The idea is based on the links between the international NHL brand, a strong Nordic interest for international ice hockey and the international marketing of industrial and financial centers/products located in the region. After surveying the new sports event opportunities of the next generation it's easy to see that the Nordic region needs to initiate and participate in events with more international reach. A Nordic-based NHL-Team would serve as a strong platform to link Nordic and International business.
Background
The idea was formed in 2001 by Per-Erik Holmström, CEO Financial Hearings AB, and Tommy Gustafsson, former CEO Swedish Hockey League. Interest intensified when the idea received media attention in 2002. Financial Hearings AB invited the NHL to present their model in Båstad and Borgholm during the summer of 2002. When asked about the possibility of relocating an NHL team to Europe, their answer in 2003 was that the opportunity was not currently under consideration.
A better idea
We propose an NHL team based in the Nordic region, and playing their home games in the Nordic Region. This model easily accommodates the full NHL-season by scheduling the season in six 2-week home schedules and six 2-week away schedules. For all the current NHL teams it would mean only one trip to Europe per season. This provides a unique business link for the Nordic region and provides the NHL with prime European exposure.
Current Situation
The NHL has officially stated that they will not enter any discussions regarding league expansion to Europe before the new player agreement is signed with NHLPA in 2004. While the opportunities with the NHL are at a stand-still, we have been
involved in discussions regarding new arenas in Stockholm which could be used for our NHL idea. We are especially interested in the Kista Project with the possibilities of linking the Arena to the strong IT-related sector in the area.
Background
The idea of a Global League, for financial presentations, was first presented by Per-Erik Holmström, CEO Financial Hearings AB, and Lynge Blak, Chairman IIRF, in September 2003 during the Financial European Football Cup in Frankfurt. Later the same year at an IIRF congress in Zurich it was presented to rest of the world. As of May 5, 2004, the European Nordic Pilot Division is up and running.
Idea
The idea is based on a more coordinated scheduling of financial events around the world and better cross-boarder marketing of listed companies and their staff.
The Global League and The Nordic Vikings
The European Nordic Division and The Nordic Vikings share the same interest in strengthening and enhancing cross-border trade in the Nordic business region. This is why the two projects complement each other.
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