PromZ Vak 4 · 2026 · English edition

By Sem van Lit

Poland Special

The Polish power behind European production

With over 36 million inhabitants, Poland is one of the largest countries in the European Union. Strategically located between Western and Eastern Europe, the country has developed into a major economic power over the past twenty years. Since joining the EU in 2004, the Polish economy has grown almost continuously. Today, Poland is one of the largest economies in Europe, with a gross domestic product of approximately 900 billion euros.

Following the fall of communism in 1989 and Poland's accession to the European Union in 2004, billions of euros in foreign investment flowed into the country. International companies established factories, logistics centres, and distribution networks there, transforming Poland into one of Europe's industrial engines.

What distinguishes Poland is the enduring importance of industry within the economy. While many Western European countries have become increasingly dependent on services, the manufacturing industry in Poland still accounts for approximately 15 percent of GDP. This makes the country one of Europe's most important production locations.

That strength is visible across diverse sectors. Poland is one of Europe's largest furniture exporters and ranks among the world's leading countries in furniture exports. The country also produces approximately 40 percent of all major household appliances in the European Union and has grown into a major player within the European automotive industry. Products manufactured in Poland find their way daily to homes, businesses, and factories throughout Europe.

Poland's appeal lies in a strong combination of factors. The country possesses well-trained personnel, modern infrastructure, and a strong logistical position. At the same time, production costs are often lower than in countries like Germany and the Netherlands. Real estate and logistics company CTP therefore describes Poland as a “natural hotspot for industrial production and logistics in Europe.” For companies wishing to bring their production closer to home, Poland offers an attractive alternative.

Moreover, the country benefits from the growing trend of nearshoring. Rising transport costs, geopolitical uncertainty, and the desire to produce more sustainably mean that more and more companies are bringing production back from Asia to Europe. In this regard, Poland offers the advantage of European quality and regulations, combined with flexibility and competitive costs.

At the same time, Poland's strength is not only visible in major industrial sectors. The country is also becoming increasingly important for medium-sized and specialized producers. This manufacturing culture has deep roots. A strong example is Łódź, which developed into one of Europe's most important textile cities in the 19th century and became known as the "Polish Manchester." That tradition of textiles, production, and entrepreneurship is still reflected in the way Polish companies operate today: practical, flexible, and strongly focused on manufacturing.

In addition, Poland has a rich tradition of craftsmanship and material processing. Bolesławiec ceramics, for example, have been known for centuries for their distinctive blue patterns and hand-decorated finishes. Amber processing also forms an important part of Polish heritage. Along the Baltic coast, amber, often referred to as "Baltic gold," has been processed into jewellery and decorative products for generations.

Woodworking and furniture production are also deeply embedded in the Polish manufacturing industry. This combination of industrial expertise, artisanal tradition, and modern production makes the country particularly interesting for European buyers seeking quality, flexibility, and production closer to home.

In this special, we introduce ten companies that each contribute to the success of the Polish manufacturing industry in their own way. Their stories show how broad, innovative, and versatile the Polish business community has become. Together, they illustrate why Poland has grown into an indispensable link within the European market, and why the country's influence is likely to only increase further in the coming years.