Our Story
Cardland was founded in 2003 by our CEO, Jim McAllister, in Kilmarnock, Scotland, with a clear strategic objective: to deliver the largest portfolio of award-winning, branded greeting cards consistently across every European market in which we operate. From the outset, the business has focused on ensuring customers experience the same trusted Cardland ranges, quality standards, and value — regardless of location.
With roots firmly in wholesale distribution, Cardland initially supplied greeting cards across the UK and the USA through cash & carry and van sales. This early wholesale focus established the foundations of the business and continues to inform Cardland’s approach to range development, merchandising, and long-term partnerships.
Drawing on over 40 years of industry experience, Cardland quickly grew into one of the UK and Ireland’s best-known specialist greeting card retailers, operating over 50 retail stores at its peak across five European countries. As the business evolved, Cardland transitioned to a more focused international model, while remaining true to the values that shaped its success.
Cardland’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service has been recognised across the industry. The business has been twice nominated and shortlisted as a finalist in the "Best Specialist Multiple Retailer of Greeting Cards "category at the UK’s prestigious RETA’s Awards, which celebrate excellence across the UK greeting card sector.
Today, Cardland continues to be the number one specialist greeting card destination, operating three high-profile greeting card and gift stores across Southern Europe, supported by a growing online store. This ensures customers enjoy the same product expertise, design-led ranges, and great value — whether they shop in-store or online.
Looking ahead, Cardland continues to evolve locally across Europe with the development of a new wholesale B2B concept. Through Cardland Xpress, retailers can offer Cardland products in-store via our ecommerce wholesale portal or through a simple, risk-free consignment model, providing flexibility and ease with minimal commitment.
At the same time, Cardland continues to strengthen and expand its Middle East presence, where we have become a leading supplier of everyday and seasonal greeting cards, gift bags, and gift wrap to some of the region’s largest supermarket and convenience chains, as well as lifestyle retailers and independent stores. This growth is supported by regional warehousing and distribution hubs in Dubai and Bahrain.
To further support growth and accessibility, Cardland will be launching across seven ecommerce platforms, alongside our own dedicated Shopify website, extending availability to consumers across the Middle East.
Wherever we operate, our promise remains the same — real quality, real value, for every occasion.
Thank you for visiting Cardland — we look forward to welcoming you again soon.
Please visit our links below for more information and services provided:
European & Middle East Wholesale Supply (Cardland Xpress): www.cardlandxpress.com
Cardland Middle East Ecommerce website: www.cardland.ae
Thank you for visiting Cardland — we look forward to welcoming you again soon.