Card Group is the world´s largest greeting card, gift & party distribution Franchise.
Award-winning global franchise, founded in Sweden in 1997 by Peter Hallström. Card Group now operates Master Franchise offices in over 40 countries worldwide.
When Card Group started in 1997, we began with simple full-color greeting cards, without any special finishes. Initially focused solely on greeting cards, we gradually expanded to include a full range of complementary, top-selling products such as gift bags, wrapping paper, stickers, candles, balloons, and party supplies. Today, we are a global company with a local presence.
We have also developed an environmentally friendly strategy and adhere to all necessary product safety standards. Card Group's Headquarters are located in Gävle Sweden, where we house our international training center, design studio, R&D, administration, production planning/logistics, warehouse, and support/management teams.
The Story Of Card Group
Meet Our Founder:
Peter Hallström and Card Group’s Franchise Expertise
Founded by Peter Hallström in 1997, Card Group's journey began with a clear vision and a deep understanding of the franchise model. Peter’s experience as a franchisee in another well-established system provided him with invaluable insights into both the challenges and opportunities that franchisees face. This hands-on experience fueled his passion for creating a supportive, sustainable business model that would empower others to succeed.
With over 70 years of combined experience in franchising, Peter and his team have successfully built a global company that has expanded to more than 40 countries worldwide. What started in Sweden quickly grew across Europe and beyond and today, Card Group is a global franchise with a local presence in numerous markets.
Our Growth and Evolution
Card Group’s original offering was simple: greeting cards in full color. Over the years, we’ve expanded our range to include cards with many different exclusive finishes plus complementary top-selling products such as gift bags, wrapping paper, stickers, candles, balloons, and party products allowing us to become a one-stop-shop for our customers.
Peter’s background as a franchisee played a crucial role in the development of our business model. By prioritizing simplicity, proven systems, and ongoing support, Card Group has created a franchise system that empowers franchisees to grow their businesses and succeed. This model has been the foundation of our global growth and continues to guide us as we expand.
Sustainability and Innovation
As we’ve grown, so has our commitment to sustainability. Card Group has continuously developed environmentally friendly strategies, ensuring that our products and operations meet product safety standards and reflect our commitment to the environment.
Our Global Headquarters
Card Group’s Headquarters are located in Gävle Sweden, where we house our international training center, design studio, R&D department, administration, production planning/logistics, and a warehouse. Our dedicated support and management team work tirelessly to ensure the success of our franchisees and the continued innovation of our products.
Looking Ahead
Today, Card Group is a trusted partner for entrepreneurs around the globe. With the experience, dedication, and commitment to excellence that Peter and the team bring to the table, we continue to lead the industry in franchise development and innovation.
"Since 1997, Card Group has nearly three decades franchise experience. With our proven business model and strong brand, we’ve become a trusted partner for entrepreneurs worldwide, offering ongoing support. Together with our franchise teams, we form one big family, working locally while sharing an entrepreneurial spirit."
Peter Hallström, founder and ceo of Card Group International AB
Card Group - A Trusted Franchise Partner Since 1997
Peter Hallström
THE FOUNDER & CEO OF CARD GROUP
Peter Hallström has been involved in franchising since 1976.
His membership of franchise professional bodies is and has been as follows:
SWEDISH FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION:
Member of the ethical committee 2008- current
Member of the Election committee 2009 – 2011
EUROPEAN FRANCHISE FEDERATION
Member of the Board of Directors 2009-2011
Carolina Winterliv
DEPUTY CEO OF CARD GROUP
Carolina Winterliv has been involved in franchising since 2002.
Her membership of franchise professional bodies is and has been as follows:
SWEDISH FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION:
Chairman of the board of directors 2023- current
Vice chairman of the board of directors 2019-2022
Board member of the board of directors 2017 -current
EUROPEAN FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION (EFF)
Vice President 2024 june - current
Board member of the boar of directors June 2019 - current
We provide a complete Business Format Franchise System including training,
operating manuals, intellecual property righs, know-how, start-up support, on going support etc