Poland is a world power in furniture exports, placing fourth, after China, Germany and Italy, according to Jacek Twaróg, president of the national association of furniture makers. The organization reports that last year Polish furniture exports were worth $9 billion.

Chairs made in Poland can be found in places such as the Élysée Palace in Paris and store shelves in Apple stores. "Polish furniture is characterized by top quality, perfect design and respect in international markets," Mr Twaróg said.

However, the problem is that these facts are known only to wholesalers while end users and retailers have little knowledge of Polish furniture, he complained. Mr Twaróg insists it is necessary to create a brand name for Polish-made furniture and a national logo for the products. Some 90 percent of Polish furniture produce is exported, mostly to Germany. It is also important to diversify exports in order to avoid losses in case the German economy collapses.

Poland A.M.