Gustaf III Kommitté promotes Swedish heritage, culture and excellent craftsmanship. It gathers premium
Swedish brands in order to fortify their international position.
Gustaf III Kommitté aims to strengthen the internationalization of companies in the Swedish cultural and creative industry.
Gustaf III Kommitté achieves this by:
You are welcome to contact us if you are interested to be a member.
Introducing Gustaf III Kommitté Meets, a captivating interview series that uncovers thrilling insights and offers a unique opportunity to acquaint yourself with the esteemed members of the Gustaf III Kommitteé. Join us as we delve into their businesses and organizations.
Palmgrens, founded in 1896 by Master Saddler Johannes Palmgren, is a renowned Swedish brand known for its exquisite leather goods. From equestrian equipment to handbags and furniture, Palmgrens combines craftsmanship with collaborations, creating timeless pieces that celebrate heritage and innovation. With a legacy spanning over a century, Palmgrens continues to embody the spirit of exceptional craftsmanship and artistic partnerships.
Catharina Herré has been the CEO of Palmgrens since 2004 and her career of working with premium brands spans over 30 years. In her work, she strives to embody the brand's rich heritage with pieces made from genuine materials, in collaboration with small family ateliers.
What does Swedish craftsmanship mean to you?
Time, and in many cases, unwillingness to compromise. It can be about a craft heritage passed down through generations, the time it takes to learn a craft, the time spent experimenting with different materials or techniques, or the time it takes to actually create something from start to finish. We encounter other small-scale actors in our production studios, where both passion and knowledge are present, and it is valuable to see dedicated individuals with deep expertise who also value the end result and the craftsmanship process.
Can you describe your manufacturing process from idea to finished product?
We work through three different pillars: a completely original product, an archival product, or a collaboration with an external designer. When we draw inspiration from our archives, adjustments are made to ensure the product resonates with our time. There are often clear references to a time period or details that speak to our saddle-making heritage, which often act as a starting point for a model. We then work closely with the studio to ensure the right construction, and it evolves with their technical expertise. As we work with an organic range, models are rarely replaced and can never be considered "finished" but continue to develop based on feedback from our customers and ourselves.
Is there anything you have read, listened to, or seen in your leisure time that has helped you in your work?
With the engine constantly running, I always seek out forms and colors around me, whether it's the seasonal changes in nature, the city I'm in, or the exhibition I visit.
How do you work on sustainability and environmental awareness in the production and handling of your products?
Our DNA is based on small-scale production. It is the starting point for all our collaborations; our B2B projects, collaborations with external designers, and the production of our products. Our business model does not allow overproduction, and therefore, no clearance sales or price campaigns. Our close relationship with our customers allows for dialogue before, during, and after a purchase. This results in a conscious purchase and allows a relationship to develop between us and the product. We know that our customers want to take care of and cherish their products.
What are your most sought-after products, and what makes them so special?
Palmgrens' Rattan Bag has become a signature item. It was launched in 1950 and developed by our atelier as a Scandinavian interpretation of the beautiful baskets women carried to the Mediterranean markets. The Rattan Bag has allowed Palmgrens to connect with generations, serve as a face in the international market, and inspire collaborations and the exploration of material combinations.
In a world where we are always accessible, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
This is the biggest challenge. In a way, it adds value because the engine is always running, but luckily, I have people around me who make me pause.
What do you consider a luxury that is actually a necessity?
Time. Time for inspiration and reflection through meetings, conversations, art, architecture,
literature, and music.
www.palmgrens.se
Hotel Diplomat is located on Strandvägen. The Hotel Diplomat story began in 1907 when the beautiful Art Nouveau palace, Strandvägen 7, was built. Designed by architects H&E, it became one of the most magnificent buildings on the boulevard. Over the years, it housed embassies and a small guesthouse before being transformed into a modern hotel in the 1960s. The hotel was named Hotel Diplomat in honor of its history and has since evolved into a privately held hotel with 130 unique rooms and suites. It combines international flair with Swedish design, preserving elements from its past while maintaining a blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics.
