Brits buy Polish

The popularity of Polish products is growing in Great Britain. In 2006 the value of exports to the UK skyrocketed to Ł4 (zů.23) billion. According to the Office of National Statistics, in one year, Poland jumped from 26th to 18th position among Britain's major trade partners, overtaking countries like India, Australia and South Africa.

An increase in food exports was a major factor, however, according to Martin Oxley, CEO at the British-Polish Chamber of Commerce, "It's not food that caused the highest growth. The 600,000 or so Poles who live in Britain are just a small percentage of the British population. There are other products which contributed to the growth."

Last year the export of electrical goods more than tripled and the export of vehicles and vehicle parts doubled. The sale of furniture also grew significantly. "Most amazing is the sale of razor blades. Last year's export grew by 80 percent and amounted to Ł125 (zů.720) million," says Oxley.

In total, last year's trade turnover increased by 72 percent and reached Ł6.81 (zů.39.3) billion. Oxley believes it could reach Ł10 (zů.57.7) billion this year.

One reason for Oxley's optimism is Britain's plan to replace analogue TV broadcasting with digital. "TV viewers will have to choose between the purchase of a special digital adaptor or a new digital television. Poland attracted a few investments from the industry and now produces devices for such companies as LG Phillips, Daewoo and Samsung and profits from the boom. Every third TV produced in Europe comes from a Polish factory," says Oxley.

According to Oxley, British entrepreneurs have realized that Poland is a good place to do business. "Growing trade will bring new British investments to Poland," he adds.