The Łódź Special Economic Zone (LSEZ) is buzzing with energy and innovation.

The Łódź Special Economic Zone (LSEZ) is a prime hub for economic growth, attracting investors with its central location in Poland’s transport network. Offering tax incentives, skilled labor, and administrative support, the LSEZ blends industrial tradition with modern innovation, fostering business and development through collaboration with universities and advanced technologies. We had the pleasure of speaking with Tomasz Sadzyński – CEO of the LSEZ – who shared details on how the LSEZ has evolved into a hub of innovation, sustainability, and high-tech industries.

Łódź Special Economic Zone has been described as one of Europe’s most dynamic zones. What is the key to its success?

The Łódź Special Economic Zone thrives on reinvention and adaptability. A decade ago, our focus was mostly on attracting large-scale manufacturing facilities. Today, the landscape has shifted. We now attract projects that are more specialized, sustainable, and innovative, such as high-tech logistics hubs and advanced production facilities. Companies see Łódź as not just a competitive base in Europe, but also a hub of innovation and sustainability.

Could you share an example of this transformation?

Sure, a standout example is DAIKIN Manufacturing’s investment of PLN 1.5 billion, or EUR 338 million. This project showcases advanced manufacturing capabilities and underscores our appeal to global leaders. Another notable name is Miele, a German leader in high-end domestic appliances. Their presence has diversified our industrial landscape and significantly contributed to regional economic growth.

How do micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) fit into this picture?

MSMEs are becoming increasingly vital to our ecosystem. They bring agility, innovation, and niche expertise that complement the larger players. We’ve witnessed a noticeable rise in MSMEs leveraging our location and support systems to scale. They benefit from easy access to European markets and a wide range of services tailored to their needs.

Speaking of services, what makes Łódź SEZ stand out for investors beyond tax incentives?Beyond the core benefits like CIT and PIT exemptions, we offer extensive additional support. For example, our Digital Hub, recognized as a European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH), provides comprehensive resources for startups and tech companies to drive digital transformation. We also prioritize workforce development, co-financing training programs, and even establishing a Technical School of Automation and Robotics to address the growing demand for skilled technicians and engineers.

High-tech industries seem to have a significant presence. Could you say more about it?Absolutely. High-tech companies such as Ericsson and Fujitsu have found a home here. Ericsson focuses on research and development, while Fujitsu leverages our strategic location for core operations. Additionally, our logistics capabilities are unmatched, attracting companies like DP World, Katoen Natie, and Jeronimo Martins. Their operations showcase our agility and ability to handle complex, high-volume needs.

Łódź is also known for its business process outsourcing (BPO) sector. How does this work with the Zone's strategy?

The BPO sector is booming here, thanks to Łódź’s multilingual talent pool and robust business support. Companies like Infosys and Alorica have established operations and we continue to attract new players. Our infrastructure and business-friendly environment make us an ideal choice for BPO firms looking to start quickly and efficiently.  

LSEZ has partnerships with Finnish companies. Could you tell us more about that?

Finnish companies appreciate our transparent and eco-conscious environment. Nordkalk, for instance, has invested more than PLN 20 million (around EUR 4.7 million) in our region. Their focus on sustainable limestone extraction aligns perfectly with our commitment to eco-friendly growth. We see this as the beginning of deeper cooperation with Finnish and other Nordic companies. 

What’s next for LSEZ?

Our priority is to foster sustainable growth and drive digital transformation. We aim to support investors of all sizes – whether it’s a tech startup, a growing enterprise, or a global manufacturer. Łódź SEZ is more than just a location; it’s a launchpad for innovation and global impact.