The sister hotel Villa Dagmar located on Nybrogatan is inspired by Dagmar Bergsten, a modern and cultured individual with a passion for travel and the arts. The name is derived from the private residence of Karl and Dagmar in Båstad, known for its elegance and beautiful rose garden. The founders, the Malmström family, have been successful in the hotel industry for decades. Villa Dagmar offers a lively and eclectic atmosphere where every detail tells a story.
How do you ensure that your hotels maintain the highest standards and meet your guests' expectations?
We focus on providing a high level of service by having well-trained and dedicated staff who are committed to creating a positive experience for our guests. We strive to exceed their expectations and ensure that they feel well taken care of throughout their stay.
We also value strong guest relationships and ensure effective communication with our guests. By listening to their needs and feedback, we can continuously improve our services. We view each guest as an individual and aim to create personal and meaningful experiences for them.
When it comes to the quality of our hotels, we strive to maintain a high standard in all aspects. We conduct thorough quality checks and regular maintenance of our facilities to ensure they are in top condition. We also collaborate with reliable and local suppliers to use high-quality ingredients in our food.
How do the hotels differentiate themselves from others in the area?
We take pride in offering a familiar and personal atmosphere that permeates our entire operation. Both hotels are located in exceptional locations, providing our guests with the opportunity to experience the destination in a unique way. Hotel Diplomat and Villa Dagmar are situated in excellent spots that offer breathtaking views and proximity to attractions. This geographical advantage gives our guests an authentic experience of the place and its culture.
Furthermore, the hotels complement each other. Hotel Diplomat provides an elegant and exclusive atmosphere, while Villa Dagmar has a more relaxed and modern style. By offering different hotel options, our guests can choose the one that best suits their preferences and needs. Regardless of which hotel they choose, they can expect first-class service and a memorable experience.
How do you ensure that your hotels maintain the highest standards and meet your guests' expectations?
We focus on providing a high level of service by having well-trained and dedicated staff who are committed to creating a positive experience for our guests. We strive to exceed their expectations and ensure that they feel well taken care of throughout their stay.
We also value strong guest relationships and ensure effective communication with our guests. By listening to their needs and feedback, we can continuously improve our services. We view each guest as an individual and aim to create personal and meaningful experiences for them.
When it comes to the quality of our hotels, we strive to maintain a high standard in all aspects. We conduct thorough quality checks and regular maintenance of our facilities to ensure they are in top condition. We also collaborate with reliable and local suppliers to use high-quality ingredients in our food.
How do the hotels differentiate themselves from others in the area?
We take pride in offering a familiar and personal atmosphere that permeates our entire operation. Both hotels are located in exceptional locations, providing our guests with the opportunity to experience the destination in a unique way. Hotel Diplomat and Villa Dagmar are situated in excellent spots that offer breathtaking views and proximity to attractions. This geographical advantage gives our guests an authentic experience of the place and its culture.
Furthermore, the hotels complement each other. Hotel Diplomat provides an elegant and exclusive atmosphere, while Villa Dagmar has a more relaxed and modern style. By offering different hotel options, our guests can choose the one that best suits their preferences and needs. Regardless of which hotel they choose, they can expect first-class service and a memorable experience.
How do you work with sustainability and environmental consciousness?
Hotel Diplomat and Villa Dagmar provide high-quality accommodation and experiences with a strong emphasis on guest satisfaction and environmental responsibility. The hotels offer dining options that feature locally sourced and organic ingredients, prioritize eco-friendly purchases, and take environmental factors into consideration during renovation projects. The hotels are certified according to ISO 14001 and actively work to reduce energy consumption, waste generation, and plastic usage. Their commitment to sustainability ensures a memorable stay for guests while also contributing to a sustainable future.
What makes your hotels so special?
We have a fantastic location that provides our guests with a unique experience. Hotel Diplomat offers an exclusive afternoon tea experience, where guests can indulge in delicious treats and relaxation in an elegant atmosphere. At Villa Dagmar, our guests can discover outstanding restaurants that offer a culinary journey for the taste buds. Our chefs at Villa Dagmar are skilled and passionate, creating extraordinary dining experiences. Overall, our hotels create a special and memorable stay for our guests.
