In the latest issue of Forbes magazine, CEO Mikołaj Placek discusses the current state of the Polish and wider European window‑joinery markets and recounts the firm’s transformation from a local window maker into a European leader.
Placek stresses that relentless pursuit of excellence and the introduction of cutting‑edge technological solutions have been decisive factors in OKNOPLAST’s success. The company not only regularly raises industry standards but also continues to invest heavily in research and development. Thanks to this strategy, OKNOPLAST now competes with the largest European brands and exports its products to 21 countries.
In the article, the CEO recalls his early days on the production floor and the period when OKNOPLAST was just taking its first steps in Western markets. He notes that the initial foray abroad was extremely challenging: at the outset, Western customers regarded Polish brands as low‑quality. German and French companies viewed Polish entrepreneurs with caution, and building trust and reputation required considerable effort and determination. OKNOPLAST had to prove the quality of its products while also overcoming prejudices and stereotypes about Polish goods. Through consistent investment in top‑tier standards and innovation, the company gradually changed that perception.
“We approached the matter with ambition. We wanted to show Europe that Polish firms can conquer Western European markets … The beginning was not easy—Polish products in Western Europe were not seen as much better than Chinese ones. It took us some time to win Western customers over,”
recalls CEO Mikołaj Placek.
Looking ahead, Placek sees tremendous potential for further expansion, both within Europe and beyond. He emphasizes that international success demands not only high‑quality products but also the flexibility to adapt to customers’ evolving needs. Through strategic decisions and hard work, OKNOPLAST has earned customers’ trust and become one of the industry’s leading window manufacturers.
