future of Air Transport 42 Relocation Theme | Relocating the Easy Way

REGULARS

50 How was your day? | Annika Wahlberg 51 Property Breakfast | Corren Troen 52 Chamber News | Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish and Danish Chambers of Commerce for the UK

SCAN NEWS 56 Scandinavian Newsflash

CULTURE 59 Film | 15 Minutes with Jan Troell 60 Scandinavian Music | Latest from the Scandinavian Music Scene 61 Culture Calendar | Your Scandinavian Cultural Events

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 3

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, Wonderful Bergen is the theme of this Summer issue and this was really an inspired editorial choice. I can’t think of any other city in the world where you can combine stunning fjord voyages with an absolutely packed cultural summer programme featuring concerts with leading world artists such as Coldplay and Bruce Springsteen. I warmly recommend the destination – for the surrounding nature, the food, the people, the quaint village atmosphere and the amazing cultural events. Go there: it will be a trip of a life time! It seems the summer has at last arrived and I have a feeling this will be a good one. My son is now 9 months old and although I am disappointed he is too small to play football it is good news that he is now old enough to enjoy a day in the park. I will drink a cold beer and he will drink lukewarm milk. On this occasion, I clearly get the long end of the stick!

of Natural History a visit (page 30). And elsewhere in the issue Inge Buus, from Mannaz, the Danish frontrunner company in the field of capability development activities, reveals what good leadership is about. Finally I would like to share the sad news that Malcolm Campbell, our valued recruitment columnist has passed away. I first met Malcolm to discuss his recruitment column at the Royal Automobile Club. I couldn’t get in because I was wearing jeans so we almost had to take the meeting standing outside. He was the type of guy who laughs at these things and we quickly became friends after that. He will be missed. We will now take a month’s break and be back with another superb issue on 6 September. Have a great summer,

Thomas Winther Promoting “Brand Scandinavia” is not difficult with so many good things to choose from. If you go to Sweden’s capital, remember to pay The Swedish National Museum

SCAN

Scan Magazine Issue 10 | Summer 2009

Copy-editor Mark Rogers

Sales Director Ture Damtoft

Published 06.07.2009 ISSN 1757-9589

Contributors Ian Welsh Bronte Blomhoj Rikke Bruntse-Dahl Linnéa Mitchell Emelie Krugly Anna Maria Espsäter Mette Lisby Karl Batterbee

Marketing Manager Helene Oxfeldt Lauridsen

Cover Image Lise Myhre

To Subscribe subscription@scanmagazine.co.uk

Photos Yiannis Katsaris

Next issue 7 September 2009

Published by Scan Magazine Limited Design & Print Liquid Graphic Limited Executive Editor Thomas Winther Editor Signe Hansen Creative Director Mads E. Petersen

4 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

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M A G A Z I N E Scan Magazine Limited 53A Clapham High Street London SW4 7TG Phone 0870 933 0423 info@scanmagazine.co.uk www.scanmagazine.co.uk All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of Scan Magazine Ltd.

HOW CONNECTED ARE YOU? Together with Scan Magazine, Ericsson UK would like to know. Take part in our reader survey and you could be the lucky winner of a premium Sony Ericsson mobile worth over £420*, just the device to be connected and seen with. Take part at www.scanmagazine.co.uk There’s a revolution taking place in Broadband. Some consumers want it everywhere they go, what about you? Ericsson’s research reveals consumers would rather give up the TV than their broadband connection and rather lose their wallet than their mobile phone. Consumers are changing There’s a whole generation of digital natives, brought up in a world dominated by communications technology; where digital media is already a natural part of life. Engaging with social networking sites, participating in online gaming and creating their own content. They’re already creating significant pester power within families and some are entering the market as first homers themselves. The new home environment Are you amongst the early adopters for new household services? With the proliferation of digital devices and media channels, individuals and families are demanding new ways to maximise their media consumption across three-screens. Visit www.scanmagazine.co.uk to take part in the survey and for your chance to win the state-of-the-art Sony Ericsson W995 WalkmanTM.

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Scan Magazine | Contributors

Contributors Signe Hansen (Editor) has an MA in Journalism and has been working as a freelance reporter in London. She is now the editor of Scan Magazine. Having previously worked with television, radio, web and local news, the good story is always her priority. Ian Welsh is a UK-based independent writer and editor with nearly 15 years experience in business publishing. With a background in corporate communications, Ian now specialises in corporate responsibility and supply chain issues. Bronte Blomhoj runs Scandi Kitchen in London, a Scandinavian deli/cafe. Bronte, who has studied in Edinburgh and has a background in investment banking, has lived in London for 7 years. She writes Scan Magazine’s monthly food column. Rikke Bruntse-Dahl. Being a greenie at heart, Rikke has written extensively on eco issues for a variety of publications including The Observer, New Consumer and SmartPlanet.

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Ethical consumerism and green business behaviour are her main areas of interest. Linnéa Mitchell is a Swedish freelance journalist, who came to London in 2003 as a TV voiceover. Still here, with a fresh journalism degree under her belt, she writes for both Swedish and English magazines. Emelie Krugly has worked on a number of Swedish newspapers. After travelling extensively, she is now based in London and is responsible for Scan's news section. She can be contacted any time regarding an event or story: emelie@scanmagazine.co.uk Anna Maria Espsäter, who does the magazine's travel features, is a native of Sweden, although based in London for many years. Anna is a freelance travel and food writer specialising in Scandinavia. Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour

columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish versions of “Have I Got News For You” and “Room 101”. Mette currently lives in London. Karl Batterbee is devoted to Scandinavian music and knows exactly what is coming up in the UK. Apart from writing a monthly music update for Scan Magazine Karl has also started the Scandipop Club Night and its corresponding website: www.scandipop.co.uk Thomas Winther (Executive Editor). Originally from Denmark, Thomas has a background in Economic consultancy. He is now on a personal mission to take Brand Scandinavia to new heights. Thomas lives in Blackheath with his much better half and 9 month old son.

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Scan Magazine | Letters of The Month

Dear Scan Magazine... Letters of the Month We receive many lovely letters from our readers. As we’re fond of saying, your feedback helps to make all of the time and effort worthwhile. We’ve decided to select a few Letters of the Month – letters that for whatever reason tickled our fancy.

Dear Editors, I am a fan of Scan Magazine and really enjoy reading it, and I wondered whether you might be interested in writing about something I am doing this summer. I am half Swedish half English, a fine jeweller by trade and live in London. However this summer I am embarking on an adventure to raise money for a charity that is close to my heart. It’s a long distance endurance horse ride across Sweden. For two weeks we (a friend and myself) will be crossing forests, marshes and lakes and camping each night. Our trip will be arduous with no backup team or pack horses and we have been warned about the bears and wolves, not to mention the regular swarms of mosquitoes and ticks. The trip was inspired by the birth of my nephew who was born with Prada Willi Syndrome and we are currently raising money for The Prada Willi Syndrome Society, the only charity that supports those born with this rare genetic disease. Our website is www.justgiving.com/cross-sweden Best wishes, Claudia Martin Dear Claudia, Thanks for your email and for letting us know about the wonderful journey that you are undertaking and the good cause you are supporting. Personally, I really admire your initiative and I hope you will send a travel update to the editorial team on your return. We need to know if you survive those Swedish bears! All the best, Thomas

Letters may be edited. Letters are only published with the consent of the sender. Write to thomas@scanmagazine.co.uk

8 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

Dear Editors, First of all thanks for a great magazine. Thought the article on Sandi Toksvig reflects how all we Scandinavians living in the UK feel about our home countries, we stay Scandinavian in our core. As always you have a good mix of business and pleasure. I'm really looking forward to midsummer now, although we'll probably have a good old-fashioned barbecue and a few beers; and then try the Gravlax some other time. I've been living in the UK for almost ten years now, and your magazine makes me feel a little more connected to my roots, not least because you have the events guide. But here's what I miss a bit. Some more about films and music please. In your last issue you had half a page about music: give us more. Who is releasing new albums, if they are playing where and when, review of the albums, concert dates in the event guide (including the newsletter, pretty please). And for films, there are so many great Scandinavian films, and even though I mostly know the Danish ones, there have been some really good Swedish ones this year, such as Men Who Hate Women. Where can we watch them? I only know one web-site, so any help you could give on that would be great. I am beginning to make it sound as though you are missing a lot, don't mean to. Think you have a great magazine, just more things I would like to see in there. Keep the flag(s) flying and have a great summer, E. Daniels Dear E. Daniels, Many thanks for all the compliments for our magazine and your interesting suggestions. We will definitely look into the possibility of doing a little more about films, music and other cultural aspects of Scandinavia, which you rightly say do not receive a lot of coverage at the moment. We hope we can change that in the future! All the best, Signe

ulriken643.no

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Drawing on Differences

DRAWING ON DIFFERENCES Chances are you have come across the Goth girl Nemi. The cartoon character, who makes Metro readers laugh or raise an eyebrow every day, is published in around 60 different newspapers, magazines and websites in Scandinavia, the UK and pretty much all of Europe. We catch up with Nemi’s creator, Norwegian Lise Myhre, to find out how she came up with Nemi and which country’s Nemi is her favourite.

By Rikke Bruntse-Dahl

bartending. “Bartending is great for people-watching before creating characters, illustrating books and articles. I was also a book-consultant for sci-fi and horror books. Among many other things,” she says.

One of the main points about the twenty-something, drywitted and often childlike Nemi is that she is different from the mainstream, she does not fit in. Something which her creator Lise Myhre, who lives in Norway with her musician husband, Simen Hestnæs and their son, Storm, likes to make clear. One of the ways she does this is by only ever drawing Nemi in black and white, while the other characters are in colour.

In the beginning Myhre only got a few strips published here and there. One of her jobs was for the Far Side Gallery, which was published in Norway as an anthology. In summer 1997 she actually decided that comics were not for her but still had to do a couple of pages for the Far Side Gallery. She decided to do a couple of panels about the Goth scene and that was when everything clicked, says Myhre. “For some reason I had tried to write what I thought people would like to read. Up until then I hadn’t even considered the possibility of writing for myself, about stuff I actually knew. Once I started having fun, other people enjoyed my comics more as well.”

Myhre started experimenting with comics back in 1996 while she was juggling several freelance jobs such as

That was when Nemi was born. Shortly after it was picked up by one of Norway’s biggest national newspapers,

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Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Drawing on Differences

Dagbladet, and since then Lise Myhre’s fame has continued to grow alongside Nemi’s popularity. Both you and Nemi are very famous in Norway as well as in the UK. Did you ever imagine that happening when you first started drawing her? No, not at all! I have the best job I could have, but the fame part isn’t really anything I think about. That’s not what I do. Nemi is far more famous than I am, and that’s how I like it. How did you get into drawing cartoons? I’ve always loved comics, but never considered making my own. I guess I took it for granted you couldn’t just create your own stuff and that you had to have other writers, other people meddling creatively or a big corporation telling you what to do. I’m psyched I was wrong. Did you make a living from creating cartoons from the beginning? I made close to nothing, and lived as a starving artist for years. I loved it, though. Loved the freedom and wanted to try making a living as an illustrator or writer - and ended

up doing both. I said to myself it would be OK to end up with an office job if I knew I had tried my best for what I really wanted to do first. Have you created big characters other than Nemi? Nothing worth mentioning, really. I didn’t work with comics that long before Nemi showed up. Why Nemi? Is she inspired by yourself? I know her. I could have made a 40-year old male football fan, but then I wouldn’t have known how to make him believable. The annoying part is when Nemi is having a hard time and people come up to me looking all concerned, telling me they hope I’ll feel better soon. Almost every single incident is made up, but we do share a lot of likes and dislikes. But that’s the case with Cyan [Nemi’s friend] as well. You put parts of yourself into anything you write. Does Nemi have a nationality? To me, she’s Norwegian. To people in Germany, she’s German... And no doubt most Metro readers have always

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 11

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Drawing on Differences

“I could have made a 40-year old male football fan, but then I wouldn’t have known how to make him believable.”

thought of Nemi as being British. [Myhre’s affinity with her imaginary friend does change depending on the language she speaks.] I only write in Norwegian, and I really don’t like the English Nemi. Swedish Nemi I love. As for a lot of the other countries, I have no idea... Living in Norway, do you find it difficult to keep on top on the UK agenda for your Metro strip? You seem to be; nobody would guess you don't live in the UK. Thanks! The language thing is thanks to my translators, the culture thing - I guess we’re not that different, because the strips are written for Norwegians. [As anybody who has ever read a Nemi strip knows, the black-haired Goth girl can be quite provocative now and then. But Myhre has her limits.] Would you ever be as provocative as the Danish cartoonists who drew Muhammad? I’ll tell you this, I have never written anything for the sake of provoking. It’s not my style. That doesn’t mean I’ve never upset people. As I’m sure you know. What do you think about the Danish cartoonists being threatened with a Fatwa for drawing Muhammad? I think it’s terrible. I do get why people got upset, but violence and threats can never be accepted as a response in a democracy. So, what is going to happen next? Will Nemi stay the same or change? Will you create a new character? I have just created a new girl. She’s coming your way soon… With thanks to Strand Comics, www.strandcomics.no

Nemi facts • Nemi Montoya is named after the Italian Lake Nemi and Inigo Montoya from the film Princess Bride, which is Myhre’s favourite film. • The Nemi cartoon has a circulation of more than 70,000 copies in Norway and is one of the two most popular cartoons alongside Pondus. • There are three Nemi books in English: Nemi I, Nemi II and Nemi III

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l i t n e m Velkom

BERGEN Travel Hotel

Rimelig rom og frokost hotell i hjerte av Bergen. Vi har 65 lyse delikate rom fordelt på to bygg. Alle rom har eget bad. Trådløst nettverk gratis til alle våre hotellgjester. I vår koselige Pub har vi servering både ute og inne, i vår flotte bakhage kan en sitte tørt og varmt hele året. Kort vei til alle byens fasiliteter samt transportmuligheter.

