BP’s expansion in Poland

Head of BP in Poland announced that the staff reductions in the company are to be limited to the extraction department only. Layoffs are to be very big, as they are to include around 4 thousand staff members around the world. This is due to the big drops in oil prices. Presently, the company employs around 24 thousand people.

Managing Director of the Polish branch of BP informed about further expansion plans in Poland. At the present, Poland experiences a GDP growth, and the company sees a future and prospects of further development in this, wants to invest about 100 million PLN a year.

BP wants to keep their status and remain the second largest petrol station network in Poland (ORLEN is number one). The company will invest in erection of a network of petrol stations in such places as cities, expressways and motorways.

Last year, BP celebrated the 20^th anniversary of opening their first petrol station in Poland. Within the 25 years since the beginning of operations in our country, the company invested around 1 billion dollars. They do not want to stop at the investments, it will possibly want to take over smaller petrol station networks.

According to the information provided by the BP boss, the company is to expand aviation fuel business within a company with foreign capital, but linked with Polish company LOTOS.

The company supplies fuel to the airports in Gdańsk, Lublin, Katowice and Warsaw. Polish aviation fuel and air transport is a fast-developing market in Europe. BP will also participate in the road asphalt sales sector.

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 corporate tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.