2009 Membership News promoting norwegian-american business relations

Dear Members

Since our last newsletter we are very proud to an- nounce that a new AmCham Committee has been formed – the AmCham Automobile Committee. Over the past few years the authorities have tighten the grip on American car imports and the upcoming implementation of a new EU directive will be the ultimate nail in the coffin for non-type approved cars in Norway. You can read the full story in this editions front page article. We are happy to report that some headway has been made on this issue since our committee was established. Being in the midst of a global financial crisis that effects many of our members both directly and indirectly, we thought it would be useful to hear Citigroup’s reflections. This is a very insightful article that we highly recommend you read. Whether you are planning to set up business in the States, profile your business in Norway, or simply buy a Mustang Shelby GT500 – American icon and enthusiast car nice bottle of wine or reading a good book - this newsletter will help. We are extremely proud to profile this quarter’s AmCham Autombile Committee new members. We look forward to working with all of you! We sincerely thank our contributors and we AmCham has for some time discussed the need for forming hope you find this issue both interesting and useful. an Automobile Committee, and on January 20, 2009, the Sincerely, first formal meeting of AmCham Autombile Committee The AmCham Staff was held. The dedicated members are Tone Nymoen and Jason Turflinger (AmCham), Petter Smeby (GM Norge), Henning Larsen (Chrysler Norge), Erik Skagnæs (Bergheim Tore Tøtdal, J.D., Drammen), Heming Bjørnå (US Embassy), Stein Moe and LL.M In this issue Hilberg Ove Johansen (American Car Club of Norway, Attorney-at-law, AmCham Automobile Committee 1 AMCAR), and Tore Tøtdal (Advokatfirmaet Tøtdal). Advokatfirmaet The Financial Crisis and its Impact 3 The sale of US cars have for many years shown a steady Tøtdal MNA Setting the Mood for US Expansion 4 decrease in Norway. Light duty trucks have sold fairly well, Visa Issues for Norwegians Starting but increasingly strict registration and taxation regulations have reduced the a Business in the United States 6 sale of these vehicles as well. In 2006, for example, US light duty trucks were US Commercial Service 7 specifically pointed to as a “problem area” by the Norwegian Government, Past Events 8 and targeted in that year’s budget. American Wine Sales Up 9 Due to the efforts of the Progress Party and AMCAR, a new regulation Recommended Viewing ...... 11 came into effect as of July st1 , 2004, making registration of used US cars less Recommended Reading 12 troublesome. A substantial number of cars have been imported from the New Members 13 US due to this new regulation. Now, however, the Government is working Upcoming Events 15 to close this possibility.  2 2009 Membership News

AmCham Autombile Committee

Jeep Wrangler – hybrid. Jeep- a concept in the car world in a popular and environmental friendly version.

2010 Chevrolet Volt.  This spring, a new EU Directive regulat- Several of AmCham’s members have stated my view, the proposal constitutes, or has the ing the registration of new, not used, cars a clear opposition to the proposal, including effect of, a trade barrier. If legal, it is at best will be implemented into Norwegian law. car importers and AMCAR, hastening the marginally so. I am certain that AmCham However, the Directorate of Public Roads formation of the Automobile Committee. Automobile Committee will do its best (Vegdirektoratet) is proposing to expand Only one other European country to prevent the proposed regulation from the scope of the Directive far beyond the (Slovenia) has attempted to make the new being enacted, and to increase the interest intentions of the European law makers. The Directive applicable to used cars, but with for, and the sale of, US cars in Norway. Directorate seems highly motivated by the no success due to opposition from other (Editor’s Note: On Friday, March 13th, the fact that, for all practical purposes, only Member States. This does not seem to reduce Ministry of Transportation agreed to keep US registered vehicles would be affected. the Norwegian Government’s eagerness to the current regulatory framework regarding There are only a few hundred US registered try to succeed where Slovenia failed. used car imports in place. The Ministry will vehicles imported per year, without EU The Directorate’s proposal, if enacted, present a revised decision in February 2010. type approval. The Directorate’s proposal would not only be an obstacle to the free The AmCham Automobile Committee will would reduce this number to zero, as the movement of goods within the EU/EAA continue its work on behalf of US imports Directorate is proposing to demand that all area, but would also have a negative impact ahead of this decision.) cars, new and used, have EU type approval. on trade between Norway and the US. In 2009 Membership News 3

