Johan Petter Åhlén founded a humble business in 1899. The department store still bears his name. The chain has grown into one of Sweden’s largest retailers with 77 locations. This Åhléns City flagship is located in the Sergels Torg area, a popular shopping district. Nearby is the major competitor NK. The initials stand for Nordiska Kompaniet. Although shopping in a foreign country is always fun, be aware of MOMS. No, not your mother, but the hefty value-added tax imposed on most products and services in Sweden.