For booking: ring 55 59 90 90 eller mail info@hotelbergen.com Adresse: Vestre Torggate 20a, 5015 Bergen.

Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this... There is so much hot summer stuff that we would like to show you. In fact we love this!

Summer means thirsty! These wonderful Essence Dessert Wine, White wine and Red wine glasses from Iittala are all £11.50 each. Iittala, 126 Regent Street, London, W1. www.iittala.com

Micki stove Kids will love this red classic stove with opening door and turnable knobs ready to encourage a budding young chef!! It’s from The Swedish company Micki Leksaker and only natural raw materials are used in making these products. Suitable from the age of 3years. Retail price £45.00 available at www.northlightdesign.co.uk or call 01865-248850

Roman Leather sandals. This season’s must have by Malene Birger. Size 36-41. Retails at £65. www.wild-swans.com

Beautiful Soft leather bag from Danish Octopus. Fantastic workmanship – this bag will last a life time. Retails at £315. www.wild-swans.com

Fantastic summer products from Iittala. With Satumetsä, Klaus Haapaniemi introduces a mystical forest theme which has been a hit with consumers all over the world. www.iittala.com Plate: £27.00 (30cm) Bowl: £59.00 (2.8L) Mug: £15.50

14 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

Easy chair. Design by Josef Frank. Wooden frame. Core of handplaited coil springs on a nosag spring base, stuffed with foam rubber/polyether and synthetic batting. Cushions of synthetic fibre/feathers in downproof cases with removable fabric covers. £2333* www.svenskttenn.se These amazing products are all from Svenskt Tenn and we love the colourful designs. They have been awarded by Monocle (April issue) this year as one of the “top 20 retailers in the world” Tray - 49 cm, Pattern design: Josef Frankcomes in various designs £38*. www.svenskttenn.se *The prices are approximate in pound sterling.

Butler´s Tray. Design by Margot Barolo & Märta Friman. The big tray table including tray £264* The small tray table £210* www.svenskttenn.se

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Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

Bergen Harbour at sunset. Photo: Willy Haraldsen

BERGEN – Gateway to the Fjords By Anna Maria Espsäter | Photos: Bergen Reiselivslag

Founded as early as 1070, Bergen, the second largest city in Norway, has long been one of the country’s most important centres for trade, shipping and culture. The old Hanseatic wharf of Bryggen is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; some of Norway’s most stunning fjord landscape is only a short hop away; and this summer will see the likes of Coldplay and Bruce Springsteen take to the stage here. Bergen is the happening place to be! Many nationalities have come to Bergen over the centuries – some to visit, some to make this place their home – and the city has an international vibe, perhaps even more so than the capital, Oslo. The German influence is evident in the old Hanseatic quarter and the city’s location by the sea gives it a laid-back feel. A sense of history is very palpable here and historical walks through old Bergen are one of the best ways to experience the city.

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Bergen’s centre is compact and stroller-friendly, its cobbled streets and alleyways perfect for exploring at leisure on foot. For those wanting to give their legs a rest, a boat trip around the harbour is another popular way of getting to grips with Bergen. The maritime heritage is well documented in several fascinating museums, from the Maritime to the Hanseatic Museum, or for something oldstyle, but very much alive and kicking, check out the Fish Market, still a buzzing hive of activity. Edvard Grieg Bergen is also the birth place of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and his home, Troldhaugen, is now open as a museum. Every summer sees the “Grieg in Bergen” festival take over the city for almost 10 continuous weeks, when Bergen celebrates its most famous son. The city may appear to have one foot in the past, always in touch

Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

Bergen offers culinary experiences, city life and nature all in one. Left: Zachariasbryggen outdoor restaurant (Photo: Oddleiv Apneseth); middle: the Wharf in sunset (Photo: Per Nybø); right: Bergen harbour (Photo: Oddleiv Apneseth).

with its history, but culturally it’s firmly forward-looking, with a strong innovative vibe and it’s no coincidence that world-class stars on the music scene have been enticed to play Bergen this summer. Nature on the doorstep The great outdoors is never far away and nature forms just as important a part in the everyday lives of Bergensers as culture does. The proximity of the Norwegian fjords is perhaps Bergen’s biggest draw, with spectacular scenery right on the city’s doorstep. It’s possible to take a cruise to one of the nearby fjords, including the two most famous, Hardanger fjord and Sogne fjord. Another option is simply to hop on one of the many scheduled fjord ferries that ply the waters, some of which can accommodate cars if you want to take your own vehicle and explore further afield. The area is also excellent for hiking during the summer months. A lovely, but somewhat strenuous hike, can be completed between Mount Ulriken and Mount Fløyen. Although it’s possible to first trek to the top of the former, an easier way is to take the cable car up to Mount Ulriken and just hike between the two mountains. Some four hours

should suffice to get from one to the other and then there’s another handy cable car taking you back down again. The views across the town and fjords are breath-taking and well worth what can sometimes be a sweaty ramble in the height of summer. Although Bergen isn’t always blessed with good weather, summers can get surprisingly warm. A rewarding culinary treat After indulging in such energetic pursuits, there’s nothing like settling down to a nice slap-up meal as a reward. Norwegian fish and seafood are justly famous and the restaurants in Bergen serve up some of the finest in the country. Cod, salmon, herring, brisling and lyed fish, accompanied by potatoes, pickled cucumbers, rye bread, all of it washed down with the potent tipple aquavit and you’re all set up for the following day’s activities.

For further information: www.visitbergen.com and www.visitnorway.com Information about Ulriken cable car: www.bergen-guide.com

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 17

Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

ULRIKEN By Anna Maria Espsäter I Photos: Ulriken

The mountain of Ulriken at 643m is the highest of the seven mountains surrounding the city of Bergen. It holds a special place in the heart of many Bergensers, appearing in songs and literature and remaining everprominent for its great outdoor appeal, whether as a skiing or a hiking destination. In 1961 the Ulriken Cable Car was opened making the trek to the top that much easier to accomplish. “Ulriken is not just a mountain with a great view for the citizens of Bergen, but an important landmark and recreational area for the locals,” says Eirik Hokstad, marketing manager for Ulriken643, a panoramic tour that takes in Ulriken and surroundings, starting out from Bergen´s fish market. Open year-round, the tour adjusts

18 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

its contents and activities according to the seasons and there are many options to choose from. “The Ulriken643 Panaorama Tour starts by the fish market, where our characteristic double decker bus takes you to the lower station in approximately 15minutes,” Eirik continues. The cable car journey, in a so-called gondola, will take about 5 minutes, depending on the weather. Each gondola, running every 7 minutes, can take 25 passengers to the top at once. On average 100,000 visitors have taken the panoramic tour over previous years, with an expected increase to 180,000 in 2010, making Ulriken one of the most popular sights in Bergen. Once at the top, visitors can try their hand at some adventurous sports and while hitting the hiking trails remains a favourite activity,

Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

Paragliding and archery are some of the exciting activities available on Ulriken mountain.

there´s also abseiling, paragliding, climbing and archery for those brave enough. “We have a mountain shop and activity centre called Bergen Base Camp,” Eirik explains, “and our professional and trained staff will help you out there.” If it´s just a good old-fashioned ramble in the mountains you´re after, this is perhaps the best spot in Bergen. 15 different walking trails, including circular routes, of varying degrees of difficulty and length, take in spectacular views of the district. “The most important facility here is of course the VIEW,” Eirik enthuses. “On clear days you can enjoy the sight of skerries, fjords, mountains and the open sea, not forgetting the city itself. The panoramic view is spectacular and unique, and the high mountain experience is tailor-made to give our visitors a taste of the real wild mountain life Bergen has to offer.”

there´s a restaurant at the top of Ulriken serving excellent grub. The sky:scraper panoramic restaurant is the highest in Bergen and the emphasis is firmly on local food. There´s a handy kiosk where you can stock up on picnic food before your mountain ambles, a bar for sampling some high altitude drinks and an a la carte restaurant for 3-course dinners. Specialities include a delicious, warming mountain fish soup, a lovely way to end a day´s strenuous hiking, looking out over the splendid scenery.

The cable car runs 0900-2100 May – September and 0900-1700 October-April. The Panorama tour from the Fish Market costs 195 NOK return. The Ulriken cable car runs every 7 minutes.

It´s thirsty work wandering around the mountains, taking the air and enjoying the views, but as luck would have it

For further info: www.ulriken643.no

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 19

Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

Top: Troltunga. Below clockwise from left to right: Tailor your own trip – Rent a kayak (Photo: Terje Rakke); The Vøringsfoss Waterfall and Fossli Hotel (Photo: Trond Tandberg); TyssoViaFerrata climbing with OpplevOdda and Ullensvang Hotel.

Hardangerfjord – Time to Explore By Linnéa Mitchell

Just southeast of beautiful Bergen rests Norway’s second longest Fjord. Starting at the Atlantic Ocean, Hardangerfjord penetrates in a northeasterly direction until, 179 km (111 miles) inland, it meets the grand mountain plateau of Hardangervidda. With its striking contrast of snow-covered mountains, rich flora and fauna and deep blue water, it is easy to understand why so many of the romantic national symbols originate from here, including the Hardangerfiddle. The area is known as the orchard of Norway, but perhaps most of all it is a popular destination for energising activities. “One of the best things about Hardanger is the great variety of accommodation and activities on offer,” says Hans Jørgen Andersen, Managing Director of Destination Hardangerfjord. “From camping to first class hotels.” Located conveniently in the southwest, it only takes an hour to drive from Bergen or Haugesund. The breathtaking views make it easy to just sit still and soak it all in. But for those who have action on their wish list, there is no limit to the amount of activity you can fit in: only your energy levels will decide. Starting with the fjord itself, you can go for a boat ride, rent a kayak, learn about boatbuilding at the Hardanger Museum Wharf (www.fartoyvern.no), go fishing or explore a modern salmon farm (www.akvasenter.no), the only one open to the public in Norway. Back on dry land, do not miss the largest mountain plateau in Norway, Hardangervidda, where you can take part in one of many mountain trips, alone or with a guide. “What is so interesting for foreign visitors is that the

national parks are accessible,” says Andersen. “You can go camping in the wild and, after buying a license, go fishing and hunting as much as you like.” Well worth a visit is Norway’s most popular waterfall Vøringsfossen, the twin waterfall Låtefossen and the romantic Steinsdalsfossen. Open both summer and winter is The Majestic Folgefonna, Norway’s third biggest glacier where you can make guided hikes, ice-climb, or ski in the summer sun. Finally, do not leave Hardanger without trying its famous fruit which has made mouths water for generations, free to taste at one of the farms in Lofthus and Ulvik. “I can also recommend organizing conferences or events here if you want to impress your clients,” says Andersen. “You can tailor your own trip, for example meetings followed by helicopter sight-seeing, glacier hikes, summer skiing, fishing, hiking and much more. The clients are always satisfied,” he smiles. A bit of an expert when it comes to adventures is OpplevOdda. Its population almost halved in 2003 because the factories went bankrupt, but today tourism and businesses are finding their way back. Situated between Hardangervidda, Folgefonna, Hardangerfjord and Røldal (a ski resort with the deepest snow in Europe, www.roldal.com), it offers many activities such as hiking to the popular destinations Trolltunga and Preikestolen, ice climbing, biking, canoeing or river gorging. But the most recent addition to the list of activities is the TyssoViaFerrata – in the footsteps of the ‘Rallar’ (navvies). “It opened 31 May this year and I

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Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

A beautiful section of Hardangerfjord, which is Norway’s second longest Fjord, at nightfall. Photo: Halne Fjellstova.

can really recommend it,” says Jostein Soldal, manager at OpplevOdda. It takes you back to the impressive building process of the famous power station Tysso 1 in 1906. Starting at the Norwegian Museum of Hydro Power and Industry (www.nvim.no), the climb is not only an historical journey through the hard work of the navvies, but also a lesson in the importance of water in shaping a society. “There is plenty to do here and it is easy to access from the many nice hotels in the area,” says Jostein. One of them is Hotel Ullensvang, established in 1846 and still run by the Utne family in its fifth generation. The historic hotel is situated in Lofthus on the eastern shore of the Sørfjorden, a branch of Hardangerfjord. It was here that Edvard Grieg found inspiration for much of his famous work during his regular visits (his original hut is still kept in the hotel garden). “So many artists have been inspired by this spectacular landscape throughout the years and we hope that our guests will feel the same,” says Managing Director Barbara Zanoni Utne. Situated right on the waterfront, it is an excellent starting point for various excursions. As a first class style resort, it offers many in- and outdoor sport

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activities, such as tennis courts, rowing boats, golf simulator, boat trips and even its own little sandy beach. For the more peaceful traveller, it is simply a relaxing experience for body and soul. Evenings can be enjoyed in the elegant restaurant “Zanoni”, with a beautiful view over the fjord and Folgefonna, and if you still have energy left there is dancing to live music six nights a week. Deep inside the innermost part of the Hardangerfjord, almost at the point where you cannot get any further, is Quality Hotel & Resort Vøringfoss, the “white pearl” of Eidfjord. Apart from having simply spectacular views, you have the majestic Hardangervidda right on your doorstep, and just around the corner is Norway’s most famous waterfall Vøringsfossen. You can also visit the famous Kjeåsen mountain farm, situated like an eagle’s nest on the steep mountainside – if you fancy driving five kilometres, half of which are through a black tunnel. “The location offers fantastic opportunities,” says Managing Director Arnvid Johansen. “Especially since we work a lot with the multi-activity company Flat Earth (www.flatearth.no).” But you do not have to go to extremes to stay at the hotel.

