Polish Market No.1 (280)/2019

PU B LISHED SIncE 199 6 No. 1 (280) /2019 :: www.polishmarket.com.pl

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16th PEARLS of thE PoLiSh Economy gALA ...............................

StRaDiVaRiuS ComeS to poLanD

“I belIeve

...............................

that we are now able to open the Polish economy up toward culture and break mental barriers.”

maeStRo JanuSZ WaWRoWSki

Roman Ziemian and Stephan moRgenSteRn sponsored the purchase of the “polonia” stradivarius

ONTENT 6 7

FROM THE PRESIDENT’S PRESS OFFICE

52 AN EXCEPTIONAL VIOLINIST - JANUSZ WAWROWSKI

FROM THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION CENTRE

OUR GUESTS

8 NEW ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY

PAYS OFF – TADEUSZ KOŚCIŃSKI, UNDERSECRETARY OF STATE, MINISTRY OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND TECHNOLOGY

54 PEOPLE ARE MOST IMPORTANT -

ROMAN ZIEMIAN, FUTURENET PLATFORM FOUNDER

58 GUESTS GIVE THUMBS UP 66 GDYNIA BUILDING A WORLD-CLASS

PORT – ADAM MELLER, PRESIDENT, PORT

OF GDYNIA AUTHORITY

10 POLAND ABOVE PROJECTIONS - PIOTR

68 FOR POLAND’S BETTER FOOD

12 THE SOCIAL DIMENSION OF THE

71 METLIFE RECOGNISED AS THE PEARL

ARAK, DIRECTOR, POLISH ECONOMIC INSTITUTE

ECONOMY - PROF. ELŻBIETA MĄCZYŃSKA, PRESIDENT, POLISH ECONOMIC SOCIETY

16TH PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY GALA

15 REPORT FROM THE PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY AWARD CEREMONY

24 WINNERS OF THE RANKING 30 HONORARY PEARLS 38 PHOTO REPORT 48 CARING FOR MONIUSZKO - JOLANTA PSZCZÓŁKOWSKA-PAWLIK

50 I HAVE ALWAYS FOLLOWED MY OWN PATH – KATARZYNA GÄRTNER

SECURITY - AGNIESZKA ŻYRO, PRESIDENT, ANWIL

OF THE POLISH ECONOMY – MIROSŁAW KISYK, PRESIDENT, METLIFE POLAND

72 A BREEDING GROUND FOR BUSINESS

TALENT - MAREK NOWAK, PRIME WARDEN, GUILD OF METALWORKERS AND OTHER TRADES

COP24 CLIMATE CHANGE SUMMIT

74 KATOWICE PACKAGE IS ADOPTED 76 COAL 4.0 78 JSW COAL COMPANY SPREADING

ITS WINGS – DANIEL OZON, PRESIDENT, JASTRZĘBSKA SPÓŁKA WĘGLOWA

EDITORIAL

E

ach year January is a month of hope. Whatever the past year threw at us, good or bad, on New Year’s Eve it inevitably ends up on the scrap heap. The New Year, we are positive, must be better, happier and more prosperous. It goes without saying, magical thinking at its best. So, it’s all going to be fine, won’t it?

Well, things seem to be going slightly downhill, European Commission analysts warn. Not drastically, though. A drop from the respectable 4% growth to 3.8% on a global scale is expected (excluding the EU.) Naturally, some economies will continue to do very well, others less so. Some will just need to trim a bit of the fat, others will need to dig deeper. But what course is the US economy likely to take?

On the one hand, Donald Trump’s tax reforms and his trade protectionism boost growth and strengthen the dollar. On the other, Fed Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has refused to retire and uses interest rate hikes to somewhat cool down the President’s temperament. What do analysts have to say to this? Inflation and unemployment are down, evidently thanks to Trump’s measures, while GDP growth is slight, credit for which goes to Powell. One more reason to stay calm are forecasts for China, which is troubled by US tariffs. 2019 in China is the Year of the Pig whose motto is “Don’t worry, be happy.” It is also the seventieth anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. The country has announced a change in its economic strategy: from an investment-driven economy to one driven by consumption.

Prospects appear gloomier for the emerging markets and Europe. It’s already clear that US tariff wars have not just meant direct hits against the EU and Germany. Europe is also affected by sanctions against China and Iran.

Nevertheless, all basic indices are expected to go up, only within the 1.5-2% bracket. Especially the eurozone cannot expect impressive

growth rates. Worse still, to what extent it is likely to be affected by the possible Brexit fallout is anyone’s guess.

Against this backdrop, Poland’s economic problems seem tiny by comparison. This country can look forward to 3% GDP growth, which could go up to as much as 4% if world tension subsides. The inflation target looks realistic, considering that prices keep growing in a moderate way. Exports may have slowed down, but not a lot. A respectable 4% consumption growth, fuelled by rising wages, is admittedly below the past two years’ levels.

Can GDP growth go back to the previous over 5% level? Last year a 5.2 % growth was recorded, according to a November 2018 OECD forecast. This year unemployment is expected to drop further, to 3.2%, inflation is to amount to 2.7%. The current account deficit is to average 1% and the public debt to GDP ratio (based on EU methodology) is to drop by as much as 3 percentage points to the level of 46.2 %. The Polish economy is thus relatively balanced.

Among the 34 countries included in the OECD statistics, it is second only to Ireland in terms of the growth rate. However, apart from heaps of praise, OECD analysts also have a word of warning against possible threats. Poland could do well to take heed of these.

We would thus like to wish “Polish Market” readers not just a happy but also wise and prudent New Year.

In this edition, we feature a report from “Polish Market’s” Pearls of the Polish Economy and Honorary Pearls Gala, which was held at the Royal Castle in Warsaw on December 11. We present the winners of the Pearls in the respective categories. In the magazine you will also find a story on the two hundredth birth anniversary of the renowned composer Stanisław Moniuszko, known as the father of the Polish opera. At the Gala we inaugurated the Moniuszko Year with a recital of the composer’s works performed by Grammy Award winner pianist Włodek Pawlik, incidentally the winner of a Polish Market Honorary Pearl in 2015.

Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek Editor-in-Chief President of Rynek Polski Publishers Co. Ltd.

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ECONOMY

80 BOILER MAKER ON A PATH OF INNOVATION - ANTONI PIETKIEWICZ, PRESIDENT FABRYKA KOTŁÓW SEFAKO SA

82 OUTRUNNING THE COMPETITION – OSSA MACHINERY

90 SECOND CHANCE – STANISŁAW MONIUSZKO’S BIRTH CENTENARY

94 FINE AND SOCIALLY ENGAGED ARTS – RAFAŁ OLBIŃSKI

WORKS

ORGANIC FOOD

83 THE CENTRE PROMOTES SMART GROWTH – CENTRUM

98 A CHANCE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH THE SUPPORT

84 KRZYSZTOF DOMARECKI - INVESTMENTS WHICH MAY

100 ETERNO – OVER 100 YEARS OF FAMILY TRADITION

INTELIGENTNEGO ROZWOJU S.C.

CHANGE THE IMAGE OF THE COUNTRY

CULTURE

101 JAN MAZUREK, MICHAEL STRÖM -

88 CULTURAL MONITOR

1 (280)/2019

OF MASTERS

ECONOMIC MONITOR

PUBLISHER: Oficyna Wydawnicza RYNEK POLSKI Sp. z o.o.

(RYNEK POLSKI Publishers Co. Ltd.)

Polish Market :: 1 (280) /2019

PRESIDENT: Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek

...............................

16th PEARLS of thE PoLiSh Economy gALA ...............................

StRaDiVaRiuS ComeS to poLanD

“I belIeve

...............................

that we are now able to open the Polish economy up toward culture and break mental barriers.”

maeStRo JanuSZ WaWRoWSki

and

Roman Ziemian Stephan moRgenSteRn sponsored the purchase of the “polonia” stradivarius

CONTRIBUTORS: Agnieszka Turakiewicz

VICE - PRESIDENTS: Błażej Grabowski, Grażyna Jaskuła

GRAPHIC DESIGN: Agnieszka Charuba, Joanna Wiktoria Grabowska

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PU B LISHED SIncE 199 6 No. 1 (280) /2019 :: www.polishmarket.com.pl

TRANSLATION: Sylwia Wesołowska-Betkier, Agit

Cover: ROMAN ZIEMIAN and STEPHAN MORGENSTERN sponsored the purchase of the “Polonia” Stradivarius

MANAGING EDITOR: Rafał Kiepuszewski

Oficyna Wydawnicza RYNEK POLSKI Sp. z o.o.

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WRITERS/EDITORS: Jan Sosna, Maciej Proliński, Jerzy Bojanowicz, Jan Mazurek, Andrzej Kazimierski, Janusz Turakiewicz, Janusz Korzeń

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PRESIDENT

POLAND IN MOURNING

P

(Sources: president.pl, PAP), Photos: PAP

olish President Andrzej Duda announced a period of national mourning following the tragic death of Gdańsk Mayor Paweł Adamowicz, beginning in the evening of January 18 to last until the following day. The funeral ceremony was held in Gdańsk cathedral on January 19. Adamowicz was stabbed by a recently released convicted criminal during the Grand Orchestra of Christmas Charity fundraiser finale in the Baltic port city. He was rushed to the Medical University of Gdańsk hospital but died the following day. "Paweł Adamowicz has died, which has plunged my country in deep sorrow as one of the most tragic incidents in Poland in recent years," the President said in an address.

NEW YEAR'S ADDRESS

I

n 2019, we will remind the world how great the Polish freedom spirit is on the 80th anniversary of the outbreak of World War 2 and the 20th anniversary of Poland's membership in NATO. We will also commemorate the 15th anniversary of Poland's accession to the European Union. It is our common duty to build and strengthen Poland. In the new year we will elect our representatives to the European Parliament and both houses of Parliament. This way, each of us contributes to an independent, secure and stable state. However, citizens' decisions also require responsibility on the part of politicians of all colours. Election campaign is a good time for a substantive discussion about the future of Poland. (excerpts)

BOOSTING POLAND’S INTERNATIONAL STANDING “Last year we commenced our 2-year-long, non-permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council, whereas in Katowice we presided over the session of the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change,”

6 polish market

President Andrzej Duda told a meeting in Warsaw deovoted to Poland’s international relations. “Its successful outcome was reflected in the adoption of the Katowice Rulebook, which was possible thanks to the readiness for compromise demonstrated by all parties participating in the negotiations. I would like to thank your countries for your cooperation and for appreciation expressed regarding the way the Katowice conference was organised.

The year 2018 was marked, once again, by a high level of my international activity. I feel personal satisfaction with the fact that my visits and discussions with foreign partners, apart from the political content, are also enhancing our security, including energy security, and producing tangible economic benefits.

We joined the group of developed economies, with our GDP reaching 5%, and Polish businesses recording a steady growth in exports,” President Andrzej Duda underscored.

“International events scheduled to take place in Poland this year, such as the conference on the Middle East and the Berlin Process Summit on Western Balkans, will constitute our contribution to the development of multilateral diplomacy. We believe that this kind of diplomacy is feasible and that it can

be effective. While occupying our deserved place in the family of European nations, we want to actively join in the building of a united Europe. The sources of the European unity were referred to by John Paul II when he said “Poland's entry into the structures of the European Union, with equal rights to the other countries, is for our nation an expression of historical justice and, on the other hand, can constitute an enrichment for Europe. Europe needs Poland. Poland needs Europe. We treat seriously the obligation imposed on us

by John Paul II for we feel co-responsible for the future of the Community and wish for it to find a harmony of values. The nearest opportunity to do that will be provided by political changes connected both with the European Parliament elections, as well as the end of term of the incumbent European Commission and that of the President of the European Council. A new leadership of the main EU institutions should largely embark upon the task of bringing the European Union closer to its citizens and restoring the stability and internal balance whose absence is felt so much nowadays. Today is the time for the Republic of European Nations,” President Andrzej Duda said. (excerpts)

PRIME MINISTER

CHANGES TO BENEFIT ORDINARY POLES

“

emigrated from Poland. As he pointed out, all the government's actions are aimed at putting a stop to this brain drain. "We want the Polish economy to be innovative, because it is the only thing that will ensure rapid development, benefit entrepreneurs and, secure high wages for employees. The economy is not about abstract concepts, the economy is always about the human being. Keeping Polish families in mind, we have planned a series of activities that will build a bridge between the world of science and the world of economy," he added.

“

WE ARE NOT AFRAID OF CHANGES AS THEY MUST LEAD POLES TO A EUROPEAN STANDARD OF LIVING,”

CYBERSECURITY IS KEY

“

We have to defend Poland, the European Union and the US against cyber attacks.

There is no country that will manage this on its own,” Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told a conference entitled "A New Initiative for Poland: A Future Global Leader in Securing the 4th Industrial Revolution," which was organised by the Atlantic Council in Warsaw on January 16. The aim of the conference was to highlight the role of the Polish private sector in the creation of innovative solutions related to cybersecurity. During the meeting, issues related to the digital transformation in Poland, the role of innovation, the fight against disinformation and education in the field of cybersecurity were discussed. The

Prime Minister expressed his hope that the conference would turn into a long-term cooperation, which would enable the development of Polish and American companies specialising in cybersecurity. “I firmly believe that this cooperation will allow Polish IT companies to develop their activities on a global scale,” stressed the Prime Minister.

The conference took place on the 100th anniversary of the establishment of PolishAmerican state cooperation. The meeting was attended by experts in the fields of cybersecurity, IT, innovation, defence and foreign policy from the US, Poland and other European countries.

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Photos: Adam Guz KPRM

We have fulfilled our obligations and maintained our credibility,” said Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki at the #WorkForPoland conference in December, summarizing the results of his cabinet’s work. “We are not afraid of changes as they must lead Poles to a European standard of living,” he added. Deputy Prime Ministers Beata Szydło, Piotr Gliński and Jarosław Gowin also took part in this conference. Mateusz Morawiecki pointed out that the changes introduced by previous governments were not sufficiently adapted to Polish citizens’ needs and expectations. "We try to make changes that benefit the ordinary person, the young and the elderly, the hard-working people. The present economic model is intended to increase wages, so that they are more on par with the West. This is what being European means to me," said Mateusz Morawiecki. Poles want to enjoy the European standard of living and the government will do everything to make it happen," he added.

“We’ve kicked our economy into high gear,” said the Prime Minister, pointing out that economic growth has reached over 5% for the fifth quarter in a row. He added that the current budget deficit and unemployment rate were among the lowest since the collapse of communism in 1989. “This proves the strength of our public finances and the vitality of the Polish economy,” Mateusz Morawiecki said. He also asserted that the government’s welfare programmes, e.g. for the development of rural areas, pensioners and the 500 plus family benefit, have guaranteed funding from the state budget.

Answering questions from the audience, the Prime Minister said that a Polexit scenario was absolutely impossible. “I am convinced that the next 10 years will mark a leap in Poland’s economic development allowing the country to become an even stronger pillar of the European Union,” he said.

Addressing the same conference, deputy Prime Minister Jarosław Gowin emphasized that since 1989 30,000 scientists had

OUR GUEST

NEW ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY

PAYS OFF

2

018 was a good year, although we do not have comprehensive statistics yet. However, data available for the period to the end of October 2018 indicate that the rate of growth in goods exports may have reached 7%. With an almost 13% growth in services exports, we stand a chance to have an exports growth rate of as much as 8%, that is 1 pct. point above the figure planned under the Strategy for Responsible Development.

Looking at more detailed data, one can indeed notice some threats and challenges for the expansion of exports in coming years. Luckily, we know about them and monitor them. Of course, Brexit and future rules of trade with Britain are a big question mark. Our businesses may become more cautious in planning their activity on that market. We are in regular contact with them and are preparing any possible scenarios for them.

8 polish market

Remarks by Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Technology TADEUSZ KOŚCIŃSKI on Poland’s exports policy in the context of deteriorating global economic conditions. A summary of the effectiveness of Poland’s exports strategy in 2018 and prospects for 2019, with account taken of the most important directions in foreign economic relations.

INSPIRING EXPORTS

There are more positive news from international markets. We are still recording excellent results in our exports to Germany, France, Holland and Belgium. In 2018, these countries were our Western European drivers of growth. This is why we are planning two large economic conferences in spring – in Berlin and Amsterdam – with the participation of businesses from such sectors as electric mobility and the green economy.

We are developing very strong cooperation in the high-tech area with Belgium, especially with Flanders. There is also much interest on the part of Belgian firms in investing in Poland.

STRONG POSITION

We also know how to exploit our very strong position in Central Europe. Our exports to the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary continue to grow steadily. The campaign of our economic diplomacy in the Balkans

(Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Macedonia and other countries), a campaign in which a large number of our businesses took part, resulted in a 32% increase in our exports. The Union – Western Balkans business summit, which is to take place in Poznań in July 2019, proves Poland’s growing role in the region. We are leaders of the Three Seas Fund initiative. The money will be spent on strategic infrastructure projects in the region. At the same time, we have established a network of Three Seas chambers of commerce to strengthen mutual trade ties.

"The campaign of our economic diplomacy in Balkan countries resulted in a 32% increase in our exports."

GOOD NEWS FROM DISTANT PLACES – NEW PAIH OFFICES

We are doing increasingly well on non-European markets. Exports to the United States

OUR GUEST

are growing at a rate of 11%. Our hard work over the past two years is producing results: more than 20 large diplomatic events, dozens of initiatives of the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH), around 20 fairs with our promotional stands, a large number of forums and business missions and three new trade offices. This alone has created a positive climate and brought notable results.

The same is the case with the ASEAN region where we have recorded 25% growth.

The region is inhabited by 600 million people and in recent years it has been opening its markets increasingly broadly and liberalising access for foreign suppliers. The role of intermediary countries in this trade is diminishing. We have started to trade independently with ASEAN nations. Polish IT solutions and services are increasingly present in South East Asia. PAIH trade offices have been set up in this region as well.

FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS

We, as the European Union, have worked out and signed a free trade agreement with Singapore, an agreement which actively protects the interests of our businesses. Soon, a similar agreement will be signed with Vietnam while agreements with Indonesia and the Philippines are also in the pipeline. Our companies are already exploring these markets and establishing business relations there to be ready for new opportunities. The ASEAN region is proving to be relatively easier for our businesses than India and the Chinese market – the mythical Holy Grail of our exports. In Asia, we also have a free trade agreement with Japan, an important step towards opening this market broader to European companies.

SAVINGS FOR POLISH BUSINESS

It is worth stressing on this occasion that Poland has become the 7th country in the EU among those benefitting the most from EU trade agreements in goods exports. Thanks to preferential tariffs introduced by trade agreements, Polish businesses saved in 2017 EUR465 million. Additionally, in 2017 we recorded the sixth highest result in the European Union in terms of the use of preferences in exports to non-European countries.

"Poland has become the 7th country in the EU among those benefitting the most from EU trade agreements in goods exports."

A BAR SET HIGH

In 2019, our priorities remain unchanged. We still set the bar for exports growth in 2019 at 7%. We will also continue to work to ensure that as many businesses as possible join the exporters’ group. It is the most important long-term goal of our programme “Fashion for Exports.” We will be promoting 12 priority sectors and high-tech goods exports, and attaching great importance to the diversification of exports and the entry of Polish business onto non-European markets.

"In 2019, our priorities remain unchanged: exports growth of 7%."

SUPPORT FOR BUSINESS

The closest possible cooperation with business is important for us because, apart from managing trade policy and economic relations, we want to prepare export support instruments in the best possible way. The most important instrument is a network of 70 foreign offices of the Polish Investment and Trade Agency. We finished building the network in December. Most of the offices are located in non-European countries where our businesses need assistance the most. We have employed the best specialists, people with long experience on specific markets, large contracts and business knowledge. The task of foreign trade offices is to directly help businesses interested in individual markets.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR BUSINESS

Financial support programmes carried out by the Polish Investment and Trade Agency and the Polish Enterprise Development Agency (PARP) are another large area of activity. Businesses have an opportunity to receive funding for promotional activities on foreign markets from European sources under the Go to Brand programme. We have considerably liberalised and simplified its rules. For example, funding is available for any fair, rather than an event from a specific closed list.

PREPARATIONS FOR EXPO

Poland will be present at key fairs in the world with its own national stands promoting our own solutions. Among such events is the Medica medical equipment fair in Düsseldorf, Arab Health in Dubai and the Big5 construction fair also in Dubai. The year 2019 will be marked by preparations for Poland’s

“

THIS YEAR WILL BE MARKED BY PREPARATIONS FOR POLAND’S PARTICIPATION IN EXPO 2020 IN DUBAI. WE WOULD LIKE TO EMPHASISE OUR PRESENCE IN THIS PART OF THE WORLD.

”

participation in Expo 2020 in Dubai. In the coming two years we would like to emphasise our presence in this part of the world, increase the number of businesses and export relations. It is a very promising region.

Businesses from various sectors expect us to support their promotional activities.

ADVISORY AND TRAINING PROGRAMMES

PAIH conducts the programme entitled “Polish Technology Bridges,” through which it offers high quality advisory and training services, preparing businesses for entry onto the most promising markets. Additionally, PARP carries out the programme for the internationalisation of small and mediumsized businesses from eastern Poland, and the programme for the internationalisation of Key National Cluster, through which we support clusters in their foreign expansion, with a special focus on high-tech products. The four programmes are worth over PLN500 million.

We have planned many more initiatives for 2019. It is also worth mentioning the implementation of a new version of the export promotion programme trade.gov.pl, and work on an instrument assisting our businesses in exporting through electronic channels. Its working name is e-exports. Additionally, 10 information and promotion conferences for Polish businesses will be held in spring. I wish to cordially invite you to them.

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OUR GUEST

POLAND ABOVE PROJECTIONS

The IMF, OECD, European Commission and the National Bank of Poland (NBP) – none of these forecasting centres has correctly projected that Poland’s GDP growth in 2018 would be as high as 5%. “The forecasts did not come closer to the actual figures until autumn,” PIOTR ARAK, director of the Polish Economic Institute (PIE), a think tank acting as an advisory body for the Polish government, tells "Polish Market."

What determined Poland’s economic growth in the past 12 months and what prospects are there for the year 2019?

Many analytical centres underestimated Poland’s development potential in 2018. What should this widespread underestimation be attributed to?

I would distinguish two types of forecasting centres.

First, there are public institutions, such as the Ministry of Finance and the National Bank of Poland. When forecasting the country’s economic growth, they try to be conservative and come up with lower projections for future developments so as to have room for possible revisions. After all, economic growth is reflected in the national budget on the expenditure side, in which case one takes the approach of a chief accountant who prefers to plan cautiously enough to have coverage for liabilities at any time. Independent institutions, like for example the OECD, World Bank and the European Commission, represent the other point of view.

And here there is the question of how optimistic they were at the beginning of 2018 in estimating various economic trends. I think that for some time many people had an excessively pessimistic approach. Additionally, both employers and forecasting institutions underestimated the impact PM

“

WE HELD FAST TO THE GOLD STANDARD AND HAD THE LONGEST RECESSION IN EUROPE. SO IT IS NOT WORTH BELIEVING IN DOGMAS.” 10 polish market

of real wage growth on the Polish economy. That our individual consumption beat all records was due to the surplus income – resulting from social policy and its redistribution elements, on the one hand, and a very rapid growth in real wages making up for the stagnation of previous, postcrisis, years, on the other. Moreover, as much as 47.2% of Polish businesses noted a rise in demand for their services and products. Consequently, they froze their investment spending as they faced the problem of wage funds being too small – they failed to plan them to be sufficiently high.

Although in recent years we have tried to convey through the media that the time is coming when we will have a labour shortage problem and that unemployment will be falling, we have not managed to communicate this message to employers.

Nobody wanted to listen.

Because it would be necessary to change the HR management model, attitude to employees and stereotypes shaped over the past 25 years. In recent years one can see that the state’s policy has been more inclusive, in contrast to the previous years when many expenditures and reforms which could have helped Polish families were restricted because of caution and the effort to keep the national budget in check. I’m not sure if that was necessary.

We had the highest material deprivation rates in the EU. It was a problem we were unable to solve. Today, these rates are below the EU average and lower than in Germany.

PM

PM

Were Poland’s abilities underestimated because of the Greek Syndrome as observers tended to hear alarm bells whenever a country started to have difficulty collecting

OUR GUEST

taxes and at the same time pursued a very active policy of wage and social benefit growth?

PA: In Greece spending policy was not oriented at growth or countercyclical measures, nor even specific social groups. In the case of Poland, and even in the case of what Italy has proposed for 2019, these are specific targeted solutions, which increase the consumption potential of selected segments of society. Italy has a quasi-basic income and preferential treatment for newly established businesses. These are elements of a policy mix which may enable Italy to perform better than projected and reach an economic growth rate above 1% instead of 0.5-0.7%. In my view, that discussion about Greece led us to think about these policy mixes in a very cautious, conventional and classical way instead of thinking about solutions which may also have countercyclical and growth effect. After all, this is how all European countries came out of the Great Crisis in the 1930s – currencies were devalued and public spending on infrastructure was raised.

Except for Poland.

Yes, because we held fast to the gold standard and had the longest recession in Europe. So it is not worth believing in dogmas.

PM

Can the experience with inaccurate forecasts for Poland inspire hope that the expected slowdown of the economy in 2019 from a rate of 5% to 3.8-4% may actually not materialise?

It is for certain that in 2019 and 2020 the pace of growth will slow. We cannot be as optimistic as in previous years because this is indicated by all signals. Additionally, there is Brexit, an extremely unpredictable issue which may have enormous economic repercussions for Poland. If the situation leads to increased uncertainty businesses will not be investing and this will have an adverse impact on our country as well. Also, a slowdown in Germany, France and generally in the euro area directly impacts on orders for Polish businesses. We should not rely exclusively on internal orders and the stimulation of internal demand. Of course, we are not threatened by recession in coming years because our market is large enough.

However, to achieve a higher rate of growth, of 5% for instance, we need to increase our share in global trade – not only in the European Union, but also Asia and even Latin America. This means that we need to have a number of high-margin products to be sold under their own brands on those markets. And this is probably the key problem for Poland’s growth. We have many firms, even mediumsized ones, which have enough capital and sales sufficiently high for them to enter European markets. But it turns out that there are discriminatory barriers which make this entrance impossible. This conflict will be growing, especially in the European Union, and we have to resolve it somehow. Our 5% rate of economic growth depends on whether we manage to join the global market.

PM

PM

The Polish Economic Institute, which has officially become an advisory body for the Polish government under a law of September 22, 2018, has a great role to play here.

It is yet another institution of this kind. The previous ones are assessed by many commentators of public life in our country as non-partisan and ones that have maintained analytical independence for many years. The first one was the Centre for Eastern Studies (OSW) established in the early 1990s. It analysed export potentials for the Polish economy entering the markets of the disintegrating Soviet Union.

Another one is the Polish Institute of International Affairs (PISM), which supports with its expertise the minister of foreign affairs and the prime minister. Now, the Institute will be setting up its foreign agencies, in Washington and Brussels, so that Poland’s analytical thought can join the debate with the world’s best brains in areas where Poland should be present. As both the OSW and PISM focus on international affairs and diplomacy, the Polish Economic Institute was established to deal directly with the economy, investment and the financial aspect of foreign relations. In the past, this role was played to some extent by the Institute for Market, Consumption and Business Cycle Research (IBRKK), an advisory body for the minister of the economy. Being subordinated directly to the prime minister, we have a higher status and are to offer our expertise directly to the prime minister’s office, but also to various ministries which are expected to use it: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Technology, Ministry of Investment and Development and Ministry of Infrastructure.

“

WE HAVE MANY FIRMS, EVEN MEDIUM-SIZED ONES, WHICH HAVE ENOUGH CAPITAL AND SALES SUFFICIENTLY HIGH FOR THEM TO ENTER EUROPEAN MARKETS.”

A new thing about the Polish Economic Institute is that its activity is public. How can this be translated into the quality of public debate and the way in which research studies are conducted.

As a public institution, we have to adhere to transparency rules. This means that we have to account for every zloty we spend to auditing institutions – the money has to be spent as well as possible. In our writing and publishing activity we also want to open ourselves to foreign intellectual markets and to be present in debates not only in Poland, but first of all in the European Union. If we have a single market for products and services why shouldn’t we have a single market for thoughts and ideas? It seems we exported too little in this area in the past. We would like the debate on some solutions and projects seen from our country’s perspective to be held also abroad. Without it we are prevented from influencing the European debate although we have the potential to do so using our experts and reputable think-tanks. Too long was our voice on Eu• ropean economic policy unheard.

PM

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ECONOMY

THE SOCIAL DIMENSION OF THE ECONOMY In order to effectively function, the economy should have adequate social roots, with economic growth fostering social and ecological advancement. In that sense, the economy displays triple sustainability and harmonisation. Unfortunately, this is hardly the case with the global economy, with symptoms of progressing disorder, asymmetry, and malfunction, becoming increasingly vivid PROF. ELŻBIETA MĄCZYŃSKA, President of the Polish Economic Society (PTE) writes in the following remarks for “Polish Market.” asymmetry in the global economy. These are coupled with what is known as anomie, i.e. chaos in the system of values, which is the inability to say what is right and wrong or to decide whether being greedy is a good thing. All these unfavourable phenomena contradict the theory of economics as both a social science and a theoretical background for business activities which, by definition, should be oriented towards rationality and improvements in the quality of human life, together with the related system of values.

COMMON UTILITY

T

he growing social inequalities, the progressing social exclusion, and the existence of regions with the persisting problem of hunger, experienced by one billion people in global terms, accompanied by the intensifying symptoms of arrogant thriftlessness and extravagance in the world of the rich, are among the most noticeable reflections of the

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Not incidentally, Thomas Piketty, the author of the bestselling book of 2014, entitled “Capital in the Twenty-First Century,” used the following motto in the introductory section: “Social distinctions can be based only on common utility.” These words come from Article 1 of The Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen adopted in France in 1789, which constituted a governing document for the French Revolution. The Declaration was enacted by the Constituent Assembly, a body appointed by the nation to develop and enact a constitution which, in this case, was meant to abolish the feudal system in France. It is worth noting that, in 2003, the Declaration was entered by UNESCO into the Memory of the World Register listing the documentary heritage of global historical and civilizational value. When analysing income and social inequalities, Piketty frequently referred to riots that occur in various regions of the world, and the fact that they stem from unequal treatment. The 'yellow vest' blockades which have being going on in France for a number of weeks are one of the recent, and most glaring, examples.

