Sweet expansion: Kolsvart boosts US growth at Try Swedish Pavilion

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Kolsvart’s strategic return to Expo West in 2024 significantly boosted its presence in the competitive US confectionery market. The company focused on nurturing existing relationships and seizing new opportunities for revenue growth.

Kolsvart, a Swedish confectionery manufacturer, sought to strengthen its US market presence amidst growing demand for vegan and gluten-free candy. Their return to the Try Swedish Pavilion at Expo West in 2024 marked a crucial step in expanding their footprint. Partnering with Business Sweden, Kolsvart showcased its premium offerings, unlocking new revenue streams and solidifying its position in the market.

Kolsvart, renowned for its natural and distinct flavours, set out to meet the growing demand for vegan and gluten-free confectionaries in the US. However, breaking into such a competitive market brought significant challenges. Expo West presented a vital opportunity, and Kolsvart seized it to elevate its brand presence and solidify its position among industry peers.

“Our expansion to the US would not have been possible without Business Sweden. Attending Expo West through the Swedish Pavilion has been especially valuable, giving us a way to connect with distributors, customers, and partners without managing the logistical nightmare of setting everything up ourselves.”
Jonathan Roos, CEO, Kolsvart

Guided by Business Sweden, Kolsvart strategically positioned itself within the bustling Expo West environment. Business Sweden provided end-to-end support, including logistics, booth construction, and backend assistance, enabling Swedish companies to focus on engagement rather than getting bogged down by preparatory tasks. This was crucial for Kolsvart’s success at the show as it prevented being spread too thin with the multitude of preparatory tasks necessary for a show at this scale, especially for an SME at the start of their US market entry journey.  

Kolsvart’s presence at Expo West enabled them to showcase their delectable sweets and connect with industry professionals and consumers alike. By leveraging the platform, they successfully navigated the complexities of the US market, fostering meaningful connections and setting the stage for future growth. 

Returning to Expo West with the advantage of prior experience, Kolsvart was well-prepared to strengthen the relationships they had established the year prior. This strategic approach allowed them to build on their existing foundation, driving further growth and engagement. Their presence at the show highlighted the importance of personal interactions in the US market – a vital component of Kolsvart’s long-term growth strategy. 

“Returning to Expo West was fantastic! It was definitely different from last year – this time felt so much smoother because we knew what to expect this time around. We hope to be back next year as well!”
Jonathan Roos, CEO, Kolsvart

Challenge

Kolsvart sought to establish a foothold in the competitive US confectionery market, seeking support to boost brand visibility and market penetration.

Solution

By participating in Expo West through the Try Swedish Pavilion, with support from Business Sweden, Kolsvart enhanced its brand visibility and forged strategic partnerships, driving revenue growth and market expansion.

Result

Following Expo West 2024, Kolsvart deepened relationships with partners, solidifying its position in the US confectionery market.

Value Impact

Kolsvart’s success at Expo West underscores the positive impact of international collaboration in driving revenue growth and market expansion in the confectionery segment.

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Buoyed by their success at Expo West, Kolsvart looks to the future with optimism. Armed with invaluable insights and strengthened relationships, the company is poised to expand its presence in the US market further. With Business Sweden’s continued support, Kolsvart is ready to embark on the next chapter of its journey, confident in its ability to thrive amid the competitive US confectionary landscape. 

Kolsvart’s experience with the Try Swedish Pavilion highlights the irreplaceable value of in-person relationship building and rapport. Establishing trust and solidifying partnerships in a competitive market like the US requires more than remote interactions; it necessitates face-to-face engagement. These personal connections foster a deeper understanding and commitment that virtual meetings simply cannot replicate. As Kolsvart’s success story demonstrates, being present on the ground is essential for meaningful market penetration and long-term growth. 

Contact

Want to learn more about how we can help you grow your global sales in the Americas? Please contact Abigail Richardson at Business Sweden for more information. 

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