30 participants from Sweden and the Philippines
10+ Swedish hospitality brands
1 full-day programme
2 thematic panel discussions
 
Exploring opportunities in the Philippines

The Philippines offers world-class beaches, rich biodiversity, and a growing gastronomic scene — but the long distance from Sweden and lack of direct flights create market access challenges. Scandinavian Resorts saw strong potential but needed structured access to government and industry stakeholders.

 

We wanted to understand how Swedish sustainability values could align with the Philippines’ tourism growth story. Business Sweden helped us open those doors and connect with the right people. Thommy Backner, CEO of Scandinavian Resorts

 

Creating a platform for direct engagement

To accelerate market entry, Business Sweden co-organised the “Sweden & Philippines Hospitality and Tourism Networking” event at The Peninsula Manila, bringing together high-level representatives from the Department of Tourism, provincial governments, hotel groups, and Swedish hospitality brands.

“We wanted to understand how Swedish sustainability values could align with the Philippines’ tourism growth story. Business Sweden helped us open those doors and connect with the right people,” says Thommy Backner, CEO of Scandinavian Resorts.

 

We gained valuable insights into the Philippine market and met industry peers who share our long-term vision Thommy Backner, CEO of Scandinavian Resorts

 

Insights through dialogue

The full-day programme included C-level meetings, expert panel discussions, and exchanges on sustainability, gastronomy, and tourism development. Participants gained valuable insights into priorities, challenges, and collaboration opportunities.

“We gained valuable insights into the Philippine market and met industry peers who share our long-term vision,” Backner adds.

 

Challenge

Scandinavian Resorts needed direct access to decision-makers to explore opportunities in the Philippine tourism market.

Solution

Business Sweden co-organised a targeted networking event, offering curated contacts, stakeholder mapping, and logistical support.

Result

Swedish and Philippine stakeholders connected through strategic dialogues, enabling immediate insights and collaboration pathways.

Value impact

The event accelerated market understanding and positioned Swedish hospitality expertise as a strong partner in sustainable tourism.

 

About Scandinavian Resorts (Topeja AB)

Scandinavian Resorts, part of Topeja AB, operates premium Swedish hospitality destinations known for design, gastronomy, and sustainable tourism. The group aims to bring Scandinavian hospitality excellence to new markets through long-term, responsible partnerships.

 

Project team 
  • Johan Lennefalk, Trade Commission, Business Sweden Manila 
  • Mae Balandan, Senior Consultant, Business Sweden Manila
  • Gerard Hunting-Tuazon, Consultant, Business Sweden Manila