The Financial Crisis and its Impact

The outlook for the global economy con- tions, and secondly by injecting new capital tinues to deteriorate. A combination of in order to boost the banks’ core reserves declining wealth, heightened uncertainty, and their capacity to generate new loans. It and higher unemployment has led to slump- is hard to see how the global economy can ing demand around the world. Contracting recover unless the basic functioning of the industrial production, a retrenchment core financial system improves, which is in international trade and dysfunctional why many governments have diverted their financial markets are further elements attention to direct interventions in financial contributing to the exacerbation of this institutions. In this context, “bank rescues” By Pål Rokke, Citi Country global downturn. There are scant signs that are likely to have a significant impact on Officer Norway this negative cycle will wane any time soon. how the global economy evolves. In fact, Policymakers are trying to contain the history suggests that failing to repair a lowing reduced demand in the US and euro crisis through actions on three broad fronts: dysfunctional financial system prolongs area. We expect the Japanese real economy monetary, financial, and fiscal. Central banks a recession. to shrink by 5% in fiscal year 2009. Domestic around the world have continued to lower Fiscal activism has also become a demand in East Asian tigers such as Hong short term interest rates in response to common response across industrial and Kong, Singapore and Taiwan is also falling, weakening economic prospects and declining emerging countries. China, with its two-year intensifying the regional slowdown. Russia is inflation. Norges Bank has cut its key interest program sized at some 15% of 2007 GDP in a precarious position; should commodity rate by over 3% in last five months to .2 5%, is the poster child for fiscal expansion in prices fail to recover by mid-2009, there and the US Federal Reserve has slashed its emerging markets, while the US recently is a high probability of negative growth key interest rate to a range of between zero set the tone for the industrial world by for the year. For emerging economies in and 0.25% as it battles the country’s reces- signing into law a US$ 787 billion economic general, 2009 is likely to be the worst year sion. However, for an increasing number stimulus package. Not all governments enjoy of growth performance since the crisis of of central banks conventional tools are fast the same flexibility as the US or China, but 1998. For the global economy as a whole, approaching their limits. In order to restore we expect most industrial governments this is likely to be the worst year for growth stability and expand credit, governments and and major emerging economies to pursue in almost 60 years. central banks need to look beyond monetary some degree of fiscal expansion by way of The G7 has committed itself to avoiding policy and resort to more unconventional tax cuts or direct spending. The problem protectionist measures. To what extent the financial and fiscal initiatives. for the rich world is that the coming fiscal world economy recovers in 2010 will be We are in the middle of a major structural burden, as a result of an ageing population, determined by efforts on the collaborative adjustment in the global financial system. promises to be far greater than the scenario front and ultimately what conclusion is The IMF estimates that total losses in the emerging from the current crisis. reached in the Doha Round. Government financial sector due to write downs of US As the world experiences sharp declines activism in the face of the financial storm credit instruments are likely to be about $1.5 in demand, the biggest changes in 2009 will is coming at a high cost to public finances, trillion. Treasuries worldwide have sought come to those countries that are particularly but the fight back is necessary to instill to mitigate further losses firstly by designing exposed to international trade. None more consumer confidence, stabilize markets new mechanisms for removing troubled so than Japan, where exports took a historic and stimulate investment. assets from the books of financial institu- nosedive in the fourth quarter of 2008 fol- 4 2009 Membership News

Setting the Mood for US Expansion

Designers Simen Staalnacke and Peder Børresen. Taboo from Black Eyed Peas wearing a Moods jacket. International Coordinator Stefan Dahlkvist with American pop icon Paula Abdul.

AmCham had an opportunity to sit down recently with Stefan How have you adjusted your products to Dahlkvist, International Coordinator/designer for Moods of accommodate US consumer tastes? Norway. Moods is currently gearing up to open up their new We have adjusted our line somewhat, but not much. This is flagship store on Robertson Boulevard in Beverly Hills, California. something we will focus on going forward. We have to do a more “This way we will be able to tell the whole Norwegian tale and show thorough market analysis. We make our clothes up to a size 60 the full Moods of Norway concept in one store,” says Dahlkvist. so they should fit a wider range of people. We believe in our “During this February’s 51st Grammy Awards , entertainment concept and our products so we feel confident that we have a industry celebrities lined up to get a sneak preview of the coming good shot at establishing ourselves as the next European fashion spring ‘09 collection – themed “Moods of Norway, cocktail travels.” brand in America. “We know that there is a strong Hollywood interest for our cocktail suits and are very excited to start dressing Americans from What US market segments have you decided our very own flagship store in Beverly Hills.” to focus upon and why? We have decided to focus on what we like to call “young Hol- Why are you prioritizing the US ahead of lywood,” meaning young actors and celebrities. Our prices are other international markets? what we can call “medium +” - which means that we are more We think that the US is a great place to start expanding abroad. expensive than the traditional surf/street/skateboard brands, but Hollywood is setting a lot of the international trends. That is why more affordable than Dolce & Gabbana and Prada. we have chosen Los Angeles instead of New York. Approximately ten stores across the USA currently sell Moods of Norway products. 2009 Membership News 5

How many stores sell Moods of Norway clothes in Norway and in Europe? Our clothes are sold from approximately 100 stores in Norway and another 100 around the world. Our sunglasses, however, are sold at 600-700 stores around the world.

