Scan Magazine | Issue 12 | October 2009

SCAN

ERIK HASSLE – BIG HAIR, BIG TALENT SCANDINAVIAN WINTER MAGIC – THE BEST GETAWAYS JYSK – GIVING ENGLAND A GREAT OFFER

PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

ISSUE 12

OCTOBER 2009

M A G A Z I N E

Scan Magazine | Contents

Contents COVER FEATURE 8

A New Kind of Hassle | Erik Hassle

11

DESIGN

8

11 We Love This | Design that Matters 12 Subversive Seduction | The Essence of Borba Margo Unravelled 14 Danish Homestore | A Collector’s Paradise

THEME: WINTER HOLIDAYS 16 18 20 22 24 26 26 29 30

Winter Holidays in Sweden Winter Adventure in Swedish Lapland Rediscover Your Sense of Wonder in Norway Fefor Høifjellshotel | History, Skiing and Magical Nature Lillehammer | An Olympic Winter Experience Reaching Olympic Levels | Clarion Collection Hotel Hammer Comfort Hotel Trondheim | Top Modern Facilities in a Historic Town Winter in Finland Syöte | A winter of Content

COLUMNS

12

31 Is it Just Me | Mette Lisby on Flat Pack 31 First to the Finnish Line | Ben Kersley on Finnish Sports

SCAN BUSINESS 35 38 40 42 44 46

16

The Economic Crisis | Norway’s Minister of Finance, Kristin Halvorsen Thommessen | The London Edge Oslo Apartments | Your Home Away from Home JYSK | Will the Goose’s UK Egg be Golden?

Danske Bank | International Corporate Banking, London Krogh and Partners | Audit and Essential Advice

REGULARS & COLUMNS 47 48 48 50

How Was Your Day | Bronte Blomhoj Leadership for the Upturn Employment in the Current Economic Climate Chamber News | Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish and Danish Chambers of Commerce for the UK

53 56 58 60

Scan News | Scandinavian Newsflash Restaurant of the Month | Flavour Feast at The Delhi Brasserie in Soho Scandinavian Music Culture Calendar | Your Scandinavian Cultural Events Issue 12 | October 2009 | 3

35

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, It's October and we are back, swinging the Scandinavian hammer! Not so long ago I discovered that amidst these difficult financial times, the Norwegian economy was doing well. So I was instantly on the phone to the Norwegian Minister of Finance (OK it was her press officer, but it sounded good) and asked her if she would kindly share this news with our readers. I received an article from her which you can read on page 35.

Now for something completely different. I have been in this job for 15 months and it is no exaggeration to say that good stories have been served to me on a plate! There is an abundance of exciting Scandinavian entrepreneurship out there for us to cover.

Go to page 12 and read the report on Borba Margo or page 14 on the Danish Homestore and you will know what I mean. I find that Scandinavian people are full of good ideas and many have the bravery required to pursue them! What do you think? Is this a special Scandinavian trait? Email me your opinions and thoughts: thomas@scanmagazine.co.uk

I made friends with a Swedish boy of the same age who stayed at our ski hotel. He would practically not stop singing the Swedish “Diggi Loo-Diggi Ley” song that had won the Eurovision Song Contest that same year. I was ever so impressed he remembered the complete lyrics (still am). Apart from this song, he also taught me how to jam the hotel lift so it would be permanently parked on the floor you were living on. A great friend and a great holiday!

Finally, with winter coming up I encourage you to have a look at the Jysk feature on page 42. The Danish retailer of bed linen has the goods that can provide you with a first-rate sleep. They plan to open 300 – 500 stores in the UK. Now there is one to watch!

We hope you enjoy this issue.

See you in November,

Thomas Winther

For those readers who are set to go to Scandinavian countries during the winter (and according to the results of our recent reader survey, that is quite a few of you) we have lined up a winter theme to inspire your holiday choices. As a child I always used to go either to Norway or Sweden for my winter holidays and I have good memories from these trips. I still remember my first meeting with Swedish culture which was at the age of six, when

Scan Magazine Issue 12 | Oct. 2009

Creative Director Mads E. Petersen

Marketing Manager Helene Oxfeldt Lauridsen

Published 05.10.2009 ISSN 1757-9589

Copy-editor Mark Rogers

Advertising marketing@scanmagazine.co.uk

Contributors Bronte Blomhoj Emelie Krugly Mette Lisby Karolina Oestlin Emma Holmqvist Nia Kajastie Karl Batterbee Ben Kersley

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Published by Scan Magazine Limited Design & Print Liquid Graphic Limited Executive Editor Thomas Winther Editor Signe Hansen

4 | Issue 12 | October 2009

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Scan Magazine | Contributors

Regular 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.

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”.

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.

Emma Holmqvist has been happily Londonbased since 1994, when she left her native Sweden. A journalist with 7 years' experience and a Saint Martin’s degree in Fashion Communication behind her, Emma's area of expertise is fashion but she also covers topics such as design, art and film.

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.

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Nia Kajastie was born and raised in Helsinki, Finland, and moved to London in 2005 to study writing. With a BA in Journalism & Creative Writing, she now describes herself as a parttime writer and grammar stickler.

Karolina Oestlin is a London-based Swedish freelance journalist, who has found her way back to journalism after several years in branding.

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 1 year old son.

We provide Londoners with a wide range of fine Swedish products.

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Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | A new kind of Hassle

“It’s kind of a big thing over here, isn’t it, turning 21?”

A new kind of Hassle Branded the “Stockholm Wunderkind” and even referred to as the next Robbie Williams by British journalists, the 21-year old Swede Erik Hassle has become the UK’s newest pop phenomenon. His contract with Island Records is considered to be one of the biggest deals signed in the last few years and his first album Pieces is predicted to become “as big as his hair” when released in the UK in November.

So, who is this shooting star? A small town boy who grew up in what is supposedly Sweden´s most boring town Katrineholm and the youngest of five children, Hassle was forced to play the violin at the age of three. At 11 he was pushed to perform in front of his teachers by a mother who desperately wanted them to see that her son was not just the noisy kid in the class. At the same age Hassle had what he describes as “an incredibly strong experience” when he first heard his voice in a microphone.

When Scan Magazine meets Hassle at Café 1001 in East London, it’s a cloudy day and Hassle sips a cappuccino.

We are only a stone’s throw away from his new home of

8 | Issue 12 | October 2009

By Emelie Krugly

just a few weeks. “I still haven’t quite come to terms with the fact that I’ve moved to another country, I feel really at home already,” says the singer.

It also happens to be Hassle’s 21st birthday, so I congratulate him. “It’s kind of a big thing over here, isn’t it, turning 21?” he remarks.

This extraordinary looking young man obviously has more to celebrate than most 21-year-olds. His penetratingly soulful voice was discovered during his final year in Upper Secondary School and three years later he released his first album Hassle (named Pieces in the UK) with music which Erik himself describes as “arena soul”.

You pretty much became a celebrity overnight. What do you think made people open their eyes?

My hair! Well, seriously speaking, I think my album has twelve very strong songs where you will find soulful vibes and emotional lyrics but not too poppy. It’s all made by somebody who is genuinely passionate and grateful to be making music. Even though the breakthrough has

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | A new kind of Hassle

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 9

Erik Hassle’s gravity-defying red hair and characteristic features are just as unique and attention-grabbing as his soulful music.

happened quickly, we actually worked on the album for three years and that was an important process and necessary, a whole lot of love has gone into it.

How do you find the British audiences and the music industry here so far?

Well, it’s all very different over here. Firstly, of course, because everything is a lot bigger; for example, instead of having one consultant dealing with my PR I have three or four people. It’s after all one of the biggest music export countries in the world and the possibilities here are enormous. So far it has been absolutely amazing and the response has been overwhelming.

bizarre, it’s still something I’m trying to get used to. We did a festival in Sweden during the summer and it went hysterical, I jumped down from the stage to sign autographs and was almost killed!

Now you’re based in London, what do you think you will miss the most from home?

Probably the nature and the silence. I’m hoping to own a house somewhere in the country of Sörmland, where I grew up. And of course I’ll miss my family, I’m a real family type of guy and love hanging out with my folks.

Hassle’s album Pieces will be out in the UK on 9 November 2009.

Your song Hurtful is your biggest hit to date; did you have a gut feeling about this?

The first time I sang Hurtful I think we all had a feeling that it was special and could be a success. It was the second song I wrote when I was 18 so it was a big thing for me at the time. Since then I’ve sung it at least 3,000 times!

I don’t sing it in the shower any longer, but it’s still growing on me and it’s still amazing to play it live. In fact, I was listening to it on my iPod the other day and that was kind of mad!

You are predicted to be the new “heartbreaker”: how do you feel about that?

I suppose I’ve always wanted to be become a heartbreaker in the sense that I want to touch the hearts of people with my music. The attention is of course quite nice, but at the same time having girls coming up to me in the street is

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Five things you didn’t know about Erik Hassle 1. I’ve got a dog waiting for me back home called Bella and she is 11 years old and a real old lady.

2. I’ve got ten tattoos and I’m planning to have some more done!

3. I’ve got shoe size 11 4. My all time favourite song is I’m in Love by Wilson Pickett 5. I give my tongue a massage every day with a towel to keep it soft and in good shape. Since I’ve never really had any professional vocal training this is a way I’ve learnt for me to keep my most important tool in good condition and it really helps to be able to hit the high notes!

Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this...

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

This Carl Hansen wishbone chair designed by Hans Wegner will fit in anywhere. From £355.00 www.iconsofdenmark.dk For UK stockists call 07545 244524

These cute little Moccis are super comfortable for kids’ tiny feet but adults can certainly also enjoy the softness of the Moccis.

Kids: £18, Adult: £26 www.moccis.co.uk

La Chance by M.O.S. was launched 3 years ago in Copenhagen with the very successful ‘Chinese Lucky Bracelet’. With extraordinary speed it became a massive trend after the bracelet was picked up on by countless national celebrities. www.la-chance.info

Innovative New Dog Coat Danish Susanne Mortensen is the designer of this fantastic Four Seasons 2-in-1 Performance Dog Coat. The removable polar fleece lining keeps your dog warm in a lightweight, waterproof and breathable jacket. Colours: Black, orange and green. Stockists: Please call 0113 3919 828 www.danishdesign.co.uk

Danish children’s wear label Mini A Ture is a kids’ favourite!

This Jacket retails at £41 at www.oscarselk.com

Children won’t mind being rained on with a cool outfit like this!

Freoli black with white polka dot waterproof and windproof raincoat and bottoms. Retails at £40 at www.oscarselk.com

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 11

Scan Magazine | Design | Borba Margo

Borba Margo’s autumn/winter 2010 collection, which centres on escapism, is currently available in prestigious stores such as Colette, Harvey Nichols and Liberty.

Subversive seduction – the essence of Borba Margo unravelled Lauded for its innovative and edgy spirit, Borba Margo is one of London’s most coveted accessory players. Scan caught up with Jessika Göransson and Anderson Borba DaSilva to get the low-down on the label and the duo behind it.

It might sound like a cliché, but some things are meant to be. On a sunny day in London in 1996, Jessika Margo Göransson, a half Swedish, half polish 17-year old holidaying in London, sat down on a bench in Covent Garden to prepare for a busking session with her violin, her greatest passion at the time. A moment later, Brazilian twenty-something Anderson Borba DaSilva walked past and took a seat next to the pretty violinist to eat his lunch.

The pair started chatting and shared Anderson’s bacon sandwich. “As soon as we met, we both felt an instant connection and sharing an interest in many things including fashion, we became close

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friends immediately,” the duo tells us in unison when we meet them in their East London studio.

Eight years later, in 2004 to be precise, Göransson and Borba DaSilva founded Borba Margo together. Prior to launching the label, Jessika completed a women’s wear degree at Middlesex University in London and went on to hone her skills at various fashion houses including Gaspard Yurkievich, Oskar Suleyman and Hussein Chalayan. Borba DaSilva, meanwhile, gained experience elsewhere, including a stint at the tailoring department of The Royal Guards.

All eyes on Borba Margo Fast-forward to 2009: Borba Margo is considered one of London’s most promising new names. Coveted for its distinctive aesthetic that is playful and severe all at once, the label bagged the British Fashion Council’s prestigious New

By Emma Holmqvist Generation Sponsorship no less than four times.

