Sweden: Gift Giving
From ExecutivePlanet.com
Gift Giving
In general, gift giving is not common among business associates; it is best not to send a gift at any time, including holidays, unless you receive one first from your Swedish colleagues.
Holiday cards are appropriate, particularly as a thank you for the recipient's business in the previous year, and should be mailed in time to be received the week before Christmas.
Gifts are expected for social events, especially in thanks for private dinner parties. If you choose flowers, bring them with you to the dinner party, and be sure to unwrap them before entering the home or handing them to the hostess. You might want to avoid giving red roses to your female colleague as these usually indicate romantic intent.
Flowers, liquor, wine, cake, or chocolates are appropriate gifts for your hostess when you are invited to a Swedish home. You may also bring candy for the children.
Liquor is a highly appreciated gift, since it is so expensive in Sweden. Fine liquor or wine from the famous wine countries makes a good business gift.
Although exchanging gifts is not common at the beginning of a business relationship, it is appropriate as you are closing your business transaction. Choose a practical gift, rather than one that may be perceived as lavish. Books about your country, as well as desk accessories, all make practical gifts and can also be keepsakes.
If you are staying with a family, an appropriate thank-you gift would be a high-quality product that represents your country and is difficult to get in Sweden. Examples include gourmet foodstuffs [pralines, maple syrup, lobsters, etc.], coffee table books about your home country or city, or anything that reflects your host's personal tastes is appropriate. Don't give your host anything that is easily obtainable in Sweden. If you are given a gift, it might very likely be a small red wooden horse as a home decoration; it is a common folk object, and unique to Sweden.
Gifts are opened immediately. The exception is made for a big party with many participants – in this case the hosts provide a separate gift-table where you can place your gift after greeting the host. Even in this case, the host opens the gifts while the guests are still there – this gives him a chance to express appreciation to the givers.