Where are the clothes produced? Our clothes are mostly produced in Europe – (Made in Europe by really, really pretty blonde girls, like it says on the inside of the suit jackets) Turkey and Bulgaria among others. Some items are produced in Asia but it is easier to follow up and control the quality when the clothes are produced in Europe. Production in Asia means longer production time and longer transportation routes. Our new shoe line will be produced in Portugal and China.

Does the current financial downturn present challenges for Moods at home or in the US? In the States – yes. There are a lot of empty stores - reflecting a general downturn in the clothing industry. We have also noted that the buyers are more cautious when it comes to buying the spring collection. In Norway, on the other hand, we have had nothing but good news. We have increased our sales - due mostly to our good customer service mentality. If you call and order clothes over the phone you will most likely have them delivered to your doorstep the next day all the way from our Stryn facility.

What has been your biggest entrepreneurial challenge? Focusing on building the new structure of our business while simultaneously developing the creative concept and new product categories. It is also a challenge to hire the right people. This will particularly be a challenge in the States.

How important has your Board of Director’s experience been in your development? We have an extremely competent Norwegian Board. They know everything there is to know about setting up and running a busi- ness within Norway. In the States we have signed with the world’s most powerful entertainment agency, CAA of Los Angeles, who will represent us and help us grow our business there.

Moods tripled its revenue during the first three years of operation – from NOK 400.000 in ’03 to NOK 12M in ’05. Has this impressive trend continued in recent years? Annual revenue for 2008 was NOK 52M– so yes. This figure does not include our new flag ship store in Bergen which we opened in November last year and is a very popular new destination in the city. 6 2009 Membership News

Visa Issues for Norwegians Starting a Business in the United States

immigration authorities to distinguish documentation in support of the B-1 visa between permissible business activities application that explains the business plan and unauthorized local employment are for the U.S. and the need for an extended vague. These rules have been interpreted and visit, or series of visits. applied in a progressively more restrictive Once a company has been established manner in recent years. When a Norwegian in the U.S., key Norwegian employees may worker will need to be assigned to perform apply for work visas. The most common duties in the U.S. on a regular or extended visa categories utilized by foreign workers basis, it is prudent to obtain a visa that requiring temporary employment autho- authorizes employment in the United States rization in the U.S. are the Intracompany even if he will remain on the payroll of the Transferee (L-1), the Treaty Trader (E-1), Norwegian company. the Treaty Investor (E-2) or the Specialty Applying for a U.S. visa that authorizes Worker (H-1B) visa categories. These By Kenneth Harder, Partner, employment, however, usually requires pre- temporary visas normally may be obtained Dunbar Harder. sentation of documentation demonstrating in a relatively short period of time ranging that the U.S. business is, or soon will be an from a few days to several weeks. The Norwegians visiting the United States for operating commercial enterprise. Typically, alternative, permanent resident (“green business may never experience problems a company must produce organizational card”) immigration option currently takes with immigration laws. Those Norwegians documents, bank statements, payroll records, well over a year to complete in the best wishing to set up a new business enterprise etc. These requirements present a challenge circumstances and is seldom practical to in the U.S., however, may encounter chal- given the commercial realty that a new start an assignment in the U.S. There are lenges qualifying for a visa that authorizes business may take six months to a year to a variety of other U.S. visas that authorize employment. develop to the point where it would have temporary employment such as (O-1), Alien Citizens of Norway may apply for admis- such documentation available. of Extraordinary Ability, (J-1), Exchange sion to the United States for business as There is an interim measure that may Visitor Trainee, (H-3), Trainee and (H-2B), visitors without a visa and may be admitted facilitate travel to the U.S. during the period shortage worker visa categories. Each of for a period of 90 days. A business visitor that a Norwegian company is setting up a these, however, has limited applicability for may lawfully engage in commercial activities subsidiary or representative office. Norwe- the average worker coming to perform a required to set up a local subsidiary or gian employees may apply for a B-1 business local assignment in the U.S. representative office in the. U S. Permissible visitor visa. With a B-1 visa, a Norwegian Each temporary visa category has relative activities include, but are not limited to, normally would be admitted to the U.S. advantages and disadvantages. Not every negotiating contracts, consulting with for a period of six months rather than the worker will qualify for each visa category. business associates, calling on customers, 90 day period available to those traveling Identifying the most efficient, cost effective procuring goods or materials for use outside without a visa. Current U.S. immigration visa category for any given situation depends the U.S. and attending board of directors policy specifically authorizes issuance of a on the specific facts and requirements of a meetings. While a business visitor may B-1 visa for travelers who are in the process particular business. The discussion above lawfully set up a new business or open of setting up a business in the United States should not be considered as legal advice for an office in the. U S., he may not actually that may ultimately allow key employees any one situation. Those persons interested manage the business or run the office. to qualify for a work visa. in sending key Norwegian employees to the Where a worker reports regularly to an To obtain a B-1 visa, a Norwegian may U.S. for business are encouraged to consult office or other location in the. U S. on a fixed apply directly to the U.S. Consulate in with knowledgeable counsel. schedule, U.S. immigration authorities may Oslo. There is no need to file a petition in consider the conduct to be impermissible advance with immigration authorities in Dunbar Harder, PLLC Suite 1850, Houston, local employment. Guidelines used by the U.S. It is prudent, however, to provide Texas, U.S. A. 77056 ph. +1 713 782 4646 2009 Membership News 7