Speaking of the style that’s wowed the jaded and hard-to-impress fashion elite, Borba Margo’s aesthetic has a mildly surreal and somewhat organic feel to it, as bags and belts are carefully sculpted to mould around the body like living organisms. But other interpretations circulate, too: “Someone once described our look as a bit S&M, but a soft, seductive version thereof,” says Jessika and goes on to offer her own description of the label: “The style is full of contradiction; it’s body conscious and quite strong with focus on bold shapes. It’s also very feminine but not in the girly sense of the word.” Something else that sets the label apart from most other accessory lines is the fact that many pieces, such as the “skirted” belts, almost double as garments. This distinctive aspect has not come about by chance, but

Scan Magazine | Design | Borba Margo

The designers Jessika Margo Göransson and Anderson Borba DaSilva at work. Photos: Magnus Arrevad

stems from Göransson’s background in women’s wear design – and her willingness to blur the lines between accessories and clothing. “I like the idea of a belt that thinks it’s a skirt,” she says.

Great minds think alike Talking to the duo about their creative ventures, it becomes obvious that their minds are acutely synchronized, almost spookily so, some would say. But despite being twin souls and sharing most creative agendas, working as a duo must surely have its drawbacks? “Of course we disagree sometimes, but most of the time we are so in tune with each other’s ideas that it’s almost ridiculous. In some cases we have to consult a friend to see if both of us have gone mad, or if we’re on to something good,” says Jessika and laughs. “It’s also healthy to have someone to bounce back ideas on. That way you get another perspective and the original idea can develop and get better,” Borba DaSilva adds.

In terms of the design work as such, the creative pair share the notion that the label is “under constant evolution” and its fundamental concept serves as the springboard for new directions. “What we’ve

designed previously provides the base for our next creative step,” explains Borba DaSilva. “Unlike most fashion designers, we don’t necessarily change route completely every season and we only use new reference points in a subtle way rather than drawing on obvious themes. Our design process is based on intuition: it’s a feeling, an aesthetic that comes naturally to us.” So what gives rise to these reference points, however subtle they may be?

“Everything,” says Göransson. “We both love music and dance, but often we utilise our inspiration in an abstract way. It’s unusual that we take inspiration from tangible things,” she says by way of reinforcing her business partner’s previous statement.

and gold chains are used throughout, but the resulting look still retains the recognisable Borba Margo air that is largely defined by contradiction. “The shapes might be square and utilitarian, if not even a little boring, but to counteract the plainness, we lavishly decorated the pieces with gold chains and tassels to create a dual aspect.”

Borba Margo’s autumn/winter 2010 collection, currently available in prestigious stores such as Colette, Harvey Nichols and Liberty, centres on escapism. “We were longing for what’s missing at the moment, i.e. glamour and luxury. Hence we created a collection representing the antithesis of the current doom and gloom and the frugal fashion that traditionally goes with it,” says Göransson. Simply called The Escapist Collection, the range certainly doesn’t hold back on the glam factor. Luxury symbols like tassels

Before bidding farewell to the duo, we ask Jessika what attracted her to move from Sweden to London, leaving aside her strong friendship with Anderson, of course.

“I never chose to lead a comfortable, safe life. I chose a challenge, and London provides that,” she replies. And on that note, we let Jessika and Anderson carry on with their most immediate challenge, namely to continue developing Borba Margo together.

Next chapter With the autumn/winter collection done and dusted, what’s next? “Our label is developing slowly but surely. We’re mainly known for our belts but we’d like to establish the wider accessory range a bit more and push the handbags, gloves and jewellery lines further.”

www.valerydemure.com

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 13

Scan Magazine | Design | Danish Homestore

Left: The Wishbone chair besides a Hans Wegner dining table. Right: Store owner Simon Harrison does most of the restorations himself having learned his skills from his father.

Danish Homestore – a collector’s paradise

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Courtesy of Danish Homestore

With customers flying in from all corners of the world to visit Danish Homestore, there is no doubt that Simon Harrison’s selection of modern antique Danish furniture is quite unique. Danish Homestore was started by Simon’s father Roger Harrison who saw a hole in the British furniture market and now 27 years on, father and son have seen how the interest in Danish furniture has exploded since the first shipment.

“Ten years ago it was a different story with only a handful of dealers. Now there are about 100 and it is a hugely competitive business,” says Simon. “Our competitive advantage is that each piece is restored to it’s original finish, something learned over the last 25 years, and from

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speaking to a 94 year old ‘source’ who used to manufacture these classics.”

From value for money to collector’s favourites Simon’s father settled in Denmark in 1961, married Danish Margot, and started selling British antiques in Vejle. After helping relatives move to Ipswich he was left with their teak coffee table which he put in auction in the UK. It sold for £14, which was, explains Simon, an excellent result. On the next trip over to England for antiques the small van was loaded with coffee tables and teak chairs and in 1986 Roger opened up his first store.

Today the large premises in Nottingham are the centre of operations.

Scan Magazine | Design | Danish Homestore

dining tables, sofas, cabinets and a very rare lounge chair in oak. Prices on Wegner furniture range from £250 to several thousand pounds for rarer classics.

The furniture from Danish Homestore ends up in homes, not only all over the UK, but abroad as well with the USA, Japan and even Denmark among some of its destinations.

But customers are, says Simon, not just collectors and investors but ordinary people too. “What we are dealing with is often the 30 plus homeowners who want something that is uniquely theirs. They are people who seek out something which tells a story and has character.”

Among more specific buyers are film directors looking for the right background setting for a scene, collectors looking for specific investment pieces and companies wanting to have iconic pieces of Danish furniture.

Investing in the furniture

Top: Mogens Hansen Leather Suite. Bottom: Rosewood desk

Back in 1994 one of Simon’s customers bought a Bodil Kjær desk famous as Dr No’s desk in James Bond movies “From Russia With Love” and “Diamonds Are For Ever”.

The buyer paid £600 for it and enjoyed it for 17 years before selling it on for £12,500!

and armchair by Erik Buch.

“Twenty years ago it was the very basic of good style and value for money that made us a success whereas today we have become a destination shop for style conscious and savvy collectors,” says Simon.

“Today clients come in and browse through 800sq metres of Danish furniture from the every day pieces to the very rare investments. Everything is priced up, has background information and can be found on the shop website. We are doing it the good old-fashioned Danish way, where everything is accessible, and a cup of coffee is enjoyed while discussing chairs,” says Simon.

Global demand One of the best represented designers is Hans Wegner, of whose work Danish Homestore has, says Simon, “probably the best collection in the UK”. The collection contains everything from iconic wishbone chairs/Y-stol to

“You can buy the furniture and enjoy it for maybe 20 years and then when you are ready for a change, you can sell it on and trade up to something even better. A lot of the pieces that we deal with have increased in price over the last 5 years as demand increases,” says Simon. “As Danish furniture is becoming ever more sought after worldwide, now is an excellent opportunity to snap up that Hans Wegner sofa or Hans Olsen bikini chair before they become the subject of museum collections and the vastly rich.”

Turning back time Simon’s own interest is in the original furniture, and like his father he does the renovations himself. “Sometimes I find a piece that looks like it has been completely destroyed, but I know that I can work that process backwards and bring it back to its best,” he says adding: “For me the best thing is to deliver a piece to a client knowing they appreciate my hard work and will cherish the furniture for years to come.”

For more information visit: www.danish-homestore.com

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 15

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Photo: Wolfgang Greiner

Photo: Henrik Trygg

Photo: Wolfgang Greiner

Photo: Bo Lind

Photo: Bo Lind

:W E EM TH I YS A D I OL H ER NT

Scan Magazine | Winter | Holidays in Sweden

WINTER HOLIDAYS IN SWEDEN Photos: Imagebank.sweden.se

Looking for the perfect winter break? VisitSweden is carrying out several exciting campaigns this winter!

Whether you are looking for a short city break and some Christmas shopping, skiing with the family or a romantic weekend with that special one, Sweden is the place to go.

First things first, of course: the skiing. Sweden’s mountains, timber cabins and efficient transport ways offer supreme settings for the perfect skiing holiday. With Neilson Active Holiday (www.neilson.co.uk/sweden) you can fly directly from Heathrow Airport and into the largest skiing area north of the Alps, Åre. The uniquely beautiful resort stretches 10km along a frozen lake and offers not just skiing but also husky-drawn sled rides and snowmobile racing. Close to Åre is Vemdalen with gentle uncrowded slopes, a superb English-speaking ski school and a ski and play area for children, the perfect place to take your family for their first skiing trip. Further north are Riksgränsen and Björkliden located 200 and 250km above the Arctic circle. With stunning views of Swedish Lapland these two resorts offer an exotic and adventurous ski holiday. Packages to Björkliden can be booked with Discover The World at www.discoverlapland.co.uk and to Riksgränsen at www.riksgransen.nu

capital Stockholm and vibrant Gothenburg - Sweden’s second largest city on the West Coast. The best activities and sights are collected into customised packages meaning that you can get the maximum out of your stay without hours of planning. In Stockholm for instance you can follow the royal family, drink cocktails in an ice bar or update your wardrobe in trendy SoFo, while Gothenburg packages may lead you on a lobster safari, to Scandinavia’s biggest Christmas market or to four Michelin restaurants in one evening. For more information and to book visit: www.visitsweden.com/citybreaks Unspoilt nature For romance and luxury in spectacular settings there is no place like Swedish Lapland and with Discover the World’s direct flights to Kiruna from Heathrow, it just 3.5 hours away. When there, enjoy the thrill of snowmobiling, husky sledging or ice driving at the world famous ICEHOTEL all surrounded by the captivating and magical arctic landscape.

Read more about Swedish Lapland at www.discoverlapland.co.uk

City breaks This autumn and winter VisitSweden and its partners are carrying out a campaign to promote Sweden’s trendy

More about Sweden at www.visitsweden.com

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 17

Scan Magazine | Winter | Swedish Lapland

Winter adventure in Swedish Lapland

By Karolina Oestlin | Photos: Discover the World

With a population of only nine million, finding a slice of winter wilderness in Sweden is enviably easy and Swedish Lapland, with its magical snowscapes and dramatic mountain ranges, is one of the best places to enjoy all it has to offer.

Whether you’re seeking the thrill of snow mobiling, husky sledging or ice driving at the world famous ICEHOTEL, or if you’d rather take a leisurely stroll through the arctic landscape or just sit back and soak up the silence, there are a myriad options from which to choose.

With specialist operator Discover the World’s exclusive direct flights to Kiruna from London Heathrow, one of Sweden’s most famous attractions is a mere 3.5 hours away. Built from thousands of tons of ice and snow every year the ICEHOTEL is the jewel in the nation’s winter crown. As well as the hotel itself, with its beautiful ice suites, pillar hall and ice chapel where visitors can host an unforgettable wedding, there is also a chance to jump on a snowmobile or dog sledge and explore the surrounding snowy wonderland. At the end of an exhilarating day visitors can enjoy first class cuisine in the two restaurants or simply relax and enjoy the aweinspiring Northern Lights as they sweep across the arctic

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sky. This year promises to be even more special as the hotel is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

And if you’d like to add a cultural splash to your winter break then why not opt for one of Discover the World’s Sami cultural tours, where you can try your hand at reindeer herding, enjoy a traditional Lapland meal around a camp fire and learn about the life of Sweden’s indigenous peoples.

Prices for a three-night break with Discover the World start from £886pp (based on two sharing) and include exclusive direct flights between London Heathrow and Kiruna, transfers to/from the hotel and 3 nights accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis at the ICEHOTEL. Departures available from mid-December 2009 until midApril 2010.

To find out more or to book a trip, go to www.discoverlapland.co.uk or call Discover the World on 01737 218 801

Scan Magazine | Winter | Swedish Lapland

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 19

Rediscover your sense of wonder in Norway Seeing the spectacular Northern Lights or skiing down pistes with magnificent fjords and mountains as the perfect backdrop, a visit to Norway will leave you spellbound.

In Norway, we often say Norwegians are born with skis on. Skiing is a way of life and our favourite means of appreciating the spectacular and unspoilt mountain landscape. It’s part of Norway’s history, culture and tradition.