ATTEMPTS TO JUSTIFY INEQUALITY

The motto quoted by Piketty is not only fully consistent with the major topic of his deliberations, i.e. the growing social

POLISH ECONOMIC

SOCIETY

A full offer of PTE publications is available in the Societyʼs on-line bookshop: www.ksiazkiekonomiczne.pl Books can be ordered online, in scientific booksellers and in the Polish Economic Societyʼs office at 49 Nowy Świat Str., 00-042 Warsaw, tel. (+48 22) 55 15 401, e-mail: zk@pte.pl

ECONOMY inequalities and their causes, but it also draws the reader's attention to the question of whether such inequalities could be justified through “common utility.” The results of the studies conducted by Piketty, and also by other renowned economists, including Nobel Prize winner Angus Deaton and Anthony Atkinson, seem to contradict this idea, stressing the need to take various preventive actions, including tax-related and educational measures, and the benefits they are likely to bring.

The growing inequalities are becoming a perceptible barrier. Without sufficient demand, the economy cannot effectively develop, considering that, sooner or later, such barriers result in the weakening of the economic growth rate. They can also lead to persistent stagnation, which is what the most prominent economists, including Nobel Prize winner Paul Krugman, are warning us about.

ASYMMETRY IN REDISTRIBUTION OF GOODS

Technological progress has enabled the world to produce larger quantities of goods and services in a more effective manner. However, due to the highly asymmetrical distribution of wealth, the actual demand can hardly keep up with the growing supply. This leads to the syndrome of a surplus economy, i.e. a situation in which shops are overflowing with goods but there are not enough purchasers, and the latter get more and more annoyed with aggressive advertisements. This problem involves virtually all developed countries. Its symptoms are also seen in Poland, which appears ironic, considering that not long ago, i.e. until the end of the 1980s, the country struggled with huge shortages, representing a classic socialist economy of shortage, reflected, among others, by never-ending queues and empty shops.

'SILENCING' PROBLEMS One might be right to say that the excess of goods, including the excessive production potential, acts as “the ‘lubricant’ that softens or silences the creaks in the machinery of adaptation.” However, paradoxically, the surplus economy does not foster demand rationalisation and consumer sovereignty, or labour market rationalisation, as has been pointed out, inter alia, by the outstanding Hungarian economist Janos Kornai. Producers shape supply, manipulate consumers, and, at the same time, tend to disregard the value of labour, especially under cheaplabour conditions. The market thus becomes an arena for promoting manipulation and fraud, as has been vividly described by two Nobel Prize winners, George Akerlof and Robert Shiller, in their book titled “Phishing for Phools.”

"Producers shape supply, manipulate consumers, and, at the same time, tend to disregard the value of labour, especially under cheap-labour conditions."

“A GLASS OF SHAME”, ACCORDING TO SACHS

A situation in which excessive supply goes hand in hand with barriers to demand directly contributes to growing inequalities. These, in turn, are among the most obvious indicators of development-related maladjustments and asymmetries in the contemporary world. Ignacy Sachs, a Polish economist, metaphorically called the growing

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inequalities “a glass of shame”, referring to a situation in which the wealthy take all which is found inside the goblet, whereas others can only get to the small quantities which run into the base at the bottom.

"Ignacy Sachs, a Polish economist, metaphorically called the growing inequalities “a glass of shame”, referring to a situation in which the wealthy take all which is found inside the goblet, whereas others can only get to the small quantities which run into the base at the bottom."

THE OXFAM REPORT

For a couple of years social inequalities have been among the leading topics discussed at the World Economic Forum, which takes place each January in Davos, Switzerland. For the purpose of the Forum, the Oxfam charity organisation develops yearly reports whose results appear increasingly shocking and alarming. Even though the reports might exhibit certain methodological flaws, the analyses published by Oxfam in January 2019, revealing that the wealth of 26 people is equal to that of the poorest half of the world, can hardly be neglected. When such a fortune is accumulated by only a handful of people, the supply gap is likely to intensify, posing a barrier to demand which cannot keep up with the growing supply of diverse goods and services (which is easily expanded due to technological progress.)

THE DEBT SPIRAL

All things considered, economic and business circles, while acting in their own best interests, should take care of the essential social roots of the economy. They should also discourage any economic inequalities or exploitation, as these lead to impoverishment, which not only kills demand, but also threatens democracy as a whole, thus promoting social (including market) exclusion. It is hard for an empty bag to stand upright, and it is not incidental that socially excluded people are forced to take expensive, even usurious, short-term loans, frequently falling victim to the debt spiral. This finds confirmation, inter alia, in the studies conducted by Prof. Iwona Jakubowska-Branicka, whose results have been recently published in a book by the Polish Economic Society.

"It is not incidental that socially excluded people are forced to take expensive, even usurious, short-term loans, frequently falling victim to the debt spiral."

HARMONY IS A MUST

The experience of Scandinavian countries, with their longstanding tradition of combatting inequalities, seems to show how important it is to take care of social harmony. It contributes not only to economic growth and social wellbeing in those countries, but also puts them in a leading positions in numerous international rankings focused on social development, innovation and social justice.

In contrast, the intensifying social exclusion is likely to result, sooner or later, in social revolts. The recent French experience, and in particular the 'yellow vest' protests, should constitute a warning and a major lesson to be learnt.

•

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

16 PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY GALA ROYAL CASTLE 2018

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

The 16th “Polish Market” Gala, held at Warsaw’s Royal Castle on December 11, opened with “The Song at Dusk” by Stanisław Moniuszko, an outstanding Polish composer and patriot to whom the Polish parliament had dedicated the year 2019. Several hundred eminent guests turned up at the Royal Castle, despite the cold December weather. The president of Poland was represented by Tadeusz Deszkiewicz and Prof. Andrzej Zybertowicz, the Polish parliament by deputy Senate Speaker Adam Bielan, the government

by Minister of Labour and Social Policy Elżbieta Rafalska, Government Commissioner for International Dialogue Anna Maria Anders, former Minister of the Economy Janusz Steinhoff and deputy Minister of Justice Łukasz Piebiak. The Ministry of Investment and Development and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, patrons of the Gala, were represented by deputy Ministers Małgorzata Jarosińska-Jedynak and Tadeusz Romańczuk, respectively. Among those invited were also Governor of Mazowieckie Province Zdzisław Sipiera, business people, media people, and representatives of the world of politics, diplomacy, culture and science.

T

hose gathered were greeted by Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, President of the Oficyna Wydawnicza Rynek Polski publishing company and editor-in-chief of “Polish Market.”

She pointed out that the Gala was part of the celebrations of the centenary of Poland regaining its independence. Tadeusz Deszkiewicz, a representative of the Polish president, referred to this issue by stressing that for over 20 years “Polish Market” had consistently promoted the Polish economy, science and culture and that its Pearl awards had become an increasingly highly valued public distinction in recognition of Polish successes in these spheres. “I was very happy when distinctions promoting Polish science and culture were added to the Pearls promoting the Polish economy,” he said. “At present, we have a golden age for Polish culture and a very special time for the realm of music, which is very close to my heart. When it comes to operatic music, Polish voices reign supreme on the world’s biggest stages.” Deputy Senate Speaker Adam Bielan spoke in a similar vein.

Apart from extending his own wishes to the laureates

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of the Pearl awards, he read out a congratulatory letter from Senate Speaker Stanisław Karczewski, a patron of the Gala while popular presenter Artur Orzech read out congratulations and wishes on behalf of Speaker of the

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY Lower Chamber of Polish Parliament Marek Kuchciński.

A letter from another patron of the Gala, deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and Higher Education Jarosław Gowin, was read out by his adviser Paweł Skotarek. The exceptionally long list of Honorary Patrons of the 16th Gala was complemented by Minister of Entrepreneurship and Technology Jadwiga Emilewicz, Minister of Sport and Tourism Witold Bańka, Prof. Jan Szmidt, Head of the Conference of Rectors of Academic Schools in Poland, and Prof. Elżbieta Mączyńska-Ziemacka, President of the Polish Economic Society.

After the official addresses, the Gala participants were granted some respite by artists: Karolina Róża Kowalczyk, soprano, Jacek Szponarski, tenor, Jolanta PszczółkowskaPawlik, piano, and Włodek Pawlik Trio (Włodek Pawlik, piano, Paweł Pańta, double bass, Adam Zagórski, drums).

They performed, of course, well-known songs by Stanisław Moniuszko.

Following the enthusiastically received performance by the Polish virtuosos, the time came for the serious assessment of the Polish economy. Prof. Tomasz Szapiro of the Department of Decision Analysis and Support Warsaw School of Economics explained why only 105 companies of the over 2,000 submitted for evaluation received the Pearl of the Polish Economy title. The Department’s research workers have developed a method for examining the composite efficiency of businesses and the algorithm for the Pearls of the Polish Economy ranking. And then, it was finally possible to start presenting the best nine laureates of the 16th ranking with commemorative statuettes designed by graphic artist Marek Biczak. This

was done by deputy Minister of Investment and Development Małgorzata Jarosińska-Jedynak in the company of Prof. Tomasz Szapiro, Prof. Jan Szmidt and Presi• dent Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek.

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

AN ADDRESS BY KRYSTYNA WOŹNIAK-TRZOSEK, “POLISH MARKET” PRESIDENT AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AT THE PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY GALA Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to welcome all the esteemed guests on this fine December evening. It is a special time for all Poles. This year we are celebrating the 100th anniversary of regaining our independence. That is why, in each of this year's editions of the “Polish Market” magazine, starting from the January issue, we have reminded our readers of the glorious moments of Polish history. We have shown the impressive contribution of Poles to the development of not only the Polish economy, but also the global economy, science, technology and culture.

As the nation marks the independence anniversary, we are joining the celebrations with this gala event at the Royal Castle, which is a symbol of the Modern Polish State, a symbol of our identity. During this centennial year, both the walls and the interiors of the Castle, where anniversary celebrations have been held, have assumed a special splendour. Our Pearls awards have also gained a special sparkle. For the sixteenth time, they will honour the best Polish enterprises, institutions and people who have rendered particular services to the economy, science, culture, sports, and the promotion of patriotic and social values.

The end of the year is a time to take stock, but also to make plans for the future. Economists are increasingly forecasting an economic downturn with a decline in the economic growth rate. In turn, scientists predict that artificial intelligence will take over the world in a way that can pose a threat to humanity. However, let us leave these doomsayers aside, because this evening I would like to share with you only good news. And, undoubtedly, this good news includes the fact that Poland is currently one of the fastest growing European economies with their own currency. We have also managed to achieve macroeconomic equilibrium and stability of the financial system. In addition, Poland has advanced from the group of developing countries to the developed countries’ club. If we make sure that current events do not overshadow the process of planning the future, building a long-term strategy - not just for a few years ahead, but at least for several generations - then we will perhaps eventually manage to join the world's first league. It is important that we should be a country friendly to young people, because we do not want them to leave; friendly to the older generation, so that they can live here and die with dignity; a country friendly to entrepreneurs; and a country friendly toward the environment. For although we live in the Anthropocene epoch, that is the era of excessive human interference in nature, we are nevertheless looking for ways to conserve nature. Currently, the participants of the 24th World Climate Summit, which is taking place in Katowice, are deliberating on those issues.

But I must tell you that already 1,500 years ago, St. Augustine thus wrote about the essence of humanity in the context of Man’s relationship with the environment: "Man exists like trees and stones, he lives like plants, he feels like animals,

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he thinks like angels." I reckon that this kind of thinking has not quite caught on in our country. After all, we remember how our great romantic poet, Juliusz Słowacki, wished for the power of his poetry to "make the man in the street into an angel." I don’t know if he succeeded, but I’m convinced that there are many angels among us, yet we don’t always bother to or are able to notice them. Undoubtedly, the great Pole Ignacy Jan Paderewski, believed in this noble quality of the nation when he said in one of his famous speeches: "Though hungry, the Nation does not only crave food, does not only ask for money. It asks you for the ultimate sacrifice of your energy, goodwill, unity and harmony."

Ladies and Gentlemen, The end of the year is also a time when the magic of numbers particularly strongly influences our imagination. What can the number 8, horizontally the sign of infinity, be associated with today? Of course, with the year 1918 when we regained the independence we had been craving for. In the same year Polish women were among the first in Europe and the world to gain full voting rights - we are well aware of that.

However, not all of us know that electoral and civic rights were granted to Polish women not under pressure from the suffragette movement, but in recognition of their role in the regaining of independence by Poland. For it was Polish women who established the Women's League of the Ambulance Service which supported the underground Polish Military Organisation during World War I. I guess that more anniversaries of events that happened in years featuring the figure 8 could be mentioned, but let me just quote a few important, if slightly forgotten, anniversaries. Since TV crews are with us tonight, I’d like to remind you that in 1938 - 80 years ago - the first Polish TV broadcast was transmitted from Napoleona Square in Warsaw (now Powstańców Warszawy Square) and the era of Polish television began. Ten years later, in 1948, or 70 years ago, Polish engineers and mathematicians decided to construct a computing machine - a forerunner of today's computers. And that was the beginning of the era of Polish IT. In turn, in 1968 - 50 years ago – Poland’s first Catholic mass set to rock music was held in St. Christopher’s church in the Warsaw suburb of Podkowa Leśna. The music to this first rock mass was written by Katarzyna Gaertner, who is present here today.

So many memories. Joining in the patriotic independence anniversary celebrations, we have decided to bring back the memory of our great compatriot - musician, composer, patriot, who wrote: "As I travel across Poland, I am inspired by the spirit of Polish folk songs and from them I draw inspiration for all my works." This is how Stanisław Moniuszko wrote about his work. His two-hundredth birth anniversary will soon be celebrated. Tonight you will witness the premiere of a concert dedicated to Stanisław Moniuszko, prepared especially for this ceremony by Jolanta and Włodek Pawlik. Let me remind you that Włodek Pawlik is our Pearl award winner of a few years ago, and also a winner of the Grammy award.

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

Talking about Polish culture and Polish artists, let me recall one more artist who passed away last year: Wojciech Młynarski. I have recently attended the unveiling of a commemorative plaque dedicated to him at the school he went to, which incidentally was also my school, too. It is a school with almost one hundred years of tradition - the Tomasz Zan High School in Pruszków. I remember at this event many of us shed a tear when we sang a beautiful song with the lyrics

by Wojciech Młynarski, and the music by Jerzy "Duduś" Matuszkiewicz. This song, performed by Daria Zawiałow, has been recently nominated for the 2018 Fryderyk award, in the Song of the Year category. Today I’m going to quote an excerpt from this beautiful song, because in this poem there is hope and faith in Man’s capabilities: “We still play our childhood games, we still want to feel alive, We all still piece together our broken wings in the attic, Though Icarus came tumbling down so many times,

He’d fly again, if a strong wind blew.

We still play out childhood games, though life kicks us hard We play our parts, however amateurish we may sound We play different roles in different plays, But in the one that ends badly, Not for a long time yet.”

Of course, I do hope that you’re not actors in a play that ends badly, or that you should ever try to fly like Icarus did.

We all know it didn’t end well. But I do wish you Icarus's persistence and courage, because, as Winston Churchill put it: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” Thus, I wish you courage in pursuing your goals, even if we don’t know if we can achieve them.”

To these wishes, I would like to add warm Christmas and New Year greetings. I would also like to express my thanks to our honorary and media patrons, to our partners and to all the people of good will involved in tonight’s event.

Thank you all with all my heart and congratulations to the laureates.

Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, President and Editor-in-Chief of “Polish Market”

“

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE SHOULD BE A COUNTRY FRIENDLY TO YOUNG PEOPLE, BECAUSE WE DO NOT WANT THEM TO LEAVE; FRIENDLY TO THE OLDER GENERATION, SO THAT THEY CAN LIVE HERE AND DIE WITH DIGNITY; A COUNTRY FRIENDLY TO ENTREPRENEURS; AND A COUNTRY FRIENDLY TOWARD THE ENVIRONMENT.”

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

PRZEMÓWIENIE KRYST YN Y WOŹNIAK-TRZO S E K, PREZES I REDAKTOR NACZELNEJ „POLISH MARKET” NA GALI PEREŁ POLSKIEJ GOSPODARKI Witam wszystkich szacownych gości w ten piękny grudniowy wieczór, w czasie szczególnym dla wszystkich Polaków – wszak mamy rok obchodów stulecia odzyskania naszej niepodległości. Dlatego w każdym tegorocznym wydaniu magazynu "Polish Market", począwszy od styczniowego numeru, przypominaliśmy naszym czytelnikom chlubne karty polskiej historii, a także pokazywaliśmy niebagatelny wkład Polaków w rozwój, nie tylko polskiej, ale i światowej gospodarki, nauki, techniki i kultury.

W te narodowe obchody włączamy się dzisiaj uroczystą Galą na Zamku Królewskim, który stał się symbolem Nowożytnego Państwa Polskiego, symbolem naszej tożsamości państwowej.

W roku obchodów stulecia niepodległości, zarówno mury, jak i wnętrza Zamku, gdzie odbywały się uroczystości rocznicowe, nabrały szczególnego blasku, podobnie jak nasze Perły, którymi

“

dziś po raz szesnasty uhonorujemy najlepsze polskie przedsiębiorstwa, instytucje i szczególnie zasłużone osoby z dziedziny gospodarki, nauki, kultury, sportu, krzewienia wartości patriotycznych i społecznych.

Drodzy Pastwo, Koniec roku to czas podsumowań, refleksji, ale także budowania planów na przyszłość. Ekonomiści coraz częściej prognozują „wychłodzenie” koniunktury i spadek tempa wzrostu gospodarczego. Z kolei naukowcy przepowiadają, że sztuczna inteligencja tak dalece zawładnie światem, że stanie się zagrożeniem dla ludzkości. Jednakże, zostawmy te smutne prognozy, ponieważ w taki wieczór jak dziś mogę z Państwem dzielić się tylko dobrymi wiadomościami. I niewątpliwie do tych dobrych wiadomości zalicza się fakt, że obecnie Polska jest jedną z najszybciej rozwijających się europejskich gospodarek, mających własną walutę. Udało nam się też osiągnąć makroekonomiczną równowagę i stabilność systemu finansowego. Ponadto, Polska z krajów rozwijających się awansowała do krajów

WAŻNE, ŻEBYŚMY BYLI KRAJEM PRZYJAZNYM DLA LUDZI MŁODYCH, BO PRZECIEŻ NIE CHCEMY ŻEBY STĄD WYJEŻDŻALI; PRZYJAZNYM DLA LUDZI STARYCH, ŻEBY MOGLI TU GODNIE ŻYĆ I UMIERAĆ; KRAJEM PRZYJAZNYM DLA PRZEDSIĘBIORCÓW I PRZYJAZNYM DLA ŚRODOWISKA.”

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

rozwiniętych. Jeśli jeszcze zadbamy, aby wydarzenia bieżące nie przesłoniły nam mądrego planowania przyszłości, budowania strategii długofalowej i nie tylko na kilka lat do przodu, ale co najmniej na kilka pokoleń, to być może uda nam się w końcu dołączyć do cywilizacyjnej, najwyższej światowej ligi. Ważne, żebyśmy byli krajem przyjaznym da ludzi młodych, bo przecież nie chcemy żeby stąd wyjeżdżali; przyjaznym dla ludzi starych, żeby mogli tu godnie żyć i umierać; krajem przyjaznym dla przedsiębiorców i przyjaznym dla środowiska. Bo chociaż przyszło nam żyć w epoce antropocenu, czyli epoce nadmiernej ingerencji człowieka w naturę, to przecież szukamy wciąż sposobów, jak tej natury nie niszczyć. Zastanawiają się obecnie nad tym uczestnicy 24.Globalnego Szczytu Klimatycznego, który w tych dniach odbywa się w Katowicach. Muszę jednak Państwu powiedzieć, że już półtora tysiąca lat temu o istocie człowieczeństwa w kontekście integracji ze środowiskiem, naturą tak pięknie mówił św. Augustyn: „Człowiek istnieje jak drzewa i kamienie, żyje jak rośliny, czuje jak zwierzęta, myśli jak aniołowie”. Sądzę, że z tym anielskim myśleniem bywa u nas różnie, przecież pamiętamy jak nasz wielki romantyczny poeta Juliusz Słowacki pragnął siłą swej poezji „nas zjadaczy chleba w aniołów przerobić”. Nie wiem czy do końca mu się to udało, ale jestem przekonana, że jest wśród nas wielu aniołów, tylko nie zawsze chcemy lub nie zawsze potrafimy ich zauważyć. Niewątpliwie wierzył w nasze „anielskie myślenie” wielki Polak Ignacy Jan Paderewski, który 100 lat temu w jednym ze swoich słynnych przemówień powiedział: „Ale Naród, choć zgłodniały, nie tylko strawy łaknie, nie tylko chleba żąda, nie tylko o grosz woła. On Was prosi jeszcze o ofiarę największą, o ofiarę namiętności Waszych, o dobrą wolę, o jedność i zgodę.”

Szanowni Państwo, Koniec roku to także czas, kiedy magia liczb oddziałuje na naszą wyobraźnie ze szczególną siłą. Z czym dla Polaka może kojarzyć się dziś 8 – znak nieskończoności? Oczywiście z rokiem 1918, kiedy to odzyskaliśmy upragnioną niepodległość. W tym samym roku Polki uzyskały pełne prawa wyborcze jako jedne z pierwszych w Europie i na świecie – to wiemy. Jednak nie wszyscy wiemy, że prawa wyborcze i obywatelskie zostały Polkom przyznane nie w wyniku nacisku ruchu emancypantek czy sufrażystek, ale jako uznanie ich roli w odzyskaniu przez Polskę niepodległości. Bo to właśnie polskie kobiety w czasie I wojny światowej powołały Ligę Kobiecą Pogotowia Wojennego, która wspierała konspiracyjną Polską Organizację Wojskową.

Myślę, że tych rocznic z ósemką w tle można by wymienić dużo więcej, jednak ograniczę się dziś do przytoczenia kilku istotnych, ale nieco zapomnianych rocznic.

Ponieważ jest tu dziś z nami telewizja, przypomnę, że w roku 1938 – czyli 80 lat temu, nadano pierwszą w Polsce emisję telewizyjną z nadajnika z Pl. Napoleona w Warszawie (obecnie Pl. Powstańców Warszawy) i tak rozpoczęła się era polskiej telewizji. 10 lat później, w roku 1948, czyli 70 lat temu, polscy inżynierowie i matematycy postanowili skonstruować maszynę matematyczną – prekursora dzisiejszych komputerów. I to był początek ery polskiej

informatyki. Z kolei, 50 lat temu, w 1968 roku, w kościele św. Krzysztofa w Podkowie Leśnej pod Warszawą, odbyła się pierwsza w Polsce i pierwsza na świecie liturgia kościelna w rytmie rock'n'rolla. Tę pierwszą mszę beatową skomponowała obecna tu dziś z nami Katarzyna Gaertner.

Tyle wspomnień, a my włączając się w ten patriotyczny nurt obchodów niepodległości, postanowiliśmy dziś w sposób specjalny przywrócić pamięć o naszym wielkim rodaku – muzyku, kompozytorze, patriocie, który tak pisał: „Wędruję po polskich ziemiach, jestem natchniony duchem polskich pieśni ludowych i z nich, mimo woli, przelewam natchnienie do wszystkich moich dzieł”. Tak o swojej twórczości pisał Stanisław Moniuszko, którego dwusetną rocznicę urodzin będziemy wkrótce obchodzić.

Dziś będą Państwo świadkami prapremiery koncertu poświęconego Stanisławowi Moniuszce, a przygotowanego przez Jolę i Włodka Pawlików specjalnie na dzisiejszą uroczystość. Przypomnę, że Włodek Pawlik jest naszą Perłą sprzed kilku lat, a także laureatem nagrody Grammy – muzycznego Oscara.

Skoro już jesteśmy przy polskiej kulturze i polskich twórcach, pozwólcie Państwo, że wrócę pamięcią do jeszcze jednego twórcy, który w ubiegłym roku od nas odszedł.

Mówię o Wojciechu Młynarskim. Byłam niedawno na odsłonięciu tablicy pamiątkowej jemu poświęconej w szkole, do której chodził, i której ja również jestem absolwentką. Jest do szkoła o prawie stuletniej tradycji – Liceum im.

Tomasza Zana w Pruszkowie. Wspominam to wydarzenie, bo łza w oku się zakręciła niejednemu z nas, absolwentów, kiedy zaśpiewaliśmy przepiękną piosenkę do tekstu Wojciecha Młynarskiego, z muzyką Jerzego „Dudusia” Matuszkiewicza. Ta piosenka w wykonaniu Darii Zawiałow uzyskała ostatnio nominację do nagrody Fryderyki 2018, w kategorii Utwór Roku. Dzisiaj powiem Państwu mały fragment tego przepięknego utworu, bo jest w tym wierszu nadzieja i wiara w wielkie możliwości człowieka: „Jeszcze w zielone gramy, chęć życia nam nie zbrzydła Jeszcze na strychu każdy klei połamane skrzydła I myśli sobie Ikar co nie raz już w dół runął Jakby powiało zdrowo, to bym jeszcze raz pofrunął Jeszcze w zielone gramy, choć życie nam doskwiera Gramy w nim swoje role naturszczycy bez suflera W najróżniejszych sztukach gramy, lecz w tej, co się skończy źle Jeszcze nie, długo nie!”

Nie życzę Państwu abyście zagrali w sztuce, która się źle skończy, nie życzę lotu Ikara, gdyż wiemy, jak się skończył, ale życzę wytrwałości i odwagi Ikara, bo jak mawiał Winston Churchill „sukces jest śmiertelny, liczy się odwaga”. Dlatego życzę Państwu tej odwagi, odwagi w dążeniu do celu, nawet jeśli nie wiemy, czy ten cel uda nam się osiągnąć.

Do tych życzeń dołączam gorące życzenia świąteczne i noworoczne, a także wielkie podziękowania dla naszych patronów honorowych i medialnych, dla naszych mecenasów i partnerów oraz wszystkich ludzi dobrej woli zaangażowanych w dzisiejsze przedsięwzięcie.

Dziękuję wszystkim z całego serca, a Laureatom serdecznie gratuluję.

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

POLAND’S CENTENARY CONCERT

From left: Donghao Qu, Jacek Szponarski, Karolina Róża-Kowalczyk, Elżbieta Stanisławska Janowska-Moniuszko, Włodek Pawlik, Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik, Andrzej Lenart

T

he Pearls of the Polish Economy Gala perfectly fit into the celebrations of the 100th anniversary of regaining independence by Poland in 1918. At the same time, it foreshadowed Moniuszko Year celebrations in 2019. In the artistic part, talented singers paid tribute to this outstanding Polish composer. This crème de la crème concert featured Grammy Award winner Włodek Pawlik and Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik. The gala event held at the Royal Castle in Warsaw was attended by Elżbieta Stanisława Janowska-Moniuszko, the composer's great-greatgranddaughter, a member of the board of the Stanisław Moniuszko Foundation.

Włodek Pawlik

WŁODEK PAWLIK - pianist and composer, the only winner of the Grammy award in the history of Polish jazz for the album "Night in Calisia." Pawlik is a graduate of the piano class under Prof. Barbara Hesse-Bukowska at the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw, and the Jazz Faculty at the Hochschule für Musik in Hamburg. In 2007, the artist obtained a doctorate at the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music, where he currently lectures on improvisation. His achievements include over 30 original albums, a number of film scores, orchestral works, ballet music, opera and vocal pieces, which highlight his unique ability to blend various music genres.

JOLANTA PSZCZÓŁKOWSKA-PAWLIK - pianist and music producer, a graduate of the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw in the piano class under Barbara Hesse-Bukowska and in the Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

Donghao Qu

Karolina Róża Kowalczyk

Andrzej Lenart

chamber music class under Professor K. Makowska-Ławrynowicz.

She has been a lecturer at the university’s Vocal Faculty for almost 30 years. For many years, she has also performed at concerts and competitions together with her son Łukasz – award winning cellist and pianist. Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik is the manager and producer of 12 albums by her husband Włodek Pawlik, including the 2014 Grammy Award album " Night in Calisia. " ANDRZEJ LENART - opera singer (baritone), B.A. student at the Vocal and Acting Faculty at the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw, in the class of Prof. Włodzimierz Zalewski. He is a finalist of the 5th Giulio Perotti International Vocal Competition in Uckermunde (2018). He made his debut as Servo in Sciarino’s opera "Luci mie traditrici" at the Antonín Dvořák Opera Theatre in Ostrava in the Czech Republic in 2018. He appeared in the part of Trespolo in the premiere of the original version of the 1679 comic opera "Il Trespolo tutore" by A. Stradelli at the Collegium Nobilium Theatre in Warsaw and during the 11th International Opera Youth Forum in Bydgoszcz (2018).

KAROLINA RÓŻA KOWALCZYK - opera singer (soprano), student of the final year of M.A. studies at the Vocal Faculty of the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw in the class of prof. Włodzimierz Zalewski. For several years, she has been working as a soloist with the Warsaw Chamber Opera, appearing in the parts of Queen of the Night, Donna Fiorilli, Madame Herz, Susanna and Bastienne.

She is now working on her first solo album together with Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik which will feature songs by Moniuszko. Its premiere will take place in February. Her repertoire includes numerous opera and operetta parts, songs and oratorio and cantata music.

JACEK SZPONARSKI - opera singer (tenor), student of the last year of M.A. studies at the Vocal Faculty of the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw in the class of Prof. Ewa Irzykowska. Currently a soloist of the Teatr Wielki - Polish National Opera, Warsaw Chamber Opera and Baltic Opera. He has appeared in a number of solo parts in operas by Tchaikovsky, Moniuszko and Mozart.

Jacek Szponarski

DONGHAO QU - opera singer (baritone). To take up vocal studies, he moved from China and settled in Poland in 2014. He is a student of the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw at the Vocal and Acting faculty in the class of Professor Włodzimierz Zalewski. In July 2018 he received a B.A. degree and went on to study solo opera singing for an M.A. degree at the same university. During his studies, he repeatedly took part in various concerts and cultural events, including at the Changsha Concert Hall in China in 2015. In 2017, he appeared in the opera "Don Giovanni" at the Warsaw Chamber Opera.

He has taken part in many master classes, including in Duszniki Zdrój, Nowy Sącz and Wilanów. He has appeared on stage, among others, at the Podlasie Philharmonic Hall performing songs by Moniuszko.