US Commercial Service – Oslo, Norway

The .U S. Commercial Service is the trade promotion unit of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Our trade specialists are located in 107 American cities and more than 80 countries. We work with American companies, helping them to export and increase their sales in global markets. Our mission is to help promote and protect U.S. commercial interests in Norway. We offer comprehensive export promotion assistance through a variety of programs and services to U.S. companies wishing to enter or expand their Norwegian market U.S. Commercial Service – Oslo, Norway presence. We also encourage inquiries from Norwegian firms www.buyusa.gov/norway interested in importing American products and/or services or investing in the United States. U.S. Embassy – Oslo, Norway Our trade specialists can help identify trade opportunities, norway.usembassy.gov find local trading partners, launch your company, obtain market research reports, and provide counseling and advocacy through every step of the export process. We are regularly contacted by U.S. firms asking for lists of domestic service providers. To cater to this, the Commercial Warden Messages Service now rolls out a Business Service Provider listing with U.S. Embassy Warden Messages are an important component a detailed narrative at embassies worldwide, e.g. in Sweden and of the Department of State’s Consular Information Program, Denmark. Norway will go live on May 1st and interested parties and are most importantly used to inform U.S. citizens about should contact either AmCham or Commercial Service for more events or threats that can affect their personal security.* If information. In addition to individual requests, the Commercial you would like to receive such messages from the Embassy in Service website registered an average of 34,000 monthly hits Oslo, please register as an individual American citizen or as an in 2008, many directed from the official. U S. Embassy website. organization at https://travelregistration.state.gov. Questions? The price will be USD 300 annually. More information to be Please contact Consul Rodger Deuerlein at the U.S. Embassy distributed to AmCham members shortly. ([email protected], tel. 22 44 85 50) For more information on the services the U.S. Commercial * The Consular Information Program includes Country Service offers .U S. and Norwegian businesses, please click on Specific Information, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings and the link. Warden Messages. Details at www.travel.state.gov 8 2009 Membership News Past Events

AmCham/ US Commercial Section’s Holiday Reception December 2008 US Embassy, Oslo

True to tradition, AmCham and the US Commercial Section hosted a Holiday Reception at the US Embassy in Oslo. Over 100 people signed up for the event, and they all enjoyed a variety of Christmas Tapas and some fine American wines. The After Party was held at Champagneria on Frognerveien.

Etiquette expert Reidar Helliesen.

US wine expert Craig Whitson.

AmCham/ Stavanger Chamber of Commerce Wine Tasting January 2009 Rosenkildehuset, Stavanger Sponsored by: Moods of Norway designer/ DJ Peder Børresen. To mark Vinmonopolet’s focus on American wines in January Business After-Hours – Moods of Norway AmCham, together with the Stavanger Chamber of Commerce January 2009 and Icelandair, invited members to a wine tasting in Stavanger. Moods of Norway store, Akersgata, Oslo The guests were served authentic American chili while listening to a presentation by etiquette expert Reidar Helliesen. He spoke The response was overwhelming when AmCham and Moods of about everything from using the right wine glasses and cork Norway invited members to a Business After-Hours in Mood’s screws to properly storing and preserving wine. Chef and US wine flagship store in Akersgata. After a presentation of the Moods’ expert Craig Whitson talked about American wines before the fun loving concept and information about their US launch (see wine tasting commenced. The importers present were Haugen page 4 article), the guests enjoyed traditional Norwegian waffles, Gruppen (Robert Mondavi), Strøm (Fetzer and Bonterra)/ American wine and shopping at reduced prices. Bibendum (Ravenswood) and Wine Tailor (Sonoma, La Cruz). 2009 Membership News 9

American Wine Sales Up

Etiquette expert Reidar Helliesen.

