A difficult year for Polish business. These companies are disappearing from the market

The year 2024 turned out to be exceptionally difficult for many Polish enterprises. The increase in production costs, rising prices of energy and raw materials and changing consumer habits have significantly influenced the financial condition of companies. Many enterprises, both large players with many years of tradition and smaller, innovative brands, struggled with the crisis, which in many cases ended in bankruptcy. This situation affected various sectors, from the food industry, through the fashion and medical industries, to the alcohol and accessories production sector.

Rafako – the end of the legend of the Polish energy industry

Rafako, one of the most recognizable companies in the energy sector, announced bankruptcy in 2024. After years of financial problems and difficulties in implementing large projects, the court decided to terminate the company’s operations.

The company, which was listed on the Stock Exchange, ceased its operations, leaving a gap in the Polish energy sector. The bankruptcy of Rafako is also a problem for hundreds of employees who lost their jobs.

Bama Poland – a manufacturer of footwear accessories announces bankruptcy

Bama Poland, a company that produces shoe care accessories, declared bankruptcy after filing in mid-year. The company, which employed about 150 people at its plant in Gorzów Wielkopolski, was unable to cope with financial difficulties and rising operating costs.

Bama Poland was part of an international concern, but a limited sales market and high operating costs forced the company to close its operations.

Redan – another company from the fashion sector did not survive the crisis

The well-known Polish clothing company Redan announced bankruptcy in 2024. After years of operation on the domestic market, the brand was unable to cope with financial problems and changes in consumer preferences.

The company’s bankruptcy is also an example of the difficult situation of the entire fashion sector, which has been struggling with rising production costs and falling demand for several years.

Eastend – the end of the shoe store chain

Eastend, a Polish chain of shoe stores, has ceased operations after 27 years of presence on the market. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2024, unable to cope with rising operating costs and declining sales.

The decision to close the business meant the liquidation of the store chain and the loss of jobs for many employees.

Alcohol plant near Toruń – end of operation after 70 years

A well-known alcohol production plant near Toruń ceased operations after over 70 years. The decision to go bankrupt was the result of rising production costs, declining orders and difficulties in maintaining competitiveness on the market. About 50 people lost their jobs, and the company’s assets were used to repay liabilities. The bankruptcy of the plant is another example of the difficulties faced by the Polish food industry.

Beer, Vodka and Wine Manufaktura – collapse after the founder’s arrest

Manufaktura Piwa, Wódki i Wina, founded by Janusz Palikot, announced bankruptcy in 2024. The company, which was supposed to be a symbol of a modern approach to Polish alcohol crafts, did not survive financial problems and accusations against its founder.

After Palikot’s arrest, the company found itself on the verge of bankruptcy, and its assets were used to repay debts. The bankruptcy also meant layoffs for the entire team.

Plantwear – end after 13 years of operation

Plantwear, a Polish company specializing in the production of ecological accessories such as wooden glasses and watches, announced bankruptcy in 2024 after 13 years on the market. The company struggled with rising material costs and cash flow problems. Plantwear was a symbol of innovation and an ecological approach, but it could not cope with economic difficulties, which led to the closure of the business.

Bakery and confectionery plant in Wałbrzych – the end of a long-standing tradition

In Wałbrzych, a large bakery and confectionery plant with several decades of history went bankrupt. The company failed to cope with rising raw material and energy costs and falling demand for its products. The plant’s bankruptcy meant layoffs for over 100 employees and the liquidation of an important part of the local economy.

The oldest company in Warsaw – a manufacturer of medical equipment – ceases operations

A well-known manufacturer of medical equipment, operating for over 100 years, announced bankruptcy in 2024. The company, which was one of the pioneers of the Polish medical industry, could not cope with rising operating costs and competitive pressure on the international market. The decision to end its operations was a blow to employees and customers who use its products.