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

THE

WINNERS D

OF THE R ANKING

uring the gala ceremony at the Royal Castle in Warsaw, statuettes were presented to Poland’s most dynamic companies, winners of a ranking compiled by a team of researchers at the Department of Decision Analysis and Support Systems of the Institute of Econometrics at the SGH Warsaw School of Economics. The Pearl of the Polish Economy title was awarded in three categories: Grand Pearls, Large Pearls and

Financial Pearls. The team analysed the performance of more than 2,000 companies whose revenue over the previous year amounted to: at least PLN 100 milion in the case of Large Pearls and over PLN 1 billion in the case of Grand Pearls.

Significantly, a company’s position in the ranking is not determined by the size of its income, but is based on its efficiency and growth.

GR A ND PE A R LS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY W ER E AWAR DED TO: COMPANIES WITH REVENUE ABOVE PLN 1 BILLION

1. ANWIL SA 2. BUDIMEX GROUP 3. JASTRZĘBSKA SPÓŁKA WĘGLOWA SA Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, Polish Market Editorin-Chief, President, Rynek Polski Publishers, Piotr Stróżyk, Board Member, ANWIL

Director Michał Wrzosek, Budimex S.A.

From left: Prof. Tomasz Szapiro, Board Member of the Main Council of Science and Higher Education (2017-2021), Head of the Education Committee, since 2018, Rector and Senate President of the SGH Warsaw School of Economics (2012-2016), who is responsible for the ranking on the academic side. Małgorzata Jarosińska-Jedynak, Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Investment and Economic Development, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, Polish Market President and Editor-in-Chief, Prof. Jan Szmidt, rector, Warsaw University of Technology, President of the Conference of Rectors of Polish Universities. Jerzy Majchrzak, Director, Office for Environmental Protetion and Mining Damage, Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa and Dagna Gurgul, JSW, M.C. Artur Orzech

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

L A RGE PE A R LS AWAR DS WENT TO:

COMPANIES WITH REVENUE BETWEEN PLN100 MILLION AND PLN 1 BILLION

1. PORT OF GDYNIA AUTHORITY SA 2. PETRAX TRADE SA 3. AC SA

Adam Meller, President, Port of Gdynia

From left: Prof. Tomasz Szapiro, Undersecretary of State Małgorzata Jarosińska-Jedynak, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, Prof. Jan Szmidt, Dariusz Bobko, Petrax S.A.Trade Proxy Piotr Liszek, President, Petrax Trade S.A.

THE W INNERS IN THE FINA NCI A L SECTOR CATEGORY (BANK ING AND INSUR ANCE) W ER E: 1. AVIVA TOWARZYSTWO UBEZPIECZEŃ NA ŻYCIE SA 2. METLIFE TOWARZYSTWO UBEZPIECZEŃ NA ŻYCIE I REASEKURACJI SA 3. BANK GOSPODARSTWA KRAJOWEGO

Paweł Pytel, Vice-President, Aviva Towarzystwo Ubezpieczeń na Życie

Mirosław Kisyk, President, MetLife TUnŻiR S.A.

Director Anna Czyż, Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

PROGR ESS 2018

A

nother event in the programme of the Gala was the presentation of Pearls of Innovation – Progress. The awards, granted since 2011, are intended for the most innovative businesses and projects. The contest is run by “Polish Market” and the Main Council of the Research Institutes. At the Gala, the awards were presented by Prof. Leszek Rafalski, Chairman of the Main Council of the Research Institutes, and members of the Board of Oficyna Wydawnicza Rynek Polski company, the publisher of “Polish Market”: President Krystyna

Woźniak-Trzosek, Vice-President Błażej Grabowski and VicePresident Grażyna Jaskuła.

In the Enterprise category, the Pearls of Innovation – Progress awards were collected by Vice-President and President of Ankol Sp. z o.o. Anna and Czesław Kolisz, President of Energa SA Alicja Barbara Klimiuk, and Managing Director at Novomatic Technologies Poland SA Rafał Hędrzak. In the Research Unit category, the award went to the Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology and was collected by Roman Janusz, a deputy director of the Institute.

THE INNOVATI V E FIR MS CATEGORY: •

ANKOL SP. Z O.O.

•

ENERGA SA

•

NOVOMATIC TECHNOLOGIES POLAND SA Anna Kolisz, Vice-President ANKOL sp.zo.o. and Czesław Kolisz, President, ANKOL sp.zo.o.,

Alicja Barbara Klimiuk, President Energa S.A.

Rafał Hędrzak, CEO, NOVOMATIC Technologies Poland

THE R&D UNIT CATEGORY: •

THE INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR CHEMISTRY AND TECHNOLOGY

Prof. Leszek Rafalski, Chairman, Main Council of Research Institutes, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, President, Polish Market, Roman Janusz, Deputy Director, Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, Błażej Grabowski, Vice-President, Rynek Polski Publishers

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

AWAR D FOR PROMOTING POLISH ORGA NIC FOOD

P

aweł Krajmas, President of the Polish Ecology National Association of Organic Processors and Producers, and Monika Tyska, deputy director general of the National Support Centre for Agriculture (KOWR), were asked to present awards in the Promoting Polish Organic Food category. The aim of this award is to honour people committed to promoting eco-attitudes, environmental

protection and Polish organic food. The award went to Artur Tymiński, an owner of the Bio Berry Poland Sp. z o.o. company, Izabella Byszewska, President of the Polish Chamber of the Regional and Local Product, and Jan Krzysztof Ardanowski, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, on whose behalf the award was collected

by Tadeusz Romańczuk, deputy Minister of Agriculture.

From left: Paweł Krajmas, President, Polish Ecology National Association, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, President, Polish Market, Monika Tyska, Deputy Director, National Support Centre for Agriculture (KOWR), Tadeusz Romańczuk, Senator, Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

He collected the prize on behalf of Jan Krzysztof Ardanowski, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development

W INNERS: •

BIO BERRY POLAND SP. Z O.O.

•

THE POLISH CHAMBER OF THE REGIONAL AND LOCAL PRODUCT

•

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND RUR AL DEVELOPMENT

Izabella Byszewska, President, Polish Chamber of the Regional and Local Product, Artur Tymiński, Co-owner, Bio Berry Poland Sp. z o.o..

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

T

SPECI A L AWAR D M AR K ING POL A ND’S INDEPENDENCE CENTENA RY

o mark the one hundredth anniversary of Poland’s re-emergence as an independent state, “Polish Market” awarded one more Pearl. It went to the Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades. The award was presented to the Chief Warden Marek Nowak and Elders Zbigniew Kłos and Mirosław Kaczmarek, in recognition

of the Guild’s role in cultivating the traditions of crafts, patriotism, and work ethos, and the education of the younger generation. The Guild of Metalworkers was founded at the turn of the 16th century. It has since kept up the national and professional identity as Poland’s oldest professional association.

From left: Mirosław Kaczmarek, Elder of the Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades, Marek Nowak, Chief Warden of the Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades, Joanna Fabisiak, parliament member, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek (“Polish Market”), Zbigniew Kłos, Elder of the Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades

Joanna Fabisiak among representatives of Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades

THE EDITORS OF "POLISH MARKET" WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL THE PATRONS AND MEDIA PARTNERS FOR THEIR HELP IN ORGANISING THE GALA OF THE PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY. WE WISH YOU EVERY SUCCESS IN THE COMING YEAR AND WE HOPE TO BE ABLE TO CONTINUE COOPER ATION IN 2019.

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

HONORARY PEARLS For the thirteenth time, Honorary Pearl awards were presented to prominent personalities and institutions whose professional achievements, experience, prestige and integrity make them true ambassadors of supreme Polish values.

30  polish market 

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

SCIENCE PROF. TOMASZ HRYNIEWIECKI, Director of the Stefan Cardinal Wyszyński Institute of Cardiology in Warsaw The Institute of Cardiology was established in 1979. It has contributed to the development of Polish cardiology and cardiac surgery, in particular through the implementation of modern methods of treatment and rehabilitation of patients. On August 30, 2018 the first simultaneous heart and liver transplant in Poland was performed at the Institute.

“

I regard this award as an expression of appreciation for the Institute of Cardiology, for all the Institute's academic staff, cardiologists, cardiac surgeons who cooperate with the best centres around the world. Thanks to this, we can treat patients in the same way as in the richest countries, in the best centres.

It is also a great honour, because we have received the prize on the 100th anniversary of the regaining of independence by Poland and on the eve of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Institute of Cardiology in the Warsaw suburb of Anin."

PROF. JANUSZ JANECZEK, head of the Department of Geochemistry, Mineralogy and Petrography at the University of Silesia in Katowice In 2010, he was appointed to the Council of the National Science Centre, and in 2016 became its chairman.

“

It feels special because you have decided to award the Pearl to me as a representative of basic science, in other words, in line with the statutory definition, an area that does not lead to the immediate transfer of scientific research findings to industry.

Some say that this kind of science is unnecessary. However, the National Science Centre (NSC), which in less than eight years of activity has spent a sum of about PLN 7.5 billion to support Polish scientists, is convinced that this is an excellent form of investment in the Polish economy. Many of the achievements sponsored by NSC have enormous implementation potential, which is confirmed by facts. Therefore, I would like to dedicate this award to all the beneficiaries of the Centre’s competitions who, while conducting basic research, do not lose sight of the famous Goethe adage that research should not only broaden our knowledge but also apply this knowledge in practice."

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

CULTURE JANUSZ WAWROWSKI

Janusz Wawrowski is a violinist. He is the winner of the Fryderyk 2017 prize for the solo album “Sequenza” and the only Polish violinist with a long-term record contract with the prestigious Warner Classics label. He plays a violin made by the Italian master Antonio Stradivarius in 1685.

“

For me, this award marks the crowning of recent events, above all the acquisition of the Stradivarius for Poland by sponsor Roman Ziemian. Together with thousands of Polish musicians I used to dream that such instruments would appear in Poland. We must know that since the times of King August II the Strong in the 18th century, who ordered an entire orchestra of such instruments, until World War II, all the virtuosos performed using Stradivarius violins. It is a brand known for several hundred years. So far, no one has been able to create a similar instrument with a similar sound. I hope that, as an artist, thanks to this violin I will be able to promote Polish music more effectively all over the world. Its purchase is just the beginning of building a Polish collection of famous instruments.”

KATARZYNA GÄRTNER

Polish composer, pianist and arranger of such pop hits as "Dancing Eurydice," "Małgośka", "Big water" and "Be ready to set off".

“

The stars of our culture, our art shine all over the world. The thing about culture is that an artist, despite being such a tiny mouse, works at the rear of the front. I am proud that in times when Poland did not exist on the map, there were people like poets Mickiewicz and Słowacki. Artists do not have billions at their disposal, we do not maintain the Polish economy, but we artists also make a small contribution to the building of Poland’s identity.”

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

JOLANTA PSZCZÓŁKOWSKA-PAWLIK

Pianist and music producer. For many years, she has also performed at concerts and competitions together with her son cellist Łukasz, winning prizes and honours as a pianist. She has recorded for Polish Radio and Polish Television. She has given concerts in Poland and abroad. She is also the manager and record producer of her husband Włodek Pawlik. She worked on the "Night in Calisia" album, which won the Grammy Award in 2014.

“

This year is the year of celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Poland's regaining its independence. 2019 is an important date because we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Polish composer Stanisław Moniuszko, the founder of the Polish national opera. We are very happy and motivated by this award.

Thank you for noticing our humble work with young people. I feel that if they love this music, they will pass it on to the next generations.”

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

PROMOTION OF PATRIOTIC VALUES MAGDALENA PAWLAK, chairwoman of the board of the Dorastaj z Nami (Grow up together with us) Foundation The foundation was established in 2010. Its aim is to provide long-term support to the education process of children and young people whose parents have died or suffered serious bodily injuries while performing duties in public service.

“

I dedicate this distinction to all soldiers, firemen, policemen and mountain rescuers who have died or suffered permanent damage to their health while being on duty. We call them heroes.

The Foundation has decided to fulfil what was probably their last wish: to take care of their children. The Foundation does its bit by supporting their education.”

PROMOTION OF SOCIAL VALUES ANNA DYMNA Polish theatre and film actress, public activist, founder and President of the Anna Dymna Foundation "Mimo Wszystko" (Against All Odds). The foundation was established in 2003. Its main purpose is to help adults with intellectual disabilities.

“

I am with you heart and spirit, physically I’m at the theatre company, where my duties lie. I am touched by this award.

I would like to thank those who have thought of me to give me such a prize, such a wonderful title. I have thus found myself among extraordinary people, Honorary Pearl holders, promoters of social values, people who are my masters. This Pearl is probably magical. For me, the Pearl is not only a distinction, but also an obligation.”

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

SPORT ALICJA JEROMIN

Athlete, medallist of the Paralympic Games. Initially, she took up table tennis, then focused on running. In her career she has won the 400 metres World Champion title at an event in Assen in the Netherlands.

“

I feel much better on the track than in front of the microphone, so please forgive me for my shaky voice. This Pearl is a great honour for me. Such distinctions provide the best motivation for me to continue my work, and this is what awaits me for the next two years. Ahead of me are the Paralympic Games. I would like to thank President Łukasz Szeliga, head of the "Start" Polish Association of Disabled Sports and the Polish Paralympic Committee for supporting me in the development of my career for so many years. My thanks also go to the State Fund for the Rehabilitation of Disabled People, for the projects they implement which allow disabled athletes to carry on their activities.

I would also like to express my appreciation for Minister Witold Bańka and to the entire Ministry of Sports for the fact that they support disabled sports to such an extent."

ECONOMY ALICJA ADAMCZAK

President of the Polish Patent Office, lawyer, university lecturer, patent attorney.

In 2000 she was decorated by former President Aleksander Kwaśniewski with the Officer's Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta for her outstanding achievements in drafting the industrial property protection law, and for her services to the Association of Patent Attorneys.

“

The Patent Office celebrates its one hundredth anniversary. It was set up after Poland regained independence and continues its activities to this day. We not only deal with issues related to granting exclusive rights to intellectual property in Poland, but we also strive to protect our intellectual property abroad. In this respect we promote various systems for the protection of industrial property.

Our inventions, trademarks and industrial designs, our intellectual and cultural achievements, make the Polish economy known in the outside world. I think that the Patent Office itself should receive this great prize, and above all my colleagues.”

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

MIROSŁAW BOBRZYŃSKI President of Euro-Centrum SA, Vice-President of the Science and Technology Park Euro-Centrum Sp. z o.o.

He has held managerial positions in real estate management companies and participated in projects related to technology transfer and commercialisation, cluster building and sectoral cooperation networks. He is also one of the co-founders of the Nostra Res Association of Christian Entrepreneurs and Managers.

“

Thirteen years ago, when I started to revitalise the area of a former chemical industry plant in the city of Katowice, along with my partner Roman Trzaskalik, we did not expect that we would thank God for making this decision. The facilities in the revitalised areas have been developed with the use of renewable energy technologies and energy-saving construction technologies. Thirteen years on, the Science and Technology Park is a place where business, politics and local government meet.

Together with my partner Roman we would like to dedicate the award to all our colleagues, families, wives and children, thanking for their understanding, and for their patience.”

ROMAN TRZASKALIK Vice-President of Euro-Centrum SA, and President of the Science and Technology Park Euro-Centrum Sp. z o.o., legal adviser who has participated in projects related to the transfer and commercialisation of technology, building clusters and sectoral cooperation networks. Since 2007, he has been managing the operation of the Association of the National Forum of Industrial Parks and Technology Parks, which currently brings together thirty parks all over Poland. He is also one of the founders of the Nostra Res Association of Christian Entrepreneurs and Managers, which he has been leading since 2013.

“

Before the war there was a poet and writer whose name was Bronisław Brok. I don’t know if he received any awards, but he wrote a song that became a hit and was made famous by "Dodek" Adolf Dymsza: "Warsaw is lovable, Warsaw is lovable."

And as I look at you, I couldn’t agree more that you can find happiness here.”

ZBIGNIEW INGLOT President of Inglot Sp. z o.o. Polish cosmetics company founded by Wojciech Inglot in 1983. Local successes led the company to expand the brand's business and introduce it on the international market.

GRZEGORZ INGLOT Adviser to the Board for International Development, Marketing, E-commerce, Vice-President of Inglot USA, a subsidiary of Inglot, registered in the United States. He has coordinated the development of e-commerce.

Grzegorz Inglot

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“

On behalf of the Board, the owners and my father Zbigniew (Ed.-award winner), I would like to thank you for this award. We feel honoured. At the moment Inglot is present in 90 countries and we are not going to slow down. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our employees and partners without whom this development would be impossible."

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

PIOTR WOŹNIAK President of the Polish Oil and Gas Company (PGNiG), the leader of the natural gas market in Poland. It deals in prospecting for and production of natural gas and crude oil, as well as, through its subsidiaries, imports, storage, sales and distribution of gas and liquid fuels as well as heat and electricity generation.

“

"The award granted by “Polish Market” is very important to me. It strengthens my conviction that the activities of the Polish Oil and Gas Company, whose aim is to ensure Poland's energy security, are crucial for the future of our country. My special thanks go to Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, “Polish Market” Publisher and Editor-in-Chief. Thanks to your activities, achievements of the Polish economy, culture and science are professionally promoted outside Polish borders. " Letter from Piotr Woźniak

On behalf of PGNIG President Piotr Woźniak, the award was collected by PGNIG Marketing Director Edyta Żyła

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

Prof. Michał Kleiber, President of the European Community on Computational Methods in Applied Sciences (ECCOMAS), President of the Polish Academy of Sciences in 2007-2015

Adam Bielan, Senator and deputy Speaker of the Senate

From left: Minister Elżbieta Rafalska, Edward Trzosek, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, Adam Bielan

◄ Elżbieta Rafalska, Minister of Family, Labour and Social Policy

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

From left: Zdzisław Sipiera, Governor of Mazowieckie Province, Tadeusz Deszkiewicz of the Office of Poland’s President Andrzej Duda, Minister Elżbieta Rafalska

Deputy Minister Małgorzata Jarosińska-Jedynak

From left: Senator and deputy Speaker of the Senate Adam Bielan and Anna Maria Anders, Senator, Secretary of State at the Prime Minister’s Office, head of the Council for the Protection of Struggle and Martyrdom Sites

Paweł Skotarek, adviser to Jarosław Gowin, deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Science and Higher Education

From left: Arkadiusz Urban, adviser, Secretary of State at the Prime Minister’s Office and deputy Minister Tadeusz Romańczuk

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Włodek Pawlik and Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik

Senator Anna Maria Anders

From left: Prof. Andrzej Zybertowicz and Magdalena Pawlak, President of the Dorastaj z Nami (Grow up Together with Us) Foundation. In the background: Senator Anna Maria Anders and Minister Elżbieta Rafalska

◄ Prof. Andrzej Zybertowicz, adviser to Poland’s President Andrzej Duda, and his wife

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

Violinist Janusz Wawrowski addresses the Gala participants

Tadeusz Deszkiewicz of the Office of Poland’s President Andrzej Duda, President RDC

Anna Dymna, actress, founder of the Mimo wszystko (Against All Odds) Foundation, speaks to those gathered in a broadcast address

Krzysztof Olendzki, Director of the Adam Mickiewicz Institute

From left: Kazimierz Mazur, Katarzyna Gärtner, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek “Polish Market”

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From left: Anna Kolisz (Ankol), Alicja Adamczak (Patent Office)

Mirosław Kisyk (Metlife TUnŻA)

From left: Roman Ziemian, Janusz Wawrowski

◄ From left: Prof. Jan Szmidt, Anna Czyż (BGK)

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

From left: Prof. Leszek Rafalski, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, Błażej Grabowski, Rafał Hędrzak

Jerzy Majchrzak and Dagna Gurgul ( JSW)

From left: Elżbieta Stanisława Janowska Moniuszko, great great granddaughter of Stanisław Moniuszko, Jolanta Rostworowska, President of Society of Moniuszko Music Lovers, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, Lucia Gandl, fashion and interior designer

Anna and Czesław Kolisz (Ankol)

From left: Andrzej Fraindt, singer, Grażyna Jaskuła, Vice-President "Polish Market"

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

From left: Grzegorz Inglot and Alicja Barbara Klimiuk (Energa S.A.)

Andrzej Faindt, Katarzyna Gärtner

Alicja Jeromin, Łukasz Szeliga, President, Polish Paralympic Committee

◄ Hanna Bakuła, writer, Marcin Bronikowski, tenor

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

From left: Arkadiusz Urban, Janusz Wawrowski, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, Roman Ziemian with his wife, Anna Maria Anders

Paweł Makuch, Mayor of Pruszków with his wife

From left: Piotr Salaber, composer, Stan Borys, composer, singer, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, Grzegorz Słyszyk, President of EXPO XXI

Arthur Byra, doctor Barbara Jerschina

From left: Rafał Hędrzak, President of Novomatic Technologies Poland SA, Andrzej Wójcik, President of Polish-French Chamber of Commerce, lawyer Inga Pilarska, member of the Board of Julian Cohran Foundation, Cezary Gizka, CEO Ave Consulting, member of the Board of Pakar Group, Roman Czubak, Sales Director CEE, Novomatic AG

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

From left: Alicja Wolniewicz, Konrad Wyczółkowski, Aleksandra Wolniewicz, Jakub Podleśny

From left: Jan Mazurek, Polish Market Economic Monitor Editor, Błażej Grabowski

From left: Elżbieta Bodio, Vice-President of the Polish-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce, Director Monika Tyska (KOWR)

Reception the Royal Castle’s Kubicki Arcades

From left: Katarzyna Gärtner, Anna Andrzejczak, Stanisław Andrzejczak, in the background: Joanna Wiktoria Grabowska and Agnieszka Charuba

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

Business card lottery funded by Audi Krotoski-Cichy

Winner of the business card lottery Łukasz Szeliga receives a voucher from Piotr Wnękowski, director managing the Audi Krotoski-Cichy car showroom

Tadeusz Zagórski, President, Main Council of Trade and Services Association offers flowers to President Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek, to the right Edward Trzosek

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“

SOME SAY THAT MONIUSZKO IS A FORGOTTEN COMPOSER. BUT IN FACT, HE IS A NEGLECTED Photo: Marek Bałata

COMPOSER.”

CARING FOR MONIUSZKO JOLANTA PSZCZÓŁKOWSKA-PAWLIK is both the director of the Pawlik Relations Concert Agency and winner of the Grammy 2014 as the producer of the album "Night in Calisia." She has produced over 15 albums by husband Włodek Pawlik, organised a number of festivals and more than 300 concerts featuring classical and jazz music. She is also a concert pianist. Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik has recorded four CDs, including two with music

by F. Schubert – “Winterreise” and “Die schoene Mullerin” and featuring tenor Karol Kozłowski. The albums have received many prizes and distinctions, including a nomination for the Fryderyk 2013 award as well as titles of the "Hi-Fi and Music" magazine Record of the Year award in 2013 and 2015. A unique experience for guests invited to the “Polish Market” Pearls of the Polish Economy Gala was certainly listening to the interpretation of Stanisław Moniuszko's works in classic versions performed by talented young Polish singers, accompanied by the artist herself, and jazz improvisations of Moniuszko’s songs performed by Włodek Pawlik and his trio. Jolanta PszczółkowskaPawlik is the winner of the 2018 “Polish Market” Honorary Pearl in the field of culture.

F

Maciej Proliński or over 20 years Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik has been a lecturer at the Vocal Department of the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw. In 2018 she started work on her doctoral thesis on the subject of "Synthesis of Poetry and Music Based on Stanisław Moniuszko's Ballads", which she intends to defend this year. For the purpose of

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this work, she has recorded a set of ballads by Moniuszko.

When asked whether this university is a bridge between education and professional life, for example for extremely talented young singers, she answers: “I would say that we are creating a team there whose members support each other. Young people need support for sure, perhaps especially when they are separated from the university. This

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is such a difficult moment when they have to start thinking for themselves and look for a job, and it is not easy to get a job. For each singer, the calendar, auditions and contests, always pose a lot of stress. It is also not easy to pick talent. Personality, determination, diligence, and finally the ability to communicate with people are the factors, apart from the quality and range of the voice, that decide whether one will succeed or not.” For several years, the artist's work has focused on recordings of a set of songs by Stanisław Moniuszko. Two albums from this series have already hit the market, meeting with great interest from critics and record buyers - both albums have been sold out.

The first CD from this series with a selection of songs for mezzo-soprano Elwira Janasik was released in 2014. “For me, it was a special moment at the university when I met mezzo-soprano Elwira Janasik, now a soloist of many Polish opera houses. She is an artist with a unique voice and stage charisma. During work on the album, she absorbed all my remarks regarding the performance and selection of the repertoire,” says Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik.

On the second album of this series, released at the end of 2016, we can listen to songs for the bass. There are sixteen songs, from one-minute vocal miniatures to complex songs. Half of the songs are about war and being a soldier.

The second large block of works is “Threnody” set to poems by the 16th century poet Jan Kochanowski, in fact the first poet in the Slav world who wrote in his mother tongue. The CD also features a surprise – Moniuszko’s famous song "The Weaver” performed by a bass. In a booklet attached to the album, apart from Polish lyrics, there are also translations into four languages (English, Russian, Japanese and Chinese). All those who worked on this cycle intended to help Moniuszko’s great songs to reach music lovers around the world. In preparation are also subsequent albums with songs by Moniuszko. February will see the premiere of the latest album "Moniuszko - Songs" recorded together with soprano Karolina Róża Kowalczyk and with the participation of mezzo-soprano Katarzyna Szymkowiak who took part in the recording of four duets.

“Some say that Moniuszko is a forgotten composer. But in fact, he is a neglected composer. We simply narrow Moniuszko's output down to two operas and, for example, 10 songs, while Moniuszko wrote about 300 songs. And I want to take care of this legacy. I am very happy that along the way I still meet such interesting young musicians, and I can suggest that they sing songs that are virtually unknown, even in connoisseur circles. I take the long view of five to ten, maybe fifty years - what we can leave behind for future generations is extremely important. I am a member of the Board of the Society of Moniuszko Music Lovers. In this special year for Moniuszko, we want to organise a Festival of Sacral Music in the historic interiors of Warsaw's Praga borough. I am also the originator of the festival of song and chamber music “Moniuszko on the Royal Route,” which is inaugurated in February in the fine interiors of the Staszic Palace in Krakowskie Przedmieście Street.”

Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik is also very active as a record producer. Interestingly, she is fascinated both by

her productions in the field of classical music and jazz albums - all of them under one common name of the company Pawlik Relations.

“I know that many of my albums have already achieved the status of gold discs. However, the pace of life, what has been happening around me and my husband since the Grammy award, has been completely crazy. So I can definitely say that the album ‘Night in Calisia’ received the official ZPAV double platinum award for the biggest jazz disc sales in the history of Polish phonography, and I am very proud of that.”

A separate, very dynamic publishing venture are albums by son Łukasz Pawlik - composer, arranger, jazz pianist and also a classically educated cellist. Łukasz, who grew up listening to his father's music, takes a leap into new dimensions. His arrangements sound space-age, he uses the latest electroacoustic solutions to write music and makes friends with the stars, the likes of Mike Stern, Dave Weckl, Gary Novak, Tom Kennedy and Randy Brecker.

“For me personally, the unique event was the fact that together with Włodek we could personally collect the Grammy award at a great gala in Los Angeles and become ambassadors of Polish culture around the world,” Jolanta Pszczółkowska-Pawlik admits.

Asked what the Honorary Pearl award in the field of culture means to her, the artist replies: “For the first time I was a guest of the “Polish Market” Gala in 2014. The winner of your prize in the field of culture was then engine of our Pawlik Relations Concert and Publishing Agency, Włodek Pawlik, my husband, Grammy award winner in the category ‘The Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album,’ for the album ‘Night in Calisia.’ It was an amazing experience for me that in the fine, grand interiors of the Royal Castle, business and culture can meet in such a natural way. This unusual phenomenon can also be observed in the ‘Polish Market’ magazine, where for many years, profiles of the most creative and distinctive figures of Polish business have been presented, economic topics are discussed, and at the same time, there is also a very interesting, lively section devoted to the promotion of Polish culture, where the importance of links between these two areas is noticed. The culture section follows with extraordinary insight into the most important news and phenomena on Poland’s cultural map. On a regular basis, there are numerous professional record reviews in ‘Polish Market,’ where a constructive criticism formula is maintained. In this respect, ‘Polish Market’ is a unique magazine. Which makes me even happier that I have found myself in the distinguished group of laureates of this year's Honorary Pearls.

I think that the award granted to me will be an important asset in my further activities regarding Polish culture. Finally, I like to reveal the secret of my latest record production. At the “Polish Market” Gala, Włodek Pawlik for the first time presented his jazz ‘look’ at Moniuszko. The reaction of those present at the ceremony was so enthusiastic that I have ordered my husband's material for a whole album ....... and the premiere is in February 2019. Thank you, ‘Polish Market’.”

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I HAVE ALWAYS FOLLOWED

my own path Composer KATARZYNA GÄRTNER, winner of the “Polish Market” Honorary Pearl in the Culture category, talks to Maciej Proliński.

When did music, the idea of composing, first appear in your life? You come from the small town of Myślenice, south of Kraków. Was it difficult to be a young musician there? Did the proximity of Kraków help? How has Myślenice influenced your music?

The Gärtner family has Austrian roots. It comes from the province of Galicja (the part of Poland which was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire – ed.) Myślenice was just a place I was born in. In 1946 my parents moved to the west of Poland. My father bought a brand-new Ed Seiler grand piano for a bucket of home-brewed vodka. This piano, nicknamed Edzio, serves me well to this day. My first steps led me to a piano class. At home, my dad, who loved klezmer music, played popular hits at parties and public events. After a few rounds of vodka, all manner of hits were played. I caught the bug, and already in the seventh grade I wrote a song to my mum’s lyrics. It won a national Polish Radio contest. Then, I came back to Kraków, which had the best music high school.

The biggest names among Polish jazz musicians were educated there. We played jazz during the breaks, after school, wherever we could.

PM

Who were your masters and teachers? Who guided you through the world of music? Some may find it surprising, but you started out in jazz, didn’t you?

You may be surprised to learn that the Kraków music high school gave me the most. My professor was pedagogue and composer Krystyna Nazarowa, who later became the rector of the Music Academy. She taught me the principles of music, which I still use. I was impressed with the idea of becoming PM

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a composer. I have recently finished work on a new version of the “Beat Mass.” Even though half a century has elapsed, the instrumentation sounds up to date. I keep coming back to my masters: Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, the Beatles.

From jazz you moved on swiftly to pop songs. As a young composer, how did you find your feet in a world of pop music dominated by men?