First-time visitors are often impressed by the quantity and quality of snow in Norway, even at low altitudes. Our ski season typically lasts six months, and resorts offer uncrowded pistes, efficient lift systems and queues, and modern ski equipment. Many British skiers are surprised at how easy Norway’s family-friendly ski resorts are to reach

20 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Scan Magazine | Winter | Norway

– it’s just a two-hour flight away and tour operators such as Neilson and Ski Norway offer great packages from the UK. Hemsedal has been nicknamed ‘the Scandinavian Alps’ for its raw and wild beauty, with some of the most challenging skiing in Northern Europe. Voss offers spectacular views with thrills to match – even for beginners, and, dubbed ‘Paris of the North’, Tromsø is the perfect place for a winter break. And best of all, direct flights are now available from London, making this winter wonderland easily accessible for a long-weekend.

If skiing is not your forte, why not go in search of the spectacular Northern Lights? Most of northern Norway is above the Arctic Circle and its latitude makes it one of the best spots in the world to witness this natural phenomenon. The closer you get to the North Pole the bigger the chance you have to see the green display in the sky.

With a host of places to visit, including Tromsø, Alta, Kirkenes and the North Cape, the north of Norway has something to offer everyone. As well as the Northern

Stay close to Oslo airport Rica Hotel Gardermoen is a full service hotel with a central location between Oslo airport Gardermoen and the citycenter of the capital.

The hotel has lovely rooms with modern furnishing suited for families, partners and singles, on holidays, business or as a pitstop between two destinations.

Lights, there are magic adventures such as romantic ice hotels, dog sledding and King Crab safaris, also the chance to hear the tales of Sami life around the crackling fire in the lavvu. Go in search of the Northern Lights on the Hurtigruten, the magnificent coastal cruise, or let a UK tour operator such as Activities Abroad create a memorable itinerary for you.

With winter now just around the corner, wrap up warm, head north to the Land of the Northern Lights and prepare to be enchanted. You won’t regret it.

For futher information on how to rediscover your sense of wonder in Norway, go to www.visitnorway.co.uk www.neilson.co.uk/norway www.ski-norway.co.uk www.hurtigruten.no www.activitiesabroad.co.uk

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Issue 12 | October 2009 | 21

Scan Magazine | Winter | Fefor Høifjellshotel

Fefor Høifjellshotel – History, skiing and magical nature

By Signe Hansen

Majestically located on the edge of Fefor Lake and surrounded by the peaks of Jotunheimen, the historic Fefor Mountain Hotel with its numerous outdoor activities provides magic settings for a peaceful ski holiday. The almost-130-year-old hotel lies 930 metres above sea level, but located in the middle of Norway it is still easily accessible.

“Fefor hotel is definitely one of the most special hotels in Norway,” enthuses Hotel Manager Kari Tagestad. “You really have to be up here fully to comprehend it; it is a very calm and very typical Norwegian area.” Even though secluded, the hotel is just 13 minutes away from Vinstra’s train station, where you can be picked up the hotel’s bus, or a four hour drive from Oslo.

Magical mountain beauty There are many ways to enjoy the mountain’s natural beauty and especially during the winter an array of activities for all ages and levels are on offer. Cross-country routes start just outside the hotel’s doors and for those who prefer alpine skiing, buses from the hotel will take them the ten minute ride to the slopes at Gudbrandsdalen.

“If people want to go cross-country skiing we have one of the best locations in Norway and one of the longest ski trails. The air is very clean and we have spectacular nature around here,” says Tagestad. Put together, the area has 630 km of ski trails.

But it is not all about skiing. The hotel also has its own floodlit ice-skating rink and if you fancy a game of curling, this is also a possibility as Norway’s second curling club was started up here.

Meanwhile, from Gudbrandsdalen valley guests can experience magical dogsled drives or snow-shoe walks in

22 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Scan Magazine | Winter | Fefor Høifjellshotel

the moonlight. The location of the hotel is also ideal for trips to the Rondane and Jotunheimen mountains, where literature lovers and hikers can follow in the steps of Henrik Ibsen’s Peer Gynt.

The history in the walls Magic and adventure are not just outside at Fefor; the hotel itself contains its share. Founded all the way back in 1884, Fefor was one of the first hotels to be established at that altitude. Back then it was located a bit away from the current building in a small farm, but in 1891 the current timber-walled hotel was constructed. “The hotel has a lot of history, but the rooms have been newly renovated so it is a nice and comfortable place to stay too,” says Tagestad. “We say that the hotel has its own soul.

There is so much history in the walls and everybody who stays here has had the same impression.”

Laidback comfort The secluded location of Fefor hotel and its peaceful atmosphere ensures that a stay will be absolutely free of stress during both day and night. When back from the many outdoor activities, most guests kick back in either

the restaurant, bar, library, or one of the cosy gathering rooms with crackling fireplaces. “In the evening most people just relax because they are so tired from being out all day skiing. They like just to have a good dinner, lay back and maybe read a book or play a board game. It is not a party place, but we have a mix of guests here, both young couples and families.”

Guests can stay in one of the hotel’s 114 rooms of which 22 are family rooms or in one of the 20 timber cabins. The cabins have their own kitchens and all enjoy beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Of course a day inside does not have to mean lying on your back for hours and hours. To tempt you away from the fireplace, the hotel also has squash courts and, of course, an indoor swimming pool with a panoramic view.

All in all, it is hard not to take Tagestad at her word when she says: “It is really difficult to describe, you just have to come up here!”

For more details visit: www.fefor.no

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 23

Scan Magazine | Winter | Lillehammer

Lillehammer’s oldest hotel, Radisson SAS, at wintertime.

LILLEHAMMER – An Olympic Winter experience

By Karolina Oestlin | Photos: Courtesy of Radisson SAS Lillehammer Hotel

The Norwegian small town of Lillehammer is best known for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1994. Ranked in the top three ski resorts in Norway and best for snowboarding, it continues to live up to its promise of giving visitors an Olympic experience of winter sports and activities in a charming setting.

Located at the top of lake Mjøsa and as the gateway for the Gudbrandsdal landscape, the historical highway to Trondheim, Lillehammer developed as a natural meeting point for people from different parts of the country and abroad. The area has been settled since the Norwegian Iron Age and is described by old Norwegian sagas as “the small trading place”, “Litlikaupangr”. According to other records it was a site for council as early as 1390.

The picturesque town is still a popular destination, with over 800,000 night guests per year. Easy to get to (Oslo

24 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Airport Gardermoen is only one and a half hours away by train or two hours by car on the E6) many chose Lillehammer for the great skiing or exciting winter activities. Others go to enjoy the beautiful winter scenery and the charming town – that has won an award for its pedestrian shopping street, Storgata. “Charming and historically important buildings serve as the backdrop for a modern and bustling shopping environment with a number of specialist shops and an excellent range of products to choose from,” Tone Andersson, Director of Sales and Marketing at Radisson SAS Lillehammer Hotel, describes the central area.

Staying in Lillehammer The oldest hotel in Lillehammer is the Radisson SAS Lillehammer Hotel. It was built in 1911 and is still going strong, located in the city centre, near the attractions and the Olympic Park. During the Winter Olympics in 1994, it

Scan Magazine | Winter | Lillehammer

functioned as the official I.O.C. hotel and had Juan Antonio Samaranch, the I.O.C. president, among its guests. “It’s also the biggest [hotel],” Andersson says. “It’s been renovated and expanded the last years.”

The hotel continues to attract a range of guests.

“During the winter season we have families with children, groups of friends looking for a good ski-resort and guests only looking for a venue with great ski-slopes and centrally located in a small town with great nature just outside the hotel,” Andersson says.

New Conference Centre In the recent expansion of Radisson SAS Lillehammer Hotel, the hotel significantly increased its conference capacity and cemented its place as one of Norway’s largest congress hotels. In January 2009, the hotel opened a new Congress Centre as an addition to their existing conference offer. The new Congress Centre offers a space of 1,000 m2 in the main hall on the ground floor and 270 m2 in an adjacent glass atrium. The hotel also has excellent conference facilities with 30 modern conference rooms.

Radisson SAS is located inside an impressive garden, which also has four log cabins that can be used for conference entertainment. “The cabins are great for kick-off, garden parties and dinner,” Andersson says, and continues: “Because of the combination of conference facilities and the hotel’s location, with its beautiful scenery, good nightlife and – not to be forgotten – easy distance to unusual team building winter activities, it makes a lovely hide-away for the combination conference and team building.”

Winter activities “The skiing in Lillehammer is great!” Andersson says and explains: “The Olympic trail network has been extended and disposes 30 slopes… for skiers of all levels. And the down hill and cross country Hafjell Alpine centre is only 15 minutes from the hotel.” “Long runs, excellent snow and sunny climate” is what best signifies Hafjell, she concludes. Along with this comes an extensive floodlight system on many of the slopes – the biggest in Norway – which allows visitors to make the most of their skiing holiday long into the evening, three nights a week.

kinds of cultural and scenic tours around Lillehammer.

Hunderfossen Winter park, with a cathedral built of ice, a Fairytale Palace and a variety of winter activities, including ice bowling/curling and horse sledge is also a fun destination. The Bobsleigh and Luge track, located next to Hunderfossen is of particular interest for companies.

“The facility has extensive open areas that can be used for organising a wide variety of events, competitions and ceremonies for groups,” Andersson says.

But there are also many winter activities other than skiing on offer. Elk safaris can be organised as well as different

www.lillehammerhotel.no www.radissonblu.com

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 25

Scan Magazine | Winter | Hotels

Reaching Olympic levels: Clarion Collection Hotel Hammer Lillehammer, the middle-sized Norwegian town, is probably best know for hosting the winter Olympics in 1994 and for its array of winter sports activities. But one does not have to be a professional skier to enjoy the town’s many facets.

When visiting Clarion Collection Hotel Hammer in Lillehammer, guests can combine skiing with a stay in the middle of the lively and typically cosy Norwegian town with its bars, restaurants and shops just outside. “A lot of people come visiting here because they know the place from the Olympics, but there are many other things to do as well,” says Hotel Manager Marianne Haraldsen.

For skiers, buses drive directly from the city centre to Hafjell skiing centre, where the women’s and men’s slalom were held in 1994, and lift cards can be bought at the hotel. The bob-sledge

arena is another attraction, and for the kids, the Norwegian themed amusement park Hunderfossen with its fairytales and trolls may be an idea. Another very popular destination is Maihaugen open air history museum.

Hotel Hammer has 95 double rooms all located in the new part of the hotel built in 1991. Meanwhile the reception and dining room are a typical Norwegian timber walled building from 1865

allowing history and modern comfort to go hand in hand. The hotel offers a light dinner buffet and from three to six in the afternoon there are free waffles on the hotel’s DIY waffle set; a very popular treat for all guests, says Marianne.

For more details visit: www.choicehotels.no

By Karolina Oestlin

Comfort Hotel Trondheim - top modern facilities in a historic town Located in Trondheim’s beautiful and vibrant city centre, Comfort Hotel Trondheim by Choice Hotel provides a modern, comfortable and very practical starting point for any stay in the area, be it for business or pleasure.

Sloping towards the sea Trondheim with its many beautiful 17th century buildings and abundance of shopping, entertainment and restaurants is a visitor’s heaven. Among the main historical and architectural sights close by the hotel are Munkholmen a small island which served as execution ground and prison in ancient times, Nidaros Cathedral and the Old Town Bridge. “What is really special about our hotel is our unique location and modern facilities,” says Director Cathrine Stadsvik.

But how about skiing? “We have hosted the World Cup in skiing, and the town is very popular for cross-country

26 | Issue 12 | October 2009

skiing and ski jumping,” says Stadsvik.

The skiing area in Vassfjellet mountains starts just 8 km outside the city and boasts 4km of the largest illuminated slopes in Norway. Ski buses run to the area from the city centre.

With direct flights from London Stansted, this is the perfect destination for weekend getaways. To make it even more convenient, check-out time on Sundays is at 6pm and the breakfast buffet is on until midday.

But Comfort Hotel is not just for those looking for skiing, relaxation and sightseeing; for anyone wanting to take their business gathering to somewhere special, the hotel’s three conference rooms and business facilities offer the perfect settings too.