You can simply relax on the verandah overlooking the Fjord and enjoy a bite to eat from one of the two restaurants, offering fresh and locally sourced food. And why not visit its own art gallery afterwards, displaying the work of the famous Norweigan National Romantic painter Nils Bergslien.

Foto: Agurtxane Concellon

The popularity of the whole Hardanger area is increasing year by year, with visitors from all over the world. So perhaps it is time to skip the crowded beach this year and steer your holiday northeast, especially since it is less than two hours to fly. Like the Hardanger locals say: “time to explore.” Hotel Ullensvang: www.hotel-ullensvang.no Quality Hotel & Resort Vøringsfoss: www.voringfoss.no OpplevOdda: www.opplevodda.com For more general information visit www.hardangerfjord.com How to get here: Fly Norwegian Airlines or Scandinavian Airlines to Bergen all year round, or Ryan Air to Haugesund during the summer.

Quality Hotel & Resort Vøringfoss - by the Hardangerfjord next to the Hardangervidda National Park in Eidfjord

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Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

An active holiday in Southern Norway is the perfect way to get close to the area’s stunning nature like Geirangerfjord seen above.

Fjellferie – Get active in Norway’s Mountains By Signe Hansen | Photos: Fjellferie

Norway may be best known by ski-enthusiasts for its majestic snow-covered peaks, but under the summer sun the frosty cliffs turn up the charm and melt away, not only most of the snow, but any doubt about Norway’s qualities outside the skiing season as well. One way of exploring this is through the small travel organiser Fjellferie (mountain vacation), which offers active vacations that will give you both a unique experience and a workout to bring you into shape for the rest of the year. Trekking through the mountains Fjellferie, which was set up by owner Knut Koren in 1982, simply specialises in safe ways to enjoy Southern Norway’s nature, be it in the summer or winter, on bicycles, foot, skis

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or in a car. Some of the most popular tours are the guided trekking tours in the areas of Hallingdal and Jotunheimen. “What is unique about this kind of vacation is that it brings people closer to nature but in a safe way and with comfortable accommodation,” says Koren. “Our two main hiking tours are Hallingdal, which is the most popular, and Jotunheimen which is the largest mountain area in Norway.” During the walks, the hikers can enjoy impressive landscapes, mostly above tree level, while their luggage gets a lift to the next destination, a comfortable hotel. “The area we go through has a lot of small lakes and old summer farms spread out. It is very charming,” says Koren. The treks both last a week but are also available in shorter bits to fit any vacation length - and fitness level. For the

Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

The area can be explored all year round. Left: Knut Koren on the top of Gråfjell on the ski tour. Bottom right: summer, and a group enjoys the dreamlike view of Lusterfjorden; top right: trekking through Hallingskarvet.

ones who are really eager to get those legs moving, the Hallingdal route can be extended by an extra three days which will bring you to Sognefjorden and enable you to enjoy the particularly beautiful scenery at Norway’s Fjords. And if ten days are not enough, of course you can always add more. “I had one German lady from Berlin at 76, she did both routes in two weeks, but of course some people are more fit than others,” says Koren. Most participants on the tours are a bit younger though and typically range between 35 and 70. Enjoying it on your own Actually you do not have to walk at all to get a taste of what Norway is all about. Fjellferie also arranges “fly and drive” vacations in which you take a self-guided tour around the area in your own car. “On the fly and drive tour we provide people with accommodation in chalets with kitchen and all necessary equipment, and supply very detailed maps and descriptions of the area.” These tours can also be combined with self-guided hiking

tours where the travellers are equipped with maps with the different routes. They, too, are very detailed and noone will be lost, promises Koren: “They get very accurate information on how to find their way and I am available on my mobile all the time if anything should happen.” All the other ways to get out there Another way to explore the beauty of Norway is by bike; something which Fjellferie can organize in a way similar to the car tours, only with possible luggage transportation included. Also, if you are a group of up to 16 people, you can have a bus tour especially designed for your needs. “We can put together all the items for a successful tour of Norway, tailor-made for your group,” says Koren. The last possibility is to have Fjellferie commission a horseback tour for you or, of course, if you really do not want to depart from Norway’s frosty winter image, wait a couple of months and join one of the cross-country skiing tours. For more information visit: www.fjellferie.no

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Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

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Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

“Above all, there was something infinitely restful and soothing and peaceful about Solstrand and the fjord; a world of repose.”

Fjord hotel fit for a Prime Minister By Rikke Bruntse-Dahl | Photos: Solstrand Hotel & Bad

Norway might not spring to mind as the best place to visit for a relaxation holiday. But do not be fooled. Combine a visit to the city of Bergen with a jaunt to Solstrand Hotel & Bad, where you can experience some of Norway’s most beautiful countryside, the fjords, waterfalls, glaciers and the ocean.

profile meetings and team-building days, the hotel’s Norwegian Management Programme is a testament to that. The Solstrand Experience

Originally a fjordside holiday resort for the Bergen merchant aristocracy, Solstrand today welcomes business folk and leisure guests alike to its idyllic countryside location.

More than 50 years ago, Solstrand started collaborating with the School of Business and Commerce of Bergen. It was just after the Second World War and Norwegian companies needed to develop new managers with new ways of thinking, so the School developed an extensive three-week programme, the Norwegian Management Programme. This prestigious business leadership course has always been held at Solstrand. The main reason for this is the hotel’s beautiful location, which is only 30 kilometres from Bergen city and airport. In addition to the training itself, Solstrand is attractive for business people because just being there encourages socialising and relaxation.

Pernille Schau-Larsen, who is the fourth generation Schau-Larsen to own and run Solstrand, emphasises that Michelsen’s vision still holds true today. Business and Solstrand still go hand in hand, and besides hosting high-

Arne Selvik from The Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration sings the praises of Solstrand: “Over a period of 57 years more than 4,000 Norwegian and international managers have enjoyed the out-

In 1896 Norway’s first Prime Minister, Christian Michelsen, decided to buy and develop what would become Solstrand Hotel & Bad. His idea was to create a holiday resort for the Bergen merchant-princes, so that “they could have a place to gather strength for their great deeds.”

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Scan Magazine | Travel | Bergen

Top: Beautiful; the view over Bjørenfjorden, Bottom Left: Moonlight at Solstrand, Bottom Right: There is no better place for relaxation than the outdoor pool at Solstrand.

standing qualities of Solstrand. Our faculty can always fully rely on first class service and support, saving valuable time and concentration for educational challenges in the programmes. Even through this period of financial setback we have a waiting list of top candidates, who want to join what is often referred to as The Solstrand Experience.”

“In fact, whether you come for business or leisure, the stunning views of the fjord and the facilities here will simply make you relax,” Schau-Larsen says. Norwegian journalist, Arnt Roger Aasen, confirms this. He calls Solstrand “an international phenomenon…[that] creates the good life 24/7 all year round.”

A world of repose However, Solstrand is also the perfect place for holiday guests who just want to go on a small retreat. People can easily spend a whole weekend at Solstrand without even noticing that anything of a work-related nature is happening there.

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Solstrand’s uniqueness was already noted internationally in 1903, when English travel writer Charles W. Wood wrote: “If the English knew of this paradise they would spend many a summer there, reveling in the bathing and boating, all the marvels and splendours of nature which defy description. Above all, there was something infinitely

restful and soothing and peaceful about Solstrand and the fjord; a world of repose.â&#x20AC;? And spa indulgence A present-day description of Solstrandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s qualities would mirror Charles W. Woodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s review perfectly. Although now it would definitely also include the new spa facilities as a major attraction Thirteen treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam bath, an ice pool and, best of all, windows facing the fjord and an outdoor pool all light and bright built using wood, glass and bronze. The typical Scandinavian minimalist design combined with Solstrandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s serenity and traditional Nordic bathing traditions makes for the ultimate Norwegian rural, fjord-side idyll.

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Schau-Larsen, who grew up at Solstrand, says that after living, studying and working in other major European cities for nine years, she can now see how lucky she was to spend her childhood in the beautiful and peaceful place that is Solstrand. She now fully understands why people around the world living busy lives really appreciate spending time at her home recharging their batteries. As nearly 85% of Norwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hotels belong to a hotel chain, a family hotel of this calibre really is something rather unique for everyone involved. www.solstrand.com

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Scan Magazine | Travel | The Human Journey

THE HUMAN JOURNEY Finding your African roots – in Stockholm By Signe Hansen | Photos: The Swedish Museum of Natural History

Mammoths, sabre-tooth cats and early human species are the inhabitants of the Swedish Museum of Natural History’s (Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet) exhibition The Human Journey. The exhibition tells the story of human evolution and has just received the prestigious prize, Exhibition of the Year 2008. With photographs, reconstructions, and skeletons, the 400m2 exhibition in Stockholm follows human development through the past seven million years. “What we wanted to show was human evolution in the context of environmental and climate change. Partly because it is an

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interesting story in its own right, but also to understand current changes to the environment,” says Lars Werdelin who is the project’s scientist and has a Ph.D. in palaeontology. Another goal of the exhibition is to challenge a common Eurocentric view of history and human development. “According to this belief, since Homo sapiens is the ‘pinnacle of evolution’, it must have evolved in Europe. But that is not true,” says Werdelin. The exhibition demonstrates this by showing that not only are the earliest human origins in Africa but also the earliest ancestors of our species. ”We wanted to point out

The Swedish Museum of Natural History employs life-like sculptures, skeletons and text to illustrate the Human Journey. Left: reconstruction of Homo habilis; top right: a sabre-tooth cat; bottom right: Elisabeth Daynès’s unique sculptures of Neanderthals and a Cro-Magnon man.

that under the skin we are all Africans, even we pale Scandinavians,” Werdelin says.

see it, our experience is that for this the adults come because they want to.”

Reconstructing evolution

Among the special attractions for kids are a dwarf elephant replica, which the kids can sit on, and horses which they can feed with leaves. But some of the initiatives taken to make the exhibition accessible for visually impaired people have also fascinated the kids. ”The main thing is that they can touch and feel a lot of the things like replicas of skulls that the kids find very interesting.”

Ten of the sculptures in the exhibition are replicas of early human species, which, with latex skin and unique attention to detail, look very alive. They can only be made by a handful of people and were partly what inspired the museum’s staff to make an entirely new exhibition instead of updating the previous one. ”When we went to Paris to see Elisabeth Daynès’s [the artist who made the reconstructions] sculptures, we found it impossible to buy just a couple and decided instead to tear down all the old and a set up a new exhibition,” Werdelin says. After this decision, the team went back and bought ten of the sculptures, each worth a five digit sum in Euros.

The tour through the museum is accompanied by text in English and Swedish and/or audio guide, making it worth a visit for everybody who fancies a weekend in Stockholm and a journey to their African roots in one.

Taking the kids along

Other exhibitions at Swedish Museum of Natural History

The collection of reconstructions is one of the world’s largest and has been very popular with both children and adults. “We have done a lot to make the exhibition accessible for all age groups, and we see many families here,” says the manager of the project Christina Ritzl. “But in contrast to some of our other exhibitions where many adults come mostly because they want their kids to

4½ billion years – The history of Earth and Life Diversity of life Marvels of the human body Mission: Climate Earth Polar Regions Swedish nature Treasures from the earth’s interior For more information visit www.nrm.se

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Photo: www.imagebank.sweden.se ÂŠ Henrik Trygg

Scan Magazine | Food | Scandinavian Summer Loving

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Scan Magazine | Food | Scandinavian Summer Loving

“The secret of Scandinavian food is, as always, in the produce and in the simplicity of the dishes.”

Scandinavian Summer Loving By Bronte Blomhoj

For anyone who thinks that Scandinavia in the summer means cold and rain, think again. Scandinavian summers are long, beautiful and full of sunshine and incredible light. Across the peninsula, the regional differences come alive, each country with more beautiful scenery than the next: from the flat, light green nuances of the Danish countryside to the rocky fjells of Norway’s rugged terrain. The Finnish deep, dark mysterious forests to the Swedish countryside, complete with little red wooden houses dotted around everywhere, perfectly complementing the rolling green hills and silvery sparkling lakes.

simply not available anywhere else. Take the humble cloudberry that grows wild in the Northern parts of Scandinavia, for example: a golden orange berry that looks a bit like a pumped up raspberry (that grows on stalks, not bushes) and is very hard to harvest and to cultivate. On top of that it has a short season, therefore usually carries a hefty price tag (although well worth it). The berries have a tart, fresh taste and cloudberry jam is often enjoyed by Swedes eaten with vanilla ice cream, and by Norwegians with whipped cream and sugar. In Finland the berries are eaten with Leipäjuusto, a cheese, or made into a liquor called Lakkalikööri, or used to flavour aquavit.

