Oknoplast Is Looking For Markets Outside The Old Continent

Due to an inflow of cheap products from Romania, China or Bulgaria, window manufacturers have to search for counterparties in other markets. Oknoplast, which has established its position in the European market, is looking for possibilities for development in the Middle Eastern and American markets.

As the president of Oknoplast group Mikołaj Placek claims, they targeted European markets first due to logistical proximity, yet the current saturation is so high the company is launching another stage of development in the markets outside Europe.

Poland closes the top five in terms of wood joinery manufacturing. In 2015, door and window exports from Poland exceeded the level generated by Germany, which resulted in Poland taking the top spot among exporters of the products. The value of the exports was then 1.55 billion EUR.

Placek explains that because of geographic proximity, the EU markets (e.g. Italy, Spain, France, UK) remain the most promising due to the easier export process, yet the company is starting to test the American market. He also adds that Oknoplast sells its products in the Middle East and also started doing well in the Australian market.

Poland’s main trade partner in the first quarter of this year was Germany, with export participation at 27.5 percent and 22.7 percent in terms of import, while the turnover balance was 10.7 billion PLN. The percentage share of other trade partners is much lower, with 6.5 percent for the United Kingdom, 6.4 percent for the Czech Republic and 5.7 percent for France.

The president of Oknoplast notes that although the key aspect of competitive advantage in their case was low price, the appearance of Chinese or Romanian companies on the market made the company to put their focus on innovation instead of low prices.

Investment Outlook and Business Perspective

Poland remains one of the most attractive investment destinations in the European Union. With GDP exceeding EUR 650 billion, Poland is the sixth largest economy in the EU and the largest in Central and Eastern Europe. The country has maintained positive economic growth for over three decades, including through multiple global crises.

Foreign direct investment in Poland continues to grow, driven by the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, EU membership, competitive costs, and improving infrastructure. Key sectors attracting investment include manufacturing, technology, business services, logistics, and financial services.

For investors considering entry into the Polish market, proper structuring of the investment vehicle is crucial. The choice between a sp. z o.o. (LLC), S.A. (joint-stock company), branch office, or joint venture depends on the investment size, sector, tax considerations, and long-term strategic objectives. Professional advisory can help optimize the structure from both operational and tax perspectives.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our VAT and tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.