US wine expert Craig Whitson.

AmCham is happy to announce that the greatly enhanced their will to experiment. thinking that makes California one of the sales of American wines are up 78.6% New grapes and techniques are tested on a most exciting wine areas in the world. for red wine and 15.6% for white wine in vast scale and exciting new types of wines Wine is produced in all 50 states, January 2009 compared to January 2008. are constantly launched on the market. In but the Norwegian Vinmonopol only There is no doubt that Americans make addition, most American wine producers sells wines from California and Oregon. quality wine. They have worked for a long hold a college degree, and therefore do California is of course in its own class time to adjust and perfect the types of grapes not have the same urge as the European when it comes to volume and variety. to the soil and the climate. The Americans’ producers to keep to traditional methods. 98 percent of the wine export from the sharp eye for profit and marketing has Maybe it is this willpower and revolutionary States is from California.  10 2009 Membership News

When we think about wines from Cali- Barbara on the same as Morocco, which Further north, a lot of chardonnay and fornia we think mostly about the areas Napa implies an enormous intensity from the cabernet sauvignon are made in the central and Sonoma, both of them situated north sun. Combined with cool air from the coastal area, but you also find other grapes of of San Francisco in the larger area called Pacific Ocean, this gives an uneven ripening French heritage, like pinot noir (Burgundy) North Coast. Wines are also made further period that in turn gives a high content of and syrah (Rhône). The producers making south in the state, like in Monterey which sugar and low concentration of flavoring syrah-based wines have earned themselves is part of Central Coast. Napa Valley is agents. To compensate for this, the grapes the nickname “Rhône Rangers”. on the same latitude as Sicily and Santa are harvested very late into the season.

American Wines Receive High Marks:

Merete Bø , Tom Marthinsen – Dagens Actually better than the last vintage. Merethe Bø - Dagens Næringsliv – Næringsliv 22.01.09 Scent of plums, pine/ eucalyptus and 10.02.09 blackberry jam. Full bodied. Sweet 10996 Teldeschi fruits. 2166 Valley Oaks Zinfandel Zinfandel 2005 2007 Ravenswood Winery 32027 Lodi Zinfandel 2006 Fetzer California, USA Ravenswood Winery California, USA NOK 319,90 order Lodi, California, USA NOK 129,90 basic selection 90 points NOK 164,90 order 84 points Bibendum 87 points Strøm Scent of plums, crowberries, Bibendum Sweet fine fruits. Black currant, blackberry jam, coffee and spices. Dense, Is Ravenswood really getting black berry- dominated wine. properly tight. Fruity. too big? The wines seem more Fruity. Fresh. industrial every year, hence a bit more 20286 Sonoma County polished and simple, and with too high Recommended by Christer Berens: Zinfandel 2005 of an alcohol percentage. Scent of euca- Ravenswood Vintners Blend Zin- Ravenswood Winery lyptus, plums, blackberry jam and fruit fandel, California. NOK 129,90. Sonoma, California, USA loaf. Fruity. Round, gentle. Varenr. 10595 NOK 192,- order 88 points Bibendum 2009 Membership News 11

Recommended Viewing

Pineapple Express Death Race – DVD-release 11/3 – DVD-release 25/3 Ride high on the Pineapple Express, Terminal Island: The very near future: the outrageously hysterical block- The world’s hunger for extreme sports buster from Judd Apatow, the direc- and reality competitions has grown tor and screenwriter of Knocked Up. into reality TV bloodlust. Now, the A lazy stoner (Seth Rogen) is the sole most extreme racing competition witness to a murder by an evil drug has emerged and its contestants are lord (Gary Cole) and a corrupt cop murderous prisoners. Tricked-out (Rosie Perez).Marked for death, he cars, caged thugs and smoking-hot runs for his life, dragging his dazed dealer(James Franco) and his navigators combine to create a juggernaut series with bigger supplier (Danny McBride) with him on a hilarious pot-fueled ratings than the Super Bowl. The rules of theDeath Race are adventure. Directed by David Gordon Green. Screenplay by Seth simple: Win five events, and you’re set free. Lose and you’re Rogen & Evan Goldberg. road kill splashed across the Internet. International action star Jason Statham (the transporter series, The Bank Job) and Joan Allen( The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum) stars in Death Race.