The summer months offer a huge array of produce across the countries – and market stalls are laden with fresh produce, from new potatoes to peas to berries bursting with flavour from ripening in the long summer days (bilberries, lingonberries, blueberries and wild ‘smultron’ strawberries; the list is almost endless) to the most amazing fresh fish imaginable: from plaice in the south to fresh water crayfish in the north and herring, eel and smoked mackerel available at local smokeries everywhere.

The Scandinavian summer offers plenty of opportunity to use local produce. Some of the lesser known dishes include Danish buttermilk soup: a sweet, cold mixture of buttermilk, vanilla, sugar and egg whisked until smooth and served with crispy, sweet biscuits to dunk. In Norway, nothing is better than a freshly grilled fjord trout; and the Finns love smoked sausages and have many different regional varieties to try out. Or go for the sweet stuff: blueberry tarts with vanilla custard poured over, or how about a Swedish strawberry layer cake to really bring out the flavours of a Scandinavian summer? Recipe is below.

It’s not all about potatoes and herring in Scandinavia, though. The summer months offer a huge array of different produce across the peninsula, some of which is

The secret of Scandinavian food is, as always, in the produce and in the simplicity of the dishes. Of course,

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Scan Magazine | Food | Scandinavian Summer Loving

nothing beats sitting in your deck chair, looking out over the still lake glimmering in the evening sun; however, a smörgåsbord made up of smoked fish, light salads and finished off with cakes made from berries in season certainly gets you half way there, even if it has to be enjoyed from a balcony in Fulham and not the Scandinavian countryside. You could always pop ABBA on the stereo and sit in your Bjorn Borg underpants as you dish up the aquavit and get stuck in. Enjoy. Bronte Blomhoj runs Scandinavian Kitchen, a deli/grocery shop in the middle of London where the strawberry cakes are made in abundance and Bjorn Borg underpants are worn by all.

Recipe of the month:

JORDGUBBSTÅRTA – Swedish strawberry layer cake 1 round sponge cake, cut into three layers (approx diameter 20-25 cm) Strawberry filling 1½ kg fresh strawberries (try to get any other kind than ‘el santa’ which is the rubbery supermarket variety – most others will have less shelf life, but much more taste) 1/2 dl sugar Vanilla crème 500 ml whole milk 5 egg yolks Seeds from one pod of vanilla 1.5 dl sugar 3 tbsp corn flour 150 ml whipping cream To decorate 500 ml whipping cream This is how you do it First, make the vanilla crème Vanilla crème custard 1. Bring the milk to the boil with the vanilla seeds and pod 2. Mix egg yolks, sugar and corn flour

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together in a bowl. Add a drop of water if the mixture seems too thick, more corn flour if too liquid. 3. Remove the vanilla pod from the milk mixture and pour the milk over the egg mixture. Pour back into saucepan and stir quickly until you have a good, thick custard. 4. Leave the crème to chill (it will set and go a bit thicker when cold) 5. Whisk your 1.5 dl whipping cream and blend with the cooled vanilla crème The cake 1. Split the sponge cake into three parts (if you don’t fancy making the sponge, buy a ready made one – Scandi Kitchen stock both Danish and Swedish varieties already cut, but a good quality sponge from a UK supermarket will also do nicely) 2. Take half the strawberries and reserve for decoration. Cut the remaining strawberries into pieces and pop into a bowl and mix with the sugar. Let rest for a while till the sugar has melted. Putting it together 1. Place the first sponge layer on the dish you wish to serve the cake on as it is hard to move after assembling it. Spread a layer of vanilla crème and

strawberries, add another sponge and press gently. Repeat the same again and then add the final sponge layer. 2. Whisk the 500 ml of whipping cream and use a piping bag to decorate all around the cake including the top layer. Decorate the top of the cake with the remaining strawberries just before serving. Tips Make the entire cake in the morning before serving and allow to chill – only leave the final few steps of decorating with whipped cream and strawberries to the last minute. Add a pinch of vanilla sugar or some vanilla seeds to your whipping cream along with 50 g of icing sugar – it is delightful. If you have any rum essence, you can add a teaspoon to the strawberry mixture – or, indeed, a spoonful of dark rum if you have an open bottle from that holiday in Cuba a few years back. If you want to be a bit adventurous, you can add crushed Amaretti biscuits in one of the layers – gives a lush almond taste to the cake.

Recipe © Scandinavian Kitchen 2009

Scan Magazine | Column | Is it Just Me...

IS IT JUST ME... Who sees a recurring pattern in communications? When my husband hangs up the phone after talking to our mutual friends, and I enquire for an update, his response is always the same: he stares a long while at nothing and then says, “They were all right.” This is not satisfactory, so I investigate further. “But you talked to them for 20 minutes. They must have told you something?” “Yeah… they were all right.” Now I have to inject information and ask specifically about our friends’ recent trip to Egypt, which – according to my husband – “was all right.” This can go on for quite a while and at some point I simply give up and become reconciled to the fact that we have friends who lead lives where absolutely nothing interesting happens, not even the slightest occurrence worth mentioning in a 20 minute phone call.

By Mette Lisby When we see the aforementioned friends (who have a lot of time to meet up given their extremely boring lives), they undauntedly update us on their whereabouts. My husband nods, well informed whereas I just sit there, clueless about all this action, surprised to learn that “They were all right” covers the purchase of a second home in Spain, a potential careerchange and getting a dog. On my shift, however, information is handled with greater care and attention. When I talk to friends and family members enthusiastically I report back everything from stomach-chills to broken waterpipes. “Anne and Jake had bad shrimps on Friday” is a relevant piece of information. Anne is my sister and I care for her intake of seafood. I don’t stop there. “That’s too bad, considering Anne doesn’t even like shrimps.” See? This is bonus-info. This is what puts the whole

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shrimp-incident into perspective. What I find really hurtful is hearing my husband’s second-hand summary of my action-packed, attention gripping reports to other members of our family. “Anne and Jake. Yeah. Mette just spoke to them... They were all right.”

Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish versions of “Have I Got News For You” and “Room 101”. Mette currently lives in London.

Scan Business | Business Profile | Mannaz

Inger Buus and colleague at their the office during training.

Tailoring talent for business success By Ian Welsh | Photos: Yiannis Katsaris

One of the secrets of having engaged staff and agile management is the right training, especially for a company’s leaders.

her UK clients have found the company’s Scandinavianstyle approach refreshing. “We like to keep things relatively informal, but maintaining the high level of professionalism that is typically Scandinavian.”

In challenging economic times, many companies are realising that to maintain success they need to make the best use of all their available resources, not least their management personnel. Developing the capabilities of executives and key employees is the aim of Denmarkbased Mannaz, which services major international clients from offices in Brussels, Berlin, Copenhagen and London.

A flexible approach is central to what Mannaz offers its clients, and it is certainly not one-size-fits-all. “We see developing the correct innovative and efficient training methods for our clients as a partnership. The right solutions are tailored to our clients each time,” Buus says.

While the London office opened in 2003, Mannaz has been working with UK clients since 1999. Inger Buus is managing director for Mannaz in the UK. She says that

The internal structure that Mannaz has developed helps deliver this flexibility. While the company’s core staff is around 100 across its four offices, there is a strong

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Flexible solutions

Scan Business | Business Profile | Mannaz

network of over 350 expert associate consultants whom Mannaz can call upen for different projects as and when their expertise is appropriate. This structure means that the company can precisely scale the programmes it offers its clients, depending on the resources available and the outcomes required. A typical programme that Mannaz devises and runs for its clients may last for two or even up to five days at a residential location. “We have our own facilities at our head office in Copenhagen, but elsewhere we tend to locate programmes at country hotels with a ‘retreat’ feel that allows for focussed learning,” Buus says. The programmes are broken down following a 70/20/10 model. “Around 70% of the time is spent on experimental or practical tasks, 20% in small group coaching, and 10% in classroom teaching.” What is good leadership? But what are the programmes trying to achieve? “Good leadership is about providing direction while developing relationships, and knowing how to react to different situations as they arise,” Buus says. That said, she is able to isolate four key skills that good leaders tend to have in abundance. “The ability to know yourself is very important,” Buus says. Improving self-reflection and self-awareness are areas that many of her clients are keen to work on. Secondly, leaders need to be able to take a step backwards and view problems carefully. “The ability to reflect on matters from a higher-level perspective is something we encourage. In a fast-paced business environment it can be easy to lose focus and go off at tangents. Being able to see problems from a broader perspective helps to get round this,” Buus says. Thirdly, Buus highlights an individual’s drive. “Energy and drive are important, but these are not necessarily the same as ambition,” she says. “Big egos are not in fashion at the moment, and companies are more interested in thoughtful leaders, who can see the greater good rather than the personal benefits of decisions.” In addition, Buus believes that leading companies are looking for entrepreneurs who are adaptable and prepared to take risks, seizing opportunities as they arise. “This is

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Scan Business | Business Profile | Mannaz

Top: Inger highlights concepts of good business management. Bottom: The Mannaz office centrally placed in Covent Garden, London.

especially important in the current economic climate,” she says.

inspiring the team to think for themselves. These are skills we nurture.”

Nurturing the right skills and drawing on experience

Drawing on the experience of a team is also an important skill for a manager. Buus’s own London team is a case in point. “We are small, with only five core staff, but each of us has a different nationality meaning we have a variety of outlooks and perspectives,” Buus says. Having set up the London office for Mannaz, Buus has been living in the UK since 2003, though she also had a spell this side of the North Sea in the 1990s. “I like the cosmopolitan atmosphere in London. From our offices in Covent Garden we can feel the buzz every day at work. Even in testing economic times, the opportunities for professional development are huge here. And in an open and tolerant atmosphere it is easy to be yourself,” she concludes, something that also leads to good business management.

A final key skill is communication, and this is much more than just being able to nail a Powerpoint presentation. “We’re looking to develop the ability to inspire other people as well as the more day-to-day skills of being articulate and clear in how you communicate and ‘make things happen with words’,” Buus says. To promote this, Mannaz utilises a coaching-style approach, highlighting the concepts of leadership by consensus in the executives and managers attending training programmes. This reflects a flatter management style, something that is typically Scandinavian. Buus says: “It can be a very effective approach for a manager to let the team find the solutions to a problem, and this can often be achieved by asking the right questions, by

38 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

www.mannaz.com

Scan Magazine | Appointments

FRANCHISED BUSINESS COACH THE BUSINESS BOOSTER is a business coaching Franchise. They raise skill levels and knowledge to equip companies to grow revenue and profits. Business coaches run their own territory franchise, and the Business Booster look after the systems, processes and back-office to free the coach to grow. The candidate should be inspirational and energetic, with good sales experience.

SENIOR SALES MANAGER – OIL & GAS TPCO manufactures seamless steel pipes used on and off-shore. The position reports in London is a key member of an international sales team. The candidate should be self-motivated and target driven with international sales experience to oil and gas companies

Earnings are expected to exceed £100K within 2-3 years. A franchise investment is required of £25k. CONTACT: Martin Ellis on me@samheadhunting.com

Basic Salary – £45,000 to £55,000 plus other benefits

Customer Service Professional with Norwegian

Customer Service Professional with Swedish Reference: SCAN133

CONTACT: Barry Moles at bg@samheadhunting.com

Reference: SCAN132 Our client, a leading international organisation, are currently looking to expand their highly regarded customer service team with the appointment of a customer service professional for their offices in North London. It is essential you are fluent in Norwegian and English. The salary is £18,359 (regular performancebased review) + excellent benefits

Our client, a leading international organisation, are currently looking to expand their highly regarded customer service team with the appointment of a customer service professional for their offices in North London. It is essential that you are fluent in Swedish and English and you must possess customer service experience AND Administrative skills.

Please send your CV for the attention of Leigh to l.johnson@ilc-ltd.com

Please send your CV for the attention of Leigh to l.johnson@ilc-ltd.com.

Poker Affiliate Manager (Scandinavian Market)

Customer service advisor – Finnish speaking Reference: SCAN128

Reference: SCAN134 The role requires and experienced Poker Affiliate Manager with excellent knowledge of both Poker and the Scandinavian market. You should have full lifecycle affiliate management experience with a proven track record of establishing managing and growing affiliate networks. A good contact base in the Scandinavian Poker market would be beneficial as well.

Our client is an International company with clients across the globe. They are currently recruiting for a Finnish speaking customer service advisor. Excellent level of customer service skills are essential, as is a knowledge of a Windows working environment. The company is based in Belfast. Salary is negotiable with excellent benefits package.

Please send your CV for the attention of Michael to michael@betrecruit.com

Please send your CV for the attention of Katarina to katarina@ilc-ltd.com

Account Sales Executive – Nordic Markets

Customer service advisor – Norwegian speaking

Reference: SCAN126

Reference: SCAN130

Our client, a leading international organisation operating with the technology industry is currently looking to recruit for an Account Sales executive fluent in Finnish OR Danish OR Norwegian OR Swedish. This is an excellent opportunity to join a very successful international organisation. The salary is negotiable.

Our client is an International company with clients across the globe. They are currently recruiting for a Norwegian speaking customer service advisor. Excellent level of customer service skills are essential, as is a knowledge of a Windows working environment. The company is based in Belfast.