My parents could not afford to pay for my university studies. That’s why I started work in entertainment. Director Szymon Szurmiej convinced me to approach the famous Władysław Szpilman at Polish Radio with my songs. He recorded all of them! Now it would be impossible. I started my book in the following way: “I was born at the radio. My father was blues and my mother a ballad.” Living among men in the music industry was tough. They looked down their noses on me, they saw me as a woman at best. But I always followed my own path.

PM

A good song is the result of creative effort by three artists: the composer, the lyrics writer and the performer. Sometimes a single person represents the three qualities. Do you think that for several decades this has defined Polish songs in the European and world cultural space?

Nothing has changed. The world of great personalities will continue to set trends. Artists like Niemen, Prince, Vysotsky, Sting and the Rolling Stones – self-sufficient perfectionists. It is hard to combine various artists and performers into one harmonious whole. At the end of the day, the success of their work is determined by the audience.

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

You have always worked with the best, to mention but Ernest Bryll, Agnieszka Osiecka, Maryla Rodowicz, Anna German and Ryszard Riedel. What has meeting them meant to you. You must have made friends with many of them.

In my work there are a few examples: three women and one soul (Osiecka, Gärtner, Rodowicz); Bryll and Gärtner and young performers of songs by the combo: Kijonka, Gärtner and Riedel. I helped him out at the outset, then it was “Rysiu, follow your own path.” It was like that with Stanisław Sojka, Kuba Badach and Andrzej Rybiński. The list of artists I have discovered is long. I still write for Maryla Rodowicz. Without her, famous hits like “Małgośka” and “Big Water” would not have seen the light of day.

PM

When you look at the Polish music market, Polish song right now, what do you see?

All artists pray for a hit. They prefer to write their own songs. If they don’t have a song of their own, they record a cover version. A clone of the “Atlantic culture” market has emerged, which is much to the liking of record companies.

Genuinely Polish disco-polo artists rub their hands in glee and push prices up. I followed three New Year’s concerts. Very large audiences were not so keen to sing foreign hits. They went wild listening to disco-polo hits. The internet is now a touchstone. Some artists are propelled to instant fame, others are dethroned. Worthless singers are elevated to star status.

On one side of the spectrum there is Kapela Ze Wsi Warszawa, and on the opposite side there are the Godlewski sisters. Right in the middle is Niech Żyje Wolność (Long Live Freedom.)

PM

“Polish Market” magazine shows that the distance between the economy and culture needn’t be too big. What does the “Polish Market” Honorary Pearl in the Culture category mean to you?

It’s a truly magnificent award. It’s more important than money, though it would be great if this prestigious statuette was accompanied by financial backing. For art is not just about ideas and works jotted down on paper but also theatre, music and film production. Only those who are able to win EU funding can count on it. In my address I said that we trail behind stars and celebrities. There is a yawning gap between a company with a billion zloty turnover and a creative artist. They are light years apart. But at the time when Poland did not exist on the map of Europe, poets Mickiewicz and Słowacki and composers Chopin and Moniuszko still produced works for future generations.

“

IT’S A TRULY MAGNIFICENT AWARD. IT’S MORE IMPORTANT THAN MONEY, THOUGH IT WOULD BE GREAT IF THIS PRESTIGIOUS STATUETTE WAS ACCOMPANIED BY FINANCIAL BACKING.”

PM

What do all adversities life throws at you mean for you as an artist? You and your husband actor Kazimierz Mazur lost all your belongings in a fire in 2012. All your instruments and the recording studio went up in flames. What’s your day-to-day life like now? I have just read a biography of the late composer Henryk Mikołaj Górecki by Maria Wilczek-Krupa. The book explains a lot about his music.

Its message is that both life and music are not something you can pack inside a violin case. After all, this genius had to struggle uphill much of his life.

If you’ve done something good for others, that goes around.

Now our house has a new wooden roof, we have a new studio and we enjoy nature that surrounds us. Both I and my husband love our work. I hope we have enough time left to make PM

our plans a reality. This year I would like Kazimierz to complete work on videos for my “Missa E Gia Santo.” I have already recorded most material for my album “Half a Century of Katarzyna Gärtner’s Golden Hits.”

And what is the Intermedia Music Theatre Blustrada all about? Its web page says that “Our Flying Music Theatre plays wherever the wind takes it.” Can you let our readers know where it’s taking you and what your audiences can look forward to?

We have founded the Intermedia Music Theatre in the countryside. There is no money or institutions behind it. It’s just music, and yet the theatre stays afloat. I borrowed the idea from Grotowski. This brilliant director ran a theatre company with only seventy seats in the audience. And yet, he was known the world over.

We just have room for fifty seats in our attic. But if the opening night of our new production “I Need Big Water” is available as a webcast, more people will be able to watch it. “Missa E Gia Santo,” staged in the city of Rzeszów, was watched by 7,000 spectators and was broadcast in neighbouring countries. Our film productions are online, our recordings are played by radio stations. “The Masters’ Code” took place at the Groteska theatre company in Kraków recently. It saw performances by my “godchildren:” recognised singers and a group of young, up-and-coming artists. Together with them we produce small-scale recitals and large symphonic concerts. It’s so much fun when you can translate your creative ideas into the language of mass media, for the world • to enjoy.

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AN EXCEPTIONAL VIOLINIST

Polish music holds an important position in the world, notably in Europe. It is constantly represented on the international concert circuit. Polish orchestras, leading instrumentalists, virtuosos, opera singers and composers are very much in demand. One of the winners of the Polish Market Honorary Pearl 2018 award, in the culture category, is JANUSZ WAWROWSKI, an outstanding violinist who records for the Warner Classics label. He is valued for his masterful ability to combine virtuosity of the highest order with the beauty of sound and the unique way of executing a phrase.

Maciej Proliński

B

orn in 1982, Janusz Wawrowski is recognised as one of the leading violinists of his generation. Asked what the Polish Market Honorary Pearl award means to him, he said: “Being a musician is constantly getting to know the classics, new works, creative personalities and artists. It is very exciting and truly fascinating. The fact that I have found myself among the award winners is an honour. I’m happy that what I have achieved so far in promoting Polish music worldwide has been appreciated. To me, this distinction is a mark of approval for my continued effort to make classical music noticed not just by music lovers. After all, they’re familiar with it. The point is to make all the others, for instance the world of business, aware of it.”

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Wawrowski was born in the town of Konin in central Poland. He is a graduate of the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw, where he now works as a teacher. He perfected his skills under Prof. Mirosław Ławrynowicz, Prof. Yair Kless and Salvatore Accardo.

The artist has given concerts at the Berlin Philharmonic, Vienna’s Musikverein, the National Philharmonic in Warsaw, the Lithuanian National Philharmonic, the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory, De Doelen in Rotterdam, the Tel Aviv Music Center and Teatro Teresa Carreῆo in Caracas, to name but a few. He has appeared at numerous renowned festivals, including Chopin and His Europe, Salzburger Festspiele and Bebersee Festival. As a soloist he has performed with

all of Poland’s most acclaimed opera companies, including the National Philharmonic Orchestra, the Sinfonia Varsovia and the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra.

He has worked with a number of top conductors such as Agnieszka Duczmal, Łukasz Borowicz, Jacek Kaspszyk, Jerzy Maksymiuk, Daniel Raiskin and Antoni Wit. “Janusz Wawrowski is a violinist of exceptional value who deserves to reach great heights on the concert stage," the renowned Polish violinist Ida Haendel once said with amazing foresight. Still as a student of the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw, he dared to attempt something only the best violinists could try – to perform all of Paganini’s 24 Caprices for Solo Violin Op.1 during a single concert.

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

Wawrowski’s later debut record release, the very same 24 Caprices for Solo Violin Op.1 by Paganini, became a true sensation on the Polish classical music market a decade ago. A contract he later signed with EMI (now Warner Classics) led to the release of the “Aurora” album featuring works by Karol Szymanowski, Witold Lutosławski, Maurice Ravel and Eugène Ysaÿe, accompanied by pianist José Gallardo.

Another solo album “Sequenza,” featuring works by Luciano Berio, Krzysztof Penderecki and Eugène Ysaÿe and the latest works by contemporary Polish composers Tomasz Opałka and Dariusz Przybylski, won enthusiastic reviews in foreign press, e.g. “The Guardian.”

The album was proof that Janusz Wawrowski follows in the footsteps of the best Polish violin virtuosos such as Wanda Wiłkomirska and Konstanty Andrzej Kulka.

Recordings for the Warner Classics label were also made of the artist’s concert with the Stuttgarter Philharmoniker under Maestro Daniel Raiskin. The resulting album “Brillante,” including both Polish and German music, featured among others Wieniawski’s Violin Concerto No.2 and Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy.

Janusz Wawrowski often says that Polish music is his passion. Interpretation and studies on Polish music are important areas of his activities. For a number of years he has done his best to make Polish music known to audiences also as the originator and artistic director of international festivals which promote Polish music – Music on the Heights (2009-2010) and Spaces of Music (since 2011).

Wawrowski keeps re-discovering works by once famous Polish composers Karol Lipiński, Zygmunt Noskowski, Ludomir Różycki and Mieczysław Karłowicz, thus bringing joy and satisfaction to both himself and his audiences.

“I make every effort to discover exciting older works. At the same time I work together with younger composers. I reckon that it is logical to promote Polish works, both old and new. It is in the interest of Polish culture. I wonder why others do it so reluctantly,” he emphasises.

One of Wawrowski’s latest claims to fame is the fact that he has set up the Warsaw Players chamber orchestra composed of eminent instrumentalists who work with the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw. The orchestra was founded on the joint initiative of the artist himself, his students and graduates to spread passion for music at its best.

The orchestra enables up-and-coming musicians to gather useful professional experience under the maestro’s watchful eye. It is Poland’s only initiative of its kind.

Now Wawrowski is fortunate enough to be able to use a violin made by the Italian master Antonio Stradivarius in 1685. It is the only such instrument to be found in postwar Poland.

The invaluable Stradivarius is kept in a treasury and goes on show at the Royal Castle in Warsaw. “In Poland, whose economy is doing really well, and which has a magnificent music tradition, entrepreneurs have regrettably shown little interest in long-term cultural investment projects. I believe that

When I play, I feel its vibrations and I have the impression that it is alive. It is the ambassador of our music in the world. Its story and amazing sound arouse interest immediately, whenever I mention it and whenever it appears. The instrument gives me the opportunity to express intense emotions. It can express happiness, as well as sobbing. It moves the hearts and minds of listeners. I have the impression that the sound becomes a physical, tangible substance that I can freely shape with my own thoughts. "

we are now able to change that by opening the Polish economy up toward culture and breaking mental barriers. Sponsorship, both at the state and private level, is invaluable both from the historical perspective and in the present day. It is worth bearing this in mind,” the artist told “Polish Market.”

The Stradivarius is featured on Wawrowski’s latest album “Hidden Violin." It is an amazing record which includes masterpieces of Polish violin music by composers Henryk Wieniawski, Mieczysław Karłowicz, Grażyna Bacewicz, and Ludomir Różycki. There are also thrilling excerpts of “Highlanders” by Karol Szymanowski. “One of my dreams is coming true. This violin is a hidden treasure which has been discovered and made available to me, so that I can explore the beauty of its sound and discover it for the whole world. The violin is beautifully preserved. It even has perfect geometric proportions and sounds absolutely wonderful. The sound is noble, crystal clear, deep and load-bearing.

The purchase of the Stradivarius worth around PLN20 million is the most spectacular case of arts sponsorship in postWWII Poland. All thanks to the initiative of Janusz Wawrowski and businessmen Roman Ziemian and Stephan Morgenstern who purchased the instrument from its previous owner, the Italian Ratini family. The crowning moment in bringing the violin to Poland was a ceremony at the Royal Castle in Warsaw in December when the instrument was given the name Polonia. Stradivarius instruments have an unrivalled design with unmatched sound quality. For music experts, they are almost priceless. Many of the instruments are famous and have their own names, just like Polonia. The violin will be used by our virtuoso for concerts and recordings. And he expresses the hope that it will set an example for other people of means in Poland by demonstrating that this great way to support culture is also a very good investment.

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PEOPLE ARE MOST IMPORTANT ROMAN ZIEMIAN, businessman, one of the founders 54 polish market

of the FutureNet platform, patron of the arts who has funded the purchase of a 1685 Stradivarius violin, talks to Maciej Proliński.

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Has patronage of the arts in Poland already started to return to its glorious tradition?

I think that Poland is still picking up the pieces after the stormy events of history that affected our country for a century or even longer. After two world wars and the period of Communism, we are slowly rebuilding our potential and, well yes, our wealth. Poland still has quite a lot of social and economic problems and this is perhaps why culture is still left on the sidelines. I am convinced that people with financial means and public figures should actively support culture, although the state should also have some responsibility in this respect. The opportunity to support the development of Polish culture gives me a sense of great pride. Especially as Polish culture deserves the best and we are following in this direction. Our company has always been characterised by large-scale activity.

PM

In 2012, you and Stephan Morgenstern set up a social media platform with a great idea, vision and mission – FutureNet Foundation. It is a global project. What has FutureNet managed to achieve in the first years of its activity?

Indeed, our foundation operates internationally, but in the first year of its activity we focused on concrete and substantial support for Polish undertakings and help for Polish people in need, especially the youngest – after all, they are the future of this great nation. Thanks to our financial means, we have already helped more than 22 children. This includes financing two life-saving surgeries.

I am speaking about Kuba and Bartek who needed heart PM

surgeries to survive. The other children underwent surgeries which helped them gain more freedom in life. Sevenyear-old Wiktoria had her hip operated on, which made it easier for her to move. And 12-year-old Natalia can finally stand up after a knee and groin surgery. Apart from surgical procedures, we have also financed medical equipment, including orthotics, wheelchairs and even a cyber-eye.

FutureNet is associated with modern technologies.

How far do you go with your investment in this area.

We cooperate with the Wrocław University of Technology, which has succeeded thanks to our support in designing and building the prototype of a drone able to transport blood at a distance of up to 30 kilometres. Ultimately, the invention is to be used, for example, in conflict-stricken areas with difficult terrain.

Another project we have supported is the development of a robotic vehicle able to independently explore the PM

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FOR ME THIS VIOLIN IS NOT AN ORDINARY INVESTMENT, LIKE REAL ESTATE OR DIAMONDS.”

From left: Stephan Morgenstern and Roman Ziemian – sponsors of "Polonia" Stradivarius, Janusz Wawrowski, violinist, Maxymilian Bylicki, Director, Institute of Music and Dance, Ministry of Culture and National Heritage

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I HAVE A GREAT NEED TO SHARE WHAT I HAVE WITH OTHERS. I BELIEVE THAT IF YOU CAN AND KNOW HOW TO DO IT YOU SHOULD HELP OTHERS.”

Martian terrain. We are also committed to the development of medicine and cooperate with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences. We have donated the faculty a device for blood gas testing, which is necessary during every surgery. In 2018, Stephan Morgenstern and I became goodwill ambassadors for IIMSAM, a permanent observer to the United Nations, so we will probably be involved in more and more international assistance activities. I am the first Pole to be granted this title while he is the first German. So far we have focused first of all on fighting hunger in the world.

And we do so by helping malnourished children. We provide them with spirulina, a high-protein food rich in vitamins and minerals - a “food of the future” as it is called by the World Food Conference.

We know it is merely a drop in the ocean. But we believe that our assistance matters. There are new projects emerging with time. We want to help others and change their lives for the better. We have it in our blood.

Let’s go back for a moment to patronage of the arts. In May 2018, the first Stradivarius violin in post-war Poland got into the hands of our virtuoso, Janusz Wawrowski. This would have been impossible if not for your investment and openness to the world.

This was definitely one of the most important developments of the past year and of my life in general. I had never expected I would be able to do something as unique and, additionally, of such great national importance. I am very happy to have been able to emphasise with this significant act my patriotism and love for classical music.

I was able to do so and I actually did not hesitate for a moment - it is a great honour for me. I am glad that my business partner Stephan also decided it was a great idea and helped to turn it into reality. Listening to this extraordinary instrument in the capital of our country is a wonderful experience. My homeland has a special place in my heart and the violin, which has been given the name Polonia, clearly proves that.

What does helping others mean to you?

I have already repeated on many occasions that I have a great need to share what I have with others. I believe that if you can and know how to do it you should help others.

I think this is simply my personality – a product of my upbringing, life experiences and sensitivities. I believe that everyone of us should make an effort to ensure that we all have a better life together. Helping gives me enormous joy.

Some of the most beautiful moments in my life are when I see smiling children and grateful parents on whom fortune has smiled. These moments give a new meaning to my life. I am very glad that our business makes it possible to meet not only market needs but also some deeper need as well – the need to do something out of the kindness of your heart.

“Someone had the courage to spend money to buy a violin, instead of gold, diamonds or yet another real property, and to give the violin to someone who can play it,” says conductor Daniel Raiskin. What do you feel when you hear such words, which are very inspiring?

It warms my heart even more. It is very inspiring when people can understand other people’s ideas and are able to jointly enjoy making them become a reality. For me this violin is not an ordinary investment, like real estate or diamonds, and this is perhaps why I did not consider this in the categories of having courage or not. Of course, the material value of the Stradivarius Polonia is indisputable.

However, of greater importance here was the heart’s need and the question of what the violin can do for the country and Polish artists. It can do a lot. For me it is a symbol of

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a better future. We run a serious and responsible business. It is thanks to this social responsibility that we want to enrich culture, art and science because they definitely deserve it.

“The dream of a Stradivarius has started to come true sooner than I could expect,” says in turn Janusz Wawrowski. How did your first meeting with our virtuoso come about? How long did it take to persuade you to make this investment?

We were put in touch with each other by the originator of the project. And actually since the beginning I was absolutely amazed with the idea. Janusz Wawrowski is an outstanding violinist, one of the best of his generation.

When I heard how passionately he spoke about the Stradivarius and its importance for Poland I decided that this beautiful vision should come true. Then, I had an opportunity to see the musician’s first encounter with this extraordinary 333-year-old instrument. Its sound blew me away. It is impossible to describe this beauty.

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Tell me, do you listen to music a lot? Do you prefer classical pieces or modern rhythms?

Classical music definitely holds a very special place in my heart because I grew up with its accompaniment and then I also attended a music school. But I have to admit that I do not have too much free time at present. However, I always try to relax to the soothing sound of classical pieces, although I am not going to hide that I also like the lively rock’n’roll and disco rhythms of the 1990s. Moniuszko, Chopin, Johann Strauss and Mozart are among my favourite classical composers while The Police, Depeche Mode and Joe Cocker are among those more contemporary ones that I like.

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What can music teach a businessman?

It is hard for me to imagine a world without music.

I think that thanks to music you can detach yourself a bit and look beyond your own interests and activity. Music has wonderful properties. Depending on its kind, it makes you more focused, inspires your creativity, or enables you to understand some emotions, or someone’s story. I think that music can teach a businessman some sensitivity and distance from the material sphere of our existence. It is also a lesson in endurance and patience. We use this approach in our products. Let’s take BannersApp. It is an application which enables its users to earn by watching banner ads displayed when they unlock their smartphones.

We believe that it can revolutionise the online marketing market. However, designing this system took a long time, with many trials and deliberations. Success is sweet, but it does not always come easy or quickly.

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When you were 20 years old you left for Germany to open a construction business there. What have you found beyond our western border? Has this experience helped you to deal with the challenges you encountered after returning to Poland?

I think I learned really a lot in Germany. After all, this country is an economic power and it is worth having a look at how businesses can function in a friendly system. This PM

is why Stephan’s support and knowledge have been more than invaluable. However, I am also glad that I was able to carry out my further activity in my own country as well.

I value my experience and benefit from it now as I collaborate with people from across the world. This produces incredible results. Our business is developing dynamically.

We are not only taking care of the market segments that we already know, but are also boldly expanding our activity by launching new products and solutions. People have started to appreciate us and in their eyes we are a trustworthy brand. Our FutureNet and FutureAdPro platforms attract new users every day. These are communities of millions of people from across the world now, people ready for revolutionary changes in their lives.

Revolutionary changes mean the need to look for modern solutions. What is innovation in the case of such a company as FutureNet? Innovation is definitely a strong part of our activity.

Suffice it to say that we have our own cryptocurrency, and new technologies and Internet tools are no secret to us. We base our success on a style of life and business slightly different from the traditional one, but this is simply because we keep up with the times in which we live and operate.

We cannot afford lagging behind and following established trends – we have to create them by ourselves.

FutureNet’s innovation is largely based on comprehensive activity in various spheres. We do not want to be associated exclusively with the virtual world. We want to be tangible and exist in the real world as well. This is why we create, for example, excellent exclusive restaurants and cafes in various parts of the world. Our motto is “Online Business in the Offline World.” As a socially responsible business, we share what we have with others – both through our charitable foundation and sports sponsorship within FutureNet Sport. Hard work is something that I greatly admire. The athletes and teams that we support are living proof that hard work, perseverance and pursuit of success pay off.

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At some point, you have to accept being regarded as a successful man. Do you like the word “success”?

Well, I think I am beginning to get used to it [laugh].

I always wanted to achieve something and I worked hard to be where I am now. But I do not think this has changed me much. I am still a modest guy from Poland [laugh]. However, the successes – many of them – that we have achieved are inspiring. 2018 was an excellent year.

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Success often begets more success. But how to achieve your first success? What is your advice for young entrepreneurs? Do you have a relevant motto?

Well, first of all I would like to advise them not to give up easily, but also be ready to modify their dreams. It is not always worth persisting. Sometimes you have to give up or open yourself to a new opportunity. What is important, apart from hard work, is an idea and your strong belief in it. And the last thing - do not be afraid of cooperating with others. I can now see that the most important • thing are people.

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VISTORS GIVE THE GALA THUMBS UP

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Any initiative that promotes the Polish economy on foreign markets is valuable and worthy of support. I am glad that the Speaker of the Polish Senate, Stanisław Karczewski, has decided to assume honorary patronage over the Gala. I wish to congratulate all the winners. I would like to thank the organizers, first and foremost the President and Editor-in-Chief of "Polish Market." I hope that we will meet in an even better mood next year. We know that the Polish economy is developing brilliantly, but it can always be better.

Coming back to the gala: Włodek Pawlik's artistic performance will surely remain in my memory. I really like his Christmas carols in a jazz version, this is my favourite record for Christmas, I listen to it every year and I am very happy that I could see his live jazz trio."

Adam Bielan, senator and Deputy Speaker of the Senate

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It would not be possible to finance Poland’s broad welfare programmes in a tougher economic climate. Social policies are inseparably linked with the economy. Our economy is now in great shape. Credit for this is due, among others, to entrepreneurs. The Polish market is becoming more and more attractive. New jobs are being created. The number of tech companies is growing. The Pearls of the Polish Economy gala is proof that the work of the country’s most prominent entrepreneurs is appreciated. Companies represented at this gala event do business in and outside Poland. They do a great job of representing Poland worldwide."

Elżbieta Rafalska, Minister of Family, Labour and Social Policies

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Such prizes as Pearls are patriotic. The laureates are people who have achieved something and show Poland in a good light, especially abroad, because these awards are international in scope. Through such initiatives, we show Poland as a modern and innovative country, and this is especially important in the year in which we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Independence. Throughout 2018, various patriotic celebrations have been held, which showed our history, culture, and the economy is also part of our history and an element of the future.

Economic patriotism manifests itself precisely through the attitudes of people who are proud of the fact that they are producing something that is Polish and that brand Poland becomes known all over the world."

Anna Maria Anders, Senator, Secretary of State at the Prime Minister’s Office, Plenipotentiary for International Dialogue

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The award is a very great distinction, especially for the employees of our company. In fact, it is them who make up our organisation.

We deal with the sales of petrochemical products on the Polish market. Among the products we import are diesel oil and LPG. Therefore, we are a counterbalance for large players such as Orlen and Lotos. It is very difficult for such a company as ours to compete on a globalised market, even at home. The more so when law is unstable.

In this situation, I would like to encourage state administration bodies to keep to the Constitution for Business introduced by Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, the more so as we expect that the year 2019 will bring an economic slowdown and, consequently, also a drop in our sales.

As for the artistic part of the Gala I liked the most the tribute to Stanisław Moniuszko and the concert of the Pawliks."

Piotr Liszek, President of Petrax SA, the company which won 2nd place in the Large Pearls category

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It is a great distinction for us and a sign of recognition for the hard work that hundreds of Budimex site managers and thousands of its engineers do every day. At present, we are conducting more than 300 building contracts in Poland. One in four kilometres of roads and motorways constructed in Poland has been built by Budimex.

We treat this as a great distinction and obligation to continue to develop this brand, which has a history of 50 years, and jointly change the surrounding world."

Michał Wrzosek, one of the directors at Budimex Group, company which won 2nd place in the Grand Pearls category

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We are one of the national champions and the largest Polish manufacturer of medicines. We have inuence on development of the Polish economy based on knowledge and innovative technologies. “People helping people” is our motto. As a supplier of high-quality, safe and effective drugs, we have enjoyed the trust of doctors, pharmacists and patients for over 80 years.

Nr 1 We are the leader of the Polish pharmaceutical market.

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Our company has been growing rapidly in Central and Eastern Europe and in Central Asia.

We employ 7,500 people in Poland and abroad.

We are proud of our development Since 2000, we have invested over PLN 1.5 billion in Research and Development – the highest amount in the Polish pharmaceutical industry.

We adhere to the best practices of Corporate Social Responsibility.

We have spent PLN 20 million supporting Polish science and the initiatives of the Polpharma Scientic.

www.polpharma.pl

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Now is a good time for innovation in the energy sector. At our energy group, we have more than 3 million customers, both individuals and businesses. We have to supply them with electricity in an effective way so our infrastructure should be reliable. Only by using innovative and advanced technologies can we be competitive compared to the other energy companies. Using various tools allows us to stand out against them. I am greatly moved by the fact that Energa has received the award in the innovation category. This means that we are not only talking about innovations, but also putting them into practice.

We have our own research and development centre and cooperate increasingly broadly with the world of science. In the future, we want to take part in bringing the research findings to the marketplace and use modern technologies in the power sector. I would like to stress that 50% of our electricity comes from renewable sources. We will be developing this direction, focusing on hydropower. However, we will also be entering new investment projects connected with photovoltaics."

Alicja Barbara Klimiuk, acting President of Energa SA, company which won the Pearl of Innovation - Progress award granted to the most innovative businesses, scientific institutes and personalities from the world of science

“

This award honours us in a special way because it is only now that we have managed to win such a prestigious distinction, although we have already operated in Poland for 20 years. We are very happy. When it comes to next year, the only challenge for us may be a shortage of IT workers in Poland. I am not worried about anything else at all."

Rafał Hędrzak, Managing Director at Novomatic Technologies Poland SA, winner of the Pearl of Innovation - Progress award in the Enterprise category

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We are very honoured that we have been able to win in the Financial Sector category this year. The Pearl of the Polish Economy is an award recognised by both Aviva employees and our clients. Poles appreciate security, especially in the uncertain times we are currently experiencing. Our company strives to offer products that meet their needs. We have been operating on the Polish market for over 25 years (prior to 2009 as Commercial Union), offering insurance, investments and pensions for millions of Poles."

Paweł Pytel, Vice-President, Aviva Towarzystwo Ubezpieczeń, a company honoured with the Pearl of the Financial Sector

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The companyʼs activities are based around imports, exports and wholesale

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distribution of fuel products and their derivatives. Our offer includes traditional fuels, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and biofuels.

Our longstanding experience in international trade in petrochemicals and their logistics, both in terms of overland and sea transport, allows us to offer instant

solutions to problems that may arise. This gives us a definite competitive edge.

We are able to ensure continuity, timely deliveries and competitive prices.

OUR VALUES: team of experienced employees timely deliveries safety competitive wholesale prices loyalty toward business partners

petraxtradesa.com.pl

PETRAX TRADE S.A. ul. R.Tagore 3/9 02-647 Warszawa SHARE CAPITAL: 2 000.000 pln petraxtradesa@petrax.com.pl tel. +48 22 648 95 98

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Everyone needs to give oneself a bit of luxury.

And luxury also means business involved with high quality products, products which are soughtafter and innovative. We would like business and science to promote high quality food. This Gala responds to this challenge as well. At present, there is fashion for healthy eating. We have conducted a survey which shows that Polish children perfectly recognise organic food. As regards well-to-do people, they find organic products among luxury products. As a result, sales of these products are on the rise. As Austrians noted at the Economic Forum in Kraków, our market already accounts for nearly 4% of the food market."

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Pearls of the Polish Economy awards are a very important distinction on the Polish market. We should promote people who stand out in the business community. This gives them prestige.

Undoubtedly, these awards constitute a symbolic capital, which can be later used in image-building and marketing activities, and in business activity. Events of this kind - apart from being cultural, communitybuilding and social events - create a good atmosphere and motivate people to act, the more so as business in Poland did not enjoy sufficient respect for quite a long time. There still exists the bad myth of the entrepreneur as a person who is not always fair and who achieves success in a way not always good or ethical. This is not true. It is a great simplification, which should be eliminated. Such events as the Pearls of the Polish Economy Gala play an enormous educational role for Polish society."

Paweł Krajmas, President of the Polish Ecology Association

Roman Mańka, Director of the Administration Institute, head of the portal of the Forum of Initiatives Security – Development – Energy think tank

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We have been given the great honour of taking part in the Pearls of the Polish Economy award ceremony at the Royal Castle in Warsaw.

The distinction we received raises our status not only in Poland but also on foreign markets where “Polish Market” has been known for many years. Our company uses, for example, the logo of the magazine on 34 markets. Our company is a supplier in the civil and military aviation sector under the Interior Ministry’s licence. This is trade of strategic importance for the country’s security. We are a global company, with highly advanced technological solutions, especially in the area of IT. We have 11 management systems implemented and supervised by international organisations."

Anna Kolisz, Vice-President of Ankol Sp. z o.o., Czesław Kolisz, President of Ankol Sp. z o.o., winner of the Pearl of Innovation - Progress award granted to the most innovative businesses, scientific institutes and personalities from the world of science

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GDYNIA

BUILDING A WORLD-CLASS PORT “The quays will be modernised and the port basin deepened to enable handling any kind of ships entering the Baltic,” says President of the Port of Gdynia Authority ADAM MELLER. He talks to “Polish Market’s” Jerzy Mosoń about the main competition for the harbour, challenges associated with inland transport and expectations of the logistics sector.