What are your biggest challenges in reaching out internationally?
Our biggest challenges in reaching out internationally are that the markets differ from each other, requiring us to develop specific content and offerings for each international market. It also involves getting to know the target audiences thoroughly so that we can focus our efforts in the right places and not simply spend our budget without success. We are also dependent on the state of inbound travel to Stockholm, so when planning international campaigns, we always have to choose cities that have a higher likelihood of converting visitors. We rely on Stockholm having activities and engagements that attract tourists and business travelers to ensure that we can bring guests to our hotels.
What do you consider a luxury that is actually a necessity?
A luxury that can also be considered a necessity is being able to indulge in relaxation and personal time. In a busy world where we are always connected and occupied, it can be a luxury to be able to disconnect and take time for oneself. Being able to treat oneself to a relaxing moment and engage in hobbies.
In a world where we are always accessible, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
I'm not always great at it, but setting boundaries for when I work and when I don't, and respecting my free time.
www.diplomathotel.com
www.hotelvilladagmar.com
Orrefors' story is about turning basic raw materials into magnificent glass objects. Artists like Edward Hald and Simon Gate elevated Orrefors to global recognition with their innovative designs. The legacy continues as skilled designers explore the endless possibilities of glass. Orrefors' history is the tale of transforming simple raw materials - limestone, sand, and soda into magnificent glass objects. It began in the 19th century with the production of glass jars for preserving food.
Kosta Boda creates glassware that makes a difference, focusing on modern lifestyle products and inspiring art. With almost 300 years of experience, they offer bold and accessible designs, adding inspiration and beauty to everyday life. Their vision is to be a progressive Swedish brand that interprets contemporary urban life with integrity. Kosta Boda's passion spans across their Collection and Art Glass.
Remco Snoeck is an Export Area Sales Manager at Orrefors and Kosta Boda. With a background in business and economics from the London School of Business and Finance, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. Prior to his current position, Remco has gained valuable experience in the fields of marketing and management.
What does Swedish craftsmanship mean to you?
When I think of Swedish craftsmanship, I think of products that are made and designed here in Sweden. It symbolizes quality, skill, and pride in work. Swedish craftsmanship is known for being well-executed, and by supporting it, we contribute to preserving traditions and admirable skills that have been passed down from generation to generation. Swedish craftsmanship also represents a unique aesthetic and design. Many Swedish craft traditions are deeply rooted in our history and culture, giving the products a special character and identity.
What are your biggest challenges in reaching out internationally?
Our biggest challenge in reaching out internationally is finding reliable and competent distributors or agents in different countries. Establishing strong collaboration relationships with distributors who have market knowledge and an established sales channel is crucial for success abroad. Another challenge is gaining attention and creating awareness of our business and products in different countries. Establishing and building brand awareness in a new market can be a challenging process. Additionally, communicating the value of Swedish quality to our international customers and convincing them that our products represent high-quality craftsmanship and reliability is another challenge.
How do you guarantee that your products maintain the highest quality and meet your customers' expectations?
To guarantee that our products maintain the highest quality and meet our customers' expectations, we set strict requirements and conduct thorough quality controls throughout the production process. We strive to use the best materials and manufacturing methods to ensure that each product meets our high standards.
Which are your most sought-after products, and what makes them special?
Our most sought-after products are our art glass and mouth-blown glassware. What makes them special is the unique character and quality that each piece carries. Our art glass is created by skilled artisans who combine technical expertise with creativity, producing fantastic glass artworks. Each piece of art glass is unique and handmade, giving it a special charm and authenticity.
How do you work on sustainability and environmental awareness in the production and handling of your products?
One of the important steps we have taken is transitioning to electricity in our production. By switching to electricity as an energy source, we reduce our use of fossil fuels and, consequently, decrease our carbon emissions. We are also proud of our recycling and reuse efforts. We carefully collect and manage our glass waste to ensure that it doesn't go to waste. Instead, we reuse it in new production. These are just two of the many things we do to promote sustainability and environmental awareness.