Please send your CV for the attention of Leigh to l.johnson@ilc-ltd.com and state your salary expectations.

Please send your CV for the attention to Katarina to katarina@ilc-ltd.com

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 39

Scan Business | Business Profile | Finnair

Finnair has one of the newest fleets in Europe. Right: Finnair’s A330 Business Class and Helsinki Airport Lounge View.

FINNAIR – the past, present and future of air transport By Signe Hansen | Photos: Finnair

From one aircraft flying between Helsinki and Tallinn to a top modern fleet providing the fastest way around the globe and futuristic visions of car and aircraft hybrids, Finnair represents a Scandinavian snapshot of the past, present and future of air transport. Have you ever flicked by a Finnair ad because you did not have any plans for going to Finland? If so, you may want to give it another think because Finnair has much more on offer than a trip to Helsinki. “What is important to us is making people realise that Finnair is for Europe, Asia and the USA as well. Of course we fly to Finland, but that is bit of a no-brainer anyhow,” says Finnair’s Sales Director in the UK and Ireland, Tomi Hänninen. “It happens to be that the world is ball instead of a pancake and because of that Helsinki is the airport that provides a natural connection and the shortest flight time between Europe and Asia, as well as North America and India,” adds Finnish Hänninen, who moved to London two

40 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

years ago after having worked as Finnair’s Sales Director in Oslo for two years. The time and energy efficient choice If you were to fly non-stop from North America to India, the flight would take around 18 hours, a thought which probably makes even the most eager globetrotters go pale. Besides, the environmental footprints of taking such a long trip in one go are much deeper than if flying connected, because the flights with their large fuel cargo waste a lot of energy. “The green issues are more and more important to customers today. They have always been important to us, however, and it is a very good thing that we have invested and keep on investing in the fleet because it means that it is a very eco-smart choice to fly Finnair today,” says Hänninen. Because of the small but efficient scale of Helsinki Airport, flights also avoid having to circle around the airport before landing, so wasting both time and fuel. Another benefit of that is the easiness of the connection.

Scan Business | Business Profile | Finnair

“To put it in numbers, we have about 12 million passengers and three runways; if you compare that to 64 million passengers and two runways at Heathrow, it gives you an idea of how the airport works,” says Hänninen. These conditions mean that Finnair can offer connection times down to 35 minutes together with a hassle and stress free experience. An old airline with brand new planes Founded in 1923, Finnair is the world’s sixth oldest airline and thus is well justified in naming itself one of the most experienced flight operators in the world. In its humble beginning it flew under the name Aero and had only one plane under its wings. “The plane flew to Tallinn; in the summer it landed on the water and in the winter on ice. The concept of flying was very new at the time and did not have much to do with the current industry,” says Hänninen.

renewed. “Finnair’s fleet is one of the newest, if not the newest, in Europe. Our next goal is to renew all long-haul planes so that the entire widebody fleet will be completely new by March 2010.” Another goal that has been achieved during the last ten years is Finnair’s expansion into the global air transport market, most importantly in EuropeAsia connections. “We have built ourselves up from being a European point to point carrier to being one of the major players in Europe-Asia traffic. To put that in numbers, we have gone from having nine flights a week to 65 flights a week to Asia,” says Hänninen. The long-term vision is to increase the North America-India traffic in the same way. Some more long-term goals were the objects of attention when Finnair celebrated its 85th anniversary last year. This was done by making not a history book but a future book titled Departure 2093 – Five visions of future flying.

Today Finnair has 67 aircraft, operates in more than 30 countries and employs around 9,500 people. The yearly turnover is around 2.2 billion Euros, a success which, according to Hänninen, comes down to four things. “I think that if you look at it, we have four success factors which are also our branding values. They are: safe, Finnish, fresh and creative. Those are the timeless factors that we want to build upon.”

In this, several ideas of how air transport may look in 85 years hence are presented. One predicts that in 2093 people will have their own ‘personal movers’ – hybrids of cars and small aircraft automatically controlled so that passengers can relax, enjoy travelling and play retrochess. Well, it is safe to say that despite its long heritage Finnair is certainly not stuck in the past.

Being fresh does, Hänninen explains, have many implications, but one is that the fleet is constantly

For more information visit: www.finnair.com and www.departure2093.com

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 41

Scan Business | International Services | Relocation

Relocating the easy way By Signe Hansen

When moving to or from the UK, there are many things to take into consideration. When taken together with work, family and multiple other things, the move, which should be an uplifting and exciting experience, can end up being more stressful and overwhelming than a tube strike on a hot summer day. But luckily help is available and in just as many variations as there are challenges to face. If you are leaving the UK, you may need help packing and preparing all your belongings for the trip home. Besides, if you are not returning to Scandinavia but arriving for the first time, a little help getting settled would probably also come in

handy. The same, of course, goes for the other way round, where many Scandinavians arrive in the UK and struggle to find their way around rental agreements, schools and English culture. Many people relocate because their companies do, and in that case they may not be the only ones who would benefit from a helping hand; new companies may also find the different terms of the UK market difficult. Scan Magazine has therefore done its very best to gather and present a group of firms which can help you; some can do it all, while others specialise in a more narrow field.

A.K.A. Relocations When Scandinavians look to buy or rent property in the UK, many may have trouble finding the quality they are used to. This is a problem A.K.A. Relocations can help solve for both large corporations and private individuals looking to move to London, Surrey, the North of England and Edinburgh. Established in 2004, the team of seven is run by three Swedes: its two founders, Kristina Kennedy and Catherine Henriksen, and Director Cecilia Board, a building engineer. “Because we are a Scandinavian niche company, we aim to find properties that match the standards found there,” says Kennedy, who has a diploma in Surveying Practice, adding: “We always offer a premium service and

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do all the legwork on behalf of our clients to source the very best properties for them to see.” Another special advantage is that the majority of the team has lived in the UK since they were children. “We know London like the back of our hand. The estate agents see us as English whereas we have the mindset of Scandinavians,” Kennedy says. A.K.A. also look after all the accounts and changes of utilities, making sure that all is in working order by the time clients settle in. “We do absolutely everything for the clients and look after every aspect from beginning to end.” Three pieces of advice from A.K.A.: • Have a budget prepared and estimates on additional costs.

• Research areas in order to know what kind of area suits you and work out transport costs to and from work. • Book schools and check for spaces before finding a property. For more details visit: www.akarelocations.com or call: 020 77510666

Kristina Kennedy & Cecilia Board

Scan Business | International Services | Relocation

Annika Aman-Goodwille

Goodwille If you and your business are considering expanding into the UK market, it may be a good idea to stop by Goodwille Limited on your way. Goodwille was established as an independent service provider focusing on Nordic companies in the UK in 1997 by Swedish Annika Aman-Goodwille, a qualified Chartered Secretary with a legal and financial background. “Our main competitive edge is that we can provide can provide large companies in the Nordic region with all the services they require when establishing a business in the UK,” Goodwille says. “Another competitive edge is the language and cultural aspect. In Nordic companies, the board and management often speak English fluently, but the technical vocabulary that is necessary in financial or legal matters is challenging for anyone who is not familiar with it. Here Goodwill can assist and remove the insecurity.” Goodwille has 20 employees who between them speak a total of 11 lan-

guages. If your company needs other competences than the ones they have in-house, Goodwille can also provide a big network of professional firms to tap into when required. Since her beginning Goodwille has successfully helped more than 500 companies establish business enterprises in the UK, among them the Swedish retail giant Clas Ohlson, which recently opened two stores in the UK. The start-up period for the companies Goodwille helps is normally around three to four years and throughout this period Goodwille can help them to find cost efficient solutions. “With us you can provide a complete service without any fixed overhead costs because you don’t have to employ people before you are up and running and that takes away some of the pressure,” Goodwille says. The time and work involved often comes as a surprise to companies which are, she adds, not always as prepared as they should be. “One of the biggest pit-

falls is that the company employs the wrong people. Often the board takes the decision to go to the UK market without planning it properly.” This is why Goodwille prefers to get involved at an early stage, so that she and her staff can ensure that all the efforts go in the right direction. Three good tips when setting up a business in the UK: • Do not underestimate administrative functions and set out a time span to get them all in place. • Make sure you have the right people to run the business in the UK: make sure to take references. • Remember that everything takes much longer than you think. For more information visit: www.goodwille.co.uk

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 43

Scan Business | International Services | Relocation

closely with different estate agents, who can be challenging for someone new to the UK market. “You have to remember that estate agents are working for the seller and not the buyer,” Bolinder says. The legal side of buying a property is also more complicated than in Scandinavia and Consido can be vital in that process as well as when negotiating prices. Consido has departments in the UK, South Africa, Switzerland and Dubai.

CONSIDO One of the first challenges when moving to the UK is finding a home, but there is no need to despair. Help is available from the relocation and property acquisition consultancy Consido, founded by its Swedish Managing Director Suzanne Bolinder ten years ago. Consido offers a tailor-made service focused on renting and buying property at the high-end London market for both corporate and private clients. Around half of their assignees are Scandinavian expatriates. “When finding the right home for them, Consido helps find a school for the kids, and offers a crash course on life in the UK too,” explains Bolinder. If you wish to buy your home or just invest in property, the company can also help navigate between the many different kinds of ownership in the UK, which are new to most Scandinavians. To get the best possible deal, Consido works

City Moving For many, going back home can end up being a daunting and stressful experience as they lie awake at night worrying about the fate of the silk curtains or porcelain lamp. This is why the right moving company with the right experience is essential and City Moving is a company which has that. The Middlesex based company was established in 1986 by Director Alan Hovell. By a twist of fate the Briton ended up specialising in the removals to and from Scandinavia which is today the major part of City Moving’s market. Most of the transport to Scandinavia is carried out in air ride vehicles, which mitigates stress to all your belongings. “Of course we use different packaging techniques

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Three pieces of advice from Consido: • Contact a relocation company that can tailor-make a solution for you. • Be aware of all the costs related to your lifestyle in the UK such as housing and schools. • Join a networking organisation or engage yourself in your community even if your stay is short. For more details visit: www.consido.net Suzanne Bolinder. Photo: Grace Lung

depending on where the furniture is going, but with the Air Ride vehicles the ride is gentle so there is no need for complete export packing,” says Hovell. City Moving outsources most of its Scandinavian transports to Danish, Norwegian or Swedish trucks and drivers. “We are proactive in filling up the trucks when going back to Scandinavia and that gives us a competitive edge whether the move is large or small because it makes each transport more price and energy efficient,” Hovell says, adding: “I also find that many Scandinavian families are more comfortable being serviced by Scandinavians.” Three pieces of advice from City Moving: • Ensure all personal and travel documents are in a safe place to avoid being packed. • Clearly label items Stay or Go to avoid costly mistakes.

• Check over house to ensure all is complete before truck departs. For more details visit: www.citymoving.co.uk

Alan Hovell

Scan Business | International Services | Relocation

Redab Properties Plc When Scandinavians come to the UK, they usually look for high quality housing, something which many find hard to come across. Redab Properties Plc is aiming to change that. Buying, developing and managing commercial and residential buildings in London are at the core of Redab. “Scandinavians are used to more comfort and to materials that will not go into pieces at small accidents and that is why we use better material in all our properties,” says Managing Director C.G. Pettersson, who is himself Swedish. In 1984, C.G. founded the Redab Group in Sweden and in 1994 the London based Redab Properties Plc was established as a part of that. Back then, Redab Properties had £50,000 as investment capital which C.G. and his team of five employees in London have since turned into 5.5 million, benefiting the company’s 300 shareholders. In 2007 Redab sold off all its properties and now has four buildings under management or development. One is a property in Kilburn which was bought in 2007 and has gone through a complete

high standard refurbishment. Through varied measures such as thermally efficient building fabric, natural ventilation, a green roof, a solar heating system and a groundwater pump, the building has also become 68 per cent more energy efficient than standard housing. The groundwater pump works by pumping water down through the groundwater, which warms it up. “This is an environmentally friendly way of producing energy; the water we pump down never comes into direct contact with the groundwater, but its temperature is increased when it passes through it,” says C.G. “We have used it in our office building in Hackney and done similar things before this. Thanks to these measures some of our buildings actually have a surplus of energy.” The flats in Kilburn are all fitted with hardwood flooring, with underfloor heating, and a fully integrated kitchen in high quality materials. “Normally in the UK tiles will just have a top-finish which will crack if you drop a fork and floors will be just a few millimetres thick and will be worn down after a couple of years. We know that most people from outside the

UK don’t want that and that’s why we do it differently,” says C.G. The flats, which are up for sale or letting, also benefit from a 24-hour porter service and access to swimming pool and gymnasium. Redab is developing similar high quality flats in Hackney and Tower Hamlets (in the centre of which the Olympic Park will be in 2012) which will be available for sale or letting in respectively the summer of 2010 and 2009.

