Then & Now

Arvid Nordquist H.A.B 125 years 1884-2009

The company’s origins
When, in 1884, a 26 year-old Arvid Nordquist bought a modest grocery store on Nybrogatan, he had no idea what successes and setbacks the future held. Trading during two major wars and surviving a halving in revenue due to the introduction of alcohol rationing were no doubt major trials. But he became a purveyor to His Majesty the King of Sweden and, with his legendary delicatessen, his name became a byword for quality across the country. The well-worn shop became the foundation for a family business that his children and grandchildren would come to develop into a Nordic company trading in everything from coffee and vintage champagne to organic baby food.




Strategy – Quality in everything
When buying that first shop, Arvid Nordquist thought, just like entrepreneurs through the ages: “I can do this better – and my own way.” He immediately made a number of crucial changes: He would sell quality goods, not settling for the run-of-the-mill range but importing attractive foods, exclusive goods and delicious delicacies. He and his staff would offer knowledge and quality. The shop would be spotlessly clean and tidy and the staff would wear stylish attire. This would attract customers from far beyond the limits of the local district. With a new location, he would also come closer to the customers he wanted to target, the well-heeled of Stockholm.
 

Arvid’s insights probably ring just as true today as they did then; the shop needs to have a prime location and offer its own premium range to attract a discerning target group with the purchasing power to match. All the interdependent elements need to be in place to achieve success. 


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