Can you describe your manufacturing process, from idea to finished product?
Our manufacturing process involves a collaborative effort between artists, designers, glassblowers, and our product development team to create new products from idea to finished product. The process begins with receiving ideas and inspiration from our artists and designers. Once we have an idea or design, we start collaborating with our skilled glassblowers. Concurrently, our product development team works to ensure that the technical aspects and product quality meet our standards and expectations.
How do your products differentiate from others in the market?
Our products differentiate from others in the market in several ways, and one of the key factors is the unique story that each product carries. Behind each product, there is a designer or artist who has invested their creativity and personal vision to create something special.
Can you share any upcoming projects or initiatives that you are particularly enthusiastic about?
One of the projects and initiatives we are particularly enthusiastic about is our product that recently received a prestigious award, the Red Dot Award. The product is called "Crackle" and is created by the talented designer Åsa Jungnelius. What makes "Crackle" so special is not only its aesthetic beauty but also the sustainable approach behind it. The product is manufactured in Sweden and uses recycled glass as raw material.
What do you consider a luxury that is actually a necessity?
Luxury is an experience. Drinking from a fine wine glass, savoring and being touched by glass art. It's a form of luxury that goes beyond the purely material and offers a unique and enriching experience.
In a world where we are always accessible, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
Separating personal time from work time in a world where we are always accessible can be a challenge. I turn off my mobile phone when I'm off duty.
www.kostaboda.se
TOWE is a Swiss Scandinavian fine jewellery brand founded in 1999 by Towe Norlen, an esteemed Swedish jeweller. Towe Norlen’s design is inspired by the magic of how nature has designed the living world and has spent years researching the underlying principles on a molecular level. As an example, the ’Silk’-pattern, recognised in several of Towe Norlen’s jewellery pieces, actually reflects the micro-shape of human skin. Towe Norlen is also known for her innovative technique of gold laser-sintering in high-end jewellery manufacturing.
What does Swedish craftsmanship mean to you?
Every country develops its unique knowledge within different craft areas. It is important to support specialization and technological advancements related to various crafts to secure their preservation and utilization in design, technology, art, and many other fields. Many companies can be built on Swedish craftsmanship.
What are your biggest challenges in reaching international markets?
In the jewelry industry, there used to be more distributors who carried other brands in their countries, but now there are fewer. Handling distribution and marketing outside the domestic market independently is costly.
How do you ensure that your products maintain the highest quality and meet customer expectations?
By collaborating with smaller family-owned businesses in Europe, it is easier to convey the desired quality standards of our own company. It is also important to listen to customers and continuously improve.
What are your most sought-after products, and what makes them special?
Earrings are easy to purchase as gifts since they "fit everyone." When buying earrings, customers can also deviate from comfort-oriented thinking (as with ring purchases, where the glove must fit over) and dare to buy more unique designs.
How do you work with sustainability and environmental awareness in the production and handling of your products?
TOWE jewelry production takes place exclusively in Europe, reducing travel and transportation. Stones and gold are always sourced through secure channels that guarantee controlled origins of materials. However, as a smaller company, it is important to encourage, support, and rely on authorities, organizations, and material suppliers constantly working to improve working conditions and environmental aspects. Today, there is much focus on reducing packaging materials and avoiding large packages made of non-biodegradable materials, which is also an important aspect. With well-crafted and unique designs, using durable materials, jewelry has the potential for a long lifespan, contributing to sustainability in that way.
How do your products differentiate from others in the market?
TOWE Jewels has developed its own design based on non-Euclidean geometry, which sets it apart from other designs in the market. Furthermore, TOWE Jewels has developed the "Silk" pattern, which can be seen in many of their jewelry pieces. "Silk" was developed in collaboration with researchers at the Karolinska Institute and resembles perfect skin at the molecular level.
What do you consider a luxury that is actually a necessity?
