Norway offers a growing range of finished products and consumer goods on the international market. The combination of natural materials and traditional craftsmanship has given Norwegian goods a reputation for quality and reliability. Numerous small and medium-sized companies produce a broad assortment of products, from furniture and specialty foods to leisure craft and outdoor equipment.
Most Norwegian companies producing consumer goods focus on niche market segments. The sector is rapidly emerging as a significant growth sector, with an array of branded products enjoying increasing popularity in markets around the world. The success of these products is based on a combination of longstanding handicraft traditions, the utilization of natural materials such as wood, stone and wool, and modern production and marketing strategies. Products include furniture, outdoor gear, sporting clothes, leisure boats, giftware and souvenirs, printed items such as books and calendars, as well as specialty foods.
Norway’s furniture industry excels in the manufacture of elegant furnishings. A natural choice as a raw material, Norwegian wood forms the basis for lightweight, durable furniture featuring typical Nordic design. Norwegian furniture promotes ergonomic comfort for office furniture, sofas and children’s stools alike. Major exports include recliners, sofas, auditorium seating solutions and furniture for the health care sector.
Norwegian clothing manufacturers have combined the need for warm outdoor clothing with modern design, resulting in a wide range of popular woollen sweaters, cardigans, jackets, hats, scarves and mittens.
Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and skiing are a national pastime in Norway. Production of outdoor equipment includes skiing equipment, sleds, fishing equipment, hiking boots, thermal underwear, sleeping bags, tents, backpacks and waterproof apparel.
By the Norwegian Trade Council