Probably not, but our offering will have no limitations associated with port parameters. We will be able to handle all vessels that now call at Hamburg or Gdańsk. When it comes to the comparison with Germany, their network of roads and motorways is developed better than ours. Also, we are no match for them as far as railway connections go.

Of course, we are heading in the right direction, but there is still a long way ahead.

Is the Port of Gdynia still price competitive?

Absolutely. But our rivals are watching us, of course, and trying to bring their rates in line with those offered by us and partners from the East. At present, the main natural rival for the Port of Gdynia is Klaipeda in Lithuania. Of all eastern ports, this one is the most attractive. It has good navigation conditions and, like our ports, does not freeze, in contrast to all the harbours to the east and north of Klaipeda. Soon, Klaipeda will also gain an indisputable advantage in the form of the Via Carpatia highway network, which is now under construction and will ultimately link the city with Thessaloniki in Greece.

Photo: T.Urbaniak

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The Port of Gdynia has recently received funding which makes it possible to expand its potential. What does it mean to its business partners?

At present, we are at the stage of selecting contractors which will modernise our wharfs. The first to be modernised will be the Italian, Slovakian and Hungarian Quays.

We have to organise the Port’s operation in such a way that the modernisation process causes as little trouble for our customers as possible.

Following the modernisation of the quays we will deepen the port to 16 metres. As a result, it will reach the standard of oceanic ports and will be able to handle any kind of ships entering the Baltic Sea. PM

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Will Polish ports not benefit from this route?

It is assumed that streams of vehicles moving along Via Carpatia will be turning into the modernised S7 route leading to the ports of the coastal Tri-city of Gdynia, Gdańsk and Sopot. This is the assumption. But what the actual situation will be? We will see. I think there are several factors behind the record result achieved by the Port of Gdynia.

I am not talking here only about the Port of Gdynia Authority because, for obvious reasons, we have some limitations in our activity. But it is worth stressing the effectiveness of port services, in particular the efficiency of our terminals and the managers’ ability to acquire cargo. This was coupled with some sort of attractiveness because we are regarded as a port with which customers are satisfied.

We also, without a doubt, have a good reputation. And of no small importance is the present good economic situation and a political climate favourable for shipping. This is proven by the establishment of the Ministry of Maritime Economy and Inland Navigation. Until recently a single department at the Ministry of Infrastructure was responsible PM

Will you be able to compete with Hamburg after the completion of the investment projects?

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for all issues connected with the maritime economy and navigation. Now we have a minister responsible for the sector. We have become visible. The thing was to understand that the maritime economy was a sector with a potential to develop.

For many year there has been the recurring question about the Vistula – whether it is worthwhile turning it into a navigable river.

Making inland waterways navigable could change the transport market quite a lot. It has been known for a long time that transport of goods by water is one of the cheapest modes of transport. Making rivers navigable would take the strain from rail and road transport. One barge can transport as much cargo as a few dozen TIR trucks.

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It seems river traffic was developed better in the past.

I remember the days when many barges moved down the river Brda. There was heavy traffic. At present, this traffic is virtually non-existent. The same is the case with the river port. Restoring its operation would actually mean the need to build it again from scratch. If we manage to make inland waterways navigable we will change the criteria of discussion about goods transported from seaports to the centre of the country and abroad. Taking such measures would also be a good response to environmental challenges. And it would be a chance for the ports because it would mean the ability to direct part of the cargo streams further by water through inland water transport.

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THE MAIN NATURAL RIVAL FOR THE PORT OF GDYNIA IS KLAIPEDA IN LITHUANIA. OF ALL EASTERN PORTS, THIS ONE IS THE MOST ATTRACTIVE.”

Is the scale of current projects in the Port of Gdynia comparable to the investments made in the times of Minister Kwiatkowski in the period between the two world wars?

To answer your question I will quote some numbers.

Today, the area under the Port’s administration is much larger, but it contains shipyards and a naval port. As for the Port of Gdynia itself, we operate on around 240 hectares. The Outer Port will ultimately occupy 180 hectares, meaning that the existing area of the Port of Gdynia will almost double. If we add to that our second project – logistic facilities on land, something that we call the “logistics valley” – we will additionally get more than 200 hectares. As a result, the total area of Port of Gdynia will triple.

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Will you manage to respond to the expectations of the logistics sector on time?

The construction of the first warehouse is nearing completion. An agreement for its lease has already been signed.

We want to build another three warehouses. The problem is not meeting construction deadlines, but a shortage of land for logistics facilities. What upsets us the most is that sometimes we have to say no to our business partners because of a lack of space. There is practically no more space available in the immediate vicinity of the Port. Consequently, a natural direction for expansion is the sea and the development of the “logistics valley,” situated inland 15 minutes’ drive from the Port.

The construction of the Outer Port offers a chance for the development of tourist traffic. Do you think it is a good idea?

The Stena Line ferry operator, which operates in the Port of Gdynia, has increasingly strong results. We will want to start cooperating also with other carriers and open new destinations. Hence the decision to build a public terminal. As regards cruise traffic, we are of the opinion that it should take place closer to city centres. This is why we are going to build a terminal for passenger ships in the Outer Port and relocate passenger check-in facilities to wharfs close to the centre of the city.

The large-scale projects require putting in place a new navigation system. What solutions are planned for the Port of Gdynia?

We are working on our own navigation system. Now, the Port’s entrance is only 100 metres wide, a bit too narrow for vessels with a width of 50-60 metres and entering during a strong wind.

We have already come to an agreement with the Ministry of Defence and are going to broaden the entrance by 40 metres. At the same time, the navigation lights will be changed from leading lights to sector lights. Captains and pilots will have to get used to the new system. Another element we are introducing are modern Real Time Kinematic (RTK) navigation systems able to position a ship with an accuracy of several centimetres. We will thus maintain a • very high level of safety, despite expanding the Port.

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The construction of the Outer Port was to be based on public-private partnership, a system which always poses a challenge. Is there a chance that the project will be carried out?

Indeed, public-private partnership is not the easiest thing. We are continuing this ambitious project. We have completed technical talks, selected a concept and part of the documentation is now ready. At this early stage, we can already see great interest on the part of business, especially from the West.

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Is Port of Gdynia trying to correlate its actions in some way with plans to build Poland’s Central Transport Hub? At present, we are not taking any special measures in this respect. But we hope that the Tri-city ports will also benefit from the planned network of connections.

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FOR POLAND’S BETTER

FOOD SECURITY

Construction of a third fertilizers installation and more, safer Polish products for the country’s agriculture, are just some of the ambitous plans of ANWIL, based in the town of Włocławek, which are discussed by its President AGNIESZKA ŻYRO in an interview for "Polish Market.”

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The biggest challenge now facing ANWIL is an investment project which involves the construction of your third fertilizer process installation. How is it going to translate into the company’s production capabilities?

The launch of the third fertilizer production facility will enable ANWIL to increase its output from 966,000 to 1.461 million tonnes a year. It will also add thick saltpetre, ammonium nitrate sulphate, nitro-sulphur and nitro-chalk (Canwil) with magnesium featuring improved granule properties, to the product portfolio.

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ANWIL activities are based on two pillars: PVC and ammonium nitrate. Is the company planning to continue to pursue a balanced two-track approach or is the new investment project going to change the proportions?

ANWIL’s production strategy relies on two business areas. That is why we intend to develop them in a balanced way.

We are at a stage of fairly advanced analyses concerning possibilities for the expansion of PVC production capabilities by around 20% by 2024. Last year we completed the tender process for a feasibility study for the modernisation of the PVC facility. The concept that we are considering assumes the addition of oxychlorination units, distillation of dichloroethane, cracking, purification of vinyl chloride and the use of process heat. Increasing the volume of suspension polyvinyl chloride produced by ANWIL is a natural consequence of market forecasts, which indicate a further increase in its consumption.

According to analysts, global demand for PVC is expected to rise by at least 3.2 % per year over the next few years.

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2018 was thus a good year for ANWIL. Proof of this was the “Polish Market” Grand Pearl of the Polish Economy award.

What successes would you like to single out?

The most important success was the securing by our company of all necessary corporate approvals for the construction of a third production installation of ammonium nitrate. At an extraordinary general meeting of the ANWIL S.A. Board on December 14, the decision was taken to implement this investment project. It is extremely important from the point of view of domestic agro producers, because it will make it possible to meet the growing demand for ammonium nitrate in Poland. At the moment, we are its only Polish producer with a potential to increase output. Within three years we will be able to provide Polish farmers with access to an increased volume of domestic products that meet the highest world standards in every aspect in terms of production and sales. It will therefore be our contribution toward ensuring Poland's food security and protecting the domestic market against the inflow of imported fertilizers, often of dubious quality, mainly from the East.

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A large company operating in such a demanding area as the chemical industry constantly faces the need to acquire the best qualified employees. How do you deal with the shortage of specialists in Poland?

For the chemical industry, the smooth passage from one generation to another, the hiring of successors to retiring specialists, is becoming more and more important. The chemical industry is one of the driving forces of the global PM

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WITHIN THREE YEARS WE WILL BE ABLE TO PROVIDE POLISH FARMERS WITH ACCESS TO AN INCREASED VOLUME OF DOMESTIC PRODUCTS THAT MEET THE HIGHEST WORLD STANDARDS. IT WILL BE OUR CONTRIBUTION TOWARD ENSURING POLAND'S FOOD SECURITY.”

economy. According to the forecasts of the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC), the value of trade in chemicals and chemical products in 2030 will amount to EUR 6.3 trillion. Also, the domestic chemical sector is growing faster than other industries in Poland, so it is very actively looking for qualified employees. ANWIL undertakes a number of activities that serve this purpose. In 2016, we decided to forge a partnership with the Chemical Industry Vocational School Complex in Włocławek and assume patronage over a class whose students master chemical industry technologies. In September, the third year of junior high school graduates started their education there. Also three years ago, we launched the elite project "Starting with ANWIL". The project is primarily aimed at students of chemistry, chemical technology, chemical engineering and materials science, as well as engineering and technology of polymers and nanotechnology. There is no shortage of those interested in taking an internship at ANWIL. For ten years, up to ten candidates have been fighting for a single place on average. We also enable students to complete obligatory internships under the supervision of experts employed in our company. The best of them then have the opportunity to carry on working with our company.

In Poland, for many years, children and young people have been more willing to take up humanities, which has its negative consequences for the labour market.

How can you encourage children to appreciate maths and physics more?

We place emphasis on making young people interested in science. For this purpose our corporate foundation operates a programme of scholarships under the motto "I am learning with ANWIL." A list of those selected for the third edition was announced at the end of the year. Robotics ABC, Knowledge Factory and Be Like Leonardo are but a few projects that will be implemented. Depending on the level of knowledge and profile of education, those taking part in the projects will learn about various fields of sciences in the most interesting way which will be adapted to their needs.

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“

ECONOMY 4.0, NAMELY DIGITALISATION, INNOVATION AND BIG DATA ARE THE CHALLENGES THAT THE CHEMICAL SECTOR WILL HAVE TO FACE WHEN IT COMES TO THE RECRUITMENT OF EMPLOYEES WITH THE RIGHT LEVEL OF EDUCATION, TO ENABLE THE DIGITALISATION OF PRODUCTION PROCESSES."

Although the range of the proposed activities is broad and in many cases focuses on narrow specialisations, students are given an easy and pleasant opportunity to acquire knowledge presented in a practical, yet innovative way. Creating exciting teaching methods is actually the essence of our efforts in this area. Only by arousing curiosity and encouraging students to use the knowledge they have gained in everyday life, can we create the right kind of environment for innovation. We support teachers in helping students to find their feet in the world of technology and to find their own path, because in adult life they will be responsible for finding solutions for the future, possibly working for ANWIL. Naturally, this is but a small part of activities thanks to which we secure our future employees. We are constantly on the lookout for new solutions to encourage young people to work in our company.

Are the scholarship programme and apprenticeships made available by ANWIL to the most talented young people part of corporate social responsibility or is it a deliberate way of educating your future cadres?

“The young with ANWIL" programme, which we implement through our corporate foundation, is both an additional undertaking that fits in with our activities under the sign of CSR, and an HR tool, thanks to which we want to encourage future chemical industry specialists from Włocławek and the surrounding region to seek a career in our company.

Students of the last year of B.Sc. studies, those taking M.Sc. courses in chemistry, chemical technology and chemical engineering, are eligible for the scholarship. The scholarship is also open to students of mechanical engineering, automation, electrical engineering, electro-automation, as well as process engineering. At the beginning, a ninemonth scholarship is available, followed by an internship or apprenticeship, which we hope will be the beginning of the graduates’ future with ANWIL. PM

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Does the current education system enable the chemical industry to find properly trained employees? What should change in Polish education to satisfy the needs of industry in a better way?

Economy 4.0, namely digitalisation, innovation and big data are the challenges that the chemical sector will have to face when it comes to the recruitment of employees with the right level of education, to be able to digitalise production processes. In particular, I have in mind data analysts who are at the same time production technologists or process engineers. Our experience shows that, unfortunately, those competent in the field of IT and data analysis, do not always understand the industry's needs, including those resulting from the nature of chemical production. The use of big data in industry has enormous potential. It is thus worth considering whether it would be right to modify the ways industry collaborates with universities in the field of education of cadres so that courses are introduced that integrate knowledge in the field of IT with strictly technological knowledge, with particular emphasis on big data analytics. All the more so that, in terms of its growth rate, the chemical sector is at the forefront globally. Our HR needs are not only growing, but also becoming more and more specialised.

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ANWIL operates extensive arts sponsorship programmes, as well as programmes that provide support for children in orphanages and the disabled. The company’s pearl in the crown has always been a basketball team from Włocławek.

Which of the non-business activities of the company is currently the most important? Or maybe other areas have become important, too?

ANWIL is one of the pillars of the Polish economy, a leading company in the chemical industry. The rich product portfolio means that we export products to over 40 countries around the world. The broad scale of our business activities means lots of responsibility. For this reason, the paramount goal is to maintain a balance between the effectiveness of our company and public interest. Thus, the obligations we have assumed, both in relation to society and the environment, go far beyond the financial results we generate. As a company or through our corporate foundation ANWIL for Włocławek, we conduct intensive activities in the areas of corporate social responsibility and charity on a regional scale. Among others, we launch numerous projects of educational and cultural nature, as well as those that promote an active lifestyle. Each of our non-business activities is equally important to us, because it is addressed to different target groups and satisfies different needs of the local community.

PM

In the autumn of last year, the Agro Show took place, during which a presentation of ANWIL products was held. This year there will also be similar events. Which of them are the most important for ANWIL and why?

We are present at the most important national and foreign exhibitions that enable our product portfolio to be presented to a wide range of visitors. In the case of ammonium nitrate, it is the Agro Show in Bednary, and in the case of PVC, • the Plastpol fair in Kielce.

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

METLIFE

RECOGNIZED AS PEARL OF THE POLISH ECONOMY MIROSŁAW KISYK, President and General Manager of MetLife in Poland

“

SUPPORTING AND CREATING VALUE TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY IS PART OF METLIFE’S CORE BUSINESS."

MetLife, which celebrated its 150 anniversary last year, is one of the world’s leading financial services companies, providing insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management to help its individual and institutional customers navigate their changing world. The essence of who we are as a company is captured by our values: “Put Customers First,” “Be the Best,” “Make Things Easier” and “Succeed Together.” In Poland, MetLife has been present for almost 30 years. We have the advantage of being the first company to start selling life insurance in a free market economy, which allowed us to acquire extraordinary experience and develop understanding of our customers’ unique needs better than anyone else.

DELIVERING THE RIGHT SOLUTIONS FOR THE RIGHT CUSTOMERS

This is reflected in MetLife’s strategy, which concentrates on the most important mission of insurance companies – delivering a unique value in the form of insurance coverage for customers, their families and people close to them. At the core of this approach lies the

constant development of our products – value propositions – so they are flexible to meet the individual needs of our customers. First, we build value for customers by analysing their needs, and then we design specific solutions around their needs. Our rich product portfolio allows us to maintain the status as one of the most competitive insurers in the Polish market in terms of product flexibility. Delivering the right solutions for the right customers and meeting their needs is at the heart of our strategy.

to provide customers with greater access to the protection under the MetLife brand. Not only are our products adjusted to customers’ preferences but also our distribution methods. Customers can buy them in a simple and convenient way, having professional services of our distribution network. Whether sold during a meeting with an agent or by phone, our products are available to all the customers who need them.

DIGITIZING SALES AND CUSTOMER SERVICE PROCESSES

Supporting and creating value to the local community is part of MetLife’s core business. We are a vital part of the social safety net, paying over PLN 1 billion a year in claims and benefits, and an engine of economic growth, having invested over PLN 20 billion in the Polish economy, supporting government projects and through the stock exchange.

Participating in the life of the community which we know and responding to their needs is the very nature of our business. We are fortunate to be able to draw on the support of MetLife Foundation, MetLife’s philanthropic arm, in this respect. Our CSR programmes, we have been developing in Poland since the beginning of our activity, focus on financial inclusion, helping children and preventing social exclusion. We are running them successfully with the support of MetLife volunteers and in cooperation with non-governmental organizations such as Junior Achievement Foundation, Habitat for Humanity Foundation and Special Olympics.

•

Our customer-centric approach includes the need to further digitise our services because this is what our customers expect from us and this is the current trend in the market. Companies that are able to take advantage of new technologies and use them to drive business innovations are gaining a significant advantage. MetLife operates efficiently and effectively to constantly enhance the customer experience. We have focused on innovation in products and services including the recent modifications of our online services as well as optimization of processes. Extending the functions available on our sales platform for agents, improving our e-customer digital servicing platform and launching an e-policy are a few examples of time-saving solutions which help improve experience of our customers.

INCREASING ACCESSIBILITY

We deliver diverse insurance coverage and strengthen our capabilities in distribution

SUPPORTING LOCAL COMMUNITY

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PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

A BREEDING GROUND FOR BUSINESS TALENT “Guild members are not only pioneers of Polish entrepreneurship, but also patriots cherishing traditions,” says MAREK NOWAK, Prime Warden of the Cech Rzemiosł Metalowych i Innej Przedsiębiorczości (Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades. In an interview for “Polish Market”, Marek Nowak also points out that the organisation is keeping up with the times, providing qualified workers for the market, including in trades involving modern technologies.

During the Honorary Pearls Gala, the Guild of Metalworkers and other Trades was granted by the Editorial Staff of “Polish Market” a distinction which refers to the 100th anniversary of Polish independence - “for promoting crafts traditions, patriotic values, the work ethos and educating young generations.”

We were very proud to receive this distinction. It proved that the Editorial Staff appreciated the values fostered by Polish guilds, the oldest social and trade structure in Poland, which has been the guardian of our national, local and vocational identity. For centuries guilds have been the source of role models, work ethos, patriotic traditions, and responsibility for educating new generations. Guild members, as pioneers of Polish entrepreneurship, have always stressed their patriotism and involvement in upholding traditions. This is clearly apparent in the fact that guilds have their banners. Our guild banner is a symbol of devotion to conscientiousness, work, patriotism and religion.

The highest distinction for guild members is Kiliński’s Sabre, as this craftsman was the one who led other guilds and burghers to revolt against the partitioning powers on 16 April 1794, expressing his patriotism and devotion to freedom. In the past, guild members were responsible for defending town walls. Today, as members of the Guild, we can express our patriotism in other ways: by paying particular attention to the quality of our products and teaching vocational skills to the young generation - as in the past when craftsmen’s products were subject to thorough inspection by guild authorities - respecting the work ethos, and providing qualified workers indispensable for Poland's PM

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“

OUR GUILD BANNER IS A SYMBOL OF DEVOTION TO CONSCIENTIOUSNESS, WORK, PATRIOTISM AND RELIGION.”

economic growth. It is worth noting that the Guild of Metalworkers had its share in the rebuilding of Warsaw and the reconstruction of the Old Town, which also had its patriotic dimension. The Guild's membership fees were allocated for the rebuilding of a historic tenement house in the Old Town, destroyed during the Warsaw Rising in 1944.

The building is currently a Guild Hall used by our members. It is situated in the vicinity of the historic workshop of our spiritual leader, Jan Kiliński.

The Guild of Metalworkers, one of the oldest in Poland, was established at the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries, and since then these trades have undergone remarkable technological transformation. And what is today’s Guild of Metalworkers like?

I am afraid that the majority of the public associate metalworking with a blacksmith in the countryside, or with PM

PEARLS OF THE POLISH ECONOMY

simple crafts or artistic works, and this is still a popular view. But the reality is far from this archaic perception. Our Guild brings its members together in 13 sections. Many of the members have developed businesses run previously by their fathers and grandfathers. They have been running their businesses on average for 40 years. The businesses are among leading modern enterprises, which have patented innovative technological solutions and equipment.

Among our members are businesses whose products for the automotive industry meet the highest international standards and are available all over the world. They cooperate with major international business partners. They deliver to Polish banks technologically advanced equipment which meets the highest security standards. They are authorities in the security products sector, and leading manufacturers of high-security locks. They are major Polish and European suppliers of medical devices and products based on their own solutions, having patented their designs, which is a substantial contribution to the growth of Polish healthcare services, and they are experts in numerous disappearing trades which are still important for the economy. It would seem that we are similar to other enterprises, as we are employers, and we have all the necessary certificates to manufacture our products. But only guild members prove their vocational qualifications for practicing a specific trade by learning practical skills under the supervision of other guild members, passing apprentice examinations and master examinations, after which they can teach new apprentices. One of the most important tasks of guilds is vocational teaching and introducing qualified workers to the market. They are the only employer organisations which hold apprentice exams and master exams, and issue certificates confirming qualifications which bear seals with the Polish national emblem.

Following years when there was a gap in systemic solutions supporting the growth of Polish small business, we can currently witness positive changes concerning the guilds’ priority task involving vocational training.

We need to realise that Polish guilds represent the economic potential of approximately 300,000 businesses.

The economy needs highly qualified staff, including specialists in disappearing occupations, precision locksmiths, electroplaters, highly qualified welders, mechanics, and machining-tool operators. According to statistical data, guild members are currently training approximately 100,000 students in over 150 occupations. Over 2.5 million apprentice certificates and nearly 600,000 master certificates were issued between 1945 and 2017. The first nonpublic schools established on the initiative of guilds were opened in 1993, and were the expression of our community’s commitment to education. Guilds and crafts chambers are opting for creating new vocational schools. Apprentice-Master relations, the combination of practical training under contracts of employment at workshops, the theoretical knowledge acquired at schools, and the role of guilds as intermediary institutions, are all arguments in favour of learning a vocation in a form proposed by guilds.

Nearly 6,000 students currently attend 38 vocational schools run under the auspices of our organisations. 1,132

From left: Mirosław Kaczmarek, Elder of the Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades, Marek Nowak, Chief Warden of the Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades, Joanna Fabisiak, parliament member, Krystyna Woźniak-Trzosek (“Polish Market”), Zbigniew Kłos, Elder of the Guild of Metalworkers and Other Trades

“

WE NEED TO REALISE THAT POLISH GUILDS REPRESENT THE ECONOMIC POTENTIAL OF APPROXIMATELY 300,000 BUSINESSES.”

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teachers have found employment there. So far, over 14,000 students have graduated from these schools.

In September 2018, the employees and employers from the Social Dialogue Council expressed their approval for the directions of changes proposed by the Government in the draft Act on amending Education Law, the EducationSystem Act and certain other Acts. The changes should be regarded as positive, as they are introducing solutions supporting a closer link between education and the labour market, making employers’ opinions more prominent as regards the preparation of curricula in vocational education, and facilitating the acquisition of sector-specific qualifications required for working in a given occupation. Our Guild and the whole community will endeavour to fulfil their tasks successfully, educating young generations for the Polish economy consistently and with a sense of responsibility.

Going back to the beginnings of guilds, we have our share in the success of the Pearls. We were a grain of sand in a shell which gave birth to today’s Pearls of the Polish • Economy.

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CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN KATOWICE

KATOWICE PACKAGE IS ADOPTED It was a close call. The extended COP24 world climate summit in the Polish city of Katowice nearly ended in failure. Ultimately, though, an agreement was reached which sets out guidelines aimed at curbing the global rise in temperatures.

T

he Katowice package is the result of talks devoted to escalating climate change and its prevention. The adopted guidelines are intended to implement the Paris Agreement of 2015, aimed at curbing the global rise in temperatures. One could argue that if it had not been for the support offered by companies, organisations and institutions to the cause of saving the climate, it would have been very hard to reach an agreement. For example, the World Bank pledged to spend even up to USD 200 billion to finance climate action between 2021 and 2025.

HISTORIC DEAL?

At a summit in the French capital four years ago, the international community, led by representatives of the majority of states, agreed in principle to check the process of global warming by 2100 by bringing the rise in temperatures down to two degrees Celsius - and if new technologies were introduced, even down to 1.5 degrees Celsius - above the average temperatures recorded before the industrial revolution. For this to happen, between 2030 and 2050 the world economy should produce zero carbon dioxide emissions. At least that is what those who worked on the latest IPCC report on global warming say. According to Polish politicians on the government side, the Katowice summit was a success. After the agreement was signed, the President of COP24, Michał Kurtyka, expressed the hope that having scored a success, Katowice would become a historic place for economic policy next to Kyoto and Paris.

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EXPERTS ARE CAUTIOUS

Polish experts dealing with climate change and energy on a daily basis are also satisfied with the result, although in most of their statements they tend to be moderately optimistic. “Taking into account the challenges faced by the Polish presidency, it is a success that an agreement has been reached. The "Rule book" was adopted, but there are some weaknesses in it which are open to interpretation by individual countries. There are more of them than those who fight climate change would like to see,” says international security expert Łukasz Tolak, Ph.D, assistant professor at the Institute of International Relations and Sustainable Development of the Collegium Civitas university in Warsaw and an expert of the Safety-Development-Energy Forum of Initiatives Foundation.

LIMITED SUCCESS

It is worth noting that in the main COP24 final document, the parties welcomed the completion of the latest IPCC report on global warming in time, and this fact seems to be the biggest success. During the talks, however, there was no shortage of differences regarding ways in which the report itself should be interpreted. This is evident in the final document, in which the parties stressed the urgent need to increase ambitious goals in climate policies to better adapt to climate change and limit its negative impact. Negotiators also considered it justified to increase: financing, access to technologies and support by developed countries for the developing countries.

A call was also made for a more ambitious approach to climate protection beyond 2020 and

the earmarking of a sum of roughly USD 100 billion per year for this purpose.

The final document encourages participants to adopt long-term emission reduction strategies from 2020 onward and approves the strategies that have been already presented. Elsewhere, parties which have already presented their national commitments by 2025, are encouraged to submit further commitments by 2030 and to do so every five years from then on. In line with the Katowice package, countries should provide information on NDC (Nationally Determined Controls), i.e. voluntary emission reduction commitments.

INCREASED EMISSIONS

As Łukasz Tolak points out, the countries should, despite everything, take on more commitments than agreed at the Katowice Summit.

“A degree of progress in the way the problem is perceived is evident,” the expert emphasises. He points out that even given the previous approach by elites to climate protection, temperatures were likely to rise dangerously by as much as 5 degrees Celsius. Currently there is less of a threat of this happening, and a much slower rise in temperatures would probably allow the human body to better adapt to new living conditions. “On the other hand, however, it is worrying that despite the efforts put in so far, in 2018 carbon dioxide emissions increased compared to 2017 levels,” the board member of the FIBRE think tank warns.

According to the latest Global Carbon Project report, in 2018 carbon dioxide emissions increased by 2.7 percent compared to the previous year’s levels, reaching a record level of 37.1 billion tonnes.

CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN KATOWICE

POLAND’S VOICE

The Polish presidency drafted three declarations for the summit which have made an impact worldwide. But it was not all plain sailing. As usual, the bone of contention was coal and its role in the economy.

The first of the declarations proposed by Poland was a document entitled the Solidarity and Just Transition Silesia Declaration. Representatives of 45 countries accepted it by acclamation.

The document, which was signed by President Andrzej Duda, provides for achieving goals related to climate protection while maintaining economic development and jobs in the spirit of Solidarity’s heritage. “Poland owes its democracy to the great social movement Solidarity, which grew out of the trade movement, the struggle for workers' rights, the right to join free trade unions, and the fight for social rights," President Andrzej Duda said in a statement. "When preparing a declaration on just transformation in the spirit of solidarity, we refer to this heritage,” he added.

It is worth emphasising, however, that the adopted declaration is not a hard commitment by the signatories, but only an expression of willingness to do so, so that the fight for climate protection does not obscure other goals. But Polish initiatives did not end there.

Together with the U.K., Poland presented the concept of the Katowice Partnership for Electromobility ("Driving Change Together - Katowice Partnership for Electromobility") to bring partners together in activities geared toward clean transport. The Declaration includes a plan for the creation of a network of partnerships between cities, regions, states and companies and organisations, whose aim is, among others, to exchange experiences in the development of electromobility.

ANY REGRETS?

The Katowice Package did not include a chapter on the implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which provided for the establishment of a new international market-based emissions trading mechanism, to avoid situations in which emission decreases would be counted twice. But there seem to be more important gaps than that. Brazil and Turkey turned out to be the main stumbling blocks. Opposition to the provisions related to the implementation of art. 6 was voiced by Brazil. That country’s veto against the adoption of the entire document was withdrawn only after negotiators proposed to postpone the deadline for Brazil

Yet another idea of the Polish Presidency was the declaration "Forests for Climate." The document calls on countries to work together to use forests to offset CO2 emissions.

Despite Poland’s numerous initiatives, it was the organiser of the summit that received the Anti-prize in the form of a fossil, a distinction awarded by ecologists who work for CAN (Climate Action Network). It was seen as a form of punishment for "Promoting Polish coal during COP24."

Meanwhile, Poland tried to win support among those taking part in the debate for its new ideas regarding the use of this most valuable Polish raw material in the green economy.

Mirosław Bobrzyński, President of Euro-Centrum S.A. in Katowice, told "Polish Market" that it is already possible to think about coal differently than in recent years. “I think that the example of the COP summit in Katowice provides an indication of where global trends are headed: toward renewable energy sources and away from fossil fuels.

However, this does not mean that the latter will be eliminated altogether. Cooperation and co-existence form the basis of development.