For more information visit www.choicehotels.no

By Signe Hansen

SOLA STRAND HOTEL – PERFECT FOR CONFERENCES, COURSES, HOLIDAYS AND LEISURE

Sola Strand Hotel is conveniently located near Stavanger, Sandnes and Sola, the airport of Stavanger.

Just outside your hotel room you will find the Solastranden beach, an ideal spot for evening walks, bathing, and for building castles and hunting treasures at the waterside. Our cuisine is renowned for its high standard, as are our comfortable rooms, and course and conference facilities.

In April 2010 we are opening our new spa, which is sure to make your stay with us an even more enjoyable experience.

Tel: + 47 51 94 30 00 | booking@sola-strandhotel.no | www.sola-strandhotel.no

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Tel: +47/63 93 00 50 www.gardermoenbb.no email: hotel@gardermoenbb.no

Moment Kommunikasjon

INSPIRATION AND WELL-BEING

28 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Photo: Plugi/Sportmix

Photo: Karsten Bidstrup

Photo: Matti Kolho

Scan Magazine | Winter | Finland

Scan Magazine | Winter | Finland

WINTER IN FINLAND Let it snow! That’s the message from Finland as the country gears itself up for another fantastic winter.

Finland – in many ways it’s just one great big natural playground, with every opportunity imaginable for activity, enjoyment, fitness, wellbeing and adventure.

Check out the Alpine ski resorts of northern Finland and Finnish Lapland: head for the Arctic Circle and beyond to find top quality resorts with wide-ranging opportunities.

Draw breath at the top of the hills, gaze out across the seemingly endless expanses of forest and fell. Then find your way down. Choose a run that’s perfect for confidence-building, or go for something steeper. The line-up of slopes offers decent challenges for everyone.

If your idea of a perfect winter day is to pull on crosscountry skis and head for the forest, then you have a truly spectacular choice of location and terrain. Even if you decide to visit during the darker time of midwinter, you’ll still find that most towns and resorts offer many kilometres of floodlit trails – all of them well marked to ensure you get the most from every expedition.

Photos: imagebank.visitfinland.com

There’s much more to a winter holiday in Finland than simply skiing. The great outdoors welcomes you on a powerful snowmobile for the ride of a lifetime across frozen lakes, up over the hills and through the forests. Or perhaps you prefer the natural power and energy of a lively team of husky dogs? Balance on the sled behind as the order is given to run. Their barking stops and they pull you silently through the snowy landscape.

Take some time to see how the Finns really can make the most of their fantastic winter opportunities. Check out the unique experience of a night in an igloo or snow hotel, sign up for a safari adventure that can take you deep into one of the spectacular Finnish national parks, or try out your technical skills as you experience the reality of winter driving and skid control. Or put your skis down for a day and see how you fare with a snowboard.

More about Finland at www.visitfinland.com

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 29

Scan Magazine | Winter | Syöte

Syöte – A winter of content

By Nia Kajastie

When travelling to Finland, a holidaymaker is often looking for an authentic experience in the Nordic wilderness with a backdrop of unblemished nature. One such distinctive destination is Syöte, Finland’s southernmost fell region, which offers access to two ski centres, Syöte National Park, and an abundance of other activities that will bring you closer to nature.

In Syöte, you can enjoy the wild scenery without having to stray far from urban areas. The fell area offers an array of nature activities all year round, and during winter these include downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowmobile rides, husky sleigh rides,

30 | Issue 12 | October 2009

reindeer safaris, sauna bathing and “ice hole swimming”.

The region’s unique southerly location also provides it with milder temperatures and a shorter period of winter darkness, which might come as a relief to foreign travellers.

Adventures at night While enjoying any of the main attractions offered in the Syöte area, visitors are always surrounded by the peaceful air of the wilderness and the clear, white snow that covers everything, even the trees on the fell tops. Some of the activities can also be done by night, giving visitors the possibility of a more thrilling and intimate adventure in the

The event arrangements?

Take them as a walk in the park.

Finland and Tampere are known for their public safety, pristine nature and excellent infrastructure.

Tampere is a dynamic hub of education and science, business and culture. And it’s easy to fly in. You’ll be arranging your event in the heart of a sizeable city with a small-town feel. All venues and services are truly within walking distance.

Green meetings wild. Paula Paukkeri, a sales manager from Syöte’s central booking agency, says: “Our advantage in the Finnish market is our proximity to nature-centric services.

Syöte is a small and cosy destination. Given its size, Syöte is easier to manage, and we can offer a more tailor-made and individual holiday experience to our visitors.”

Challenges for all levels Juha Kuukasjärvi, a representative of Hotel Iso-Syöte, also wants to emphasise the importance of the ski centres as a part of Syöte’s services. In Syöte, there are two separate fell areas called Iso-Syöte and Pikku-Syöte, which lie about 4 km apart. The former is designed to cater for a more advanced skier, while the latter concentrates on snowboarding and offers skiing for beginners, teenagers and families with children. There is also an opportunity for accommodation in the actual fell area, where you can access the slopes straight from your hotel’s front step.

For more details visit: www.syote.fi

Tampere Hall has been ranked the number one congress centre in Finland.

It is also the Nordic countries’ largest congress and concert centre built specifically for the purpose. Hundreds of events have triumphed at Tampere Hall, including EU summits.

Yliopistonkatu 55 FI-33101 Tampere, Finland Tel. +358 3 243 4900, Fax +358 3 243 4199 www.tampereconventionbureau.fi

Yliopistonkatu 55 FI-33101 Tampere, Finland Tel. +358 3 243 4111, Fax +358 3 243 4199 www.tampere-talo.fi

FINLAND Tampere

Scan Magazine | Columns | Humour

IS IT JUST ME...

Who starts to sweat and quietly curse, when delivery guys drop of a piece of furniture... in a box?

I don’t mind the furniture. It’s the flat box.

Flat box reads one terrifying message.

Unassembled! On my own I’d be perfectly capable of handling the situation. I would simply put the box in a corner assured that I would get someone to assemble it “at some point”. That is my answer to DIY: GSETDI: Get somebody else to do it. It’s unproblematic, non-confrontational, and EASY. Sadly my husband is misguidedly encouraged by the DIY-concept. He’s on the box like a dog on a ball. Tearing off the brown cardboard, tossing the wrapping around in a frenzy of enthusiasm while manically yelling: “This is gonna be GREAT!” When all the parts lie there, scattered all over the floor he carefully

By Mette Lisby starts examining which of the billion possible combinations is right. Meanwhile I’m trying to hide in a corner, quietly waiting for the horror that is about to happen: the moment where my husband casually asks: “Honey, could you hold this?”

See? That’s what DIY-people do: Drag honest, lazy people into their DIY misery.

Years of experience taught me that when I contribute by “holding something”, everything goes wrong. I hold it too high, too low, too straight, too close, just WRONG! And then it’s MY fault, which is SO unfair given that I never asked for this ferocious outburst of initiative. Had I had my way, the bookshelf would be safe and sound... in its box, waiting for some of our alcoholic friends I could bribe with beer to assemble it.

Reluctantly I must admit that my husband gets things done. After numerous attempts to “hold something”, something suddenly

First to the Finnish line Ben Kersley looks at how Finland gets the gold medal for sporting creativity.

The Finnish Football Association boasts a consistency in form that few international sides can match. They have consistently failed, over their entire 102-year history, to qualify for either the World Cup or the European Championships.

In 1952, the Finns hosted the Olympics and in what should have been their sporting zenith they even managed to come behind Hungary in the medals table. In ice hockey, the quintessential Nordic sport, Finland usually goes home with silver to Sweden’s gold. Other than the odd bit of ski jumping and some middle distance running, no major sport has ever been troubled by Finnish domination. Yet Finland’s trophy cabinet is far from empty.

How? By inventing a wealth of new world championships and making up the rules as they go along.

32 | Issue 12 | October 2009

sticks like it was supposed to, and after only approximately 9 – 10 hours (boy, does time fly when you’re having fun) the bookshelf stands there, prouder than a toddler all by itself.

However, I do wish my husband would read the DIY term strictly to the letter: Do it YOURSELF.

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.

By Ben Kersley

There are sports for everyone. From Neppis, which is toy car racing in sandpits for grown ups, to The Mobile Phone Throwing World Championships. There’s Swamp Football, a slow and clumsy version of the beautiful game played knee deep in mud. Not unlike watching a proper game of Finnish footie.

The best participant sports are those where you don’t need expensive clothes to play, such as the Nakukymppi, a running race as nature intended (shoes and socks are optional). It takes place around midsummer, which has less to do with tradition and more to do with the fact that mosquito numbers have not yet reached their peak. Or there’s the World Sauna Championships with contestants aiming to stay in a sauna as long as possible without actually cooking. The winner celebrates by throwing his sweaty par-boiled body into a crowd of adoring fans.

The jewel in the Finnish sporting crown is also the thorn in their side: much as England regrets ever teaching cricket and rugby to the Australians, the Finns must rue day they invited the Estonians to take part in the World Wife Carrying Championship. In the twelve year history of the competition, Finland has only won twice.

Other than that Estonia, a nation even worse at football than Finland, has carried home the silverware (presumably putting the wife down first) every time.

Ben Kersley is a writer and performer based in Linköping, Sweden. He is also Sweden’s only Swinglish stand up comedian. www.speakup.se

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This event will be a great evening for the members of the Danish-UK Chamber of Commerce and Swedish Chamber of Commerce and friends.

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Scan Business | Comment | Norway

Thanks to a prudent and long-term oriented economic policy, Norway and its capital Oslo (above) have been less affected by the financial crisis than other countries.

Norway less affected by the financial crisis than many other countries

By Kristin Halvorsen, Minister of Finance, Norway

No country integrated into the global economy is left unaffected by the financial crisis. Norway is therefore no exception. However, compared to many countries, I would say Norway has managed relatively well.

In the fourth quarter of 2008 and the first quarter of 2009 we did experience negative GDP growth, but growth picked up slightly again in the second quarter. Unemployment has risen far less than in most other countries, and the unemployment rate is currently just above 3%. The turmoil in the international financial markets did spread quickly to Norway, but Norwegian banks are solid and have so far incurred only moderate losses.

Looking forward, growth is expected to increase further and gradually maintain this trend in the course of 2010.

Unemployment will continue to rise, but probably peak well below 4%.

The foundation for this development lies in a sound policy framework and a prudent and long term oriented economic policy over several years. The large revenues from our petroleum resources in the North Sea have not been a sleeping pillow leading to lower productivity and growth. Another challenge is to transform this fluctuating revenue stream into welfare gains for both current and future generations. To meet this challenge, we put aside the revenues from the petroleum sector in a resource fund, named the Pension Fund â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Global. This Fund is invested in financial assets abroad, and we only spend the expected real return from the Fund over the annual budgets. This framework contributes to stabilizing the

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 35

Kristin Halvorsen, Minister of Finance, Norway

Norwegian economy. It also ensures that future generations take part in the petroleum wealth.

GDP for Mainland Norway, which is also strong when compared with other countries.

The Norwegian authorities have, as have the authorities in most countries, introduced a range of measures to dampen the effects of the global recession:

• Furthermore, extensive measures to stabilise the financial markets have been established, both by the Government and Norges Bank. These arrangements improve Norwegian banks’ access to liquidity and longterm funding, and they strengthen individual banks and improve their ability to uphold lending activity to households and businesses.

• Norges Bank has reduced the key policy rate by 4.5 percentage points, to 1.25%, since October 2008. Since most Norwegian mortgages have floating interest rates, these moves have a large and immediate impact on household demand.

• The Government has adopted the most ambitious fiscal policy measures in more than 30 years. The use of petroleum revenues, as measured by the structural, non-oil budget deficit, is estimated to be NOK 130 billion. This is equivalent to a demand impulse of 3% of

36 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Norway experienced a severe banking crisis in the early 1990s, which I believe is still vividly remembered by regulators and by many bankers. As share capital was written down (even as far down as zero) before the government recapitalised the banks involved, the banking sector learned the true cost of imprudent risk taking and

insufficient credit evaluations. Also legislators and supervisory authorities learned valuable lessons from the crisis, especially with respect to crisis management and the necessity of adequate capital requirements. The crisis in the early 90s made us better prepared to meet the challenges of the current crisis.