Being at sea and listening only to the sounds that come from nature. It is challenging to do in today's world.
www.towejewels.com
OceanSky was founded in 2014 after many years of research and investigation in the lighter-than-air sector. The management and founders have substantial experience in various areas of both the aviation and the luxury travel industry. After years of development, in 2018, the OceanSky Cruises brand was launched and an unprecedented concept was unveiled. Unique experiential travel was given a new meaning by providing a sustainable way to access remote locations in style and comfort.
Carl-Oscar Lawaczeck is an experienced airline pilot with a background in cargo, passenger aviation and corporate aviation. He is an economist from University with focus on transportation systems and logistics.
What are your biggest challenges in reaching international markets?
Our main challenge is selling in the luxury segment, as it requires personal attention and incurs costs regardless of whether we make a sale or not. That's why we primarily rely on a commission-based system. The issue with commissions is that they can become relatively expensive as sales volume increases. So costs pose a challenge for us. Additionally, gaining attention in the noisy media environment is also a challenge, but it's something most companies face.
How do you work on sustainability and environmental awareness in the production and handling of your products?
We address every aspect of our service to ensure sustainability, from materials to our own travel practices. All material choices must be sustainable, and our production methods should be as well. We have plans to establish a public information page in the future that tracks the company's emissions or any other negative impact to raise awareness about these issues.
Can you describe your manufacturing process from idea to finished product?
Our product is a journey, starting from the idea through conceptualization, documentation, marketing, sales, execution, and post-sales activities.
How do your products differentiate from others on the market?
Our journeys stand out significantly because they are not yet achievable and belong to the highest-priced segment of experiences available.
Can you share any upcoming projects or initiatives that you are particularly excited about?
I'm thrilled to be involved in the development of components or interiors for the airships being created by the industry. It's a true craftsmanship combined with high innovation in materials and design.
What do you consider a luxury that is actually a necessity?
Quality time and relaxation can sometimes be seen as luxuries, but they should be accessible to everyone.
In a world where we are always accessible, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
I actually don't do it to a large extent, and I'm comfortable with that. I take a weekday off to be with my daughter, and maybe I work on a Saturday evening. Not to catch up, but because I want to or feel like getting ahead a little. I understand that it doesn't work for everyone, or maybe not for me indefinitely. But for now, it works fine, and it's nice to be able to work that way.
www.oceanskycruises.com
G.A.D was founded in 1997 by Kristian Eriksson, as a response to the increasing mass production. Our founder, Kristian Eriksson, was a creative and artistic IT consultant who was searching for what he often refers to as "real furniture" – high-quality furniture handmade from solid natural materials. When he couldn't find them, he decided to design and manufacture them himself. This marked the beginning of a business that, 25 years later, is still driven by the same passion for craftsmanship and materials that endure well into the future.
What does Swedish craftsmanship mean to you?
G.A.D manufactures honest furniture using solid materials in accordance with traditional Swedish craftsmanship. We do this because genuine sustainability is important, and honesty lasts the longest. At G.A.D, we produce furniture as it was done in the past. We combine design with a Gotlandic feel, authentic natural materials, and genuine craftsmanship.
How do you guarantee that your products maintain the highest quality and meet your customers' expectations?
G.A.D's production takes place in Sweden. Each piece of furniture is made to order and becomes a personal project that is numbered and signed by the responsible carpenter. This guarantees traditional craftsmanship of the highest quality.
What are your most sought-after products, and what makes them so special?
Our most sought-after products are the Roma, Klinte and Högklint furniture systems, which are customized according to the customer's own needs. As a customer, you can tailor your own furniture based on your requirements and taste.
How do you work with sustainability and environmental awareness in the production and handling of your products?
First and foremost, G.A.D produces all furniture in Sweden. Sustainability is important to us, and it is evident in our choice of materials. We primarily use solid oak and birch, complemented by Gotlandic limestone, lambskin from local farms, black granite, steel, and glass. The surface treatment is always environmentally friendly; we prefer to use oil but can also offer water-based varnishes and paints.
