Škoda Group, one of Europe’s largest rolling stock manufacturers, is setting its sights on Poland. CEO Petr Novotny announced in an interview with Business Insider that the company aims to enter the Polish railway market through partnerships with local operators. – We will do everything to make it happen – said Novotny.
– There is no denying that we are currently in a growth phase. The railway industry, as well as the automotive sector, is strongly supported by national governments and the European Union. If you want to develop, when if not now? – said Petr Novotny, CEO of Škoda Group, in an interview with Business Insider.
The CEO also praised Poland’s ability to absorb EU funds. – Poland is a model when it comes to using European Union funds. You can see it at every turn. Just come to your country to see for yourself. All I can do is congratulate – Novotny said. However, he warned that EU programs will eventually end and that traditional bank loans and private financing will have to return.
Poland: a three times larger market
Novotny highlighted the size and potential of the Polish market. – Poland is a huge market from our perspective. It is three times larger than the Czech market. You have a great railway tradition and a large fleet. It suffices to say that as many as 15 cities in Poland have trams. That is more than twice as many as in the Czech Republic – said the CEO.
He noted that Poland’s extensive tram network and modernisation needs make it a natural target for Škoda Group’s expansion. The company already supplies trams and trains to several European countries and sees Poland as a key growth opportunity.
Partnership is key
– Poland is a specific market. If we want to be present on the Polish railway market, we must enter into cooperation with a Polish operator. We will do everything to make it happen, but at the same time we have fruitful cooperation with local governments – Novotny stated.
The executive did not specify which operator or cities the company is in talks with, but confirmed that discussions are underway. The move would strengthen Škoda’s foothold in Central Europe and could boost local manufacturing and maintenance capabilities. The company remains optimistic about overcoming regulatory and competitive challenges in Poland.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Koapan / Shutterstock
