PromZ Vak 4 · 2026 · English edition

By Sem van Lit

Poland Special

The art of highquality finishing

In Krosno, glass is part of the city's history. The craft dates back to the sixteenth century, while industrial production took off in the 1920s. At its peak, nearly 7,000 people worked in the local glass industry. It was in this environment that Glasmark was founded in 1992. Building on this rich history of glass, the family business developed into a specialist in the high-quality decoration and finishing of glass and ceramics.

As Export Manager, Marcin Pomarański helps shape Glasmark's international growth. He focuses on new markets, existing export customers, and long-term partnerships. “A strong partnership is never based solely on what you sell. You have to understand the customer's business and add real value.”

underestimated is the amount of expertise behind a decorated glass. Reproducing a high-quality design requires decades of experience and specialized knowledge.”

Thanks to its in-house design studio, Glasmark can create visualizations and prototypes in advance. This way, the customer sees what the final result will look like before production begins, and a design can be adjusted in a timely manner. “A good product is created by combining technology, precision, and a passion for design,” says Pomarański.

Glasmark now supplies forty countries, and exports account for half of its turnover. Scandinavia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Benelux are important markets. This international position arose from the conscious decision to look beyond the Polish domestic market and compete in demanding Western European countries.

At Glasmark, quality is not just about the visible finish. Even with large production runs, the decoration must remain consistent and withstand intensive use. A specialty is ‘natrysk’, the Polish word for spray decoration, which gives glass a matte, glossy, transparent, or metallic coating before it is further decorated.

The company works for diverse sectors: from luxury cosmetic packaging and elegant candle holders to promotional glassware and products for the hospitality and retail sectors. For instance, glass packaging can acquire a luxurious appearance, while printed glass adds recognition and brand experience.

The production method also matters. Glasmark uses paints without lead and cadmium, including water-based variants and vegetable oils. “Customers expect a product not only to be beautiful but also to be produced responsibly. That is why we continue to invest in more sustainable materials and new techniques.”

Glasmark's strength lies in combining decoration techniques. By bringing together colour, full-colour printing, and metallic details, a simple glass receives a premium finish. Digital printing is suitable for small runs and detailed designs, while screen printing is primarily used for larger productions. Techniques such as hot stamping, sublimation, laser engraving, and spray coating are also employed.

New techniques, the same foundation

In the coming years, Glasmark aims to develop new decoration techniques, personalize more materials, and invest further in renewable energy. “Expanding into Western Europe forced us to step outside our comfort zone. We are proud of that very choice today,” says Pomarański. In doing so, innovation continues to build on craftsmanship, technology, and a sense of design.

Experience is indispensable, especially for complex decorations. Combining multi-colour printing with gold or platinum requires precise testing and careful coordination of material, temperature, and technique. “What is often