Baby Mama Bottle Shock – DVD-release 11/3 There are certain moments in history In Baby Mama, we meet the newly when America has proven itself to the promoted vice president for Round world: Neil Armstrong setting foot on Earth Organic Market, Kate Holbrook the Moon; or the US Men’s Hockey (Tina Fey), at the top of her game. team beating the Soviet Union in the Fastidious Kate has her life in order: 1980 Olympics. One such moment, a job she loves, a guru boss (Steve however, never got the recognition it Martin) who adores her, a beautiful deserved: In 1976, a small American Philadelphia apartment and financial winery bested the exalted French wines of the time and sent security. But having put a personal life on the back burner while the wine industry into a tizzy - putting California wines she concentrated on her career—to the chagrin of mom Rose on the map for good. Based on a true story, Bottle Shock (Holland Taylor)—Kate discovers, at age 37, a deep yearning chronicles the events leading up to the famous ‘Judgment of to have a baby. Paris’ tastings, told through the eyes of father and son, Jim and Bo Barrett. A former real estate attorney, Jim (Bill Pullman) sacrificed everything to realize his dream of creating the perfect hand-crafted chardonnay. His business, however, is struggling, and he’s not only trying to overcome differences with his slacker son (Chris Pine), but is also fighting off the creditors. Meanwhile in Paris, unwitting British wine shop owner Steven Spurrier (Alan Rickman) hopes to revive his own failing business by sponsoring a competition which will pit the traditional French powerhouse against the California upstarts. Little did Steven and Jim realize that they were both on course to change the history of wine forever.. 12 2009 Membership News

Recommended Reading (Currently available in Norwegain only)

Gerhard Helskog - Innvandrernes Should you as a leader be tough and strong – or nice and supermakt friendly? Should you set a stern course leading to a joint goal or Even Norway, “ The World’s Greatest should you facilitate and support? This book addresses modern Nation”, has something to learn. leadership that demands efficiency and the ability to get the best In Norway the unemployment rate among out of your co-workers. The two authors give several concrete immigrants from Africa is five times higher examples on how you can be a clear and concise leader while than for the rest of the population. On the being a support to your co-workers. other hand, in the US, African immigrants begin work almost immediately. The Somalis are known to be Gunnar ”Kjakan” Sønsteby – Om exceptionally hard workers. Samhold og Innsatsvilje While Europe treats immigrants like social clients, the US takes A book about solidarity, motivation, unity it for granted that those who arrive are hard working people who and the will to win! About how, even with can support themselves and contribute to the society as a whole. limited resources, one can accomplish Son of an African, Barack Obama, has been elected the country’s incredible things. Sønsteby tells us how the new political leader. military succeeded during the dramatic The one true superpower in the world has been built by war days – a unique account from one of immigrants. After several centuries of immigration the US has Norway’s greatest heroes of all time. He developed methods for integration that may seem tough, but shares what values and experiences the next generation should are efficient. The Norwegian system is not only inefficient, it is bring with them moving forward, and how a few resourceful destructive. But there is hope. men could change history. The author followed the now 90 year old Kjakan closely, helping to tell the Norwegian legends’ story powerfully. In this book we Lisa Wade and Katherine Johnston meet a reflected, alert and humoristic man and get to read about – ”Boss eller Buddy, Balansegang for his experiences, operations and escapes during the war. However, Dagens Ledere.” we also get to meet him and his wife in their everyday life today. The Scandinavian work culture is more This is a man who has thought clearly in the most dangerous of inclusive than in USA and empowers co- situations, a man with integrity and incredible strength. This is workers to participate in decision making, a book for reflection and inspiration. to have opinions and to organize their own work. On some occasions people need a clear and direct answer, while other times people need support in finding their own solutions. With an increased self-focus of individuals in the workplace, people are demanding meaning in their work. 2009 Membership News 13