C.G. Pettersson

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 45

Scan Business | International Services | Relocation

The friendly Enlink team, from left to right; Tony Burrows, Kate Service (Director), Amy Maude, James Service, Carolina Jönsson (Director). Photo: Grace Lung

Enlink Expanding into the UK market or setting up a new business may be a daunting and risky step for both small and large businesses, but help is available from a company with Scandinavian links which understands what Nordic service quality means. Carolina Jönsson, from Sweden, is a founding Director of Enlink Ltd, a company which can provide everything from order handling and book keeping, including credit checks, credit control, financial reporting and payroll, to virtual offices including phone, fax and meeting room facilities “We have everything inhouse and have a transparent and flexible system with a compact, efficient and friendly team,” says Carolina. “Companies may be able to find some of our services in other places but rarely all in one place.” With Enlink’s assistance, companies

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active in the UK market can enjoy the benefits of being able to provide the service and image of a fully established UK office without having to bear the expense and stress that this usually involves and with a minimum of risk. It also means that the client’s key staff can focus solely on their own tasks without having to get involved with the dayto-day administration and paperwork. The friendly efficiency of the Enlink team means that they offer competitively priced services and their location is a key factor in this. “Often companies new to the UK market think of London as the key location, but this is not always the case, especially for clients engaged in manufacturing. Being located in the Midlands Enlink has the advantage of lower overheads and easy access to the whole of the UK,” says Carolina. Enlink was formed almost three years ago by Carolina with fellow director Kate Service and colleague Tony Burrows who all have experience of working with Nordic companies. Since the beginning, their flexibility has en-

abled them to assist companies ranging from small entrepreneurs to global companies. “What we do for all our clients is to help with the first steps into the market and our ambition is to see them grow along with our own company,” Carolina says, adding: “We have a very proactive approach to our client’s business and think it is important to work as a team with the clients, working very much as part of their company.” Three pieces of advice from Enlink: • Before entering any agreement with a UK company, be sure to check out their history. Always ask for references. • Most companies set a financial budget for their UK market entry, but many do not take into account the time of key employees that it may take. Budget sufficient time as well as money. • Do not leave anything to chance and have a lawyer read any contract that you are offered. Employment contracts should be written in the UK.

Scan Business | International Services | Relocation

Møbeltransport Danmark and House of Relocation Leaving your home country can be daunting but what about moving back again or maybe even to a third location? Probably even more so. This is why Denmark’s largest moving company Møbeltransport Danmark and their relocation division, House of Relocation, have specialised in just that. With 180 trained packers and 14 large moving trucks operating all over Europe, Møbeltransport Danmark services the UK on a weekly basis during most of the year. Complementing the moving services, its House of Relocation division can help newcomers or returning nationals get settled in Scandinavia. “We arrange visas/working permits, finding homes and schools for the kids, as well as organising orientation visits for the family all over the world,” director of the com-

pany Gunnar Moeskjær says adding: “When moving back home, some expatriates may also feel they need to be reintroduced and many may also have foreign spouses, so we offer three day cultural courses on living in Denmark.” Moeskjær, who has lived in 5 countries on 3 continents during a 20 year period, knows from personal experience what it takes to make a successful international relocation. “Moving is not moving as it was in the old days. It takes an awful lot more now,” he says. Three pieces of advice from Møbeltransport Danmark: • Get started early: things take longer than you think. • Choose a FAIM quality certified moving company with the resources to help you all the way.

TEAM Relocations Moving and relocating on a global, national and regional basis for large corporate clients is what TEAM Relocations is all about. With over 40 operations in 14 countries and more than 1,000 specialist employees, the TEAM Relocations Group is one of the world’s largest relocation and moving companies. “Our strong European presence, knowledge and flexible solutions always ensure that we are able to provide the very best quality service,” says Danish Louise Langkjær, the Group’s Relocation Manager in Denmark. The Group has departments in all the Scandinavian capitals as well as Odense, Århus and Helsingør in Denmark. In the UK, TEAM Relocations is present in London, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Aberdeen.

The Scandinavian side of the group is built on the three old Scandinavian companies ADAMs Transport in Denmark, Kungsholm in Sweden and Marjortrans

• Call Møbeltransport Danmark. For more information visit: www.mobel.dk

Gunnar Moeskjær

in Norway. Founded over 40 years ago, the Group is today divided into two brands: TEAM Allied handling corporate and international moves and TEAM Relocations supporting corporate relocations. “Our advantage is that with just one point of contact we can offer our clients corporate and private removals and relocation services including property search, family programmes and everything else,” says Langkjær. Three pieces of advice from TEAM Relocations when moving internationally: • It is important to involve the whole family from the beginning. • Many Scandinavians are dual career families, so it is vital to consider the partner’s opportunities at the new location. • Relocation can help not just adapting better and faster to the new culture, but saves time and hassle each time. For more information visit: www.teamrelocations.com

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 47

Scan Business | International Services | Relocation

Stockholm Relocation Service some cases it may take a little longer than expected.” Finding the perfect home is not everything though; many times good schools have to be found and registered for, cars imported and formalities sorted out. “We provide a full service for our clients and do everything possible to guarantee a smooth and effective transition to our beautiful city, we even help them join the local tennis club,” Thorstensson says.

If your company is sending an employee to Sweden or you are moving yourself, a good relocation agent can really make the difference between a stressful or uplifting experience. Founded by Director Ann Thorstensson and Viveka Löwenhielm in 1991, Stockholm Relocation Service is the city’s oldest relocation firm and can offer longstanding experience but also a very flexible service. “Being a small team and located in central Stockholm, we are able to work when it suits our clients, like in the evening or during weekends,” says Thorstensson, who has herself lived as an expatriate in France and the UK. Finding the right new home is of course first priority when relocating and for that, in Stockholm, a helping hand is indispensable. “Swedish regulations and taxes make it harder and less profitable to rent out houses and apartments. The

Chris Marshall

Bishop’s Move With an unrivalled 150 years of experience you will be sure to avoid any beginner’s mistakes when moving or relocating with Bishop’s Move.

48 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

Johan Norrman and co-founder and Director Ann Thorstensson. supply of good homes isn’t always what you would have wished for,” the director says, adding: “Most of the time we find what our clients want, of course, but in

Started in 1854 by JJ Bishops with just a horse and cart, today Bishop’s Move has more than 250 employees and 28 branches in the UK, Spain and Gibraltar. Sales and Marketing Director Chris Marshall explains: “We are the largest family owned removal and storage company within the UK with the 6th generation of the Bishop family working within the company. As we are a family company we look to uphold values of trust and helpfulness combined with professionalism.” Bishop’s Move carries out removals for both private and corporate clients and assists companies with the relocation of their employees. “We have a team of dedicated and experienced moving consultants who can manage relocation from start to finish, offering a full range of services,” says Marshall adding: “With International relocations, as an accredited member of FIDI, we have a

Three pieces of advice from Stockholm Relocation Service: • Plan your home search well in advance. • Do not bring pets. • Be flexible. For more details visit: www.stockholm-relocation.se

wide network of FIDI accredited companies that we work with.” Three pieces of advice from Bishop’s Move: • Choose a removal company that is an accredited member of FIDI - the largest global alliance of independent quality international removal companies. • Take advice from the company’s Move Consultants as they can help with customs forms and other red tap re overseas administrations. • Communicate with the company and keep them as up to date as possible. For more details visit: www.bishopsmove.com

Scan Business | International Services | Relocation

4 Corners Relocation Relocating to a new city and a new country can be a stressful and daunting experience if you have to do it all by yourself. Luckily, if you are moving to the UK, you can get specialist

have professional consultants in all areas, and have successfully relocated a fantastic 95 per cent of all their assignees.

help from a leading independent firm, 4 Corners Relocation. They can help you or your employees with everything from finding a suitable school for the kids; serviced temporary accommodation; long or short-term lease negotiations; and tenancy management.

The London-based firm is co-directed by the Swedish couple Andy and Karin Beaver who have been partners in business and life for the last ten years. Their long experience and a very special service attitude make 4 Corners the best choice when looking for a home search company, says Andy Beaver. “Essentially 4 Corners is different because we really value the service angle of the business and the clients are our main focus.” This is demonstrated by the fact that 4 Corners takes care of their clients all the way through the process from before they get to the UK until they are completely settled in their new home. “We spend an enormous amount of time going through their personal requirements before they actually come into England and I think that is what really sets us apart from the competition,” says Beaver.

Three pieces of advice from 4 Corners: • Be as specific as you can be On a day with 4 Corners you will see a wide variety of properties. We will try and tailor the viewings to get as close as we can to your requirements, so the more information we have about you and your ideal lifestyle, the better the match. • Don’t Rush A lot of assignees come to us and want to be moved in within a couple of days – but don’t forget, you are probably going to be signing a year long lease. It’s worth taking an extra day just to make sure you are happy with the area, the commute and the property. • Be realistic in your aims There’s no easy way to put this, but London is an expensive city to live in. We’ll try and show you what is realistically available in your price bracket, but we are guided in this by you. For more details visit: www.4cr.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 8878 7980

When the newcomers arrive, 4 Corners will take them on a tour to see the possibilities they have picked out for them. On average their clients will view around 1215 properties, carefully selected to match their needs, before they find their new home. When they do, 4 Corners continue to help them getting settled. “When clients from abroad arrive in the UK there is often a home-based spouse or partner who is overlooked by many other relocation providers, but we work with him or her to help find schools, set up bank accounts, find shopping locations and generally just give them a full educational briefing on the area.” Although 4 Corners are located in and specialise in the greater London area, they cover the whole of the UK,

Andy Beaver

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 49

Scan Business | Column | How was your day?

How was your day? Since February 2009, Annika Wahlberg has been the Managing Director of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce. Every day begins the same way, I wake up – happy! And today was no different. My morning routine is nothing out of the ordinary. Shower, dressing, eyeliner and breakfast on the go. My life consists of many challenges and many rewards. Time is always of the essence. I head straight to our offices in “Little Sweden” – a cluster of Swedish businesses, organisations and institutions in Marylebone. They all add to the “Swedishness” of the neighbourhood. London is “one of the largest towns of Sweden” and Marylebone is one of its buzzing hubs. The visit The morning kicks off with a meeting at SAAB, a company that hardly needs any further introduction. Their M.D. talks about the company and the challenges they are facing today. I admire the company’s determination to act in defiance of the recession. Their fighting spirit rubbed off and made me feel energised.

the UK than just the capital. We can’t afford not to venture beyond the M25. In fact, it’s our duty.

Back at the farm

Meet the Council

Many people dread staff meetings simply because they are boring. I used to endorse that view, at times, but don’t anymore. SCC staff meetings are vibrant, challenging and productive. And at times seductively chaotic. Although every meeting may not end in consensus (why should it?), we always leave with a unified sense of direction.

In the afternoon, I meet the Council members. It is fantastic that so many give up their time for the Chamber and it is reassuring to have the support and encouragement of this influential group of people.

Speaking of speech to a great speaker Meeting Roland Rudd is intimidating, like meeting perfect people usually is. His CV is incredible. Roland will speak at our AGM. It occurs to me just how lucky we are in being able to attract the best of speakers. It says a lot about who we are. Beyond the M25 The team and I discuss a mail shot to companies outside London. The list makes you realise that there is more to

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The night shift Night-time is event time. Tonight I head for the Royal Institute in a taxi. As the driver starts yawning, so do I. We’re both, not surprisingly, tired. We chat about work, family and children. Our night shifts have just started and despite the occasional moan we both concede to waking up happy.

These are our busy lives! We ask a Scandinavian businessman or business woman the question: How was your day? The answer is never that straightforward.

Scan Business | Column | Property Breakfast

Property Breakfast Corren Troen recently held a successful Property Breakfast with attendance from developers and investors, together with representatives from the financial sector. All involved in the property market were interested to meet over breakfast and listen to an economic overview of the commercial property market given by Darren Yates of Cushman & Wakefieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s European Research Team. Although Darren Yates anticipated further challenges ahead he did indicate that there were some signs of cautious optimism in the property sector. Darren suggested that the UK still faces significant downside risk but the majority of forecasters do, however, expect recovery earlier than anticipated, with the economy bottoming out in 2009. He considered that should businesses and consumers hold back, growth will be restrained and the recovery muted.

