Biznes Fakty
FAKRO starts production in the USA
The Polish firm FAKRO is set to initiate stair production in the United States, despite initially intending to establish a factory in Nowy Sącz. „We were unable to secure permission from the City Office,” states Ryszard Florek, the company’s president. He further notes that „the evolving regulations and customs tariffs in the US are making local production increasingly advantageous.”
– At first, we aimed to set up production for the American market in Poland, but our existing facilities lacked adequate space. We intended to construct a production hall in Nowy Sącz, yet we did not receive the necessary permission from the City Office. It would be unfortunate to miss out on the rising demand in the American market while waiting for the approval from the mayor of Nowy Sącz – remarked FAKRO CEO Ryszard Florek.
– We battled bureaucracy in Poland for four years, whereas it was significantly simpler in the USA. FAKRO did not suffer because of the lack of cooperation from the Nowy Sącz authorities, but the region and Poland did lose out – asserts the president of FAKRO.
„We received decisions promptly”
The commencement of production in North Carolina is planned for the latter half of June. The FAKRO CEO highlighted that the company has been well-received in the United States, even receiving offers of assistance.
– Up until now, the only obstacle has been the availability and competitiveness of construction teams. All other processes – building permits, inspections, fire safety, and electrical agreements – have proceeded very smoothly. We received decisions quickly, and local authorities actively supported the initiative, including help with the recruitment process – Florek stated. – We were astonished to find that in the States, the owner faces no restrictions on deforestation or even forest clearing, which often poses significant challenges for development in Poland, particularly in tourism – he added.
The production launch was initially slated for the first quarter of 2025, but adjustments were necessary to align the new staircase models with updated American technical standards. Currently, all technical approvals have been finalized, and the production line is prepared to commence.
„Made in USA” is gaining significance
– The evolving regulations and tariffs in the US are rendering local production increasingly profitable. Distributors, especially in light of the pandemic and disrupted supply chains, are progressively favoring suppliers that manufacture locally, even if their prices are slightly higher than foreign competitors – Florek explains. He emphasizes that the „Made in USA” label is also becoming more significant in both political and consumer contexts.
The president of the company elaborated that the Elizabeth City facility will concentrate on producing two new models of attic stairs: fire-resistant and thermally insulating. These were specifically designed to comply with American construction standards. The company does not rule out expanding its product offerings in the US market further, but first aims to acquire operational experience and better prepare for potential developments in the commercial landscape.
Florek noted that the decision to select North Carolina as the investment site was influenced by multiple factors: proximity to the Norfolk seaport – one of the largest container terminals on the eastern seaboard, a favorable tax structure – with a CIT rate of 2.25 percent, excellent transportation access via interstate highway I-95, and the ability to quickly initiate production in the acquired industrial facility with options for expansion.
Employees are primarily of Polish descent
Hiring at the new facility will primarily focus on local workers, including individuals of Polish descent residing in the United States. The management team will also receive support from personnel dispatched from the company’s headquarters in Poland.
Production in the USA is intended to complement the operations of FAKRO’s factories in Poland. This new investment is expected to boost demand for components and raw materials produced domestically. The company also anticipates an increase in sales within the American market, which could positively influence the entire FAKRO Group. At present, the company does not plan additional foreign investments in other nations but does not dismiss the possibility in the future should production conditions in Poland and the European Union deteriorate.
FAKRO was established in 1991 by Ryszard Florek. The company’s primary focus is the production of roof windows, mainly crafted from wood. The company exports its products to numerous countries. Transitioning from a small family-run business, FAKRO has evolved into an international corporation, employing over 4,000 people, with its products available in more than 60 countries.