The fact that the petroleum market has remained rather stable during the last 12 months, despite the downturn of the world economy, has of course been an important contribution in stabilizing the mainland economy. High activity on the Norwegian continental shelf leads to significant demands of both capital and intermediate goods from manufacturers on the mainland. Petroleum investments are expected to remain high next year. Moreover, the production of consumer goods relative to total output is small compared to countries like Sweden and Germany, which have been much harder hit by the drop in global demand than Norway. Whilst manufacturing production in the euro area was down more than 20% in the first four months of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008, the decline in Norway was a mere 6%.

Norway’s relatively large public sector also helps to stabilise the economy in turbulent times. The public sector employs one third of the labour force in Norway.

These jobs are not directly threatened by the crisis. The fact that pensions, health care and education are provided by the government, ensures that the supply of these services is protected from the market turmoil.

So, is the crisis over? I am afraid we can’t be sure of that. Risks remain high, both regarding the financial markets and economic development. The comprehensive measures from the authorities worldwide have, however, significantly reduced the risk of getting into a negative spiral where the financial markets have a negative impact on economic development and vice versa. The Norwegian Government put the emphasis on contributing with our experiences in order to work out a sound framework for the financial markets internationally, so that they can underpin a prosperous and sustainable development for the world economy in the years to come.

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Nordea Bank London 8th floor, City Place House, 55 Basinghall Street, London EC2V 5NB

Making it possible

THOMMESSEN – the London edge

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Silje Glefjell

For a Norwegian business law firm with international clients, understanding and knowing the market international clients and law firms operate in is important.

This is why Thommessen is one of few Scandinavian law firms represented in the UK. By having an office in London, Thommessen aims to establish contact and strengthen relations with potential and existing international clients and to provide its lawyers with an opportunity for professional and personal development.

Thommessen was recently named “Norway’s Law Firm of the Year 2009” by Who’s Who Legal, and the Norwegian winner of Chambers Europe Awards for Excellence 2009.

Thommessen dates back to 1856, and through organic growth and mergers, it has become one of the leading law firms in Norway with 170 lawyers divided between offices in Oslo, Bergen and London.

Changing direction in the UK Currently, there are three lawyers based in their office in New Broad Street in the City; two of them are participating in Thommessen’s associate secondment scheme, while Resident Partner Lars Eirik Gåseide Røsås has been in

38 | Issue 12 | October 2009

London for almost three years. “This year is the 25th anniversary of our London office,” says Røsås. “The reason for starting up here 25 years ago was to follow our Norwegian clients into the UK market and provide legal counselling, mainly in relation to the shipping industry.”

Today the core areas of business have changed somewhat because many Norwegian businesses seek English legal counsel directly, or only need to be referred to the appropriate local counsel. “We used to be mainly the intermediary for Norwegian clients between English and Norwegian law, but today we more often provide Norwegian legal advice to international clients, either directly or by acting for international law firms. The reasons for being here have changed over the years,” says Røsås. Part of the firm’s business in London still consists of advising Norwegian clients in the UK. However, the majority of the work concerns UK or other international companies doing business in Norway.

Creating a competitive edge The benefits of being present in the UK are not easily measurable; however, they are still there, says Røsås.

Scan Magazine | Xxxx Scan Business | Business Profile | Thommessen

Mads Haavardsholm, Lars Eirik Gåseide Røsås and Lars André Gjerdrum in front of their office building in New Broad Street, London.

Having a London office allows Thommessen to be on the ground in a major business hub, and to offer Norwegian legal services at the doorstep of international clients. “Our presence here has a representation and marketing function, and we believe that it makes us more visible.”

Still Røsås says that it is of course possible to run a Norwegian business law firm with clients in the UK without having a London office. “It is a matter of offering our clients here something extra,” he says. “We have seen in recent years that it has become more and more important to have an international footprint. Besides, London is very often the first point of contact, and when being approached by an English, American or other international law firm, it is important to know and understand their standards and how they expect you to deliver your services.”

environment,” explains Røsås.

Two of the lawyers to have taken advantage of this scheme are Lars André Gjerdrum and Mads Haavardsholm. “I think that when it comes to recruiting and keeping people in the firm, the possibility of coming over here is important,” Gjerdrum says, while Røsås adds: “After a certain time, associates might be interested in broadening their experience and this scheme gives us the possibility of offering something within the firm.”

While Thommessen came to London 25 years ago with a specific aim, which has evolved over the years, Røsås says that Thommessen intends to maintain its presence in the City.

“We are satisfied that we will be able to continue providing this service to our national and international clients, and although the reasons for our presence have changed and developed over the years, being in London still is important, and perhaps even more so than before,” he says.

Providing international experience for associates Last September, Thommessen introduced a secondment scheme which offers associates the opportunity to work at its London office. “The scheme means that our associates in our offices in Oslo and Bergen can apply to come here and work for four months, and we provide them with accommodation and an international learning

Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS 42 New Broad Street, London EC2M 1JD Web: www.thommessen.no/en Phone: +44 207 920 3090, @: london@thommessen.no

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 39

Scan Business | Business Profile | Oslo Apartments

OSLO APARTMENTS – Your home away from home

By Nia Kajastie

Oslo can often be found at the top of the list for the most expensive cities in the world, but this does not necessarily mean that you have to max out your credit card when looking for short-term accommodation.

Whether you are there for business or leisure, Oslo Apartments can provide you with first-rate lodgings in desirable locations for approximately half the price of a hotel room.

Oslo Apartments, established around 1999 by Manager Per O. Torgersen, was one of the first companies of its kind in the Oslo area. The concept behind the business was originally borrowed from the English bed and breakfast format, with the first available apartments being rented from private owners. However, as this

40 | Issue 12 | October 2009

accommodation model was not easy to market in Oslo, the company subsequently started renting out modern apartments that did not include any extra services. “When we first started out, we had to create the market,” says Torgersen. “The customers were staying in hotels at the time, but now an increasing number of people see the money-saving benefits of renting apartments instead.”

With 160 apartments dotted around ten different locations in the downtown, western and suburban areas of Oslo, Oslo Apartments should always be able to offer you suitable accommodation for your stay, whether it is for a short holiday break or a longer work-related visit. All apartments come fully furnished with free Internet and cable television, while fresh bed linen and towels are

Scan Business | Business Profile | Oslo Apartments

provided every week. In the downtown area, the apartments are located within walking distance of all amenities, giving easy access to shops, restaurants and theatres. However, if you are looking for something a bit less hectic, Oslo Apartments also offers a selection of quieter locations in the suburban area, which can be reached from the city by tram or car.

A smart hotel alternative According to Torgersen the biggest benefit of renting an apartment compared to booking a hotel room is the lower price tag. “Of course you can always find cheap hotels with low standards, but if you compare our apartments to hotels with the same level of standards, then you are getting it for a lot cheaper,” he says. From Oslo Apartments, you can rent a studio apartment starting at NOK 590 per night (not per person), which currently adds up to slightly over £60, while a five bedroom one costs about NOK 1750 per night (approximately £183).

You can also save a lot of money by making your own food and buying ordinary groceries, rather than paying for expensive restaurant meals every day. In addition, the apartments offer far more space than hotels: while a regular hotel room consists of about 10-20 m2 of space, an apartment can easily reach up to 30–40 m2. Torgersen adds: “When a family of two children and two adults wants to come for a holiday and stay in Oslo, one hotel room can get quite crowded. It’s just not convenient to stay in the same room, and the children can’t stay in a room on their own either. That’s why an apartment with two bedrooms is ideal.”

As one of the testimonials on the Oslo Apartments website puts it: “We felt in this apartment as if we were at home.

Already on the second day of our stay here, we had the feeling as if we (had) always lived here.” While people often travel abroad to experience something special and out of the ordinary, what is often missing is that true sense of comfort, as you always end up feeling a little out of place.

So after a long day of sightseeing or work, it is very relaxing to have a place to return to that feels almost like home. With excellent accommodation and friendly service available in multiple different languages, Oslo Apartments will help make your stay in Oslo as stress-free as possible. www.osloapartments.no

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 41

JYSK – will the goose’s UK egg be golden?

By Signe Hansen

“I have a great offer for you.” This statement in Lars Larsen’s strong Jutlandic dialect has made the man a legend in Denmark. Everybody knows his story; the small entrepreneur who started out with one store and now, 30 years later, runs JYSK group, a business empire with over 1,500 stores turning over almost two billion pounds. In the UK, on the other hand, JYSK and Larsen have just made their debut. We talk to Marketing Manager Dara Goolsby to see how the modest merchant has been welcomed.

It is not much more than a year ago since the first two British JYSK stores selling low-priced duvets, bedding and furniture opened up in Lincoln and Mansfield; two more followed in Blackburn and York, but while four stores opening in a year represents a good start, the owner has much more extensive and far-reaching plans. “Lars Larsen is quite ambitious; he will tell us that we will have 300 to 500 new stores in the UK within the next 20 years,” says Goolsby.

How to create the great offer The concept of the stores in the UK is the same as in the rest of JYSK: a great offer and a straightforward and down-to-earth approach to customers. “What we are trying to bring across is the great offer. Obviously that is what JYSK is known for and what we can offer

42 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Scan Business | Business Profile | JYSK

Left: Marketing Manager Dara Goolsby. Middle: Danish business legend Lars Larsen. Right: One of JYSK’s first four stores opened in Northern England.

our customers in the UK is that and Scandinavian quality.”

But is this enough to make JYSK stand out in a highly competitive low-price furniture market such as the UK’s?

Goolsby admits that the UK market is hard to break. But she maintains that JYSK’s concept of buying in bulk to give the customers the lowest possible price will help Larsen reach his goal of being the most well-known brand in value for money shopping in the world and in the UK. “We are present in 32 countries and next year we are opening in China as well, so we’ve got a lot of buying power. The UK is a difficult market, but a lot of the dealers that we compete with are UK-centric, they are not elsewhere.”

Besides having greater buying power than most UK competitors, JYSK also manufactures some products like garden furniture and some of the duvets within the group.

Adapting to the UK JYSK group has just celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking the opening of the first JYSK store in Aarhus, where it is still located, in 1979. It was, however, not because of its location in Jutland (Jysk means Jutlandic) that Larsen named the store JYSK. Larsen was planning all along to open a chain of stores, but he wanted all of the stores to be connected to that area because of the Danish word’s connotation, namely modesty, thoroughness and

honesty. Obviously these messages are hard to convey to local markets, but Larsen is not only known for his great offers but also for his advertising’s unique impact. To celebrate his 25th anniversary Larsen sent out 2.4 million free copies of his autobiography, a book entitled “Hello my name is Larsen” creating quite a fuss about his person.

Although starting out small, advertising and campaigning are also the means with which Goolsby and her team aim to win over the Brits. “We do a lot of radio commercials in the local areas and send out campaign catalogues in the same way as JYSK does in Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia,” says Goolsby.

Larsen was also one of the first business owners to market his business by appearing in his own TV commercials with the statement that made him famous: “Hello my name is Larsen and I have a great offer for you.”

However, we should not expect to see Larsen’s moustache on British TV screens any time soon because although there are plans to commence TV campaigns when the chain has had a bit more time to grow, Goolsby does not reckon Larsen will feature in them himself. “No, Larsen is not such a well-known face in the UK yet, so I think we will just go for the goose,” she laughs.

For more details visit: www.jysk.co.uk

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 43

From left to right: Sheila Brady, Steve Pike, Anders Wulff Larsen, Carsten Amdi and Per Nielsen at the Danske Bank office located on King William Street in the centre of London City.

Danske Bank – International Corporate Banking, London

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Christos Koukelis

Solving the financial crisis and taking over the global banking industry are not on the list of Anders Wulff Larsens’s things to do this year. The Head of ICB (International Corporate Banking) in Danske Bank’s London office is more modest and far more unambiguous. He wants to continue doing what he and his unit do best: niche banking for corporate, Scandinavian group customers.

When Scan Magazine met Anders on the fourth floor of the bank’s London office in King William Street, we were not met with a lot of show or airy plans but with a very concrete statement. “It’s business as usual here – or at least as close as we can come.”

behind his words. The UK ICB unit is one of 12 similar units, which besides the four Scandinavian countries include Poland, Germany, Russia, Ireland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

The location of new units abroad is dictated by the requirements of the Scandinavian group customers and that is why, explains Anders, the London unit is at the very core of Danske Bank’s business. “The bank’s policy has always been to follow its customers on the markets and that’s how it all started. Over the years we have perfected our original services to our corporate core customers on their core markets.”