New AmCham Members

Patron Members Expert Reiser delivers to all sectors of spare parts and business; trade fairs, trains, boats, flights, a c c e s s or i e s Eiendomsspar hotels, rental cars, theatre tickets, restau- manufactured rants, etc. by Ford Motor Company in USA. Group travel. Expert Reiser can offer The activities on Homologation, (testing tailor-made excursions for group travel in Holland and modifications carried out Eiendomsspar is one of Norway’s - staging events, team building exercises, in Norway), have been an important part leading real estate companies. It is conferences and theatre tickets - are all of the operation at Automotive Services AS. owned by Victoria Eiendom (46%) available at your request. Over the years 1994 to 2005 the aver- and approximately 490 other shareholders. Trade Fairs. Expert Reiser is Norway’s age number of USA manufactured Fords Eiendomsspar operates through owner- leading exhibition tour operator. They can ar- imported to Norway were approximately ship and development of properties, as well range hotels and accommodations, organize 1.000 units annually and the import value as through its 50% shareholding in the company visits and inspirational speakers. of spare parts and accessories have ac- Swedish hotel property company Pandox Meetings and events are Expert Reiser’s cumulated to more than $ 20.000.000. AB. Total rentable space (incl. share of speciality and they have the expertise and The struggle of meeting changing Pandox AB) is 590,000 square meters. capacity to assist with event planning at regulations, both technical and fiscal set Hotels, office buildings and retail shops very competitive prices. by the Norwegian Authorities, have forced account for the bulk of rental income. USA manufactured Vehicles out of the One of Eiendomsspar’s main strengths is Norwegian market and current imports the quality of its tenant portfolio. The aver- Corporate: are now at “idle”. age remaining lease period of the company’s The main business at Automotive Ser- properties is 7.3 years. The vacancy rate Pareto Forvaltning vices AS still come from imports of parts as measured by rental value is 3 per cent. from USA, but the focus has changed to The financial position of Eiendomsspar’s type approval of European sourced Ford tenants is generally strong. Eiendomsspar Pareto Forvaltning is an independent commercials, electric vehicles, workshop is in a strong financial position, with a net company in the Pareto Group offering activities and a consultancy business. asset value ratio of 60 per cent. discretionary accounts, equity funds and fixed income funds. The company has $6 CSC Norge Expert Reiser billion assets under management (primarily With 92.000 employees Corporate Travel, in Norwegian companies) and has since worldwide, CSC is a lead- Business Travel, Group Travel, 1995 managed the groups own assets. ing global consulting, Meetings and Events, Confer- Pareto Forvaltning has no distribution- systems integration and outsourcing com- ences, Trade Fairs, PCO. networks or use of external brokers/agents, pany, CSC’s mission is to provide customers Expert Reiser is a corporate tour the products/services are sold directly exclud- in industry and government with solutions operator with more than 30 years of experi- ing the retail market. Pareto Forvaltning has crafted to meet their strategic goals and ence. This has given them a good market with its dedicated employees and consistent enable them to profit from the advanced overview and product understanding. As a investment philosophy been asked to advice use of technology. national “Professional Conventions Orga- and manage the funds of Norway’s main CSC Norge has 400 employees and is nizer” (PCO) and “Destination Management pension funds, foundations, local govern- one of the largest IT groups in the Nordic Company” (DMC), they are ready to serve ments and privately held fortunes. countries. you and your company. For 50 years, their experience has guided Expert Reiser’s primary mission as a tour Automotive Services clients through the maze of constant busi- operator and travel agency is to contribute Automotive Services AS was founded ness and technology change, while main- to a strong economic efficient travel business in 1993. The main activity was from the taining a focus on delivering innovative, for clients. beginning the importing of new vehicles, practical results. 14 2009 Membership News