It’s about a symbiotic relationship between these two things - not rivalry and waging wars. This finds expression in state policies. Poland has plenty of geothermal energy, it also has very favourable climate conditions. In the future, Poland will definitely be an important player in terms of the energy mix. However, we cannot forget that our energy chiefly comes from coal. There is a big future ahead of coal, but we can’t look at it only as a fossil fuel which we burn for heating purposes. Coal is our national treasure and we produce various kinds of fibres from it, we produce various kinds of substances. It is not something we appreciate at all and it is not treated as our strategic commodity.”

until 2019. Significantly, the final document includes references to last-minute agreements that are to form the basis for later negotiations, for example with Brazil. However, the next summit in Chile should bring a breakthrough. In turn, Turkey fought from the outset to be recognised as a developing country, which would allow it to use adjustment funds to introduce changes in the economy to be able to meet the stringent requirements. Ankara's attitude may in the future encourage other countries to use similar evasion tactics to seek outside funding in a way that defies accepted economic thinking.

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CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN KATOWICE

COAL 4.0 Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa, the largest coking coal producer in Europe, focuses on modern technologies. There is no steel without coking coal, so economic development would be impossible, but companies from the JSW Capital Group are creating a completely new company image today. There are many examples: JSW Innowacje entry into the Israeli TDA Accelerator (Technion Drive Accelerator) programme, the launch of the Big Data Centre and plans for the production of hydrogen from coke furnace gas.

F

or several years, JSW companies have been steadily introducing innovative solutions which, in line with the company's plans, are to serve mainly the development of the core business, namely coal mining, coke production and the use of carbon-based products.

The implementation of innovations is to translate into higher efficiency and work safety. A good case in point is a project called the “mine of the future”.

NEW TECHNOLOGIES IN PRACTICE

At the end of last year, one of the companies of the JSW Capital Group - IT Systems, whose task is to provide IT solutions for JSW, started the implementation of new solutions in the field of communication and integration of technological systems. It is an original approach to monitoring machinery and equipment. The data obtained in this way will be used in production efficiency reports. The introduction of modern IT solutions will be used for mine management purposes. This will allow for constant monitoring of the equipment and support of the mining process.

But the "mine of the future" project means much more than that. The pilot use of the ABB AbilityTM MineScape system enables the creation of a spatial geometric and quality model of coal seams, i.e. imaging the deposit. As a result, specialists will be able to plan effective mining methods, which will translate into shortening the production preparation cycle and better use of resources, and thus increase the production efficiency of all mines included in JSW. All

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data collected in this way is processed by the Centre for Advanced Data Analytics (Big Data), thanks to which researchers obtain valuable information for optimisation of production and standardisation of solutions.

Innovative solutions introduced by JSW are also intended to increase the safety level. Miles of optical fibres enable monitoring of natural hazards which lurk underground and the condition of machinery during mining operations.

One example of such activities is the purchase of a modern heading system with a Bolter Miner 12CM30 combine. Its launch in the Budryk mine in Ormontowice in the Śląskie Province is planned in June.

THE FUEL OF THE FUTURE

Participants of the COP24 Climate Summit, which ended in December, travelled by a hydrogen-powered bus. This was a preview of JSW’s plans. The company wants to become a leading hydrogen producer for the needs of zero-emission public transport. “According to experts, hydrogen is to become one of the fuels of the future. Market forecasts indicate a 17% increase in demand for this fuel in the European Union by 2025, which is related to plans to build 2,000 hydrogen filling station for motor vehicles in Europe. Forecasts indicate that by 2030, the value of the hydrogen-powered vehicles market will grow to USD 25 billion,” Daniel Ozon, President of the Management Board of JSW SA told the Katowice summit.

In this respect, the company has enormous potential because hydrogen can be obtained from coke-oven gas,

CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN KATOWICE

“

JSW SA PRESENTED AN ORIGINAL APPROACH TO MONITORING MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT. THE DATA OBTAINED IN THIS WAY WILL BE USED IN PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY REPORTS.”

which is a by-product in coke plants owned by JSW. The obtained gas is 99.999 % hydrogen, thanks to the PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) technology. Exhaust coming from hydrogen fuel cells is nothing but vapour.

The project provides a great opportunity to diversify the company's revenue sources. It also contributes to the task of developing electromobility announced in Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki’s Responsible Economic Development strategy. Funding is to be earmarked for lowemission hydrogen-fuelled buses and the construction of hydrogen filling stations in Poland has already been announced. The Polish Development Fund estimates that by 2023, 1,500 electric buses will roll down the streets of Polish towns and cities. There is no reason why at least some of them should not run on hydrogen. JSW is in talks with the Upper Silesia-Zagłębie Metropolis to make it happen.

JSW is now considering the construction of a hydrogen cell factory in Suszec, Upper Silesia. At the same time, it is holding talks with technology partners in Europe and Asia. The company has also signed a letter of intent with PKP Cargo and H. Cegielski Fabryka Pojazdów Szynowych regarding plans to build a factory and production line of hydrogen-driven locomotives, where diesel-powered locomotives are to be converted. At the same time, a pilot programme for the implementation of hydrogen production technologies has been announced at the Koksownia Przyjaźń coking plant in Dąbrowa Górnicza (JSW Koks).

Financial support from the National Research and Development Centre and the National Fund for Environmental Protection makes it possible to implement these ambitious plans.

HAND IN HAND WITH SCIENTISTS

Co-operation between JSW Innowacje, part of the JSW Capital Group and the Israeli Technion university, is the most promising of all the technology programmes JSW is involved in. JSW Innowacje recently joined the TDA accelerator programme (Technion Drive Accelerator) run by Israeli scientists. Research and development cooperation is set to produce innovative solutions for technological startups. The purpose of the joint undertakings is to develop

solutions not only for JSW and its partner companies, but the entire Polish economy.

But JSW’s international cooperation goes even further.

One example is the involvement of JSW in the project of development and implementation of technologies for the production of carbon nanostructures. An agreement to this effect was signed last autumn between JSW Innowacje and AGT Management & Engineering AG, which is based in Switzerland. The innovative project provides for the production of carbon nanostructures, including carbon nanotubes, through low-temperature conversion and chemical deposition which involves specially selected catalysts.

Methane, natural gas, alternative fuel obtained from waste and plastics are to be used for the production of nanotubes.

The project provides for the launch of the first line for the production of carbon nanostructures in post-industrial areas of the former Dębieńsko coking plant in the Śląskie Province. Thus, the product portfolio of the JSW Capital Group will be significantly expanded to include valuable ingredients for composite materials and specialised use of materials. As a result, the materials will become more durable. Extending the life cycle of the material makes it more environmentally friendly because the amount of waste is reduced. Carbon nanostructures are also added to construction materials to reduce their weight, which is very important, among others, in the automotive indus• try, helping to reduce exhaust emissions.

JSW SA IN FIGURES: • THE JSW CAPITAL GROUP RECORDED A NET PROFIT OF PLN 1.44 BILLION IN THE FIRST THREE QUARTERS OF 2018;

• DURING THE NINE MONTHS OF 2018, THE MINES INCLUDED IN THE JSW CAPITAL GROUP PRODUCED 11.3 MILLION TONNES OF COAL;

• COKE PRODUCTION IN THE SAME PERIOD AMOUNTED TO 2.7 MILLION TONNES • THE JSW CAPITAL GROUP CONSISTS OF FOUR MINES, THREE COKING PLANTS AND 16 SUBSIDIARIES. ITS WORKFORCE NUMBERS 27,000 EMPLOYEES.

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CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN KATOWICE

INVESTMENT, HIGHER EFFICIENCY AND INNOVATION – KEY TO DEVELOPMENT

JSW COAL COMPANY

SPREADING ITS WINGS

DANIEL OZON, President of Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa SA (JSW), talks to “Polish Market.”

Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa (JSW), the largest producer of coking coal and a major producer of coke in the European Union, has experienced an exceptional period of prosperity for over a year now. The company has excellent financial results, but the present favourable economic situation is probably not the only reason behind them.

JSW produces mainly coking coal. It is an indispensable component in the production of steel, without which one can hardly imagine the development of an innovative economy and modern infrastructure. The company’s products are exported to a dozen or so countries across the world, but the main buyer is the European steel industry, including the automotive, construction and household appliance sectors. The existing demand and high quality of our raw material allow us to be quite optimistic.

PM

The long-awaited development strategy for the company was worked out in late 2017 and early 2018, and the long-awaited investment projects were launched, including investment in new coal deposits. What are the company’s main development directions?

The Management Board focuses on several key issues.

The first and most important thing is to ensure that the coal output from our mines is as high as planned - at a level of around 16 million tonnes. Our priority is coking coal. Ultimately, we want the share of coking coal to rise from the present 70% to as much as 85% of our annual output. This requires carrying out a number of investment projects, but will eventually help us improve our results. Let’s remember that demand for coking coal is still big and its prices are much higher than those of thermal coal. Another challenge for us will be raising our coal production efficiency.

One way to do so is applying innovative solutions across the production process. Our goal is to increase efficiency so as to achieve an annual volume of around 1,000 tonnes of extracted coal per worker since 2025.

PM

Coal does not have a good reputation among European decision-makers. Has JSW been affected by this dangerous trend for mining?

The company has taken a number of measures to strengthen the position of coking coal and emphasise its important role in the global economy. The European Commission has included coking coal among raw materials of PM

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strategic importance for the economic interests of the Community. Coking coal is in the list of 27 Critical Raw Materials for the EU, that is materials of top importance for the economy and difficult to replace. This position of the EU decision-makers will enable the company to develop, despite the generally negative attitude towards the coal sector, which is seen as a “dirty industry.”

The Board has presented the long-awaited development strategy for the company. What does it guarantee?

Adopted at the beginning of 2018, the new strategy for the years 2018-2030 assumes a gradual increase in coal production from 14.9 million tonnes in 2017 to 18.2 million tonnes in 2030. The level of coke production and sales is planned to exceed 3.4 million tonnes. Ultimately, blast furnace coke of high parameters is to account for as much as 78% of our output. The combined investment and capital expenditure for the whole JSW corporate group throughout the period covered by the strategy is to reach around PLN18.9 billion. The most important thing for JSW, as PM

CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN KATOWICE

a raw material company, is to secure its access to coking coal resources. JSW is going to do so by investing in already developed deposits and by developing new deposits and new extraction levels. The resource base will be constantly expanded, especially when it comes to hard coking coal (type 35). JSW has 952 million tonnes of recoverable reserves, which guarantees stable extraction for at least another 60 years. We are also trying to expand our raw material base by, for example, acquiring coal deposits in the Lublin region.

The company has good financial results. But what is your plan for difficult times?

JSW has secured its future by setting up an investment fund, with PLN1.5 billion already transferred to it.

The money deposited in the fund can be invested only in secure financial instruments and paid back in a specified amount on the company’s orders with a guaranteed yield above the WIBOR rate. The company will be redeeming fund units and use the cash when needed, for example when economic conditions deteriorate, and coal and coke prices drop, leading to a decrease in revenues.

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TAKING CARE OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE COMPANY’S LASTING DEVELOPMENT.”

PM

JSW wants to be perceived as an environment-friendly leader in the mining and coke sector. Is it possible?

Taking care of the natural environment is an integral part of the company’s lasting development. JSW bets on renewable energy sources. This is why its strategy envisages a five-fold increase in electricity production from methane extracted from its mines. It is worth noting that the capture of methane from the ventilation system not only diminishes the risk of threats in mines, but also improves energy efficiency and contributes to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. JSW also works intensively to implement a process of separating hydrogen from coal gas. The separated and purified hydrogen may be used in fuel cells for the environment-friendly and emissions-free production of electricity, heat and cooling, environment-friendly public transport, and powering electrical devices and backup electricity sources in hospitals, schools and public offices.

PM

Does the Polish coal sector have a future in the European Union?

I am convinced it does. At COP24, I stressed on many occasions that it was hard to build a modern economy without coking coal. We also point out that the mining industry is changing. We are introducing increasingly efficient and environment-friendly technologies because one of JSW’s priorities is respect for natural resources. We try to conduct our activity in a responsible way and take care of the interests of the local community. This is why we put more and more emphasis on innovative research and the use of modern technologies in our plants.

PM

How much has JSW been involved in the events of the climate summit?

One of our many ideas at the summit was providing a hydrogen-powered bus for its participants and presenting its capabilities. We estimate that in the future our coking plants will have a capacity to produce annually enough hydrogen to power 800 such vehicles. The JSW corporate group is also one of the largest tar producers in the EU and is going to use this product to manufacture carbon fibres for the needs of modern European industries, including the aviation, electronics and automotive sector. We also organised scientific shows, an exhibition entitled “Gold Mine of Knowledge,” laser show and mapping on the Katowice City Hall building.

PM

2018 was a favourable year for the JSW corporate group.

What goals has the JSW Management Board set itself for coming years?

We are in the process of implementing the development strategy until 2030. The most important thing for JSW will be to maintain its position as a leader on the coking coal market, not only in Poland and Europe, but also in the world. We want to be a stable and secure, but also environment-friendly, company, one which sets standards for the entire mining sector. We will be applying modern innovative technologies because I believe it is the future of the mining industry. I want to make it clear that there is no contradiction between mining and an economy based on knowledge and modern technologies. They enable us to broaden our activity and to develop mines of the future.

JSW is becoming an increasingly modern part of Polish industry. It enters new areas of activity, is not afraid of challenges and cooperation with foreign partners. This is the direction in which JSW will be moving this year as well.

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The COP24 Climate Summit was held in the southern Polish city of Katowice in December. JSW was its main partner. How do you assess the company’s role in this event?

I am glad that we were able to support the Polish presidency during COP24. I think that our participation in the summit, which was attended by nearly 30,000 delegates from across the world, including heads of government, environment ministers and industry ministers, contributed to promoting JSW as an environment-friendly leader of the mining industry. At international meetings, we would like to strengthen the image of the JSW corporate group as the largest producer of coking coal and coke, products which are indispensable in steel production and the development of modern low-emission industry and innovative technologies of the future. Let’s remember that without steel – and our coking coal – it is impossible to build wind turbines or electric cars.

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ECONOMY

BOILER MAKER ON A PATH OF

INNOVATION

As recently as 2016, SEFAKO was a company with no orders or money and its financial liquidity was under threat. The wage situation was equally bad. But this has changed.

President of Fabryka Kotłów SEFAKO SA ANTONI PIETKIEWICZ tells “Polish Market” about how the company he manages tries to be a leader of modernisation on the Polish heat supply and industrial power generation market.

Most people asked about products manufactured by SEFAKO will instantly point to boilers. What else is there in the product range of this large company, which has a long history on the market?

SEFAKO has a long tradition. Located in the town of Sędziszów in southern Poland, it has operated on the market supplying components for the power generation sector for 43 years. It now provides employment to 1,000 people and is one of the largest employers in its region. SEFAKO has a 98.5% stake in CBKK SA, a boiler design company based in Tarnowskie Góry, and a 60% stake in the SPEC Sp. z o.o district heat distribution company in Sędziszów. Since March 2018 a 95.9% stake in SEFAKO has been held by Towarzystwo Finansowe Silesia SA, a company controlled by the Minister of Energy, with a majority stake held by the state.

SEFAKO designs, supplies and installs boilers and pressure components of various type. The company makes boilers of medium capacity ranking from 1MW to 250 MW, fired by virtually any kind of fuel: coal, heating oil, gas, as well as forest, agricultural and waste biomass. The company has PM

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already manufactured more than 8,200 boilers and thousands of tonnes of pressure components for all kinds of boilers. These include components for supercritical boilers and pressure components for waste incineration plants. The latter are extremely demanding technologically. But this is not all. The company also offers specialist products: gas-tight walls, coils, tanks, pipes and others; and services: the modernisation of boilers and boiler houses, service, installation supervision, and the diagnostics and evaluation of the technical state of equipment.

A new field of activity developed by the company are construction and assembly services in the EPC (engineering, procurement, construction) system, popularly known as turn-key deliveries. Relying on our own design base and the expertise of CBKK SA, we want to expand by raising the share of these services in our sales. It is our response to the growing demand for comprehensive services, with a simultaneous stabilisation of the market for pressure components for boilers.

What is SEFAKO’s investment strategy for the near future?

Our market research and analysis of SEFAKO’s potential in the form of its fixed assets and human resources shows that for the company to develop it has to take up the challenge and offer comprehensive services. In order to meet this challenge it is necessary to secure financing for much larger and costly projects than in the past. First of all, we can count on support from our present majority shareholder: Towarzystwo Finansowe Silesia SA. Another problem that Safako needs to solve is the insufficient number of references required by investors. But we have an opportunity to use our well-developed cooperation with leading design offices from across Europe.

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ECONOMY

Does it mean that being a company with an excellent reputation and long history is not a sufficient recommendation in the eyes of some investors?

Cooperation is not based on sentiments and unfortunately it costs. However, our partners offer us their resources because SEFAKO intensively strives to have the best reputation in terms of quality and reliability. It should be noted that SEFAKO’s installations have operated for years throughout Europe: from the Swedish town of Boden, located close to the Arctic circle, to southern Greece and from France in the west to Turkey in the east.

PM

You cannot complain of a shortage of orders in your sector.

And what about access to qualified employees?

In 2018, this problem probably affected all enterprises.

The disastrous shortage of experienced engineers, engineering supervision workers, designers, welders and technologists resulted in a sharp increase in labour costs and the cost of cooperation. The costs of contracts concluded in 2016 and 2017 turned out to have been underestimated.

PM

Is the situation on the labour market likely to improve in the near future?

We cooperate with universities in Kraków, Kielce and Częstochowa and support secondary vocational education.

We are a winner of the Top Employer in Eastern Poland competition. Unfortunately, it will take time for this activity to produce results.

In order to overcome the barrier created by the shortage of designers and constructors necessary for the implementation of ambitious projects, SEFAKO needs to be an even more attractive employer. Work on foreign construction sites, with good earnings, and an attractive welfare and training package, is no longer such a strong draw for employees as it was until recently. This is why we treat very seriously the idea of putting in place at our company a system of building individual career paths. I am aware that the company’s involvement in programmes applying innovative technologies is the most effective way of attracting candidates for jobs.

PM

Is your company already able to offer such career paths?

Keeping up with the market and analysing government programmes for the development of the power sector, SEFAKO has decided to compete for participation in the programme of modernising the 200MWe power generating units which have operated in Polish power stations since the 1970s.

We are the leader of a consortium established with the Institute of Heat Engineering (ITC) Warsaw University of Technology, the Intec company based in Wrocław, EthosEnergy Poland S.A. and CBKK SA. The objective of “The Programme Units 200+. Innovative Technology for Changing the Work Regime of 200MWe Electricity Generating Units” is to develop innovative technologies for the modernisation of coal-fired 200MWe subcritical steam generators. The modernisation is aimed at changing their basic work parameters and adjusting the generators to the expected changeable operating conditions. The project is funded by the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR). We expect that thanks to the project we will gain a reference necessary to offer the modernisation of the boiler parts of these outdated electricity generating units. We have PM

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OUR MARKET RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS OF SEFAKO’S POTENTIAL IN THE FORM OF ITS FIXED ASSETS AND HUMAN RESOURCES SHOWS THAT FOR THE COMPANY TO DEVELOP IT HAS TO TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE AND OFFER COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES."

a big chance to become a leader of this modernisation process. We also take part in another two innovative projects, aimed at modernising our flagship service: “Laying Protective Coatings on Pressure Components by Hard-facing.” The method is used in incineration installations and is a service sought after across Europe.

At present, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a leading trend in business. Has SEFAKO taken any measures which are in keeping with this trend?

The importance of corporate social responsibility and its impact on the environment need no explaining at SEFAKO. The company operates in symbiosis with the town of Sędziszów whose history is inseparably connected to our plant. One can say that there would be no Sędziszów without SEFAKO. But it is also true that there would be no SEFAKO without Sędziszów.

Our ties cannot be broken. As the largest employer in the region, we are aware of the significant impact that we have on the local community and environment. Our financial condition is translated into the functioning of the local community.

This is why we feel a deep sense of responsibility for the fate of people: a thousand of our employees, their families, neighbours and the whole community. We work very closely with the local authorities, dozens of non-governmental organisations and parishes. Every year we support a few dozen initiatives. Although these are mostly small grants, they can determine in our local conditions whether or not the initiative is successful. We try to be present in all spheres of social life: from sports and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, including our participation in the Sędziszów road running competition and assistance for sports clubs, to security, which includes our support for the local volunteer fire brigade. We also support renovations of sacral buildings. We have helped in organising local patriotic and cultural events, especially the recent celebrations of the 100th anniversary of Poland regaining its independence. We encourage our employees to get involved in activities benefiting the community. A beautiful example of such involvement is the Blood Donors’ Club set up by our employees. Another one is the family art contest we have run together with TFS Silesia Corporate Group to mark the 100th anniversary of Poland’s independence. To our satisfaction, more than 100 families of our employees took part.

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ECONOMY

OUTRUNNING THE COMPETITION

An innovative frame of mind is an important factor affecting competitiveness on the market and stimulating growth. OSSA Machinery Works (Zakład Budowy Maszyn OSSA), and the company’s owner, Jan Ossa are excellent examples of a visionary approach in business. The innovative approach of the entrepreneur and the entire company have been recognised by independent bodies.

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Jakub Maksymowicz he enterprise’s line of business includes bolted-joint technology, i.e. equipment for tightening and unscrewing bolts with adjustable torques of up to 40 thousand Nm, including design, manufacture, consulting, sales, repair, and other related services.

On 26 November last year, during the official celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Patent Office, Jan Ossa was honoured with a distinction from the Polish Prime Minister for his contribution to innovation. And one of the company’s most recent flagship products, SETT (Smart Electric Torque Tool), was granted the Polish Smart Growth Award under the patronage of Alicja Adamczak, PhD, President of the Patent Office.

The tool was developed in collaboration with scientists from the AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków.

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This tightening tool is different from other solutions applied in industry in terms of its size and operation precision. It is also an innovative solution as compared to rival products available on the market. The most notable difference is the application of direct torque measurement. It involves the measurement of the bolt tightening torque with a special sensor directly on the nut.

The application of such a type of sensor and appropriate control algorithms allows the tool to automatically tighten the bolt until the required torque value is reached.

OSSA has been successfully developing other state-of-the-art technologies. For example, the company developed a brushless electric torque tool in cooperation with the KOMEL Institute of Mechanical Drives and Machines, and AGH. Another achievement includes the design of a specialised testing

station for the measurement and calibration of electric high-torque tools and hydraulic torque wrenches, the prototype of an eccentric cycloidal gear, which is being developed together with the KOMAG institute in Gliwice, and high-pressure hydraulic pumps for hydraulic torque wrenches.

www.ossa.pl

ECONOMY “We are the only manufacturer and leading service provider in Poland operating in the field of bolted joint technologies, including electric, pneumatic and battery-driven bolt tightening tools, hydraulic wrenches, planetary gears, and hydraulic tensioners,” explained the owner and founder of the company.

He stressed that the wide range of devices allows the company to take part in work on bolted joints with the use of nearly all sizes of bolts.

“We have our own design office, where we create our original solutions from scratch.

They are popular with clients both in Poland and abroad. Our client portfolio includes companies operating in the petrochemical, power-supply, shipyard, construction, refinery, machine production, and mining sectors,” declared Jan Ossa. “We have been collaborating with the POWER TEAM company for many years. We are its exclusive

representative on the Polish market. We have developed a wide distribution network for our devices. It is based on commercial dealerships in Russia and Ukraine, covering the entire eastern market, including Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Belarus. We also have a sales agency in Libya. Our products are also available in Middle-East countries, such as the United Arab Emirates as well as Pakistan, and China,” he noted.

Ossa solutions are also available in Denmark (the renovation of STATOIL’s heavy oil processing installation), in Bulgaria (the extension of the Maritza power plant), and in Belgium (unscrewing and pre-tensioning a boiler block for Hitachi and Siemens in Ghent).

The company has implemented numerous projects for major Polish companies. The most important include the extension of the infrastructure of the LOTOS SA Group the “10+ Programme” (torquing /tensioning over 10 thousand joints), participation in the

construction of the Silesian Stadium and the National Stadium, and long-term contracts with ArcelorMittal Poland SA and PKN Orlen.

The company holds ISO certificates and its products have CE Declarations of Conformity.

In previous years, the company was awarded many other distinctions, such as the Eagle of Polish Entrepreneurship, as the winner in the Innovation and Stateof-the-Art Technologies category, and was granted the Business of the Year certificates in 2015 and 2016. The company has also received a recommendation as a Reliable Partner. In addition, ZBM OSSA obtained the 2016 Business VIP Certificate for creating a company which had been successfully operating on the market for 22 years, and in recognition of its effective management based on the highest quality, reliability, business culture, and ethical rules, which altogether create a model image of a Polish enterprise • in Poland and abroad.

THE CENTRE PROMOTES SMART GROWTH Innovation and smart growth fuelled by specialisation are the driving forces of the Polish and global economies.

Centrum Inteligentnego Rozwoju S.C. (The Smart Growth Centre) is a Polish organisation which has been supporting the promotion of, and appreciating, new technologies and innovative projects, from their onset and implementation to launching on the domestic market.

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IR presents its corporate-image programme by organising an economic event called the SmartGrowth Forum, and via the highest-profile mass media.

Each year, the Forum is a meeting place for scientists, entrepreneurs, and representatives of local and central authorities. During the third edition of the event, which was held between 18 and 20 October 2018, and which was the first edition with an international outreach, over 100 speakers discussed the issues of effective collaboration between scientific circles and local authorities. It was an opportunity to present their own experience related to the implementation of innovative projects, as well as a perfect occasion to showcase the existing achievements to potential investors.

Every edition of the event is held under the patronage of several Ministries, including, in the most-recent edition, the Ministry of Investment and Economic Development and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

The highlight of the Forum is the Polish Smart Growth Award Gala. The winner of last year’s award was Jerzy Kwieciński, Minister of Investment and Economic Development, who attended the Gala to collect it in person.

The second area of cooperation of the Smart Growth Centre with business, scientific circles and local authorities encompasses regular thematic sections entitled On innovation and Investments, and a short video series entitled “goPL” which can be viewed on major Polish information websites and the most prominent business web services.

The Centre has been expanding its cooperation opportunities since January, and consequently the Polish Market Englishlanguage economic magazine is joining the group of its media partners. The subject of the magazine’s section deals with innovation projects on the Polish market, including those introduced by international enterprises. The Centre promotes the best examples of smart growth. The first issue presents The OSSA

Minister of Investment and Economic Development Jerzy Kwieciński receiving the Smart Growth award from Polish Patent Office President Alicja Adamczak.

Machinery Works, based in Tychy, the winner of the 2018 Polish Smart Growth Award.

For more information on the initiatives undertaken by CIR, go to irforum.pl, rzeczo.pl, and gopl.pl.

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ECONOMY

INVESTMENTS

WHICH MAY CHANGE THE IMAGE OF THE COUNTRY “Polish specialists are among the best, but should try to change their mindset. Our country has to strengthen Polish enterprise and invest in culture because it influences our views,” says investor KRZYSZTOF DOMARECKI. He tells “Polish Market’s” Błażej Grabowski about characteristics of a sector which may be a great chance for the development of Poland.

You have recently appealed to entrepreneurs who have already achieved success in Poland to start investing in new businesses.

You argued that in order to significantly strengthen Poland’s position in the world we need another 300 new companies recording revenues above PLN1 billion.

In the 21st century, international rivalry among states takes place on four planes: military, demographic, economic and cultural. We are not likely to change demographics. The geopolitical location of our country forces us to invest in our own armed forces, irrespective of the alliances we have entered into. The same is the case with business. Our country should focus on establishing domestic enterprises because such firms play an important role in competition among states.

They provide empowerment to the country, which is a problem in Poland now. At present, assembly plants of Western companies located in Poland account for as much as 65% of Polish exports while domestic firms are responsible for only 35%. This means we have a large gap to fill if we are to count as a country being an actor in international relations rather than merely a territory for production operations. And finally, culture. Centuries ago, Poland was a source of culture for many neighbouring nations. It is worth following these traditions because through culture you can influence views and attitudes.

PM

You invest in financial technology companies, called fintechs. Do you see them as a chance for the development of the whole Polish economy?

The European financial sector is designed in such a way and requires such gigantic outlays that at present Polish banks have no chance for successful foreign expansion. We are speaking about a market which has developed for several centuries. In Poland, in turn, we have been building the value of our domestic financial institutions for a mere 30 years. It looks differently in the case of the relatively young fintech sector. The new technological solutions are in the process of development so fintech innovators have a chance to become established on markets across Europe. My 30-year business experience on international markets tells me that it is a classical window of opportunity – limited in time to several years.

PM

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As we are talking on the occasion of the Fintech & Insurtech Digital Congress, I would like to delve deeper into this topic. Does Poland stand a chance of becoming a fintech stronghold?

Polish fintechs stand out with the level of their technological advancement. We have many good engineers and programmers. Technological solutions developed in Poland very often have an advantage over others, but there are also challenges. I believe that Poland may be a source of at least a dozen or so good fintech firms with a European reach if some conditions are met.

PM

What is needed, then?

In Europe, fintechs are growing fast because they easily establish cooperation with banks. Additionally, Western European banks are not making the mistake that American banks made by acquiring fintech companies. This resulted in large cost cuts, but not big successes.

European banks usually use fintechs as suppliers of solutions while Polish banks too often prefer to buy them instead of cooperating with them. The reason is that the banks still think in a traditional way. They want to have solutions of their own: bought, entered in the books and well protected. Meanwhile, technology is changing so fast that you buy specific solutions today and if in four years’ time they become obsolete you will replace them with new ones. It is enough to buy a service in the SaaS model.

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Fidiasz EVC is a Polish investment fund established by Krzysztof Domarecki, the founder of Selena Group and a person behind its international success.

The fund intends to invest in up to eight innovative Polish firms whose solutions and products have the potential to win a strong position on international markets. Its first investment is FinAi. This fintech company, using modern data analytics and artificial intelligence solutions, has developed an independent loan platform, which enables choosing and taking a loan from a bank fully online in a secure digital process.

IX Kongres Podatków i Rachunkowości KPMG Nowe regulacje i planowane zmiany w przepisach Warszawa, 15 stycznia 2019 r.

Zapraszamy do udziału w Kongresie kadrę zarządzającą, a w szczególności dyrektorów finansowych i głównych księgowych.

Więcej informacji, w tym warunki uczestnictwa oraz formularz rejestracyjny są dostępne na stronie:

kpmg.com/pl/kongresKPMG © 2018 KPMG in Poland

Organizator i patron merytoryczny

Patron

Patroni medialni

AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS

UNEXPECTED

CAR BOOM

“We have got a new sales leader in the used car segment,” says KAROLÍNA TOPOLOVÁ, CEO of Aures Holdings, which is the operator of the AAA Auto international auto centre network. In an interview with Jerzy Mosoń, the Head of Aures Holdings also reveals which cars are the most popular with Polish managers and which car type is likely to conquer markets in the nearest future.

