[Interview] LINDSTRÖM GROWS IN POLAND ON NORDIC VALUES

This interview is part of Spondeo’s annual publication Finnish Business & Culture in Poland 2026

Rafał Kopera, CEO of Lindström Poland, talks about the company’s development and strategic vision. Lindström, a Finnish family-owned textile service group with over 175 years of history, has been in Poland since 2002, providing workwear, mats and hygiene solutions. Here he discusses the company’s strong growth, plans for expansion, and how Nordic values and sustainability drive its success.

In recent years, Lindström’s turnover in Poland has been growing at a double-digit rate. How would you summarize the factors behind this growth?

Our growth comes mainly from a strong client base, continuous innovation, and successful new client acquisition. We’ve also expanded our services beyond workwear and mat rentals – for example, adding industrial wiper rentals – which helps us deepen our relationships with existing clients and attract new ones with a more comprehensive solution.

What position do you have on the Polish market – are you already in the top 3 in your segment?

Not yet, but we’re well on our way. We’ve expanded beyond our traditional base in central Poland and are now growing rapidly in the south and west, supported by strong investments in our sales force and local presence. Our goal is to reach the top 3 in the coming years.

When it comes to expansion, you’ve invested in both M&A and organic growth recently. Have you experienced any surprises, or has everything gone smoothly?

Organic growth and acquisitions are quite different, with acquisitions usually bringing more surprises. So far, our experience has been very positive. Both paths have helped us accelerate growth and we’ll keep exploring opportunities to strengthen our position in Poland.

Geographically, where in Poland do you still see growth, and where would you like to be in five years?

Our goal is full national coverage with a strong commercial structure across three regions and a wider network of local laundries. A key step is opening a fourth laundry in the south. We also see strong potential in expanding our service portfolio to bring even more value to our clients.

Your company has a long history. How is this heritage reflected in your local actions?

We take a long-term approach to growth, focusing not only on business performance but also on the well-being of future generations. Our goal is to carry forward the Roiha family legacy by building a financially sustainable business that also protects the environment and supports the communities where we operate.

Does it benefit your company, in your sector, to be Finnish or Nordic?

There’s no direct advantage, but Nordic values such as respect, partnership, and integrity are well recognized and appreciated. They shape how we work and how clients see us. Our strong focus on sustainability also sets us apart, and it’s great to see this becoming more important in Poland, too. Ultimately, our real strength lies in our people and how they live these values every day.

What’s your favorite feature of working with Finns? And is there anything from Polish culture you’d like to see implemented in Finland?

I’m not sure I’d call it a favorite, but it’s why I’ve stayed with a Finnish company for over 21 years. It’s the culture of the spoken word –

"When a Finn says something, it carries the same weight as a signed agreement. They always keep their word, and I’ve learned that a simple “yes” is as good as a contract."

What would you say to a Finnish investor considering the Polish market?

I’d say – don’t be discouraged by the competition. Focus on the opportunity to grow in one of Europe’s most dynamic economies. Poland offers both scale and flexibility, making it a great place to build a strong and fast-growing business. If you’re looking for a market where you can expand quickly while building lasting relationships and solid teams, Poland is the right choice.And as a Finnish company, you already have a natural advantage – a strong reputation for quality, transparency, and social responsibility, which Polish partners truly value.

His interview is part of Spondeo’s annual publication Finnish Business & Culture in Poland 2026

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