Poland - Joint Ventures and LicensingPoland - Joint Ventures and Licensing
Joint ventures are a common form of business in Poland. Many U.S. businesses in Poland have established joint ventures with Polish partner companies. Joint ventures are an excellent way to facilitate export sales to the Polish market.
Most joint ventures are established with the American partner contributing needed capital and technology. The Polish partner typically contributes land, distribution channels, trained workers, access to the Polish market and introductions within the local government and business community. Having a Polish partner who is familiar with the industry and culture gives American firms a competitive edge they may not have on their own. American firms participating in joint ventures are often asked to provide marketing, training, and promotional support for their Polish partners.
Licensing products, technology, technical data, and services has been less common in Poland, due to concerns about to protect intellectual property rights and copyrights. Still we suggest U.S. businesses be cautious when licensing their products in Poland, particularly since we expect the number of U.S. firms opting to license their products in Poland to increase, especially in the industrial manufacturing and consumer goods sectors.