Which used cars did Poles buy most often last year?

In 2018, Opel Astra was the best-selling car model at AAA Auto. It outclassed the 2017 winner – Ford Focus, making it a 2018 runner-up. Škoda Octavia was ranked third among the hottest models bought from the AAA Auto dealerships. The three models were then followed by Škoda Fabia, Volkswagen Golf, two Renault models: Clio and Megane, Volkswagen Passat, Ford Mondeo, and Hyundai i30. Poles were usually interested in hatchbacks, with 45.9% of the cars sold at AAA Auto having this body style. The second most popular body style was estate (17.5%), and SUV ranked third (14.2%). Sedans were only in the fourth place (11.5%), followed by MPVs (8.5%). It should be stressed that, compared to 2017, we recorded the biggest sales boost in MPVs (119.5%), SUVs (75.1%), and estates (57.5%). This shows that Poland is currently experiencing a “big car boom.”

PM

Is the eco-friendly trend likely to have any impact on the Polish market of used cars in 2019?

It cannot be denied that nowadays the entire European automotive industry acts in sync with the EU regulations on alternative fuels. Given the fact that the leading automotive companies regularly announce their plans in the field of electromobility, we can expect that this trend will soon influence the used cars segment, too. We can assume that PM

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“

PRICE SHOULD NOT BE THE MAIN FACTOR DETERMINING THE CHOICE OF A USED CAR. THE KEY CRITERION SHOULD BE SAFE PURCHASE.”

the secondary market will be the first “mass” source of electromobility for ordinary customers, because second-hand cars with alternative drives will be much cheaper than new models, and the first sources we are going to buy cars from will be public institutions and companies that have such vehicles in their fleets.

What kind of customers in Poland go for the premium-class used cars? What are the growth forecasts for this segment?

The financial slump of 2007/2008 taught entrepreneurs how to save money in numerous areas, for example when buying new cars.

PM

Because one- or two-year-old cars have almost the same utility value as new ones, but are up to 40% cheaper, business owners often decide to make used cars part of their fleets.

Our experience shows that premium car buyers typically include senior managers, business owners, and self-employed people who use cars for business purposes. Since we are anticipating a slowdown in economic growth in 2019, we expect customers from these segments who are interested in luxury and premium class cars to opt for used models.

Apart from the price, what else is important for a Polish client who decides to buy a second-hand car?

Price should not be the main factor determining the choice of a used car. The key criterion should be safe purchase, which means buying a car with a documented vehicle history, verified mileage, the minimum number of previous owners, young age, and a verified source of origin, preferably from the same country rather than imported. Cars that meet the above criteria are perceived as the safest.

On the other hand, as indicated by the analysis of the data collected by AAA Auto, the key factors taken into account by Polish drivers who opt to buy a used car include the make, model, and price of a car. Unfortunately, only a few are guided by crash test results. Our goal is to communicate that safety should be the most important issue when buying a used car.

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CULTURAL MONITOR

CM

WE OPEN THE NEW YEAR ON A FESTIVE NOTE, AND NOT JUST BECAUSE OF THE CARNIVAL SEASON, WHAT WITH A NUMBER OF EXCITING MUSIC RELEASES AND PUBLICATIONS. MACIEJ PROLIŃSKI HAS SOME TIPS FOR CULTURE VULTURES.

BOOKS AND ALBUM RELEASES

“GÓRECKI. GENIUS AND DETERMINATION” - MARIA WILCZEK-KRUPA – ZNAK PUBLISHERS.

On December 6, 2018 Henryk Mikołaj Górecki (1933-2010) would have turned 85. The first biography of this composer, one of the greatest of his era, by Maria Wilczek-Krupa is a touching, highly readable and thoughtprovoking tribute to this amazing artist, the only one in our day who managed to combine originality and remarkable creative powers with commercial success. The author of the book provides much encouragement for its readers to re-discover Górecki’s works. The artist’s road to fame was very tough. He lost his mother at an early age, had a strict father, lived through the Second World War, and often fell ill both as a child and an adult. His Symphony No. 3 of Sorrowful Songs Op. 36 became world-famous two decades after it was written. This grand work, described as proof that God exists, topped UK and US charts. His biography is a tale of living against the tide, in a sense against the artist’s own fate. The author paints a complex picture of a man whose dominant quality was his honesty. She builds her story chronologically and with utmost precision. In formal terms, very much like Górecki’s works which revolve around recurring motifs. Here individual topics, events, people and places turn up time and again. It is highly reminiscent of earlier films and publications devoted to Górecki. Many of the images painted in the book add greatly to one’s understanding of the composer’s works. In a nutshell, the message seems to be that there is much more to a composer’s life and music than can be learnt by a casual listen or performer.

“THE GÓRECKIS” – SINFONIA VARSOVIA; JERZY MAKSYMIUK – WARNER – CD

Along with the book about the artist, an album entitled “The Góreckis” has hit record shops. It is devoted to the two generations of the famous family of musicians. The album contains a recording of an exceptional concert which was held at the Witold Lutosławski Polish Radio Concert Studio in Warsaw on October 16, 2016 as part of the Tansman Festival. It featured a world premiere of Henryk Mikołaj Górecki’s last works performed by the Sinfonia Varsovia under Jerzy Maksymiuk: “Two Tristan Postludes and Chorale.” A composition by his son Mikołaj Górecki, “Orpheus and Eurydice,” also had its premiere at the event, which also saw the performance of “A Little Requiem for a Certain Polka” by Henryk Mikołaj Górecki featuring his daughter, pianist Anna Górecka. The Sinfonia Varsovia and conductor Jerzy Maksymiuk gave a stunning performance, full of striking contrasts. All the works make up a true-to-life and multi-dimensional portrait of the family. The famous quote “Time flies, eternity awaits” seems the best way to capture the essence of Henryk Mikołaj Górecki’s music.

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CULTURAL MONITOR

AGA ZARYAN – “WHAT XMAS MEANS TO ME” - WARNER / CENTRALA – CD; AGA ZARYAN - "HIGH & LOW" - WARNER / CENTRALA – CD

Aga Zaryan is now one of the most important jazz vocalists. She feels at home in any kind of repertoire. The Christmas album, where she is accompanied by the high-calibre European Jazz Sextet and the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, instantly puts us in an uplifting Christmas mood and brings us joy. Apart from the season’s evergreens “Sleigh Ride,” “Little Drummer Boy,” “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” and “Jingle Bells,” the final track is a moving Polish hit “Before Spring Comes” with music by the late 1960s legend Czesław Niemen and lyrics by poet Jarosław Iwaszkiewicz.) The guest performer on the album is American jazz icon Freddy Cole, Nat King Cole’s younger brother. The message of the album is that the past is part of our lives, it is a set of cultural experiences we can hardly do without. The music is deeply rooted in tradition, but it is not merely a sentimental trip. It is a contemporary take on the best tradition has to offer. It shows how much tension, intimacy and joy the musicians’ skilful tackling of individual phrases can produce. In her unique way, Aga Zaryan demonstrates what great potential the classic songs still have.

In turn, “High & Low” is an album whose tracks mostly feature Aga’s own lyrics set to the music by top jazzmen Michał Tokaj, David Dorużka, Dariusz Oleszkiewicz and Marcin Wasilewski. There are also three covers of songs first performed by Carla Bley, Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder. The album is stylistically varied, compact and consistently executed. Some traces lead back to Zaryan’s older ballads. The literary climate and appealing sense of humour perfectly capture the artist’s world of a mature woman. Zaryan’s characteristic voice, fresh ideas both in terms of the music itself and production, make this album one of the most notable releases of the new year season. It is artistic, frugal in terms of the means applied and profound in conveying the artist’s vision of the world. Among the performers are Michał Tokaj (piano), Sławomir Kurkiewicz (double bass, bass guitar), Czech guitar virtuoso David Dorużka and Portuguese star drummer Pedro Segundo.

“WOJCIECH KILAR. POLISH FILM MUSIC” - SONY MUSIC – LP

This vinyl release features music by the internationally acclaimed Polish composer Wojciech Kilar (1932-2013) who is known both for his symphonic works drawing on Polish folklore, religious and film music. The album is the first compilation of the artist’s original film scores. Dances figure prominently, for example the unforgettable waltzes from Jerzy Hoffman’s period love story “Leper” and Andrzej Wajda’s epic “Promised Land” about the rise of Polish capitalism, as well as the tango from the riveting “Jealousy and Medicine” by Janusz Majewski. These pieces, which are instantly recognisable to Polish audiences, make the album a must have release for all those who appreciate simple, but powerful, transcendental, really great music.

“BETWEEN THE SCREEN AND STAGE – FILM AND THEATRE MUSIC”– PIOTR SALABER – SOLITON – 2CD Piotr Salaber, winner of “Polish Market’s” Honorary Pearl award in the Culture category in 2017 is one of the most exciting Polish composers of theatre and film music. He works in many places across the world: in theatres in Poland, Russia, Hungary, Canada and Taiwan. His music is easy-listening, appealing, soothing, it features clear-cut phrases and is full of melancholy. In some ways it is reminiscent of incidental music by the late master of Polish music Wojciech Kilar, for it perfectly captures the mood of individual scenes. The double album includes music selected from feature films, TV series made in Poland and other countries and theatre productions. The Feliks Nowowiejski Academy of Music in Bydgoszcz Chamber Choir and the Polish Radio Orchestra are conducted by the composer himself. The soloists include trumpeter Markus Stockhausen, violinist Natalia Walewska, guitarist Marek Napiórkowski and saxophonist Mariusz Fazi Mielczarek.

“SLEEPLESS DURING THE CARNIVAL” – JANUSZ GŁOWACKI – GRUPA WYDAWNICZA FOKSAL PUBLISHERS It is the last book by novelist, playwright and screen writer Janusz Głowacki who died last year at the age of 79. He was one of the most penetrating observers of Polish realities. Already in the 1980s Głowacki scored international successes as a dramatist. His plays were performed in many countries and were translated into English, Chinese, French, Spanish, Korean, German and Russian. His American tragedy “Antigone in New York” made the “Time” magazine Top 10 of the best plays published in 1993. In Poland, Głowacki was best known as the screen writer behind the 1970 surrealist comedy movie “The Cruise” by Marek Piwowski. His last writings – memoirs, recorded dreams about himself and his homeland, Poland, edited by his daughter Zuza, make up a concise volume. Głowacki appears both as a narrator and central character. He may sound bitter, but as always, the book is full of his inimitable wry humour. Work on the book proceeded alongside the artist’s work on the scenarios for Paweł Pawlikowski’s now internationally acclaimed film “Cold War.” In “Sleepless During the Carnival” the recurring theme is death, even in anecdotes. But death does not seem to have the last word. We may find out more in the book about Głowacki, who was much loved by Polish readers and cinemagoers, but there is still plenty to learn about the artist and his work. After all, great artists never die.

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POLAND THE CENTENARY OF REGAINING INDEPENDENCE

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Stanisław Moniuszko (1819-1872) - composer and conductor who is known for his songs, operettas, ballets and operas, including the most famous Polish operas - "Halka" and " The Haunted Manor". To mark this anniversary, Parliament declared 2019 Moniuszko Year. His songs were sung in the Polish countryside at a time when Poland did not exist on the map of Europe, divided up by its neighbours.

The music gave ordinary Poles a sense of their roots and served to develop national culture. Moniuszko’s works, and especially his operas gained a universal value, as evidenced by their constant presence on Polish stages and unflagging popularity.

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HIS SONG BECAME COMMON PROPERTY AND BROUGHT COMFORT TO ALL

SECOND CHANCE

POLAND THE CENTENARY OF REGAINING INDEPENDENCE

I

Maciej Proliński

n the resolution adopted by Parliament, it was emphasised that the Moniuszko’s output impresses audiences with its diversity, melodic richness and deep roots in national tradition. "Convinced that the composer's work possesses special significance and in tribute to this outstanding figure, Parliament hereby declares 2019 as the year of Stanisław Moniuszko," proclaims the resolution.

"We would like the celebrations of the Year to contribute to the promotion of his music in Poland and in the rest of the world," deputy Prime Minister, minister of culture, prof.

Piotr Gliński told a press in Warsaw. He recalled that Moniuszko Year has been declared not only by the Polish Parliament, but also

by UNESCO at the request of Poland, Lithuania and Belarus. "Stanisław Moniuszko is honoured because he is a global artist and we would like our celebrations to contribute to the promotion of music by Moniuszko. That is why we have planned our activities quite extensively. Already last year, publications, studies and recordings were prepared and this year will abound in various events," emphasised Piotr Gliński.

The Minister of Culture also informed that the first stage of a specially organised competition for regional and local celebrations has been completed, with almost 50 events and undertakings to be implemented in Poland.

Plenipotentiary for the Moniuszko Year, director of the Teatr Wielki-National Opera Waldemar Dąbrowski announced that events organised as part of the celebrations - festivals, concerts and competitions - are shown on a dedicated web page: moniuszko200.pl He also stressed that "the main goal of the Moniuszko Year is to make his work the cultural focus in 2019, and to free his image from a certain stereotype that weighs heavily on him". As he explained, "the paradigm of a 19th-century artist consisted primarily of patriotic duty. Moniuszko’s output was classified as "compulsory" in Polish education, and just a few of the most prominent titles were actually promoted. (...) Our duty is to free him from this patriotic duty: not because we are not grateful, but because today the artist does not have to provide this service anymore; we want to show the greatness of his music." The director of the National Opera also noted that Moniuszko was an extraordinary figure. "One of those great people who contributed the most to the development of the Polish language, culture and values. If I had to choose five great Polish Romantics, I would choose (poets – ed.)

Mickiewicz, Słowacki, Norwid, (and composers- ed.) Chopin and Moniuszko. He should not merely be remembered as the founder of the national style in music, which was extremely important because he was born during the time of national liberation struggles."

The Moniuszko Year was inaugurated on January 5 with a performance of the opera "Halka" in Italian. The Europa Galante orchestra under Fabio Biondi used period instruments during the concert. On the stage of the Teatr Wielki - National Opera in Warsaw, the Moniuszko masterpiece was performed in a version which probably sounded the closest to the original productions in Moniuszko’s time. Fabio Biondi, the legendary Italian violinist and conductor, founder and artistic director of the Europa Galante, puts Moniuszko on a par with Bellini, Donizetti and Verdi. His adaptation of the work, which is so popular in Poland, brought out all the beauty, finesse and dazzle of the music by the father of the Polish opera. The performance was a repetition of a much-lauded concert which had taken place at the renowned Chopin and His Europe Festival in Warsaw in 2018.

Also on January 5, the Warsaw Central railway station was officially named after Stanisław Moniuszko.

As part of the Moniuszko 2019 - Promesa Programme co-ordinated by the Ministry of Culture a number of artistic, research, educational, documentary and promotional projects will be launched, both in Poland and abroad, related to Stanisław Moniuszko and his output in the context of 19th century music , history and culture. Applications for the programme were submitted by local cultural institutions (with the exception of institutions jointly run by the ministry and local government units), non-governmental organisations, churches and religious associations, public and non-public art schools and business entities.

This year the State Music Publishing House is planning to bring out Stanisław Moniuszko’s original scores, review by music critics and the artist’s letters. Among the planned publications will be his operas, piano music, an anthology his finest songs, an anthology of songs with lyrics by foreign poets (French, German, Russian and other songs) and the opera "Moniuszko" by Andrzej Kwieciński commissioned by the National Opera.

A rich editorial and phonographic offer is also planned by the Fryderyk Chopin Institute.

Moniuszko’s work will be featured in the August edition of one of the best music

festivals in Poland - the Chopin and His Europe Festival.

In addition, a new cultural initiative has been announced - the International Polish Music Competition in Rzeszów named after Stanisław Moniuszko, whose aim is to promote 19th and 20th century Polish music by Moniuszko and other composers throughout the world. The first edition of the competition will take place on September 20-27.

A "Moniuszko Room" has been opened at the Teatr Wielki National Opera in Warsaw.

Visitors can get a glimpse at materials documenting the performance of the composer's works on Polish and foreign stages. The archives collected in one place show how in how diverse ways his works can be interpreted, as well as how the perception of the composer by audiences changes over the years.

The next edition of the Stanisław Moniuszko International Vocal Competition will take place at the Teatr Wielki - National Opera in Warsaw May 6-11. On the composer's birthday, on 5 May, a gala event featuring the winners of previous editions. It is biggest vocal competition in Poland founded in 1992 by The famous diva Maria Fołtyn, whose stage performances in the part of Halka are legendary. She was also a director and promoter of Moniuszko’s works. The competition has its 10th edition this year. Every three years, young artists from around the world gather in Warsaw to present their talent to outstanding representatives of the world of music, and the success achieved here is for many of them an important step towards an international career. The competition's repertoire 1/2019 polish market

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POLAND THE CENTENARY OF REGAINING INDEPENDENCE

“

I OFTEN QUOTE A RHETORICAL QUESTION AND ANSWER: HOW TO DESTROY A NATION?

BY DESTROYING ITS CULTURE AND NATIONAL CONSCIOUSNESS.”

includes both works by Moniuszko himself, as well as the works by Fryderyk Chopin, Karol Szymanowski, Ignacy Jan Paderewski and contemporary Polish composers such as Krzysztof Penderecki and Paweł Mykietyn.

Stanisław Moniuszko (1819-1872) was born in 1819 in the village of Ubiel in what is now Belarus. He began his music education in his childhood under the supervision of his mother, and continued it under Dominik Dziewanowski after the family moved to the city of Minsk.

Then he studied further in Warsaw under August Freyer and moved on to develop his skills in Berlin.

In 1840 he settled in Vilnius, now the capital of Lithuania, where he became an organist in St. John’s church, and then a conductor at a local theatre. From the late 1840s, he wrote operas which were performed

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in Warsaw, Vilnius and St. Petersburg. During many journeys in western Europe he met world-famous composers: Franz Liszt, Gioacchino Rossini and Bedrich Smetana. He made friends with Charles Gounod.

In 1858, Moniuszko was appointed director of the opera in Warsaw. He also worked at the Music Institute, where he taught music theory. Among his students were, among others, Zygmunt Noskowski and Henryk Jarecki. Moniuszko occasionally worked with choirs in Warsaw churches, and he also performed as a conductor. His most important operatic works are "Halka," written between 1848 and 1858 (describing the unhappy love of highlander girl Halka for nobleman Janusz) and "The Haunted Manor" of 1865 (telling the story of two brothers - Stefan and Zbigniew, who returning from a victorious war expedition swear to stay unmarried.) The latter opera is set in the mid-18th century. It was written after the abortive January Uprising against Russian rule (1863) with the intention to keep the national spirit alive. The patriotic undertones of this work and antiRussian slogans raised by audiences during each production caused the opera to be banned by the Russian censor after the third performance in Warsaw. Moniuszko also wrote other operas: "The Countess", "The Raftsman", "Verbum nobile" and "Paria". His output includes over 300 songs and ballads, in which he referred to folk music and works

by Franz Schubert. He published them in a collection entited "Home Songbook" which consisted of twelve parts. His best known songs are "The Weaver", "Evening song" and "Old Couple".

Moniuszko’s cantatas also won him fame. "Milda" is set to lyrics by Ignacy Kraszewski, "Phantoms" to an excerpt of "Forefathers’ Eve" and "Crimean Sonnets" by Adam Mickiewicz. Moniuszko also wrote operettas, the ballet "Monte Christo", a fantasy overture "Fable", four "Litanies of Ostra Brama" and masses.

His music may have gained recognition in Polish society but the composer’s chamber, piano and organ music remain practically unknown. Moniuszko died of a heart attack on June 4, 1872. His funeral at the Powązki Cemetery in Warsaw gathered nearly 100,000 people who came to pay homage to the great composer. In his farewell speech, Jan Chęciński (who wrote the libretto to "The Haunted Manor") said: "Moniuszko was able to express every inspired concept, his music was penetrating and moving. His music became the property and brought comfort to all. It resounds in concert halls, its sounds are heard in big cities and small villages, under the vaults of palaces and under the thatched roofs of cottages."

Elżbieta Stanisława Janowska-Moniuszko, the composer’s greatgreat-granddaughter from the side of his son Stanisław, member of the board of the Stanisław Moniuszko Foundation: The fact that the lower house of the Polish Parliament and the Senate declared the Year of Stanisław Moniuszko in resolutions of July 20, 2018, and December 19, 2018 respectively may testify to how important my ancestor is for his homeland - Poland.

A lot of national and regional artistic events related to Stanisław Moniuszko are planned for the entire year. It's great. We, the descendants of the father of the Polish national opera, are very grateful to all institutions, organisations and individuals who put a lot of effort into genuine promotion of knowledge about the work and creativity of our ancestor.

Last May, the descendants of the composer set up the Stanisław Moniuszko Foundation so that in the future his descendants would inspire Poles to care for the tradition of Polish culture, enriched with new initiatives and a new perception of art. We want to focus on affordable forms of access to Stanisław Moniuszko's output for all social and age groups, and not just for the community of experts and music lovers.

POLAND THE CENTENARY OF REGAINING INDEPENDENCE

I often quote a rhetorical question and answer: how to destroy a nation? By destroying its culture and national consciousness. My greatgrandfather lived and wrote music when Poland was deprived of its statehood, but the Polish nation survived thanks to the patriotic message conveyed by Polish artists. The artists' creations are usually intangible, but they reach the hearts and minds of people, act on the imagination, build a sensitive and strong human personality.

They say that culture, art, education, especially art education do not guarantee well-being, that the wealth of the nation and state lies in the production of material goods, economic activity and trade. Of course, the development of culture requires financial outlays, you often need to wait a long time to see the results of such investments. However, investing in the development of culture and art is investing in the power of intellect and identity of the whole society. That is why it is so important to promote culture at the highest level. Industrial production, scientific discoveries are complemented by activities in the sphere of culture and art. Combined, they become the trademark of a given country and society on the international arena. In December I had the opportunity to attend the Pearls of the Polish Economy gala event for the first time. I was deeply moved by the fact that so many Polish entrepreneurs sponsor Polish artists and Polish culture. Globalisation does not mean having to give up national identity. Diversity is the strength and wealth of the global community. That is why tradition, also in art, must be cultivated, understood and respected by the nation where it was born. Only then is it an effective vehicle for building the brand as well as the strength and wealth of the multinational community of a continent.

For me, Dr. Rüdiger Ritter, a German scholar who defended his doctoral thesis on Stanisław Moniuszko at the University of Cologne in January 2006, said something very important at the Poznan National Panel Conference entitled "The Work of Stanisław Moniuszko as a Cultural Challenge." Summarising the conference, Associate Professor Marcin Gmys, posed the question: "Can Stanisław Moniuszko be called the Auber of Warsaw?" Ritter asked in reply: "Why do not we ask if we can call Auber the Moniuszko of Paris?"

It is necessary to draw the attention of societies to the eminent representatives of a nation, to appreciate and respect them and their accomplishments, to celebrate significant dates and events from their biography. Such an attitude towards the past will encourage the countrymen of an outstanding figure, but also foreigners, to find out more about historical facts to get rid of myths and distortions of historical reality which prevail in their minds. I hope that in the case of us, Poles, the Stanisław Moniuszko year will serve this purpose.

Jolanta Rostworowska, President of the Society of Moniuszko Music Lovers: We are thrilled that both houses of the Polish Parliament have declared 2019 the Year of Stanisław Moniuszko. In this way, Polish society will be reminded about the greatness of the composer who gradually fell into oblivion in a whirlwind of historical turmoil.

Even though Moniuszko exists in the collective memory of the nation, is the average Polish music lover aware of the richness of his legacy? Perhaps it is better not to answer this question, because the result would be quite disappointing. Unfortunately, we do not excel in this field. We cannot find adequate funding to invest in the promotion of Polish works abroad, and I’m not only talking about classical music. We can only look with jealousy at our neighbouring countries who have managed to promote their artists, who often are no match for Moniuszko.

Paradoxically, foreigners who had the opportunity to listen to Moniuszko’s music are delighted with it, while the average Pole asked

“

MONIUSZKO WAS ABLE TO EXPRESS EVERY INSPIRED CONCEPT, (...) HIS MUSIC RESOUNDS IN CONCERT HALLS,

ITS SOUNDS ARE HEARD IN BIG CITIES AND SMALL VILLAGES, UNDER THE VAULTS OF PALACES AND UNDER THE THATCHED ROOFS OF COTTAGES.”

about it, usually responds that this boring old-world music is of no interest to them. This opinion is usually superficial, not based on the quality of the music itself, and it turns out that those who say such things haven’t really heard much of Moniuszko’s music. But here one should ask whether Moniuszko's works are often performed in operas and concert halls, so that more people get to hear them? There is no doubt that thanks to this year’s publishing and recording plans, numerous concerts and opera performances with the participation of excellent singers, various competitions among young people devoted to knowledge about Moniuszko, thanks to lectures, conferences, publications and congresses devoted to the composer, 2019 is set to bring a lot of change in the perception of his work so that we can make up for earlier neglect. A jubilee poster displayed all over the city is bound to make a lot of people interested in the Moniuszko Year.

I am therefore very pleased that the Society of Moniuszko Music Lovers found itself among those behind the idea to name the Warsaw Central railway station after Stanisław Moniuszko. The ceremony, held on January 5, marked the opening of a string of anniversary events.

The originator of the idea was the late, excellent conductor, Mieczysław Nowakowski, a member of the Society, who put forward the idea at one of the Society’s meetings in 2015. Unfortunately, he did not live to see it accomplished. He passed away in 2017. The Society of Moniuszko Music Lovers decided to implement this project, which was not a simple matter. A fine portrait of Stanisław Moniuszko placed on a commemorative plaque at the main entrance to the Central Station, will certainly arouse the interest of travellers as they set out on their journey.

Among the many commemorative events, an extremely important moment will be the 10th anniversary of the Stanisław Moniuszko International Vocal Competition, which promotes the music of the composer throughout the world.

Among other promotional activities, mention must also be made of a festival of the composer's religious music organised by the Society of Moniuszko Music Lovers. Although religious music features prominently in the composer’s heritage, it is neither widely known or performed, and in many cases survives only as a manuscript kept in the archives. The festival will undeniably be a high-calibre undertaking of high artistic merit. The “Litanies of Ostra Brama," to be performed there, are considered by some as the climax of Moniuszko's creative output. During the event, almost all of the composer's religious works will be performed, shedding a different light on him as an artist. Entitled the "Festival of Sacral Music," it will take place in several churches of Warsaw’s right-bank Praga diocese in late October and early November under the Honorary Patronage of His Excellency, Bishop Romuald Kamiński. “Polish Market” readers are cordially invited to take part • in the event.

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CULTURE

FINE AND SOCIALLY ENGAGED ARTS

"Metamorphoses" is the first joint exhibition featuring works by the world-famous painter, graphic artist and illustrator RAFAŁ OLBIŃSKI and his daughter Natalia. The exhibition is in the form of an artistic conversation between the father and daughter. It is a story about the pernicious influence of Man on nature.

On show are completely new, unknown works by the two artists. The exhibition can be viewed at the Van Rij Gallery of the OLD PORCELAIN FACTORY IN ĆMIELÓW until March 30.

Maciej Proliński

R

afał Olbiński is one of the bestknown contemporary Polish painters. He lived in the United States for over 30 years and recently returned to Poland. His output includes hundreds of paintings, posters and illustrations, as well as dozens of magazine covers. He has had dozens of exhibitions around the world. He has received 150 awards, including prestigious awards such as "Prix Savignac" (equivalent to the Academy Award in the field of poster art.)

Natalia Olbiński works as a graphic designer and illustrator. She is a graduate of the Faculty of Industrial Design at Carnegie Mellon University. At the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts, she defended her master's thesis in industrial design and graphic design. She has already scored significant achievements. She is the winner of the poster competition for the ACID International Independent Film Festival in Cannes, she wrote the book "Atlantis, City Guide" featuring her own drawings. The exhibition at the Van Rij Gallery is her first show in Poland. Ćmielów porcelain not only served as an inspiration for her. It is also the material she uses for the first time.

The title of the exhibition "Metamorphoses" refers in part to the famous work by the Roman poet Ovid, which presents the creation and history of the world through change, using Greek and Roman mythology. The main message of the exhibition is the problem of pollution, especially the destruction of the oceans.

At the exhibition in Ćmielów, about 20 paintings and drawings by Rafał Olbiński are on display, depicting water and the sea, an idyllic and surreal world created especially for the needs of this exhibition. In his works, the artist creates a parallel optimistic and cheerful world governed by its own laws. His work

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Rafał Olbiński and his daughter Natalia Olbiński

presents an idyllic-surreal world with clean beaches and sky, beautiful flora and fauna on land and in the seas. These lands, full of symbols and metaphors seem unreal, just like a dream.

Gorgeous beaches, clean oceans full of wonderful sea creatures, which the artist captures in his works, is a world that we must protect, so that it does not become just a memory.

"We want to show how this surrealistic world of Rafał Olbiński fits into the entire ecological context," explains Katarzyna Rij, curator of the exhibition.

The inspiration for Natalia Olbiński's works are sea creatures on the borderline of fantasy, fiction and reality, a world little known to humans. The artist designed two porcelain figurines depicting whales with human faces. They bear the names of the Greek sea gods: Doris and Nereus. The sculptures were handmade in the Ćmielów factory as part of a limited series of 500 copies, while the first 50 were made and painted by the artist herself, based on unique designs.

"The design of the figurine refers to life on earth that began in the oceans. I am fascinated by the sea, creatures living in it, especially whales. For years, we have been destroying the world, destroying our oceans, in which

only 400 Biscay whales now live. I have given whale sculptures human faces, to remind me how incredibly intelligent these creatures are," says the artist.

The concept of the Olbińskis’ exhibition evolved. Its final version compiled under the curator’s eye, has become part of a global debate on the destruction of the oceans.

Rivers overflowing with plastic bottles and plastic bags that run through the gallery make it difficult to move. During the opening night, many participants said: "This rubbish is disturbing," "Why are there so many bottles?," "Why do these plastics lie on the ground?" And that was the goal of the exhibition's curator. She wanted to hear those present say: "This rubbish is disturbing!" "We don’t want it here!" Many visitors were surprised by this take on Rafał Olbiński's art, because his work had never been shown in this way before. However, the artist expressed his satisfaction that he was able to "sound the alarm" with his daughter and point out that "Natalia’s generation is the last generation which can do something to prevent the destruction of our planet." He also emphasised the fact that, thanks to the idea of curator Katarzyna Rij, "the whole exhibition became part of socially • engaged art."