Scandinavian service for Scandinavian customers

Following the customer As Danske Bank has been servicing group customers in London since 1983, Anders does have substantial weight

44 | Issue 12 | October 2009

The UK is Norway’s largest export market, Denmark and Sweden’s third largest, and Finland’s fourth largest.

Consequently, it provides very viable terms for a bank

Scan Business | Business Profile | Danske Bank

which, like Danske Bank, offers specific services for subsidiaries of Scandinavian corporations. “Over the years we have grown and taken market share, especially from UK banks. The main reason is that we deliver a Scandinavian service and Scandinavian products and both from a group’s perspective and a subsidiary’s perspective, we often constitute a better solution than UK banks,” says Anders.

advantage for group companies in that they can optimize their cash flow.”

But what about the crisis?

Of course when it comes to banking, one has to ask about the crisis. Is Anders worried that there is an increased risk in the Bank’s customer base? He is definitely not afraid to admit that banks are struggling at the moment but Head of Corporate Banking in Danske Bank, Søren stresses that the crisis has never brought Danske Bank Haugaard, stresses that the service which Danske Bank or the London unit into a life-threatening situation. “Of can provide abroad is not only essential to the customers course our customers have been affected by the international credit crisis too, but our but to the bank as well. “Anders’s job strategy has not changed as such. We is to ensure that we catch up on the “Business as usual” have always had the tools and the ability business that our group customers to handle the risk in our customer have here in the UK as well as their portfolio, and we work closely within the local business,” he says adding: “The more facets we have to accommodate our customers’ Bank to access the risk in our portfolio. That is pretty collective requirements, the better is our potential of usual for what we normally do; we identify changes and running a profitable business. I see our business like a big problems that the customers will experience and work to puzzle with many pieces; it won’t be finished without all solve them.” the pieces and London is a very important piece to our With regard to the bank’s own way of handling the crisis corporate customers.” the answer is to do just that says Anders: provide the best One of the special services the bank offers all customers service and assistance for the bank’s customers. “We are is a web-based cash management system which provides a niche bank in the UK and we will focus on what we are a cross-boarder solution. “It gives our customers the good at and that is servicing a limited client group. We opportunity to operate cash management online through focus on our existing good clients and we are here for the same system in all of the countries we are them whether they are world brands or not. We are not represented in, which is a unique service. It gives a huge here to solve the banking crisis.”

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 45

Senior Manager John Lindegaard and Partner Michael Rohde.

Krogh and Partners – audit and essential advice

By Signe Hansen

For Scandinavian companies the differences between Scandinavian and British legislation can be the first barrier between them and success in the UK. Krogh and Partners Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors have specialised in advising on those differences and in doing it the Scandinavian way, that is with efficiency and high service levels.

compare it with Scandinavian legislation and, as one of few, we obviously have knowledge of both,” says Rohde.

Equal service for all clients

The business has had continuous growth since and while its main business is audits, it also assists with tax planning in connection with moving to the UK, preparation of UK tax returns, accounting and preparation of VAT returns.

All staff have theoretical and practical qualifications from Scandinavia and practical experience from working in the UK. One of them is Senior Manager John Lindegaard, who is set to become the firm’s third partner. “The main part of our clients is subsidiaries of Scandinavian companies. But we also have some Scandinavian-linked clients who have started up in the UK independently and in that way we service both very large and very small businesses,” he says, adding, “apart from our niche expertise, our competitive edge is that we aim to treat everyone the same. Many companies may have a very large business in their home country but only ten employees in their UK subsidiary and they may not get the service they are accustomed to if they go to a larger firm of UK auditors with international knowledge.” The language is, of course, also a factor and although most clients, John says, speak English very well, they like the comfort of having someone explaining matters in their own language. “When it comes to tax legislation details can be essential.”

“It is easier to understand UK legislation when you can

For more details visit: www.kroghandpartners.com

With just two employees Per Krogh Petersen sat up Krogh and Partners in 1989. Today 15 employees work at the firm’s offices in Finsbury Circus, London, servicing more than 300 companies and a large number of individuals based all over the UK. Advice in high demand “The reason behind setting up was that Per had quite a few clients back in Denmark who wanted to start up in the UK and always asked him for advice,” explains Partner Michael Rohde.

46 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Scan Business | Column | How was your day?

How was your day

Early hours Most mornings begin the same: woken up by Astrid, who’s two. She always has a smile on her face and makes it so easy to get up and face the day’s challenges, no matter what these might be. Today I’m trying to schedule in a week's worth of catering orders and events while writing the weekly e-mail newsletter – as well as being due with our second child any day. Got a lot to do today, so I ask the little one to hang in there for a few hours yet…

Free hugs for all I make my way to our Great Titchfield Street store near Oxford Circus and face the activity of the café: our Sebastian is hugging a customer as I walk in (we have a loyalty scheme where you get a free hug after five 2 cups of coffee). The customer is a middle-aged

British gentleman who seems to be both puzzled and amused at the same time. I sample a shot of the excellent Monmouth Coffee we serve and everything seems more awake around me.

I don’t want 200 kilos of beetroot, thanks There is an issue with one of our weekly deliveries from Scandinavia, it seems.

Someone in Copenhagen has misread the order as 200 kilos of pickled beetroot instead of 20. We manage to straighten out the error before the order leaves Denmark. Phew. I mean, do you realize just how much 200 kilos of pickled beetroot is? It's enough for 2,500 of our meatball platters...quite a lot.

Got a good recipe for chocolate cake?

Cakes are of the essence

Nightie, night

We love cakes and everything about them.

Today, we have a big order for Swedish princess cakes for a corporate event and the Kitchen Angels are busy making roses and covering layer cakes with green marzipan. A late order for 50 cinnamon buns almost throws them off course, but everyone chips in and we manage.

We are lucky to have such a strong team of great people.

I waddle for the bus home to pick up Astrid and plan for the next few days ahead. I’m usually asleep well before my head hits the pillow.

The Largest and Most Integrated Team of Spine & Joint Specialists of any Independent Clinic in the UK Danish Chiropractor Dr Alan Jordan, Phd Clinic Director

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.

THE HAM HEALING CENTRE Ham Common, Richmond TW10

•

• Chiropractic

A leading food magazine is writing an article about Scandinavian food and they ask us for advice. Our PR Department (my partner Jonas… in his cupboard-office under the stairs) sorts them out and I debate whether to give out Auntie Inga’s secret recipe for ‘kladdkaka’ (Sticky Swedish Chocolate Cake). Jonas persuades me not to and the all important secret is safe for a while longer…

N ew

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Issue 12 | October 2009 | 47

Scan Business | Columns

Leadership for the upturn When we run leadership development programmes, top executives from the organisation typically participate as speakers to deliver ‘the strategic messages from the top’. Recently, the core message from one senior executive was the following: “Now you must choose whether you want to be a survivor or a winner!” – clearly with the intention of encouraging the leaders to refocus and start driving for revenue growth.

The challenge is, though, that the business leaders were there precisely because they had developed and deployed survival skills, cut costs, made people redundant and managed to hold on to their own jobs despite the restructuring over the past couple of years. How can they change mindset and behaviour all of a sudden?

And how can they do it in a way that is believable to their organisations? As markets stabilise and the first glimmers of

hope emerge, companies need to rethink how leadership is executed and distributed.

As some of the shortcomings and misjudgements of celebrated, heroic leaders have been exposed, a revised model of leadership is emerging. In this model, leadership is distributed, relational, personal and situational. Distributed in that it is not the privilege of the chosen few at the top but executed across the organisation by individuals who take it when needed – and are encouraged to do so. Relational because it is co-created and continuously refined by the multiple relationships and interactions the leaders have. Personal in that leaders will regain trust by being themselves and authentic in their actions.

Situational since there is no ‘one style fits all’. Leadership has to be adapted to the person and to the situation.

So whether you successfully make the transition from ‘surviving’ to ‘winning’ will

By Inger Buus

be determined by the extent to which you are able to rebuild trust and are willing to take risks, engage with people and empower others to take leadership.

Employment in the current economic climate Many Employers are seeking ways to reduce staff costs and find alternatives to redundancy.

Employee costs are often one of the largest overheads.

One option many employers are considering is temporarily to reduce the Employee’s working week to cut costs, therefore also avoiding significant redundancy payments and most importantly, enabling Employers to retain valuable staff.

Employees who are asked to reduce their hours could argue that their position is in fact redundant. In the current climate, many Employees will not want to lose their positions, but long-serving Employees entitled to a significant redundancy payment may consider going down that route.

48 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Corren Troen work with a number of Scandinavian clients with businesses in the UK. Saira Mian, Employment lawyer with Corren Troen, says that many clients are often unaware that the legal framework for dealing with employment-related matters can be very different in the UK. In particular, under English law, there is a procedure for dealing with redundancies or reducing an Employee’s working hours.

She recommends that before any action is taken, Employees are consulted with first of all on the options and the possibility of a reduction in hours. Also it is important that Employers ensure that it is clear that the new hours are on a temporary basis and that they advise the Employees as to when the hours will change back. Keeping things clear and simple will help prevent confusion or problems in the future. Any changes to an Employee’s terms should also be agreed in writing.

It is worth Employers considering all the options before deciding how the reduced hours will operate. Offering a four day week or a six hour day could have an impact on childcare expenses or train fare costs and therefore the Employee’s views on agreeing to the reduction are imperative. Employees may also want some reassurance that other benefits such as holidays, pensions or life cover will not be adversely affected.

Having an honest and open discussion with Employees explaining why the changes are necessary is normally the best way to find a workable solution.

If you would like advice on an Employment-related matters, please contact Saira Mian or a member of the Employment Team at Corren Troen on 0207 597 8900.

ISU Programs

Learn Swedish Learn Swedish in Sweden or at home with ISU Programs.

We offer summer, year-round programs and distance courses. www.folkuniversitetet.se/isu

Scan Business | News | Chambers of Commerce

Danish-UK Chamber of Commerce In the light of the recent news about a more positive economic outlook and the belief that we are moving on from ‘crisis management’ mode towards a recovery focused approach, DUCC and Miller Rosenfalck LLP invite all members and others who are interested to a seminar on 14 October. “Managing your Human Resources efficiently” is the theme, and we will reflect on market trends while focusing on issues such as alternatives to redundancies, flexible working, information and communications, not to mention rewards and benefits. The event is aimed at company management including HR management. Saxo Bank A/S London will be hosting the seminar and registration is necessary because of a limited number of seats: info@ducc.co.uk.

Another event not to miss is when Denmark plays Sweden on 10 October 2009. The event is sponsored by Carlsberg, DSV and G4S

– probably the best partnership in the world – and will potentially be the most important football game of the year! Denmark has never before been closer to qualifying directly to the World Cup. Sweden is pursuing revenge for their 0-1 defeat from the last encounter while at the same time fighting for direct qualification to South Africa. Sign up online: www.ducc.co.uk

UPCOMING EVENTS 10 October 14 October

29 October 29 October 29 October 5 November

FIFA Event: Denmark vs. Sweden Managing your Human Resources efficiently: Focus on service companies – Presented by Miller Rosenfalck& DUCC. Hosted by Saxo Bank Advisory Board Knowledge Share (Lunch) – by invitation only DBAL – New Network of Danish Business Angels London Nordic Thursday Drinks at Radisson Blu Portman Hotel Network Lounge in Leeds for Danish Business Professionals

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 Norway and Scotland are connected on many levels, through business and leisure, through history, and through a general sense of having a lot in common while also having a lot to offer one another. NBCC invites members and non-members to participate in our Taste and Travel event in Aberdeen on 9 October. We will organise a mini-exhibition, and in addition there will be a programme of speakers and a networking event.

All sponsor members are invited to take a seat on the NBCC's Advisory Board. The Advisory Board consists of a broad spectrum of CEOs from international companies operating in the UK and in Norway. Its formal role is to guide NBCC on its strategic and policy directions, as well as constituting the Norwegian Ambassador's Business Forum. We take great pleasure in inviting our Advisory Board members to a networking event at the Ambassador's Residence to meet and discuss topics of current interest on 22 October.