By Nicola Woolf, Corren Troen

He pointed out that, in the medium term, growth will be impeded anyway by a slower financial services expansion and tighter fiscal policies. The potential threat of regulatory changes must also be watched. A recent survey carried out by Cushman & Wakefield of 83 property lenders illustrated that one of the difficulties in this climate is that lenders are attaching conditions to new business lending and that 49 lenders surveyed are closed for business at the moment, with the remainder only lending to existing clients or with conditions attached. However, that said, a Bank of England survey indicated a slight improvement in lending in the next few months, property being sought after as a stable asset class. The property market is showing signs that it will bounce back by 2011 and 2012 as pent-up demand is released, business investment recovers and there is a boost

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from infrastructure works. The 2012 Olympics will also help to create a recovery. However, there will also be an acceptance of re-pricing and no return to easy credit. The overall general consensus at the breakfast was that there is at this time great potential for opportunities within the sector for well-placed investors to re-enter the property market. Corren Troen is holding another Property Breakfast in early September. If interested in attending please contact Nicola Woolf at Corren Troen; 0207 592 8900, nw@correntroen.com

Scan Business | News | Chambers of Commerce

Danish-UK Chamber of Commerce As we all know from reading the current news, women are advancing and gaining a larger percentage of leading positions and board memberships. This is a trend we find highly positive, so we have therefore taken the initiative to start a DUCC Women's Forum. The idea behind the Women’s Forum is to gather women from the Anglo-Nordic business world who wish to expand their network. The DUCC Women’s Forum will be held 4-6 times a year and will have different foci according to current concerns or interests of members. In this connection, we are pleased to announce that our first

speaker, Courtney Fingar, Editor of fDi (Foreign Direct Investment) Magazine, will make the introductory Women’s Forum speech on 28 September 2009. The DUCC will also, in co-operation with the Italian Chamber of Commerce, host a Fashion Event in London in September. The theme will revolve around the issue of brand and corporate value and how to maintain it during downturn periods like the present. The speakers represent high value brands and will give their insights into the issue in question as seen from their respective viewpoints. Keep updated on speakers, time and venue on www.ducc.co.uk

UPCOMING EVENTS DUCC Summer Cocktail Party at the Royal Danish Embassy – 8 July 2009 Fashion Event – 16 September 2009 Women’s Forum: Movement of global DFI – 28 September 2009 Danish Design Focus on Furniture: “What is Danish Design and how can companies with Danish roots take advantage of that brand?” – 28 October 2009

Danish-UK Chamber of Commerce | Phone: +44 (0) 20 7259 6795 | Email: info@ducc.co.uk | www.ducc.co.uk

Norwegian-British Chamber of Commerce stuff to a Scottish/British audience and vice versa. If your business is interested in exhibiting please contact us. Also in October we have teamed up with Den Norske Klub for a financial evening with Øystein Dørum, Chief Economist at DnB NOR, as speaker. StatoilHydro will be hosting the annual Shipping & Energy Seminar, and we are happy to welcome our Sponsor Members to an Advisory Board Dinner at the Ambassador’s residence. The ICT Seminar will be held on 12 November where the topic will be clean technology. And we would also like to remind you of the Nordic Thursday Drinks which are held every last Thursday of the month. It is the perfect opportunity to network with the Nordic business community in an informal atmosphere.

Although summer is a quiet period on the events calendar, NBCC is working hard behind the scenes to deliver an interesting and varied experience for our members and contacts during the autumn. To kick off the season we are planning a “Welcome to London” event in September. The purpose is to introduce Norwegian and British cultures, focusing on both business and social aspects.

UPCOMING EVENTS

In October, we are hosting a Taste & Travel Seminar and Exhibition in Aberdeen to promote Norwegian travel, drinks and food-

“Offshore Europe” – NBCC in Aberdeen – 8-11 September Welcome to London – 23 September Financial Evening – 8 October

Scan Magazine | Business Directory

LEGO® Company seeks Danish speaking Customer Service Advisors LEGO Direct is an award winning contact centre, where fun and creativity play a part in every working day. We are looking to recruit Danish speaking advisors to join our team in our European contact centre based in Slough (just 20 mins from London Paddington by train). Fluency in spoken and written English is also a requirement for this role. This role is aimed at maximising sales for the LEGO Company by providing a premium customer service experience to consumers who contact us by telephone (50%) and email / letter (50%) during our busiest months of the year. These seasonal contracts will start in September and we anticipate that they will run through until the beginning of 2010. During the first months of the year we may be able to offer some permanent contracts to our seasonal staff. We offer a competitive hourly salary of £8.71 plus benefits. To read more about our vacancy or to apply please visit our website here: http://lego.e-cruitnow.com/uk/ LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Knob configuration and the Minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2008 The LEGO Group

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Scan Business | News | Chambers of Commerce

Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK Today the Chamber has around 400 Member companies representing not only Swedish-owned companies and subsidiaries, but also a growing number of British and European companies interested in creating new business opportunities or developing existing ones. Members include major international companies such as Ericsson, Skype, AstraZeneca, Nordea, Brunswick, Google, H&M, HSBC, Saab, IKEA and Sony Ericsson, as well as a large number of small and medium sized companies from many different sectors and industries such as Spotify, Ice Hotel and Scandinavian Kitchen.

The Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK hosted its Annual General Meeting on Friday 5 December 2009 at The Dorchester. An increase in new Members was reported for 2008 and a doubling of new members in 2009 compared to the previous period last year. “We have been working hard on implementing our new profile, ensuring our many events are up-to-date and delivering what our Members are asking for. It is very encouraging to see such a surge in subscriptions and our recent Member survey is nothing but positive,” says Annika Wahlberg, Managing Director.

Join the Swedish Chamber of Commerce today! Contact Sofie Zetterlund, Membership Coordinator for further information on 020 7224 8001 or by e-mail to zetterlund@scc.org.uk.

UPCOMING EVENTS Swedish-Finnish Crayfish Party – 4 September Networking reception in Birmingham – 7 September Networking reception at Volvo Cars London – 10 September Humber Golf & Dinner – 29 September Go to www.scc.org.uk to read more and sign up.

Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK | Phone: +44 (0) 20 7224 8001 | Email: info@scc.org.uk | www.scc.org.uk

Finnish-British Chamber of Commerce Companies as well as individuals are welcome to apply for membership. Being a FBCC member gives you many useful benefits and it is a great opportunity to expand awareness of business in the Finnish-British business community. As a part of the FBCC business network you’ll have the opportunity to host events (only for company members), the opportunity to make business contacts and to network with other chamber members. Being a member gives your company publicity through different publications including the annual Membership Directory and our website. Also, you’ll receive up-to-date information of Chamber events as well as events organized in co-operation with other Chambers of commerce and institutions. Membership starts from £30 (Junior membership) per year. Please contact us to choose the most suitable option for you. To apply for membership, please contact fbccevents@fbcc.co.uk or visit www.fbcc.co.uk. We will also be delighted to provide you with some more information about Patron memberships.

UPCOMING EVENTS Nordic Networking Drinks – 27 August Finnish-Swedish Crayfish Party at Deep Restaurant – 4 September Nordic Networking Drinks – 24 September

Scan Magazine | Business Directory

Explore the Swedish Summer We have been in the relocation business since 1991 and have helped hundreds of families settle in Stockholm. Contact us for more information: info@stockholm-relocation.se +46-8-665 60 64 www.stockholm-relocation.se

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Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 55

Scan Magazine | Scan News

SCAN NEWS

Edited by Emelie Krugly

If you have a news story for Scan Magazine you can contact Emelie on: emelie@scanmagazine.co.uk

HRH Crown Princess Mary presents green award for lucky students Eight British students who won a competition organised by Eco Schools UK and The Danish Embassy in London were presented with their award by HRH Crown Princess Mary of Denmark. The event took place at the residence of the Ambassador of Denmark, Birger Riis-Jørgensen, on 16 June. The winners were chosen from amongst hundreds of contestants, who all took part in a competition to help solve the problems of the changing climate. As part of the prize they will be taking part in a climate and innovation camp for young people in Sønderborg, Denmark on 8-11 August. 500 youths from more than 45 countries of all continents will

be attending the camp where the objective is to come up with ideas and suggestions for what can be done to solve future climate challenges. HRH Crown Princess Mary of Denmark presented the winners with a diploma and showed great interest in the project. Bright Green Youth is the youth counterpart of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP15) held in Copenhagen in December 2009. The opening ceremony of the camp is 8 August and will be attended by several ministers from Denmark and abroad. For more info on Bright Green Youth visit www.brightgreenyouth.org

HRH Crown Princess Mary. Photo: Steffen N. Christensen

Learning Finnish with Finn-Guild More and more people are studying Finnish in Britain. The reasons vary: a Finnish girl friend, interest in Finnish heavy rock, a move to Finland for a better life – or just the challenge of learning a difficult language! Finn-Guild is running three evening courses from September for intermediate (those with basic conversation) and advanced students. The ten-lesson courses take place in Camden Town. Registration is underway, so it is advisable to book now. An evening course for beginners starts in January. There will be two intensive study days in October and November, aimed at all levels. These days are booked well in advance, so enrol early. They include ex-

56 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

Finnish lessons attract all ages tras like Karelian pastries, cinnamon buns, rye bread and herring. General Secretary, Ossi Laurila, says that once “the main reason to learn was a Finnish partner, usually a girl friend, who wanted her man to learn the basics before the first visit to the family. Today,

it’s often the foreign man who wants to learn before the family moves to Finland. I have noticed that it is the British husband who instigates the move, his wife would be happy to spend more time in London. “We get varied students on our courses.This week an 80-year old gentleman wanted to study to keep his brain active. I have met pierced, tattooed rockers who want to learn the language of Nightwish and Lordi. And there are always those second generation Finns whose parents didn’t teach them Finnish. This is another good example of the importance of bilingualism in mixed families.” More about Finn-Guild Finnish: www.finn-guild.org or 020 7387 3508

Scan Magazine | Scan News

MALMÖ NORDIC DINING

– A Swedish Food Revolution

Swedish entrepreneurs and food lovers Erika Eklundh and Victor Ollén have recently launched their new business venture, Malmö Nordic Dining. Their ambition is to challenge the stereotypical view of Nordic food being largely herring and meatballs with an array of quality, carefully sourced produce, inspiration and product development. Vic and Erika They both have backgrounds as chefs in renowned restaurants in Sweden and Denmark. On top of that, Erika is a graphic designer while Victor has a degree in International business. With these combined experiences the duo seems a perfect match. Erika explains how it all started: “One day I heard the Swedish Minister of Agriculture on the radio talking about Scandinavian food and how Sweden was going to be responsible for the next big food revolution. When he was asked what was typically Swedish, he went on only to mention meatballs, lingonberry jam and vodka which I thought was an incredibly boring answer.” Said and done, the duo began research and pitching to investors and

managed to get support from the Swedish Government. Now they plan to tickle the taste buds of Londoners and beyond with their handpicked produce. Great care has been taken to ensure the products are offered with characteristic freshness, simplicity, health, and great taste. All are wrapped in beautiful and functional packaging. “All Malmö Nordic Dining products, besides being completely natural, unaltered and artisan produced, are good representatives of the Nordic Diet in the sense that dietary fibres, unsaturated fats and slow carbohydrates are all incorporated. The beauty of Nordic food is it’s purity,” explains Erika Eklundh. “We hope to attract the modern,

health-conscious consumer with our exciting new range of Nordic products,bringing them a taste of the latest new super foods. We’ve had an incredibly good response so far. Selfridge’s Food Hall has also shown interest in stocking our range. Customers especially adore our cheese selection.” Malmö Nordic Dining’s products include rosehip preserve, thin crisp bread and fine rapeseed oil to name but a few. These are to be found in selected food halls, stores and venues where Nordic products are already being promoted, for example Nordic design shops and cafés such as Design House Stockholm, Scandinavian Kitchen, Food Inc and Totally Swedish. Shortly customers will also be able to buy directly online from www.malmonordicdining.com

Rosehip preserve

Norwegian music site celebrates one year Nomusicmedia.com, Norway’s one and only English language music site, is celebrating one year in operation. The site is updated daily with news, tour plans, album and live reviews, videos, interviews and other surprises. “We’ve had a fantastic response from all over the world and the music industry enjoys our site, like for example Pitchfork Media, the world’s biggest indie-music site. It’s been beyond our expectations,” says Åse Røyset, founder and editor of the site. Nomusicmedia was founded by her

and Andreas Larsen; they both have extensive experience in the business. Larsen holds a BA in international marketing and relationship management and a BA in media studies, while Røyset has a BA in media studies, and they each run their own label. They both concluded there was very little English language literature on the web covering music from this region and then set out to increase international recognition and interest. Andy Inglis, co-founder of the club ‘The Luminaire’ in North London and a contributor to the website, reviews Norwegian bands when they pass through London.

He is a big fan of Norwegian music. ”Nomusicmedia is really doing a great thing for bands that are still knocking on the door of the UK. Norwegian music is often very experimental, I think it has to do with the climate in Norway, it is freer in style and there is less pressure to be cool.” Nomusicmedia has published about 400 articles and is about to face it’s first full festival season. Among the largest reading groups in addition to the Norwegians are the English, Germans, Swedes and Americans. www.nomusicmedia.com

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 57

Scan Magazine | Scan News

Lunch recitals at St Olave’s – Treatment for the Soul For anyone seeking a peaceful moment during the hectic lunch hour in London, St Olave’s Church in the City of London offers lunchtime recitals, a definite treatment for the soul. The recitals are held Wednesday and Thursday every week, except in August, and start at 1.05pm. Thomas Butler, a retired shipping lawyer with a background in piano and art, and a passion for Scandinavia, is the orchestrator of these recitals. “Musicians from the Scandinavian countries play at St Olave’s from time to time. Björn Kleinman, who runs the Swedish Hall concerts, performed a couple of years ago. Others include pianist Per Rundberg from Sweden, AnneMarie Christensen, violinist from Denmark, Swedish pianist Katarina Ström-Harg and Ingeborg Boerch, so-

prano,” he says adding: “I always aim to have some Grieg as close as possible to May 17.” St Olave’s is dedicated to St Olaf the patron Saint of Norway and the first Christian king of Norway. The church is one of the oldest in the City, built circa 1450. It survived the Great Fire but was badly damaged in the Second World War and rededicated after its restoration in 1951. The tradition of regular weekly lunchtime recitals of classical music goes back 50 years. Admission is free, but there is a retiring collection to cover the artists’ expenses. The church welcomes performers who are at an early stage of their careers as well as those who are more established. This year’s recitals have also featured artists from Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Hungary, Russia, Lithuania, Cuba, Venezuela,

St Olave’s Church Egypt, Japan, Taiwan, South Africa, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro and Croatia. For more info visit www.sanctuaryinthecity.net/concerts and www.sanctuaryinthecity.net

Obituary

Malcolm Campbell, who wrote Scan Magazine’s much-loved recruitment Column, passed away on 20 June 2009, aged 75. The cause of death was Mesothelioma, a terminal illness. Malcolm was born in Hong Kong in May 1934, the middle one of three boys. In 1966 Malcolm married Margaret Long and he became the father of two children, Clare and Calum, and the grandfather of two grandsons. Malcolm was a man who could draw on many extraordinary experiences, much knowledge and various personal attributes, his humour being one of them. Scan Magazine’s Thomas Winther says of Malcolm: “He was very funny! We received calls from people who read Malcolm’s column, who thought he might be a comedian disguised as a

58 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

By Rikke Bruntse-Dahl headhunter columnist.” However, it was in personnel management and recruitment that Malcolm made his career. After reading chemistry at Imperial College in London and working as a chemist, he changed course and went in to personnel management. He became a director of the Institute of Personnel Management before moving into recruitment consultancy. After working for Clive and Stokes in London for many years, he formed the Springman, Tipper and Campbell Partnership. His clients were worldwide and work often involved travelling to exotic destinations such as the Middle East and Asia. Having rowed for Imperial College while studying there, he maintained a long-standing interest in sailing and rowing. Malcolm was also a member of

Photo: Magnus Arrevad

Malcolm Campbell

many London clubs and societies. He enjoyed a wide variety of music from jazz to classical and brass bands. At Scan Magazine, Malcolm was more than our entertaining, knowledgeable columnist. Winther says: “He had a wonderful wit and a genuine interest in people. He was much treasured by everybody, not only as a valued business associate but also as a friend.” It is for this and his selflessness that Malcolm will in particular be remembered.

