From Chicago, the Polish Investment & Trade Agency (PAIH) is helping drive a new era of cross-Atlantic cooperation in the automotive aftermarket, connecting Polish innovation and manufacturing strength with the sourcing needs of American distributors and suppliers.
As the official trade and investment arm of Poland in the Midwest, PAIH’s Chicago office plays a pivotal role in linking Polish exporters with U.S. buyers, institutions, and investors.
Headed by Michał Rzeźnik, the office serves as a bridge for both sides — helping Polish companies enter the U.S. market while guiding American partners toward vetted, certified suppliers across Poland’s robust industrial base.
To explore Poland’s growing role in the global automotive aftermarket and how U.S. suppliers can tap into new sourcing and partnership opportunities, I spoke with Rzeźnik, Head of the Foreign Trade Office for the Polish Investment & Trade Agency (PAIH) in Chicago. In this Q&A, Rzeźnik discusses how PAIH connects Polish manufacturers with American distributors, the evolution of Poland’s aftermarket sector, and where the greatest opportunities lie for collaboration in areas like remanufacturing, electrification and sustainable component production.
Tell me about the PAIH Chicago and its market role.
PAIH Foreign Trade Office in Chicago serves as Poland’s official trade and investment outpost in the Midwest, acting as a conduit between Polish exporters and U.S. buyers, institutions, and investors. It supports Polish companies entering the U.S. market by facilitating introductions, B2B meetings, organizing national pavilions at trade shows, and offering regulatory and market guidance. For American partners, it provides curated access to vetted Polish suppliers and helps navigate Poland’s industrial landscape, particularly in sectors like automotive, biotech, medtech, IT/ICT, food, furniture, machines & equipment, construction & development, boats & yachts and advanced manufacturing.
How does the PAIH Chicago office support Polish companies and American partners specifically in the automotive aftermarket sector?
In the automotive aftermarket, PAIH Chicago (in cooperation with our Warsaw HQ) identifies Polish producers of components, systems and remanufactured parts that meet U.S. standards. It organizes matchmaking events, supports participation in trade shows like AAPEX and SEMA and helps Polish firms understand U.S. compliance requirements. For American partners, it offers sourcing intelligence and facilitates direct engagement with Polish suppliers, often around specific product categories or technical needs.
How does your team help U.S. suppliers connect with Polish producers of automotive components, systems and aftermarket products?
The team maps Polish capabilities across key aftermarket segments — braking systems, filters, electronics, remanufacturing — and coordinates B2B meetings based on U.S. buyer specifications. It also supports virtual introductions and in-person delegations, ensuring that U.S. suppliers are matched with Polish firms that meet their volume, certification, and customization needs. Institutional backing from PAIH adds credibility and continuity to these partnerships.
Poland’s automotive industry is one of the country’s largest sectors. How has the aftermarket segment in particular developed over the last few years?
Poland’s aftermarket has evolved from basic mechanical parts to include advanced electronics, sustainable remanufacturing and electrification components. E-commerce platforms and ERP-integrated logistics have expanded distribution capabilities. Major players like Inter Cars and Auto Partner have scaled operations across Europe and into North America, supported by EU innovation funding and a strong engineering base.
U.S. imports of automotive parts from Poland had grown significantly over the past few years. Where do those figures stand today, and what products are leading that growth?
As of 2024, U.S. imports of Polish automotive parts exceeded $350 million, up from $230 million in 2020. Leading categories include brake pads, filters, electrical sensors, remanufactured starters and alternators, and increasingly, EV battery modules and precursor materials. Poland ranks among the top 15 U.S. suppliers of automotive components, with consistent year-over-year growth.
What differentiates Polish aftermarket producers from competitors in other regions — quality, cost, speed or specialization?
Polish producers offer a compelling mix of quality, cost-efficiency and responsiveness. Most firms hold ISO and IATF certifications and meet U.S. DOT and FMVSS standards. Labor and energy costs are lower than in Western Europe, and production is agile, with short lead times. Specialization in remanufacturing, precision machining and niche electronics gives Polish suppliers an edge in sustainability and performance.
Where do you see the biggest opportunities right now for American companies to source from or collaborate with Polish aftermarket suppliers?
Opportunities include mid-volume sourcing for distributors, private label partnerships, and co-development of EV and hybrid components. Poland’s strength in remanufacturing and its growing capacity in electrification systems make it an ideal partner for sustainable aftermarket strategies. American firms can also benefit from Poland’s flexibility in customizing components for niche applications.
Are there particular niches — such as remanufacturing, electrification components or advanced materials — where U.S. suppliers can benefit most from working with Poland?
Yes. Remanufacturing is a standout niche, with Polish firms offering warranty-backed reman parts aligned with EU circular economy policies. Electrification is another growth area, with investments in battery modules, thermal systems and lightweight structures. Advanced materials, including composites and fossil-free steel, are emerging as co-development opportunities for U.S. firms seeking innovation and sustainability.
With Poland’s role as a key EU manufacturing hub, how can American suppliers leverage that position to reach not just Poland but the wider European aftermarket?
Poland offers centralized logistics, regulatory alignment with EU standards, and clustered supply chains that include OEMs, Tier suppliers and R&D centers. Products manufactured in Poland meet EU compliance requirements, simplifying distribution across Germany, France and other key markets. American firms can use Poland as a strategic launchpad for broader European aftermarket penetration.
What are the most important cultural or business practices U.S. aftermarket suppliers should know when working with Polish producers?
Polish business culture emphasizes formality, relationship-building and a clear sense of hierarchy. Initial meetings often focus on establishing trust rather than diving directly into negotiations, and punctuality and thorough preparation are highly valued. While English is widely used in international business settings, adapting communication to local expectations can significantly enhance clarity and demonstrate professionalism. Decision-making tends to be centralized, so it’s important to identify the key decision-maker early in the process. Transparency, consistency, and respect for local practices are essential for building strong, long-term partnerships.
What logistical or regulatory issues should U.S. suppliers be prepared for when importing parts or building partnerships in Poland?
U.S. suppliers should be aware of EU compliance requirements like CE marking and REACH. Customs procedures are generally straightforward under MFN rates, though some categories may face tariffs. Export licenses may be needed for dual-use components, and IP protection is strong but enforcement varies. Labeling and VAT rules differ, so coordination with Polish partners is key.
Looking ahead, what advice would you give U.S. aftermarket suppliers who want to establish strong, long-term relationships with Polish producers?
Invest in face-to-face engagement through trade shows and facility visits. Start with modest orders to build trust and scale based on performance. Offer technical collaboration and respect cultural norms around formality and transparency. Use institutional partners like PAIH to navigate challenges and maintain continuity. Long-term success depends on consistency, mutual respect and shared innovation.
For the latest automotive aftermarket news and information, visit https://aftermarketintel.com. Do you have automotive aftermarket news? Contact Aftermarket Intel Editor Mark Phillips at mark@lpnewmedia.com. He’s on LinkedIn here.
