Cloetta Group Brought Ahlgrens Bilar to Target

The Swedish candy maker has launched its car-shaped confectionery at Target stores nationwide.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Consumer Goods

A close-up of several colorful, car-shaped gummies on a polished stone surface, highlighting their sugar-coated texture. — Swedish candy manufacturer Cloetta Group has expanded its U.S. distribution by launching its popular car-shaped gummies at Target locations nationwide. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Cloetta Group has expanded its U.S. market presence by introducing Ahlgrens bilar at Target locations and on Target.com. This move marks the latest step in the company's international growth strategy for the popular Swedish brand.

Why it matters

The launch allows the long-standing Swedish manufacturer to increase its footprint in the American retail market. It leverages a brand with a strong international legacy as part of a broader push to reach new global consumers.

Cloetta Group sells approximately 2.6 billion Ahlgrens bilar candies each year, a product that has been in production since 1953. The company currently distributes its products across more than 60 countries worldwide.

The players

Cloetta Group

This Swedish company is a major manufacturer of confectionery products and has been in business since the 19th century.

Target

This is a major American big-box department store chain that serves as the exclusive retailer for the candy launch.

Christer Fuglesang

He is a Swedish astronaut who famously brought the candy pieces to the International Space Station in 2009.

The details

The candy features four distinct varieties of car-shaped pieces that have enjoyed popularity for decades in Sweden. Available exclusively at Target stores and via its website, this expansion follows the company's 2025 pilot project in New York.

Cloetta Group began operations in 1862.
Ahlgrens bilar production began in Sweden in 1953.
Christer Fuglesang brought the candy to the ISS in 2009.
A CandyKing store opened in New York in 2025.
The article was published on September 18, 2026.

Market Landscape

This move highlights the ongoing international expansion strategies for European consumer goods brands looking to secure shelf space in American retail chains. It follows the pattern of established legacy firms using large U.S. retail partnerships to penetrate the North American market.

Shoppers can now purchase the imported Swedish candy directly at local Target stores and through the company's online platform. This launch provides American customers with immediate access to a product line that was previously limited to international markets.

The takeaway

The arrival of Ahlgrens bilar in the U.S. reflects the broader efforts of long-standing European confectioners to diversify their customer base. Consumers looking for new international snack options can now find these specific car-shaped candies at retail locations nationwide.