The annual Shipping & Energy Dinner is on 29 October: welcome to the autumn's meeting place for companies and individuals working within or closely related to the Shipping industry. This is

Aberdeen Skyline. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

the perfect place to entertain guests and introduce business partners to the renowned Norwegian-British Shipping community; kindly hosted by StatoilHydro.

UPCOMING EVENTS 8 October 9 October 22 October 29 October 29 October

Financial Evening Taste & Travel Norway and Scotland Advisory Board Networking Event Shipping & Energy Dinner Nordic Thursday Drinks

Norwegian-British Chamber of Commerce | Phone: +44 (0) 20 7930 0181 | Email: info@nbccuk.com | www.nbccuk.com 50 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Scan Magazine | Business Directory

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+44 1962 858 790 uk@samtext.com Issue 12 | October 2009 | 51

Scan Business | News | Chambers of Commerce

Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK This season’s kick-off event, the SwedishFinnish Crayfish Party, attracted over a hundred guests. On Friday 4 September, the two Chambers invaded and transformed London’s Embassy Restaurant for the event. It was not long before the first snaps song echoed in the restaurant and the first crayfish was eaten and so the evening continued. All in all, it was a truly amazing evening with much singing and dancing.

The coming autumn is filled with a wide range of events, including seminars on communications and presentations, HR and executive compensation, business opportunities, rethinking the future of IT and financial regulation. We are also looking forward to a Members’ Luncheon with the President and CEO of Saab, Åke Svensson, on 10 November and the Annual Christmas Luncheon at the Dorchester on Friday 4 December (almost sold out already).

The Swedish Chamber of Commerce includes around 400 Members and hosts over fifty events every year. So far, during 2009, we are proud to have welcomed over 70 new Member companies.

Please find below a calendar of events for October; for events further into the future, please look at our website on www.scc.org.uk where you can also sign up.

UPCOMING EVENTS 5 October 8 October 12 October 13 October 19 October 20 October 21 October

Master Class in Communications with GPB Consulting The JCC After Work at Mahiki 2012 Games – How to capitalise on the Games?

The JCC & McGuireWoods – Entrepreneurship Forum Annual Patrons’ Dinner at the Swedish Ambassador’s Residence Rethinking the future of IT Seminar on Strategic HR

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 Autumn is now officially here as we celebrated our annual Finnish-Swedish Crayfish Party at the beginning of September.

The event was very enjoyable with great people, good music and, most of all, enormous amounts of super delicious crayfish! We would like to thank all the participants for creating this successful event.

At the beginning of October members of the FBCC have an opportunity to enjoy a special wine tasting event. The evening will be headed by a well-known wine expert, Ray O’Connor. On 28 October, we are organizing the Corporate Social Responsibility seminar together with the Finnish Institute. The monthly Nordic Networking Drinks event seems to be more popular than ever; in October the event takes place at Radisson Blu Portman Hotel.

Finally, don’t forget our Christmas lunch on 10 December! This year the event will be held at the Scandinavian restaurant Madsen. More information about our upcoming events can be found at www.fbcc.co.uk

UPCOMING EVENTS 7 October 28 October 29 October 5 November

Wine Tasting Evening with Ray O’Connor at Scandinavian Kitchen Corporate Social Seminar together with the Finnish Institute Nordic Networking Drinks at Radisson Blu Portman Hotel Indian Breakfast with Anup N. Dalal at Quaglino’s

Finnish-British Chamber of Commerce | Phone: +44 (0) 20 8741 6352 | Email: fbccevents@fbcc.co.uk | www.fbcc.co.uk 52 | Issue 12 | October 2009

SCAN NEWS

Edited by Emilie Krugly

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson

The bridge that crossed the pond

Dreams on Wheels The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, is dreaming of a cycling revolution in London. He shares the vision with The Embassy of Denmark, which is on a mission to encourage the Brits to adopt Danish cycling culture.

As part of the prologue to the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen later this year, the GLA and the Embassy of Denmark therefore organised the exhibition Dreams on Wheels at the City Hall. The exhibition aimed to share knowledge between the two cities, and to encourage more people to try out two wheels. The Ambassador of Denmark, Mr. Birger Riis-Jørgensen, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The best way to get around London is on your bike, and I enjoy how the road users respect and consider each other in the traffic. It is great that Londoners and Danes can now jointly explore the joys and challenges of safe cycling to the benefit of our planet and ourselves.â&#x20AC;?

The number of Londoners who choose pedal power over petrol is on the up with the number of cyclists almost doubling since 2000. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Copenhagen cycling has become part of the fabric of the city, whereas in London many are yet to join the cycling revolution. London is now taking great strides towards becoming a true cycling city, with record investment going into providing the infrastructure needed to make biking even safer, accessible, and more convenient. I hope that this exhibition encourages more people to get in the saddle and savour the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sights,â&#x20AC;? said Boris Johnson.

Transport for London is investing ÂŁ111 million this year, providing funding for safety programmes, training, events, and landmark schemes such as a cycle superhighway.

Those who are interested in finding out more about cycling culture and urban sustainability can visit: www.dreamsonwheels.dk

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Scan Magazine | Scan News

HARTWIG CARE By: Emelie Krugly | Photo: Elisa Noguera Lopez Nadja Shaw at her office.

Swede Nadja Shaw is the founder of Hartwig Care, a care agency that guarantees a service that is uniquely tailored for each of its clients. It all started ten years ago in a North London basement and today offers its services throughout London. Nadja Shaw can certainly be proud when 550 of her guests enter Hampstead Town Hall for Hartwig Care’s anniversary festivities in November.

When Scan Magazine visited Nadja at her offices in Kentish Town, northwest London, there was a buzz in the air; people were coming and going with staff members preparing for training sessions, and Nadja apologised for the bustle and told us that they are about to open their second office in Hampstead.

The story behind this operation began in Sweden when Nadja as a little girl observed her mother, a physiotherapist, lovingly care for her patients.

“She is simply an amazing person; her nursing really made a difference to people’s lives and inspired me. Many of her clients were chronically ill and some of them with only a short time to live. My mother managed to reduce their fear and anxiety; seeing this I felt that I also wanted to make a difference to people’s lives one day, so I studied to become a nurse.”

In 1996 Nadja moved to London, intending to improve her English and work for a while, planning to return to Sweden afterwards. As with many adventurous Scandinavians things turned out differently. “I was surprised to find how different things were in the UK when I started nursing and realised that there was a gap in the market and I thought to myself that I can do this better. Things slowly started to

54 | Issue 12 | October 2009

grow without any marketing, Hartwig Care was formed and started to build a name for itself. We have not pushed it, it has all come to us,” Nadja Shaw explains.

Hartwig Care can offer a number of different services, for both private clients and service users referred from Social Services in London. Hartwig Care also provides direct payment care to clients with conditions such as MS, Parkinson and other physical disabilities as well as care services for the elderly, people with learning disabilities and mental health problems, but also clients who can manage on their own but need a bit of support to maintain their independence.

The recruitment procedure is very thorough. Many of Nadja’s staff members are well educated people from all walks of lives. “I really value my staff and I want them to be proud of their work; we ensure that we have regular assessments and encourage staff members to be active in other areas and disciplines within the company. For instance, one of my carers is currently updating the website in anticipation of the second office. I also appreciate individuality and there is no dress code or uniform. Many of my clients are house-bound and for them it’s nice that carers can bring a little of the outside world into their homes and lives.”

Hartwig is named after Nadja’s much loved grandfather, delicatessen businessman and crayfish importer Olle Hartwig. “I grew up without a father and my grandfather became a male role model in my life. He was a very generous and loving man whom I felt I wanted to honour.”

For more info visit www.hartwigcare.co.uk

Scan Magazine | Scan News

Coffee in Gamla Stan

Tours of a hidden Stockholm Fancy an intimate guided tour of the Swedish capital? Stockholm Cultural Tours guarantee to fulfil your wishes.

Anglo-Swede Christina Sanderson is soon to celebrate her first year in business. Her company offers exclusive, specialised tours in and around the capital.

After giving up her job as an auctioneer for Bonham’s in London, Christina undertook a master’s degree in the History of Arts. Whilst writing a thesis on Scandinavian Arts, she became so engrossed in the subject that it awoke the entrepreneur in her. She discovered there were no high-end tourism companies in Stockholm and as a result decided to set up on her own. The response so far, she

maintains, has been very encouraging.

“Everyone has really enjoyed it, the tours accommodate a maximum of eight people and as the tours span four days, you form a relationship with the clients and the group really get to know each other as well. It’s usually an international group of well educated people.”

As well as those advertised, tailormade tours can be arranged to suit individual requirements. The tour includes visits to galleries and manor houses in and around Stockholm, as well as boat trips around the unique and spectacular Stockholm Archipelago. A few summer trips will include an opera at the Drottningholm court theatre.

“We aim to open up parts of Stockholm and its surroundings that you would

Swedish Government announces tourist boost Swedish Government Announces 50 million SEK a Year Tourism Boost at Symposium Ahead of COP15 During the opening ceremony of the European symposium, Tourism and Travel in the Green Economy, the Swedish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy and Enterprise, Maud Olofsson, announced a further investment in tourism of 50 million SEK a

year as part of the 2010-2012 budget.

The symposium, a joint venture of the UN World Tourism Organisation, the European Travel Commission and VisitSweden, also saw the launch of the UN Seal the Deal! Campaign. The campaign calls for a fair, balanced and effective post-Kyoto climate agreement at the coming UN Climate Change Conference (COP 15) in December. Sweden,

not necessarily see or, indeed, even be conscious of as an ordinary tourist.”

Stockholm Cultural Tours run from the beginning of June until mid-September each summer. A winter weekend tour also takes place from 4-7 December 2009.

Future plans involve organizing a Millenium guided tour following the huge international success of author Stieg Larsson's Millenium trilogy.

There is great interest in the tours planned for 2010, with places already reserved and booked up, so hurry before it’s too late. The four day tour costs £800 and includes accommodation in the Grand Hotel in Stockholm.

For more information visit www.stockholmculturaltours.co.uk

currently holding the EU presidency, is ranked first of 133 countries in sustainability by the World Economic Forum.

Maud Olofsson Source: the newsmarket.com, Council for the Promotion of Sweden

Issue 12 | October 2009 | 55

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month

Restaurant of the Month

Flavour feast at The Delhi Brasserie in Soho

By Helene Oxfeldt Lauridsen If you wish to feel the London buzz, be seen and grab a bite after work, Soho is the place. That is exactly what we want to do, and we are not alone; all Londoners seem to be out on this last warm summer evening.

Tempting menu Just seconds after arriving at the Deli Brasserie in 44 Frith Street we are sitting comfortably looking through the inspiring menu loaded with specialities from India.

Unfortunately, my sneaking bad habit of wanting everything makes me incapable of deciding when it comes to food. The extensive, tempting menu does not exactly help, so picking a dish turns out to be a rather difficult affair. Luckily the friendly waiter springs to my assistance and after ordering two Indian Cobra beers we are ready for the spicy food.

We start out with the classic Papadums, different kinds of chutneys (mango chutney, lime pickle, minted sauce and onion salad), a must-have at any Indian restaurant. They are delicious and I have to remind myself to leave room for all the treats that await us.

Secret ingredients As starter, I have the Prawn & Purie onion Bhaje; it is so good that I forget to share with my friend, even though she

56 | Issue 12 | October 2009

kindly offers me a piece of her tasty Fish Terna - cod marinated in a special secret sauce.

For the main course I have the Chicken Korai, which is made with the Delhi Brasserie’s very own secret spices – more secrets, and yes, they remain a secret. But I can reveal that the taste was excellent - full and strong. On the other side of the table, judging from the pleased smile on Signe’s face, the Vegetarian Thali is also a hit and it is a treat for the eye as well. As a little side dish, not that we really need it, but the waiter tempted us, we have Garlic Naan and a sweet dish called Muttor Paneer, which is green peas and cottage cheese cooked in a mild spicy creamy sauce.

Perfect for groups The grand finale is the creamy, green Indian coconut ice cream – delicious. After ice and coffee we take a tour of the Brasserie and conclude that not only is the food superb, but also that the party rooms at the back of the restaurant allow you to bring friends or colleagues for a tasteful night out after work.