Scan Magazine | Culture | Jan Troell

15 Minutes with Jan Troell

By Emelie Krugly

The 77-year-old Swedish filmmaker Jan Troell is best known abroad for his 1970s epics The Emigrants and The New Land, which touched the whole world and received a total of six Oscar nominations. As his new movie is released in the UK, Scan Magazine managed to get 15 minutes on the phone with him. Troell’s latest work, Everlasting Moments, a multiple Guldbagge winner, is set in the early 1900s. It tells the story of a woman who wins a camera and finds a new joy in life through it, a story inspired by Troell’s wife, Agneta Ulfsäter Troell. “My latest movie, Everlasting Moments, began when one day I sat down to read my wife’s draft of a book charting her family history,” he says. “I got so excited over the potential of the draft that I asked her if I could make a film of the story instead. She agreed and we started writing a script together.” Before he started making films Troell worked several years as a school teacher; he began making short films and documentaries in the sixties. “I have always had a fascination for the moving picture and started using a camera when I was 14 years old. Documentaries have also always fascinated me, I became a teacher by coincidence, but I think I secretly always wanted to become a documentary maker.” Troell’s realistic films and lyrical photography have placed him among Sweden’s best filmmakers.

Mikael Persbrandt, Maria Heiskanen and director Jan Troell on the set of Everlasting Moments, 2009. Photo: Nille Leander/IFC Films.

haps only the Swedish would appreciate it. It has been a peculiar experience getting all this attention. But it’s wonderful of course, the movie seems to have something universal, no matter what nationality, people somehow recognise themselves. Where do you get your inspiration from and what motivates you?

It has not been that important to me, to be honest. But, of course, international success means recognition and it also means that you can afford to carry on doing what you enjoy doing the most and that is something I have never taken for granted.

I would say the process of making a movie starts in many different ways, for example, As White as in Snow (Så vit som en snö, 2001) was based on the life of the Swedish aviatrix Elsa Andersson and the idea came to me through a picture. Sometimes I have a clear vision or I have an idea that I simply must realize. It’s the curiosity or my desire to imagine other people's realities. I feel I have the ability and the imagination to live other people’s lives or what I imagine they are like.

Did you expect your latest film Everlasting Moments to receive so much attention?

What is your greatest achievement of all time?

Not at all, I didn’t think it would reach such a great audience, I thought that per-

As I’m a documentary lover, the answer has to be the Land of Dreams (Sagolan-

How important has international success been for you?

det, 1988), that deals with modern society's alienation from nature. If I were to choose one movie that I would like people to remember me by, this would be it. Are you working on any new projects at the moment? I’m currently in the early process of making a new film about the Swedish publicist Torgny Segerstedt. He was a Swedish scholar of comparative religion, a publicist and an editor-in-chief of the newspaper Göteborgs Handelsoch Sjöfartstidning from 1917 to 1945. As such he is remembered for his uncompromising anti-Nazi stance. The movie takes place during World War II.

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 59

Scan Magazine | Music

Scandinavian Music

By Karl Batterbee

her debut single, C’est La Vie, a melancholic motown tribute with lovelorn vocals and dramatic bells! Its parent album, Anna Puu, has just gone to number one.

80s, the lead single from their new Greatest Hits album. One of the most globally successful Scandinavian acts ever, Aqua has recently been touring their native Denmark.

New pop in old disguise

Sukkerchok are an enchanting new girlband from Denmark. Their debut album, Hvor Som Helst, Når Som Helst, has just been released and is a fun-packed, 45 minute romp through catchy melodies clinging to electro synths. Imagine how Girls Aloud would have sounded 25 years ago, and you get a good idea of Sukkerchok.

The modern revising of sixties soul music has dominated the UK and US music scenes over the last year. Now Finland has got its very own sixties siren, Anna Puu. Puu has captivated the Finns with

The legends are back

Finally, last month we wrote about a new Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus composition. This month, a second new composition from the Abba pair has been unveiled. Story Of A Heart is the first international single from Benny’s most recent musical project, Benny Andersson Band and it’s just been A-Listed by BBC Radio 2. So hopefully, the UK will be all singing along to the pair’s music – 35 years after their first UK hit.

The almighty Aqua (yes, they really are back) have just gone to number one in Denmark and top ten in Norway with Back To The

www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@googlemail.com

Aasa the Norwegian Goddess She has just topped 1.5 million plays of her songs on MySpace and recently recorded her first album “Angels & Starts”. Aasa the Norwegian singer/songwriter has been described as a cross between Coldplay and Joni Mitchell. The album was recorded in London with Mark Ralph (The Filthy Dukes) and produced by Donn Lo (Billy Freedom of Cape Fear). The album was mastered by John Davis (The Ting Tings, Razorlight and Snow Patrol) at the legendary Alchemy Soho. “I would say my music is a balance between vulnerability and strength,” she says. “I’m very inspired by female icons. I’m glamorous and yet very personal at the same time. The girl next door doesn’t really appeal to me”. The yet-unreleased album impressed John Davis, who said he had not heard such a solid quality album in a long time. Aasa means goddess in Nordic mythology, and the goddess permeates her music in tracks like ‘Goddess’ and ‘The Empress’. This source is also an inspiration for Aasa's visual image. 60 | Issue 10 | Summer 2009

As a classical pianist she studied with some of the top teachers in Norway, Salzburg and the UK. She moved to London five years ago and was inspired by the singer-songwriter/indie rock scene. “Coming to London made me realize that I wanted to sing and write songs instead and I started to produce my first song.” She recorded her first demo in New York. Back in London, with a demo in her pocket, a friend of hers introduced her to Joe Barboza, originally from California, who then became her next producer, as well as manager. He immediately liked the music, but wanted to add his own magic touch together with music engineer Mark Ralph of the ‘Filthy Dukes’. Since then Aasa has played extensively in London. Her plan is now to focus on an international career and she hopes to perform at festivals in Norway this summer. Not too long ago Aasa had a memorable meeting with Narada Michael Walden, who has produced most of Whitney Houston's greatest hits as well as other female icons such as Aretha Franklin and Mariah Carey.

By Emelie Krugly

Photo: Bina Winkler

Scandinavia is currently churning out quality music at an alarming rate, from both exciting newcomers, and much loved legends. This month, Finland gets its own Duffy, Denmark produces a girlband to rival Girls Aloud and one of the most loved and loathed acts of all time returns and so does a master of melody!

“Growing up, I always had a fascination for Whitney Houston. ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ was probably the one song that started my fascination for pop music altogether. I told Narada that his work had such a great influence on me as a child. We all then started singing ‘I Wanna Dance With Sombody’, it was all very surreal. At that time it felt like it was all coming together, that the circle was complete.” Aasa also performed two of her songs and has been invited to San Francisco to record with him. For more info: www.aasamusic.com or www.myspace.com/aasamusic

Scan Magazine | Culture Calendar

Scandinavian Culture Calendar – Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here! JULY/AUGUST

Edvard Munch (until 5 September) Visitors to the Hunterian Art Gallery in Glasgow will have the rare opportunity to see some of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch's remarkable prints. The new exhibition, Edvard Munch: Prints, is a major loan exhibition from the Munch Museum in Oslo and features 40 of his finest prints. This will be the most substantial display of Munch's prints in the UK in over 35 years. Open Mon.-Sat., 9.30am-5.00pm. Closed Sundays and 18-20 July inclusive. Admission free. Hunterian Art Gallery, University of Glasgow, 82 Hillhead Street Glasgow G12 8QQ www.hunterian.gla.ac.uk/munch/ Per Kirkeby (until 6 September) Tate Modern is presenting the first UK major exhibition of the work of Danish artist Per Kirkeby. The exhibition will explore the exceptional diversity of Kirkeby’s career spanning four decades. It will bring together his Pop-inspired paintings from the 1960s with paintings on canvas from the late 1970s, an extensive group of blackboard works, sculptures, and a selection of the monumental canvases for which Kirkeby is best known. Tate Modern Level 4. Info.: 020 7887 8888. www.tate.org.uk/modern/exhibitions/ perkirkeby

Jeppe Hein (until 23 October) Danish artist Jeppe Hein's hugely popular Appearing Rooms returns to the Southbank Centre. Jets of water shoot into the air to create 'rooms', which disappear as quickly as they emerge, inviting visitors of all ages to try their luck at predicting their next move. Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Meta4 (8 July) This young Finnish string quartet plays new works by two of their nation's leading contemporary composers. Repertoire includes: Jaakko Kuusisto: Play III; Kaija Saariaho: Terra Memoria; Sibelius: String Quartet in D minor Op 56 Voces Intimae. Part of the City of London Festival, St Vedast alias Foster, Foster Lane, London EC4 T 0845 120 7502

Annual Architecture Lecture at Royal Academy of Arts: Snøhetta (13 July 2009) Award winning architects Craig Dykers and Kjetil Thorsen, co-founders of the Norwegian architectural practice Snøhetta and designers of Oslo’s acclaimed new National Opera & Ballet House, will deliver the 2009 Royal Academy of Arts Annual Architecture Lecture on Monday 13 July. Summer Exhibition Galleries, 6.45–8 pm (doors open 6.30 pm), £15/£8 reductions (includes drink reception until 9pm). Bookings: call 020 7300 5839 or online: www.royalacademy.org.uk Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J OBD Danish collective A Kassen’s (18 July – 23 August ) Danish collective A Kassen’s first UK project will launch the Wysing residency programme on 18 July. Their work Minus Roof is an ambitious performance involving light aircraft from Bourn Airfield, removal of 35 sq m of the gallery roof, and the audience at the performance both on the ground and in the air! www.wysingartscentre.org Wysing Arts Centre, Fox Road, Bourn, Cambridge CB23 2TX. +44 (0)954 718 881

Maddid’s Nordic Festival at the Space (11-12 July) This Nordic Festival is the only festival of its kind in London aiming to promote Nordic contemporary culture in the UK and creates networking opportunities for its participants. It will be an annual festival and this summer is a taster of what’s to come in future years. A great opportunity to see a piece of Nordic contemporary culture and performance. To book tickets visit: www.maddid.com, or call +44 (0)207 515 7799

Issue 10 | Summer 2009 | 61

Scan Magazine | Culture Calendar

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts (22 July - 22 August) A widow reveals to her pastor that she had hidden the evils of her marriage for its duration. The play will run at the Arcola Theatre this summer. Henrik Ibsen is regarded as one of the most important playwrights of all time and celebrated as a national symbol by Norwegians. 22 July to 22 August at 8pm, The Arcola Theatre, 27 Arcola Street, London E8 2DJ Ticket prices: £16/10 Box office: 020 7503 1646

Beyond These Walls (24 July) Danish artist Tue Greenfort (and others) appear at the South London Gallery. Beyond These Walls is an international group show of site-specific and specially commissioned work prompting fresh perspectives on the SLG’s architecture. Open until 20 September. 65 Peckham Road, London SE5 8UH 020 7703 6120. www.southlondongallery.org

when she was just 20, before turning to crime writing. It is with her Inspector Sejer mysteries that Fossum won greatest acclaim. The Waters Edge is published by Harvill Secker. www.randomhouse.co.uk/harvillsecker 020 7840 8677

Book releases: Beatles by Lars Saabye Christensen. Two Norwegian authors are releasing books in July. Lars Saabye Christensen is Norway’s leading contemporary writer. He is the author of twelve novels as well as short stories and poetry. His international best-selling novel The Half Brother has been published in nearly thirty countries. Beatles is published by Arcadia Books. Info www.arcadiabooks.co.uk 020 7436 9898. The Water’s Edge by Karin Fossum Karin Fossum made her literary debut in Norway in 1974 with a collection of poetry

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