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KLICZKÓW CASTLE FOR YOUR ROYAL HOLIDAY

Kliczków Castle stands out among the many castles and palaces in the region of Lower Silesia because of its scenic setting. It lies in the heart of Europe’s largest forest complex of Bory Dolnośląskie. Its history goes back to the Middle Ages, and its traditions are kept up to this day.

A number of historical influences are combined at the Castle: • Polish tradition from the times of Duke Bolko I the Strict in the Duchy of Świdnica-Jawór in the late 13th century; • European tradition linked with the noble Rechenberg, von Schellendorf, von Frankenberg and Solms Baruth families; • World traditions – linked with military campaigns and social movements.

POLISH TRADITION AT KLICZKÓW CASTLE – NOT JUST ON HOLIDAY At Kliczków Castle we keep tradition and history alive on a daily basis. For wherever you look, everything is steeped in history.

The restaurants are decorated to give you a feel of the successive periods in the Castle’s history. The reception, café and wellness zone are housed in the former stables and riding school, which is evident in the structure and characteristic features of the buildings. The Spa Centre is located in the evocative dungeons and the Park transports us into the 19th century.

During the Christmas season we cultivate old Polish customs such as Christmas crèches, carolling, a traditional Christmas Eve meal, midnight mass at a nearby church, and Christmas tree decorations. Every year we also organise a Christmas Market where local craftsmen and producers display their wares. Easter at the Castle is a time of decorating eggs, baking yeast cake in the shape of lambs, children looking for Easter eggs and, inevitably, the old Polish custom of pouring water on each other, known as Śmigus Dyngus, or Wet Monday.

Through arts and culinary workshops, we do our best to show our Guests old customs, local crafts and culinary recipes, thus spreading the word about life in our region, now and in the past. +48 75 73 40 700

KLICZKÓW CASTLE CUISINE – WHAT OLD DELIGHTS AWAIT YOU AT THE BOLETUS RESTAURANT?

It is a cuisine filled with the aromas of the surrounding forests, based on traditional recipes with attention paid to the highest quality of our dishes. All this is combined for a unique culinary result at the Castle Restaurant. The Castle kitchen is looked after by Chef Mariusz Kucharczak.

Dishes served at the Castle have won praise from the European Union. They have been entered into the European Culinary Heritage Trail, which enables us to use the traditional dish logo. It is here that you can taste delicious wild boar cheeks that have been present on the tables of Castle rulers for centuries. The Tastes of Lower Silesia trail distinction has been awarded to the restaurant for the use of local products and the promotion of regional dishes.

NOBLEMAN’S WEEKENDS – BRINGING HISTORY AND TRADITION ALIVE AT THE CASTLE

During the Historical May Holiday, Nobleman’s Weekends and picnics held under various themes, we are transported into the past. We present old articles of clothing, songs of yesteryear, archaic Polish phrases and expressions, thus re-creating old customs and ceremonies. At each event we bring out horse-riding traditions in various forms. There are armed cavalry parades, charges by 17th century Polish hussars, re-creations of skirmishes, displays of horsemanship, dressage, horse races and endurance riding. We work together with the Polish army and NATO forces, whose units take part in our events using all kinds of military equipment.

KLICZKÓW – A MECCA FOR ARTISTS

For a number of years we have supported local artists and painters by organising open-air events in the Park of the Arts. We are aware of how important art, and its presence in a place like Kliczków Castle, is. That is why we sponsor the development of Polish art.

HISTORY FOR EVERYONE AT KLICZKÓW CASTLE

We do our best to help our guests find out more about the history of the Castle. For a number of years guided tours have been organised. For our younger guests there are Treasure Hunt puzzles laid out in the shape of a map, thanks to which children can develop a passion for looking for hidden treasures.

TRADITIONAL EVENTS AT KLICZKÓW CASTLE: 1) Easter 2019 (April 21, 2019) – painting Easter eggs, blessing of Easter food baskets at the village church, traditional breakfast; 2) May Holiday 2019 (May 1, 2019) – Lower Silesia’s biggest medieval knights’ tournament will be held at Kliczków Castle; 3) Horse-Riding Events – keeping equestrian tradition alive: • (May 3, 2019) – Kliczków Castle Cup regional show jumping event; • (May 4, 2019) – Kliczków Castle Cup Dressage event; • (August 31-September 1, 2019) – Kliczków Castle Horse Rally, a Poland championship event in the young horse class; • (October 20, 2019) – Hubertus – fox hunting, old hunting traditions, dressage, horse racing;

4) Christmas Market (November 30, 2019-December 1, 2019) – Everyone is welcome at the Christmas Market at Kliczków Castle on the first weekend of December; 5) Christmas (December 24-26, 2019) – In the winter, Kliczków Castle becomes a fairyland place. Its unique, cosy charm, the smell of Christmas tree branches and the glow of candlelight make it a truly unforgettable experience.

WROCŁAW, THE HEART OF LOWER SILESIA VISIT HOTEL TUMSKI IN WROCŁAW

ORGANIC FOOD

A CHANCE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH THE SUPPORT OF MASTERS What will the future of Polish cuisine be - especially of Polish haute cuisine? Will it become more traditional, natural and organic? Will it be more modern, or will it only make more use of modern equipment?

And the vital question: who will open the door to this dream haute cuisine? Who will describe the roles of the culinary tradition?

W

e can say with a high degree of probability that the future will be determined by young cooks, today's students supported by their Master Chefs. This transpires from the examples of events in which young chefs win medals at the Culinary Olympics in Erfurt, Luxembourg, laurels gained at the European Culinary Contests such as Ekogala – the International High-Quality Products and Food Fair in Jasionka, and during the Young Culinary-Arts Creator competition in Poznań.

But do culinary schools - or economics and agricultural schools with such programmes - have enough potential to become a breeding ground for young talent? Not everyone is fortunate enough to learn at the Economics School Complex in Rzeszów under the protective wings of Beata Łuka, head of the Catering Department. Or, for example, to take part in the workshops of the popular chef Robert Sowa as part of the Culinary Talent competition.

Many observers pin great hopes on the work of Carlos Gonzalez Tejera, a Dominican who has settled in Poland and who has taught young cooks for 15 years now. He is a very active campaigner at the Polish Ecology Association, a well-known, long-standing promoter of culinary art and high-quality food, and finally, a gourmet who passes on practical knowledge to the younger generation. Supported – let's emphasise – on a pro bono basis by another member of the above-mentioned Association, the Stalgast Company, he travels as a visiting lecturer to catering schools, and shows, for example, how the sous-vide method can be used and how to operate a portable circulator. Many schools, due to financial difficulties, have no chance to show students new techniques in meat and fish processing, and often not even the skill of filleting fish. Simply – meat and fish are expensive.

So, an enlightened coach and master who will guide a young person along the paths of the practical learning of the profession, is worth his or her weight in gold. Then, the road to a career becomes easier. For example, someone must tell the cook: “A school certificate is not enough, and when you go into an apprenticeship, you must have

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Dominican chef Carlos Gonzalez Tejera your own knives and cooking uniform.” And this is also a task taken on by the mentor Carlos Gonzalez Tejera. He was the originator and head of the Golden Ladle and Silver Frying Pan competitions. He is the founder of the National Association of Chefs and Confectioners, the Polish Academy of Gastronomy, and the Foundation for the Promotion of Polish Food.

He has extensive knowledge of gastronomy, cooking equipment and technology, health-and-safety regulations, HACCP, and current trends in culinary art and healthy nutrition. He has also gained extensive teaching experience in working with students at culinary schools across Poland from 2000 to the present.

Under the patronage of the Stalgast Company, he has prepared and implemented a project entitled “Students Find their Masters,” enabling students from small towns to serve their apprenticeships and internships in prestigious restaurants, and under the supervision of such masters as Wojciech Modest Amaro, Karol Okrasa of the Bristol hotel, and Andrzej Bryk of the Marriott hotel.

In 2012 and 2016 he received the Biały Bocian (White Stork) award from the Polish Association of Organic Products Processors and Producers Polish Ecology for his contribution to the development and promotion of Polish Ecology. However, the most important reward is the gratitude of the young (and now partly a bit older) persons for showing them the way to a career.

Returning to the thread of schools and looking for some positive examples, it is worth recalling the culinary competition opening the door to a career at the Nature Food Fair in Łódź called "Grab the Bull by the Horns", organised by the Polish Ecology Association. The initiator and coordinator was the above-mentioned activist in this organisation.

Schools educating young chefs are certainly incubators of talents, however not all of them, and not instantly. The top ones rise to prominence by laboriously building their position. They can apply for grants, and participate in foreign internships or food fairs - domestic and foreign. They teach foreign languages. Finally, they attract such persons as Carlos Gonzalez Tejera.

•

Intimate holiday and tourist resort, picturesquely located on the Krutynia trail, surrounded by Masurian woods and the river

www.perlakrutyni.pl Holiday-tourist centre ”PERŁA KRUTYNI” in Nowy Most phone/fax + 48 87 423 60 45 mobile: +48 605 046 605 e-mail: info@perlakrutyni.pl

ORGANIC FOOD

ETERNO

OVER 100 YEARS OF FAMILY TRADITION The story of “tea lemons” started in St. Petersburg in Russia 129 years ago when Matylda Aubry added this preserve to chai at a confectionery shop at Nevsky Prospekt Street. In those times, the shop enjoyed success and this metropolitan avenue was an important and prestigious place, one comparable with today’s Fifth Avenue in New York City.

T

oday, under the name “Eterno” (which means “eternal”), the family company has increased its range of products to 60 items, but the owners all the time base their activities on the slogan “A taste of family tradition.” The owners' greatgreat-grandmother, Matylda, applied natural recipes, and such are used by the Eterno company, a member of the Polish Ecology Association.

As a co-owner of the company, Barbara Stelmach, says: “Our preserves have never contained any artificial colourings or preservatives. However, in order to obtain the ECO certificate, it is necessary to demonstrate that the preserves are made with certified raw materials only, using traditional methods. We agreed that we were able to meet this challenge. In March 2016, the certification process for the first Eterno EKO jars was completed. Our first Bio product was EKO Lemons in Syrup. Being the most recognisable Eterno jar, it had special privileges. Other organic products are EKO Red Oranges and EKO Limes in Syrup. Over time, there will certainly be more.”

In May 2016, the Eterno company was officially accepted as a member of the Culinary Heritage Network of Masovia.

The Eterno company's head office is located in Pruszków, while the whole range of Eterno’s products, along with its culinary inspirations, can be found on the website www. eterno.pl, and in organic food stores throughout Poland.

The advantages of these traditional products have found recognition from the Lodge of Experts in the “Doceń Polskie" [Appreciate Polish] programme, and the titles of Top Products were awarded to: Lemons with Rum – prepared in a special way: with peel, no added water, preservatives or artificial colourings. The fruit syrup surrounding the fruits forms as a result of the combination of natural fruit juice with sugar.

Quince Tea Syrup – drinks with the addition of quince refresh you, effectively quench your thirst and boost your energy. The product is recommended especially for teas, refreshing drinks like lemonades, and also for making cocktails. It can also be used as a condiment when preparing food, for example roasting meat, especially poultry,

100 polish market

and when baking cakes and decorating desserts, or as a flavouring for jellies.

Raspberry and Honey Syrup – hand-made according to the company’s own traditional recipes. It contains only natural ingredients, so you can consider it fully wholesome: a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Thanks to the traditional manufacturing method, the true deep flavour of the syrup is obtained.

The syrup is recommended as an addition to tea, and for making various drinks. It is perfect for desserts: for example as a topping for ice creams, pancakes, omelettes, crumpets, and even salads. Eterno syrups are real “vitamin bombs.”

Horseradish with Cranberry – used as a delicious addition to meats, sauces, cold cuts and roasts. Great with eggs. Recommended for the Christmas table, tastes great with white sausage. A great condiment for smoked fish.

Gourmets will probably be interested in Eko Red Oranges in syrup and Eko Limes, also in syrup.

The following two products look particularly intriguing: Tsar’s Fig with Poppy Seed – a preserve awarded the Złoty Lubczyk [Golden Lovage] title in 2014, and Cranberry a la Kresy with Pear, for which the Marshal of the Mazowieckie Province Adam Struzik recognised the owner of the Eterno company as the Polish Food Producer of the Year at the Harvest Festival of the Mazowieckie Province in September 2018. But there are probably as many gold medals and distinctions as there are products, which increases the value of the traditional family recipes. Plus the added value in the form of passion and the art of combining flavours.

Barbara Stelmach explains how to pass this passion onto others: “We are involved in the Culinary Heritage Network of Masovia, and we are the founders of the Polish Chamber of Regional and Local Products – the Masovia Branch. We are members of the Polish Ecology Association. We participate in all kinds of fairs, folk markets, and sales events, which promote regional products or healthy organic food, during which everyone can taste the unique flavours of Eterno.”

Perhaps the career of this family company is not as huge as that of Helena Rubinstein's company, although both here and there jars play a part, and the Eterno company's further road to development remains open.

•

Economic Monitor Economy

economic Monitor January 2019

Jan Mazurek, Michael Ström / Brokerage House

Key economic trends Poland’s high GDP growth indicates that the condition of the Polish economy is very good.

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS) and National Bank of Poland (NBP)

From the perspective of Polish businesses, the year 2018 was dominated by the introduction of split payment, GDPR and a deteriorating situation in the industrial sector in the final quarter.

Poland’s high GDP growth in the 3rd quarter of last year – 5.1% after revision - was a sign of favourable economic conditions in

the country.

According to the World Bank, the expected slowdown of economic growth to 4.0% will be one of the most important challenges for Poland in 2019. Signs of the slowdown are already visible. According to an IHS Markit PMI report, conditions in the Polish industrial sector deteriorated markedly in 12/2018 1/2019: Polish polish market Market 101 :: I

Economy Monitor Economic

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

the fourth quarter of last year. Production and new orders saw the biggest drops since June 2009. In December 2018, the PMI indicator fell to 47.6 from 49.5 in November, indicating the ongoing deterioration in the situation of the industrial sector. The reading of the indicator was the lowest since April 2013.

In December, industrial output was higher than a year earlier, but its growth was unsatisfactory. In contrast, construction and assembly output rose significantly. Conditions in the residential building sector were favourable.

The pace of growth in consumer prices remained slow in the fourth quarter. The situation on the labour market worsened: the number of unemployed increased as did

the registered unemployment rate. However, the rate was still the lowest since 1990.

In the 11 months to the end of November 2018, imports grew faster than exports. The balance of trade was negative.

The Monetary Policy Council kept interest rates on hold in December, with the key rate at 1.5%.

public debt At the end of the third quarter of 2018, consolidated public debt (State Treasury Debt) stood at PLN977,948.5 million,

which represented a drop of PLN7,190.8 million, or 0.7%, compared to the second quarter, and a rise by PLN16,107.0 million, or 1.7%, compared to the end of 2017.

The State Treasury Debt was composed of debt of the central government subsector (PLN908.5 million), debt of the local government subsector (PLN69.4 billion) and debt of the social insurance subsector (PLN0.1 billion).

Foreign debt accounted for 30.5% of State Treasury Debt, down 0.9 pct. points compared to the end of the second quarter of 2018 and 0.6 pct. points compared to the end of 2017.

Public debt before consolidation stood at the end of the third quarter at PLN1,025,489.8 million which represented a drop of PLN4,896.1 million, or 0.5%, compared to the second quarter, and a rise of PLN13,947.3 million, or 1.4%, since the end of 2017.

The general government (EDP) debt, which is one of the Maastricht fiscal criteria, stood at the end of the third quarter at PLN1,028,007.8 million and decreased

by PLN3,977.3 million (0.4%) compared to the second quarter, but was higher by PLN22,319.6 million (2.2%) than at the end of 2017.

employment

and wages in the business sector

Business sector wages rose markedly last year as did the number of employed.

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

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In December 2018, average employment in the business sector – in businesses employing more than nine persons – was 2.8% higher than a year earlier. The number of employed amounted to 6,232,700.

The average gross monthly wage rose 6.1% year on year to PLN5,274.95.

Economic Monitor Economy

industrial, and construction

and assembly output

In December 2018, industrial output was lower than a month earlier, but construction and assembly output was higher.

In December 2018, industrial output in constant prices generated by businesses providing employment to more than nine persons was 11.5% lower than a month earlier and 2.8% higher than in December 2017.

After seasonal adjustments, industrial output was 0.4% lower than a month earlier and 3.1% higher than a year earlier.

Compared to December 2017, output rose in 17 of the 34 industrial sectors, including the production of “other” transport equipment (up 33.6%); repair, maintenance and installation of machines and equipment (16.1%); production of coke and petroleum products (14.9%); electricity, gas, steam and hot water supply (13.4%); the production of electrical equipment (12.1%); and computers, electronic products and optical products (5.0%).

Industrial output dropped year on year in 17 sectors, including the production of pharmaceuticals (down 29.5%); machines and equipment (4.3%); coal production (3.5%); the production of metals (2.8%); beverages (2.5%) and metal products (2.0%).

In December 2018, producer prices were 0.9% lower than a month earlier and 2.2% higher than a year earlier.

Compared to December 2017, prices increased the most in electricity, gas, steam and hot water supply (up 3.1%). Prices grew 2.2% in manufacturing, with a rise of 7.3% in the production of leather and leather products; 5.6% in the production of met-

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

als; 4.9% in the production of paper and paper products; 4.6% in the production of “other” non-metallic mineral products; 3.8% in the production of coke and petroleum products; 3.7% in the production of chemicals and chemical products; 3.1% in

the production of textile products; 2.9% in the production of beverages; 2.5% in the production of metal products; 2.4% in the production of wood, cork, straw and wicker products; 2.3% in the production of motor vehicles and trailers and semi-trailers; 1/2019 12/2018 : Polish polishMarket market ::103 III

Economy Monitor Economic

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

2.2% in the production of pharmaceutical products; 1.8% in the production of tobacco products; 1.6% in the production of clothes; 1.5% each in the production of “other” transport equipment and furniture; 1.3% in the production of machines and equipment; 1.2% in the production of electrical equipment; 1.1% in the production

of rubber and plastic products; and 0.5% each in the production of food, computers, and electronic and optical products. Prices remained unchanged in the printing and reproduction of recording media sector.

Prices in the mining and extraction sector went up 1.5%, with a rise of 3.2% in the production of coal and a drop of 4.7% in

the production of metal ore mining. Prices also increased in the water supply, sewage and waste management, and remediation activities section (1.5%).

In December 2018, construction and assembly output in constant prices – new work, repair work and other work - generated in Poland by construction firms employing more than nine people, was 21.8% higher than a month earlier and 12.2% higher than a year earlier. After seasonal adjustments, construction and assembly output was 0.2% lower month on month and 11.4% higher than in December 2017.

Construction and assembly output was higher month on month in the segment involved mainly in the construction of buildings (up 27.5%), infrastructure building (22.6%) and specialised construction work (13.3%).

In year-on-year terms, output rose the most in the segment involved in the construction of buildings (up 24.2%). Businesses whose main activity is infrastructure building and specialised construction work recorded an increase in output by respectively 11.4% and 0.6%.

In December 2018, construction and assembly output prices were 0.4% higher than a month before. In year-on-year terms, construction and assembly output prices were 3.7% higher, with prices in the segments of building construction, infrastructure building and specialised construction work being higher by respectively 3.9%, 3.7% and 2.8%.

prices Last year, prices grew at a slow pace.

Transport-related prices increased the most while communications-related prices and prices of clothes and footwear decreased.

In December 2018, prices of consumer goods and services remained on average at a level similar to that recorded in the previous month. Prices of services went up 0.4% and prices of goods dropped 0.2%. Compared to December 2017, prices of consumer goods and services were higher by Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

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Economic Monitor Economy

1.1%: prices of services rose by 0.9% and of goods by 1.2%.

In December 2018, the biggest positive contribution to inflation compared to the previous month came from prices of food (up 0.8%), and recreation and culture (0.5%). Transport-related prices and prices of clothes and footwear dropped by 1.4% each.

Compared to December 2017, home-related prices, transport-related prices and prices of food increased by respectively 1.7%, 4.0% and 0.8%. Communications-related prices, and prices of clothes and footwear fell by respectively by 6.1% and 2.7%.

labour marKet In December 2018, the unemployment rate grew slightly compared to the previous month. The increase was due to seasonal factors.

According to the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy, the number of unemployed people registered with employment offices at the end of December 2018 stood at 971,300 and was higher by 20,800, or 2.2%, than at the end of the previous month. The increase in the number of unemployed in December 2018 was higher than a year earlier when it had been 1.3%.

Compared to December 2017, the number of unemployed was lower by 110,400, or 10.2%.

The registered unemployment rate went up from 5.7% in November 2018 to 5.9% in December. The unemployment rate was 0.7 pct. points lower than a year earlier. The lowest unemployment rate was in Wielkopolskie province (3.1%) and the highest in Warmińsko-Mazurskie province (10.4%). In December 2018, the number of unemployed went up in all provinces.

The number of job offers submitted by employers to employment agencies in December amounted to 81,800 and was lower by 26,900 than a month earlier.

In the third quarter of 2018, the number of employed people reached a record figure of over 16.6 million. The employment rate for

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

persons aged between 20 and 64 was 72.8% and was 4.4 pct. points higher than in the same period of 2015.

residential

building

2018 was a good year for the residential building sector. Developers had the biggest share in the market.

Around 184,800 homes were completed in 2018, 3.6% more than in the previous year.

The number of homes whose construction was started in 2018 increased by 7.7% to 221,900. The number of building permits issued to investors and notifications with a building design they submitted rose by 2.7% year on year to 257,100.

Self-build investors completed 66,700

homes, or 1.4% less than in 2017. The number of homes they completed accounted for 36.1% of all homes completed last year. At the same time, self-build investors started the construction of 85,300 homes. They received permits or submitted notifications for the construction of 91,500 homes.

Developers, who had a 60.4% share in the residential market, completed 111,600 homes, or 6.2% more than in 2017. They started the construction of 131,600 homes and received permits for the construction of 159,900 homes.

Housing associations completed 3,000 homes compared to 2,300 a year earlier.

They started the construction of a smaller number of homes than in 2017 - 2,300 against 2,700. But the number of building permits and notifications in this group of investors went up to 1,700 from 1,600 a year earlier.

Investors in the sector of council homes, 1/2019 12/2018  : Polish polish Market market :: 105V

Economy Monitor Economic

Source: Statistics Poland (GUS)

affordable rental homes and homes owned by workplaces completed 3,500 homes, or 6.0% more than a year earlier. The number of home starts in this sector dropped to 2,700 from 3,400 a year earlier. The number of homes for which permits were issued and notifications submitted also decreased: to 3,900 from 5,200 in 2017.

The homes completed in 2018 had a total usable area of 16.7 million square metres, which represented a 1.1% increase compared to 2017. The average usable area of a single home decreased by 2.2 square metres to 90.5 square metres.

Foreign trade Last year, imports grew faster than exports. As a result, the balance of trade in the 11 months to the end of November was negative.

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In the 11 months to the end of November 2018, Poland’s overall exports in current prices were worth PLN868.3 billion while imports were worth PLN881.4 billion.

Compared to a year earlier, the value of exports was higher by 6.4% and of imports by 9.1%. As a result, the trade balance was negative at PLN13.1 billion against a surplus of PLN8.1 billion a year earlier.

In US dollar terms, exports were worth USD242.8 billion. The value was higher by 14.0% than a year earlier. Imports were worth USD246.4 billion, up 16.8%. The trade balance was negative at USD3.6 billion. In euro terms, exports were worth EUR204.3 billion (up 7.1%) and imports EUR207.4 billion (up 9.7%). The deficit was at EUR3.1 billion.

Developed countries had the largest share in Poland’s overall exports (87.0%), with the EU’s share at 80.4%, versus 86.8% and 80.1% respectively a year earlier. These countries had a 65.6% share in Poland’s overall imports, with the EU’s share at 58.4%, against 67.8% and 60.4% respec-

tively. Central and Eastern European countries had a 5.8% share in Poland’s overall exports and a 9.1% share in Poland’s imports.

Poland had a deficit of PLN161.2 billion (USD45.0 billion, or EUR37.9 billion) in its trade with developing countries and a deficit of PLN29.7 billion (USD8.2 billion, or EUR7.0 billion) in its trade with Central and Eastern European countries.

Poland had a surplus of PLN177.9 billion (USD49.7 billion, or EUR41.9 billion) in its trade with developed countries. The surplus with the EU countries was worth PLN183.2 billion (USD51.2 billion, or EUR43.1 billion).

Poland’s 10 biggest trade partners had a 66.7% share in its overall exports and a 66.4% share in its overall imports. Germany’s share in Polish exports increased year on year by 0.6 pct. points to 28.1%, which represented a rise of 0.6 pct. points compared to a year earlier. Germany’s share in Polish imports dropped by 0.7 pct. points to 22.4%. Poland had a surplus of PLN47.2 billion (USD13.1 billion, or EUR11.1 billion) in its trade with Germany.

balance

oF payments In November 2018, Poland’s current account balance was negative.

In November 2018, Poland’s current account balance was negative at PLN1.0 billion. The current account deficit resulted from a negative balance on the primary income account (PLN7.9 billion), goods account (PLN1.0 billion) and secondary income account (PLN0.2 billion) and a

Economic Monitor Economy

Official reserve assets (USD billion)

Source: National Bank of Poland (NBP)

surplus on the services account (PLN8.1 billion). A year earlier, the current account balance had been positive – at PLN0.4 billion. The combined current and capital account balance was positive in November 2018 at PLN2.1 billion.

Goods exports were worth PLN86.2 billion, which represented a year-on-year increase of PLN7.1 billion, or 8.9%. Goods imports were worth PLN87.1 billion, a rise of PLN9.2 billion, or 11.8%. The balance of goods trade was negative at PLN1.0 billion.

A year earlier, the balance of goods trade had been positive at PLN1.1 billion.

In November 2018, services exports were worth PLN22.2 billion, which represented an increase of PLN2.0 billion, or 10.2%, compared to November 2017. Services imports were worth PLN14.1 billion, up PLN0.9 billion, or 6.9%. The balance on the services account was positive at PLN8.1 billion.

The balance on the primary income account was negative at PLN7.9 billion.

Compared to a year earlier, it improved by PLN0.7 billion. The deficit was a result of a negative balance of investment income (PLN6.6 billion). Foreign direct investors’ income amounted to PLN6.0 billion, with positive reinvested earnings at PLN4.0 billion, dividends at PLN1.2 billion and interest on debt instruments at PLN0.8 billion.

Non-residents’ income from portfolio investment was worth PLN1.1 billion. Yield

on other debt instruments shown as other investment was worth PLN0.7 billion. The balance of compensation of employees was negative at PLN1.1 billion.

In November 2018, PLN3.5 billion was transferred to Poland from the European Union, of which PLN3.4 billion was registered on the capital account and PLN0.1 billion on the current account. Poland transferred to the EU PLN1.7 billion in the form of its own contribution. The balance

of transfers with the European Union was positive at PLN1.9 billion.

Non-residents’ investment in Poland increased in November by PLN3.1 billion.

Direct investment by non-residents grew

by PLN3.6 billion. The negative balance of foreign portfolio investment was at PLN2.7 billion. Non-residents’ investment in instruments classified as “other” investment rose

by PLN2.2 billion. The National Bank of Poland (NBP) contributed the most to the increase in “other” investment: it increased its liabilities by PLN8.0 billion. Other sectors also increased their liabilities (by PLN1.5 billion). Banking sector liabilities dropped by PLN6.7 billion.

The surplus of residents’ investment abroad was at PLN5.6 billion (a rise in assets).

Transactions conducted by the central bank (NBP), including transactions for its clients, caused a rise in the value of reserve assets

by PLN7.0 billion. The balance of residents’ investment was positive at PLN1.8 billion (a rise in assets).

In portfolio investment, residents decreased their foreign assets by PLN0.3 billion. The balance of other investment was negative at PLN1.9 billion.

Source: National Bank of Poland (NBP)

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Economy Monitor Economic

ReseRve assets The value of Poland’s reserve assets increased last year, including the value of gold reserves.

According to the National Bank of Poland (NBP), at the end of 2018 Poland’s reserve assets were worth PLN439.8 billion (an equivalent of USD117.0 billion, or EUR102.3 billion). Compared to the end of December 2017, the value of the reserve assets was 12.0% higher in zloty terms, 3% higher in dollar terms and 8.0% higher in euro terms.

Poland’s reserves are made up of foreign currency deposits, SDRs, claims and the reserve position in the IMF. At the end of December 2018, they accounted for 95.5% of the total reserves. Monetary gold, worth around PLN20 billion, accounted for 4.5% of the reserves. Last year, gold reserves increased by 13.8 tonnes to 116.7 tonnes.

Source: Warsaw Stock Exchange

Change in WSE indices in January- December 2018, %

Capital maRket The year 2018 brought losses to investors on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, especially investors in the chemical sector.

At the end of 2018, there were 414 Polish companies with a combined capitalization of nearly PLN578.9 billion and 51 foreign companies with a capitalization of PLN549.6 billion listed on the main market of the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE).

In December, the value of equities traded on the market was 10% lower than a year earlier and amounted to PLN14.8 billion.

Six companies debuted on the WSE main market last year. One of them was transferred from the NewConnect market. The IPOs were worth around PLN300 million.

Last year, the WIG20 blue-chip index and the WIG broad-market index lost respectively 7.5% and 9.5%. Thirteen of the 14 sectoral indices posted losses. WIGOil&Gas was the only index which went up – by 12.0%. The biggest loss was noted by WIG-Chemical (39%).

Source: Warsaw Stock Exchange

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ANKOL

AMBASSADOR FOR THE POLISH ECONOMY

GLOBAL AVIATION SUPPORT EXPORT – IMPORT of goods, services and technologies for the military and civil aviation sector

QUA L I T Y C O M PE T E N C E STA N DA R D S ANKOL is a trading company operating in the aviation sector since 1991. The firm is a leader in deliveries of equipment and repair services for military and civil aviation on domestic and foreign markets.

High quality of the goods and services offered and modern management based on international standards underlie the company’s successes. Ankol is an innovative and reputable company working on the global market.

fot. Hesja.pl

INNOVATION LEADER ANKOL Sp. z o.o.

Chorzelów 244, 39-331 Chorzelów ankol@ankol.com.pl

www.ankol.com.pl