Dunbar Harder with many years experi- Foster’s is one of the leading wine ence from the industry, producers in the Nordic region with sales Inge Hilland, with 10 approaching 2 million cases annually. years background as Foster’s Group Limited (Foster’s) Dunbar Harder, PLLC provides legal solu- General Manager for will move to direct sales, marketing and tions for businesses and individuals in Diageo in Scandinavia and Christopher distribution of its leading wine portfolio Houston and around the world. The found- Moestue as a founder of Moestue Grape in the key Nordic markets of Norway, ing attorneys are committed to providing Selections, one of the most successful wine Sweden and Finland, from early 2009. world class legal solutions in a boutique import companies in Norway. As a result of this change Foster’s will be firm environment which promotes open Podium Wines is now a company within ending its partnership with its Nordic channels of communication and efficient the Moestue Group. Moestue Group has distributor V&S Group (V&S) which decision-making processes. its main companies in Norway and is also was recently acquired by global drinks The firm was founded on the idea that established in Sweden and Finland. Total producer Pernod Ricard. it is possible to provide high quality legal volume of the group is 2,5m liters with services in a prompt, personalized manner a turnover of €35m and with 23 people. Bibendum in response to a client’s needs. Podium Wines has its strengths with Bibendum is specialized Dunbar Harder, PLLC prides itself on entry level to medium priced wines from on import and sales of its capacity to appreciate the values and all over the world, and works with quality wine to the monopoly business practices of clients from a variety and reputable producers. Podium Wines and horeca. Bibendum consists of 6 people of regions and cultures. Our attorneys has also one of the highest success rates who have a combination of marketing and staff have lived, worked and studied of launching wines at the Vinmonopolet. know-how and strong wine competency. throughout the world. These experiences From the start in 2005, Podium Wines This gives them a competitive advantage provide us with a global mind-set allowing has now sales of 700.000 liters and are in an increasingly challenging market. us to better understand the needs of our continuing to grow. The objective is to hit Together with the wine producers, clients. 1m liters in 2010. Bibendum are continuously focused on The people at Podium Wines have a developing their portfolio to make it inspir- LB CONSULT vast experience from both the trade as well ing and attractive for their collaborating - Markets, Marketing & as from HORECA. Brand managers and partners – and of course the end consumers. Marketeers General Manager are both Sommeliers. Bibendum work with many strong A consortia of marketing, client and brand brands. Some of the most well-known wine management professionals with Interna- Foster’s Norway producers are Ruffino, Pasqua, Faustino, tional experience and attitude. Marketing Foster’s EMEA is Ravenswood, Masciarelli, Chateau Musar, and Client Management science applied to the European di- Henkell & Söhnlein and Pommery. international business cases. The code of vision of Foster’s Bibendum is continuously evolving and conduct, and road to success through direct Group Limited. often introduces new and exciting products Involvement, Challenge and Development of Foster’s EMEA and producers. They are working with the the client. With strong focus on international was formed in aim of constantly improving, and to be projects LB can comfortably operate with 2005 when Foster’s Group Limited acquired your best wine partner. five major European & all Scandinavian Southcorp Wines and combined it with Bibendum is a part of Altia Corporation, languages across the Oslo-based office and is existing subsidiary Beringer Blass Wine a wine and spirit service company with therefore able to render services to the most Estates. Nordics and Baltics as its first priority. demanding organizations. international Foster’s EMEA portfolio of leading Altia – Your 1st Choice. experience paired with Scandinavian In- wine brands include Lindemans, Penfolds, novative Thinking and Design - welcome Rosemount, Beringer and Wolf Blass which HRG Nordic to LB Consult www.lbconsult.no are distributed in more than 32 countries Through their parent throughout Europe. With its regional head- company Hogg Robinson Podium Wines quarters the company employs around 180 Group plc, HRG has a Podium Wines was established in 2005 by staff through the UK and Europe and sells long and prestigious history: more than Inge Hilland and Christopher Moestue. Both around 10 million 9-litre cases annually. 160 years of experience specializing in a 2009 Membership News 15

range of high quality corporate services for local knowledge, non-aligned leading edge into one of the leading private equity com- multinational and national clients through- technology, a strong heritage in the business panies in the Nordic region, with €450 out the decades. travel arena and a true understanding of million under management. The investment With a proven track record of stability, corporate cultures. team has unique competencies, experi- experience and delivering on promise, Today present in over 100 countries ences and networks that enable the firm to their philosophy is to focus on offering including all the key driver markets around continuously identify great companies and a comprehensive and extensive range of the world, HRG is totally committed to to contribute to continued growth through services which deliver real value for their delivering a value offering to its extensive active participation and cooperation with corporate clients. client base. company management. Reiten & Co has: HRG Nordic’s comprehensive portfo- • Invested in 18 portfolio companies lio of services includes Corporate Travel Reiten & Co • Completed more than 60 add-on Management, Consulting, Sports, Expense Reiten & Co investments Management and Events and Meetings has acces- • Realised 7 companies through IPOs Management. sible capital and seeks ambitious companies or strategic sales. With an award-winning reputation, HRG that are looking for a partner for further provides expertise in global capabilities and growth. Since 1992 Reiten & Co has evolved

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AmCham Automobile Committee Meeting Patron Event – AmCham Executive Round Table Thursday, March 26th with Microsoft Corporation’s Marshall C. Phelps, Vice President Oslo – IP Policy & Strategy Lille Grensen 5, 0159 Oslo Friday, June 5th Oslo Annual General Meeting & Dinner Norwegian Parliament Thursday, March 26th Oslo AmCham Golf Tournament Grand Hotel Thursday, August 20th Tyrifjord Golf Club Sign up now.

AmCham Thanksgiving Charity Dinner Thursday, November 19th Oslo Venue to be confirmed. 16 2009 Membership News

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