Soho Branch 02074378261 Kensington Branch 02073707617 www.delhibrasserie.com

Cirkus Cirkör

The Swedish circus group Cirkus Cirkör The Swedish circus group Cirkus Cirkör is preparing for their West End Debut.

Their newest production, a Vaudeville style show, premieres at the Peacock Theatre, London, from the 14 until 31 October. Accompanied by a live soundtrack from the rock band Irya’s Playground, “Inside Out” has already proven to be a huge hit around the world, combining spectacular acrobatics and storytelling with extraordinary projected film footage.

Cirkus Cirkör began as an independent contemporary circus group in Stockholm in 1995, under the direction of Tilde Björfors, Sweden’s first professor in Contemporary Circus at The University College of Dance. Björfors established the group after being captivated by the art form whilst living in Paris. Over the years, Cirkus Cirkör have produced over thirty shows, each with their own unique expression created by the different directors, artists, and performers engaged in the productions.

Since its inception, the group has continued to expand, performing in Poland, Russia, Iceland, China, Japan and beyond, and has established itself as a company dedicated to developing contemporary circus as an art form. The group of eight performers prides itself on its unique outspokenness, humour, anarchy and warmth.

For more info: www.cirkor.se and www.sadlerswells.com

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Scan Magazine | Music

Scandinavian Music This month, each Scandinavian territory puts forward its own Chanteuse, in a proud display of what each country is capable of producing at the moment!

Norwegian songstress Annie is finally releasing her second album “Don’t Stop”.

After constantly being delayed by her old record label and altered by Annie herself, the final version is ready and will be released in the UK on 19 October. It’s a dreamy opus of melody-riddled electronica married to Annie’s remarkable vocals, which are interchangeable between sexy and vulnerable.

Finnish pop princess returns Over in Finland, their reigning pop princess is back to launch the first single from her third album (following on from two number 1 albums!).

“Music Everywhere” sees Anna Abreu adopting what’s become THE sound of Autumn 2009 around the world – dance music merged with r&b. It’s a fast paced, often frantic pop gem, that pays audio homage to Lady Gaga. Incidentally, one of Anna’s earlier singles, “Vinegar”, has just been given a UK deal and will be Anna’s first release here later this year.

New tracks from Sweden and Iceland Iceland’s Hera Bjork has released an interesting new track over there. “My Heart” sounds like schlager music for the clubland generation, and it works really well. Hera sang backing vocals earlier this year for Iceland’s successful Eurovision entry, which came second. She also participated as a solo artist in the 2009 Danish pre-selections, again finishing second!

By Karl Batterbee Finally we head to Sweden, where they’ve just had an exceptionally good record occupy the number 1 position on their album chart.

“Moving On” by Sarah Dawn Finer is a down tempo soul album with its roots firmly planted in pop! Full of sweet tunes all sung by the large voiced diva-in-themaking, Sarah.

All perfect soundtrack fodder for Winter! www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@googlemail.com

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Issue 12 | October 2009 | 59

Scan Magazine | Culture Calendar

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

OCTOBER Esa-Pekka Salonen conducts the Philharmonia Orchestra (7–8 Oct) This Gala Concert celebrates the reopening of Butterworth Hall at the Warwick Arts Centre in Coventry. The Philharmonia Orchestra is conducted by the prominent Finnish conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen, currently Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor of the Philharmonia Orchestra in London and Conductor Laureate of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

7 October: Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry C4 T: 02476 524 524 8 October: Southbank Centre, London SE1 T 0800 652 6717 For more info visit: www.esapekkasalonen.com Hannu Lintu conducts the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra (8 Oct) One of Finland’s greatest living composers Hannu Lintu conducts the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool T 0151 709 3789 For more info visit: www.hannulintu.fi Elina Brotherus ( 9 Oct–14 Nov) The Wapping Project launches with the internationally acclaimed Finnish photographer and film maker, Elina Brotherus.

Opening hours: Monday by appointment Tuesday to Saturday 11.00–18.00 Until 14 November. The Wapping Project Bankside, 65a Hopton Street London SE1 T 020 7981 9851 Book sale (10 Oct) The largest Finnish-British organisation, Finn Guild offers language studies, information days, supports Finnish Schools, runs a video and DVD library and publishes the Horisontti magazine. The second-hand book sale is between 11am until 5pm on 10 October.

60 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Finn Guild, 1A Mornington Court, Lower Ground, Mornington Crescent, London NW1 For more info visit: www.finn-guild.org

Amorphis (10 Oct) Progressive heavy metal band with lyrics perform in London.

The Underworld, 174 Camden High Street, London NW1 For tickets 020 7482 1932 For more info visit www.amorphis.net Champagne reception at the Danish Club (12 Oct) Annual Members Art Exhibition & Dinner.

Champagne reception, 3 course dinner and wine with the meal. Please note the deadline for booking this event is Friday, 9 October.

Price: £60; Time: 7.00pm; Where: Exhibition in the Garden Room and Study, Dinner in the Dining Room; Dress Code: Lounge suit.

Kings of Convenience + Support (14 Oct) Norwegian indie folk-pop duo in one of their biggest London shows to date. Erlend Øye and Eirik Glambæk Bøe specialise delicate acoustic arrangements; their debut album “Quiet Is The New Loud” (2001) attracted a dedicated audience and was almost a manifesto for a new era of song writing. They will play at the Barbican Hall.

Tickets: £15 / 20 / 25 for more info visit: www.barbican.org.uk Frieze: Superflex (12–15 Oct) Frieze Film 2009 presents a newly commissioned project in four parts by Danish artist/activists Superflex. Taking their in-

spiration from a passage in Lars Von Trier’s film “Epidemic”, Superflex’s new films will show prominent figures from the world of art and finance, as they subject them to hypnosis. Frieze Film will be shown on Channel 4’s innovative 3 Minute Wonder slot during the week of Frieze Art Fair from Monday 12 to Thursday 15 October, at 7.55pm.

Leif Segerstam conducts the Philharmonia Orchestra (15 Oct) Finnish conductor and composer Leif Segerstam studied violin, piano and conducting at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki as well as conducting at the Juilliard School in New York with Jean Morel.

Segerstam was chief conductor of the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra from 1995 to 2007, and now holds the title of Chief Conductor Emeritus with the orchestra. As a composer, he is known especially for his numerous symphonies.

Royal Festival Hall, South Bank, London SE1 European Union Baroque Orchestra (16 Oct) EUBO consists of three Finnish musicians among other Europeans; Irma Niskanen (violin), Louna Hosia (cello) and Matias Häkkinen (hapsicord).

The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester T 0161 907 9000 Frieze Art Fair (15-18 Oct) Frieze Art Fair features over 150 of the most exciting contemporary art galleries in the world. The fair also includes specially commissioned artists’ projects, a prestigious talks programme and an artist-led education schedule. Danish Galleries participating in this year’s Frieze Art Fair are Andersen's Contemporary, Stand D14 www.andersen-s.dk and Galleri Nicolai Wallner Stand A1 www.nicolaiwallner.com for more info visit: www.friezeartfair.com

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Finnish Blues Man In Town Heikki Silvennoinen is Finland’s answer to Eric Clapton. As a teenager he instantly fell in love with the great British blues-rock guitarist and is now playing in London with his own music.

“He was an eye opener to me in many ways, to me he had the whole package,” says Heikki.

We’re at the 93 Feet East Club on Brick Lane in East London. Heikki Silvennoinen and his band are about to check the sound. “It’s refreshing to be playing in a new country, new city and venue; I think I’ve played in every single club in Finland by now,” he remarks grinning.

From rock to blues Heikki goes on to tell me about his first rock band called Tabula Rasa. The group became one of the most important 1970’s progressive rock bands in Finland, but Heikki’s heart has always been rooted in blues. “There is something very emotional about blues: as well as the simplicity, there is also a lot of humour and irony, blues musicians must be able to laugh at themselves. I suppose you could call a blues artist a type of clown, I think it kind of suits my personality, even if it’s not an easy thing to be one.”

Comedy, music and money Heikki is also a comedian and in the early 1990’s had a major breakthrough as a member of a comedy group called Kummeli which became a much loved television show and was compared to Monthy Python. They are still going strong and released their latest movie in 2008; we are told there are more to come.

“Finnish humour is different from the British style, there is more of a hidden sense of humour, we laugh at situations, and there are not necessarily many words involved.”

The plan for the near future is to continue touring – even Nashville is on his list of destinations. “It’s a hard industry,” he explains, but Heikki is not in it for the money.

“I would play music without making any pennies. I would play live just because I love the satisfaction it gives you bringing happiness to people, if I’ve managed to make people forget their troubles for an hour or two I feel like I’ve achieved Heikki Silvennoinen something good in life.”

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Scan Magazine | Culture Calendar

Valhalla Rising by Nicoloas Winding Refn, One Eye Production 22 October, 9pm and 23 October, 4pm and 9.15 pm at Vue Cinemas, West End 24 October, 9pm at the Ritzy Cinema, Brixton.

For more info visit: www.bfi.org.uk/lff

Thomas Dybdahl (15-22 Oct) One of Norway’s most talented and popular singer/songwriters, Thomas Dybdahl, this autumn tours the UK with his new self-titled album entitled “Thomas Dybdahl”.

Thursday 15 October, 8pm, Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London W12 8TT. Tickets: 020 8354 3300 Friday 16 October, 8pm The Freebutt, Brighton BN2 2ND Thursday 22 October, 7.30pm, Music Room at the Hare and Hounds, Birmingham, B14 7JZ Tickets: 0121 476 3322 or world.unlimited@o2.co.uk Danish Film Institute proudly presents: Film at the BFI 53rd London Film Festival (15-24 Oct) Applause by Martin Zandvliet Koncern Film & TV production 85 min 15 October, 4.15pm and 9 pm 21:00/ NFT, BFI Southbank Headhunter by Rumle Hammerich, Nordisk Film Productions NORDISK FILM 16 October, 1.45pm and 18 October, 9pm at the ICA, London Max Embarrasing by Lotte Svendsen.

Asta Film 17 October, 2pm at NFT, BFI Southbank Mirror by Joachim Ladefoged, Bastard Film 19 October, 8.45pm and the 21st of October at 2pm at NFT, BFI Southbank

62 | Issue 12 | October 2009

Magne Furuholmen (16 Oct–21 Nov) Magne Furuholmen, one of the famous Norwegian pop group A-ha, will exhibit a portfolio of prints of the entire alphabet.

Magne Furuholmen, songwriter and pianist/keyboardist has maintained a parallel career as a visual artist. The new exhibition, “alpha beta”, will be his third solo exhibition at the Paul Stolper Gallery. The portfolio on display consists of 30 works, in drypoint and monotype.

Paul Stolper Gallery, 31 Museum Street, London WC1A 1LH, 16 October – 21 November Opening times: Wed – Sat 10am – 6pm For more information visit: www.paulstolper.com and www.magne-f.net

Royal Festival Hall, Southbank, London SE1 T 0207 450 2000

Tarja Turunen (19 Oct) A bright star in the Finnish rock scene, the soprano singer Tarja Turunen has in a short time become one of the most wellknown Finnish faces in the world of music.

O2 Academy Islington, 16 Parkfield Street, London, N1 0PS For tickets: 08444 77 2000 For more info www.tarjaturunen.com European Union Baroque Orchestra (16 Oct) EUBO consists of three Finnish musicians among other Europeans; Irma Niskanen (violin), Louna Hosia (cello) and Matias Häkkinen (hapsicord).

The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester T 0161 907 9000

Topi Lehtipuu (17 Oct) Topi Lehtipuu is a Finnish opera singer and tenor. Australian born and raised in Tampere, Lehtipuu studied at the Sibelius Academy and has quickly risen to international acclaim in the world of baroque music.

This concert is dedicated to the twentieth anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Jazz evening at the Danish Club (28 Oct) Jazz evening with Angus Murray Price: £35 (3 course a la carte menu); Time:7pm. Please book with Anna 020 7408 2092 or lizette@danishclub.co.uk or call 07545 11 9339 Beer tasting at the Danish Club (22 Oct) Guest speaker: Nils Ørum-Nielsen, director of Rise Bryggeri.

Price: Free event but booking is essential, contact Lizette, lizette@danishclub.co.uk or call 07545 11 9339. Time: 6.30 – 9pm

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