G.A.D's furniture highlights the beautiful solutions of fine carpentry and the characteristics of natural materials. In addition to providing beautiful details, the solutions of fine carpentry result in highly robust and durable constructions with a long lifespan. Solid natural materials and natural surface treatments allow the furniture to be maintained, cared for, and renovated multiple times if necessary.
Can you describe your manufacturing process from idea to finished product?
G.A.D's founder and designer, Kristian Eriksson, is responsible for the idea and design. Our products are then handmade in solid materials by some of Sweden's most skilled furniture carpenters in our workshop. Their work is infused with traditional furniture craftsmanship, utilizing proven and sustainable techniques such as doweling, through-tenons, and beveled joints.
What do you think is a luxury that is actually a necessity?
Real materials, authenticity. You can instantly sense whether a piece of furniture is made in a genuine way, with real materials. Natural materials and good craftsmanship provide a weight and soul that the senses register and appreciate.
www.gad.se
Gustav III Kommitté promotes the members to reinforce the idea of sustainability and environmentally-friendly design.
Handcrafted objects made with timeless design, durable materials and a high level of craftsmanship are meant
to exist forever and often have the right to do so through their quality and value.
Gustaf III Kommitté has taken its name from King Gustaf III (1746-1792) who today is one of the most well-known, as well as most controversial, Swedish kings. During his life-time he supported and strengthened culture and art, and he founded the Royal Opera, The Royal Theater and The Swedish Academy.
Gustaf III Kommitté, founded 2018, is a not-for-profit organization, funded by a combination of annual member fees and corporate sponsorship.
CHAIRMAN Anna Cappelen, executive Chairman and family co-owner of Hotel Diplomat and Villa Dagmar
MEMBER of the BOARD Towe Norlén, founder of Towe Jewels
MEMBER of the BOARD Maria Veerasamy, CEO Svenskt Tenn
MEMBER of the BOARD, Ambassador Veronika Wand-Danielsson
MEMBER of the BOARD, Remco Snoeck, Orrefors – KostaBoda
Sweden has a long history of excellent craftsmanship, reaching back to prehistoric times, an old reputation of innovation, and carries a strong, specific design-style known world-wide. The brands that push forward Sweden’s craftsmanship, high level of innovation and uniqueness, will be stronger by working together under one roof.
Gustaf III Kommitté is a member of the European Cultural and Creative Industries Alliance ECCIA.
Meisterkreis, the prestigious German organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the luxury sector, recently paid a visit to Gustaf III Kommitté in Stockholm, Sweden on May 4th and 5th. The primary objective of this event was to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experiences. Over the course of a 24-hour conference, Meisterkreis members and Gustaf III Kommitté members engaged in fruitful discussions concerning the various opportunities and challenges within the realm of luxury and premium sectors, while also exploring ways in which they could mutually benefit from one another. The initiators of this confenrece was Gustaf III kommitté.
Click to view the recording of Gustaf III Kommitté conference at Hotel Diplomat Stockholm on November 24th, 2022. Guest speakers were Mr Michael Ward, CEO of Harrods in London and chairman of Gustaf III Kommitté's English sister organization Walpole. As well as Ambassador Anna Ferry, Foreign Ministry, and Carl-Oscar Lawaczeck, CEO and Founder at OceanSky Cruises. The initiators of this conference were Anna Cappelen, Hotel Diplomat, Towe Norlén, Towe Jewels, and Mikael Sandström, Halda Watch Co.
During Dubai Design Week, "Swedish Excellence" gathered four Swedish premium companies that unite under the umbrella organisation Gustaf III Kommitté, to show the world Swedish high-end creations,based on timeless design, innovation, quality and uniqueness.
Together with Tillväxtverket, Gustaf III Kommitté, carries out a project with the aim to support companies with premium products and services as well as specialized craftmanship, with export. Tillväxtverket, The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth, is a government agency that works to promote sustainable growth and competitive companies in all parts of Sweden. We will have a conference at Diplomat Hotel in November 24th to present the result of this project.
You are welcome to contact us if you are interested to be a member.