sweden
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Mix in the right circles
Four enthusiastic Swedes believe the future of music doesn't end with the iPod. Their Pacemaker, a palm-sized DJ system, promises musical discovery, pitch-perfect audio quality and instant party epiphany for music lovers.
Tough nut to crack
The European nut market is worth over €8bn but consumption is low. Now Al Rifai, the Lebanese ‘Rolls-Royce of nut companies’, is expanding into this underdeveloped market from a new Swedish HQ.
Europe
For three years, people have wondered about the construction of Dragon Gate, a Chinese cultural centre in the Swedish woods, complete with massive statues of lions, horses, and the goddess Guan-Yin.
Rupert Marine
Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) are tough, sea-worthy and flexible. Spotting their business potential, Thomas Rönnberg set up the first Swedish RIB company, Rupert Marine, and is now preparing for the European market.
Five alive
Which territories are due their turn in the international spotlight? Monocle reveals five areas – from an EU island nation to a sprawling South American state – set to make headlines.
Vinyl frontier
The Eklund family has made the world’s most desirable vinyl flooring for over half a century. Now their seasonal collections are winning praise from the worlds of fashion, architecture and design.
Europe
Nicolas Sarkozy's French style; the Nordic Davos; and Ukraine's Britart-loving oligarch.
Finn blue line
The Åland archipelago in Scandinavia is a model harmonious ‘nation’ without full independence. Prosperous and Swedish-speaking, these Finnish islanders were happy until the EU arrived, challenging their unique arrangement and way of life.
8. Stockholm
An eye for detail, good street style and strong public services make this a pleasant place to build a nest.
