On October 3-4, 2024, G&E Sales attended the AHK Europe Conference 2024 in Warsaw, Poland—one of the most significant gatherings of business leaders, government officials, and innovation experts shaping the future of European markets.
For G&E Sales, this was a valuable opportunity to expand our network, gain firsthand insights into the trends and expectations driving the European economy, and deepen our understanding of the strategic opportunities in Central and Eastern Europe. The conference reinforced our commitment to helping companies successfully navigate and expand into these dynamic markets.
About the AHK Europe Conference 2024
Hosted by AHK Polska (German-Polish Chamber of Commerce), the AHK Europe Conference is an annual flagship event that brings together leaders from across Europe to discuss critical issues facing the continent's economy, including sustainability, digital transformation, energy transition, and international manufacturing.
This year's conference focused on how European businesses can leverage innovation, digitalization, and green production to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global landscape. With Poland emerging as a key manufacturing and innovation hub in Central Europe, Warsaw was the perfect setting for these important conversations.
Opening Remarks and Keynote Addresses
The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Michael Kern, CEO of AHK Norwegen (German-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce), and Dr. Lars Gutheil, CEO of AHK Polska. Both emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration and the role of chambers of commerce in facilitating business growth across Europe.
Ignacy Niemczycki, Deputy State Secretary at Poland's Ministry of Development and Technology, delivered an important keynote address highlighting Poland's commitment to innovation, digital infrastructure, and sustainable economic growth. His remarks underscored Poland's ambition to become a leading hub for advanced manufacturing and technology in Europe.
Udo Philipp, State Secretary at the German Ministry of Economics, also addressed the conference, emphasizing Germany's strategic partnership with Poland and the need for coordinated European efforts to meet sustainability and digitalization goals.
Panel Discussion: Green Production, Digital Future of European Industry & International Manufacturing
One of the conference's most compelling sessions was the panel discussion on Green Production, Digital Future of European Industry, and International Manufacturing. This panel explored how digital transformation and sustainability initiatives are reshaping European industries and what strategies companies should adopt to remain competitive.
Panelists:
- Hahn Thomas – Siemens
- Julia Raquet – BASF
- Marcin Łata – Polish Ministry of Development
- Ulrike Haugen – Executive Vice President, DNV
- Hana Součková – CEO, SAP Czech Republic
Moderated by: Jan Feller, Managing Director, AHK Finnland
Key Insights:
Digital Transformation is Non-Negotiable: Panelists agreed that digitalization is no longer optional for European manufacturers. Companies must invest in Industry 4.0 technologies—including AI, IoT, automation, and data analytics—to optimize production, reduce costs, and improve competitiveness.
Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage: Green production is not just about compliance; it's becoming a market differentiator. Companies that invest in sustainable manufacturing processes, renewable energy, and circular economy principles will attract customers, investors, and top talent.
Opportunities in Emerging Markets: Poland and other Central and Eastern European countries offer significant opportunities for companies looking to establish cost-effective, sustainable manufacturing operations with access to skilled labor and proximity to major European markets.
Collaboration Across Borders: The panelists emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships and cross-border collaboration to drive innovation and scale sustainable solutions across Europe.
Panel Discussion: European Energy Market & Decarbonization
Another critical session focused on Europe's Energy Market and Decarbonization Efforts, exploring how the continent is transitioning to renewable energy and what policies are driving this transformation.
Panelists:
- Andreea Ionita – EON Romania
- Andris Piebalgs – Former EU Energy Commissioner
- Britta van Boven – CEO, Gasunie
- Prof. Agnieszka Słomka-Gołębiowska – Chairwoman, mBank
- Dr. Mathias Kranz – Business President, Linde
Moderated by: Achim Dercks, Deputy CEO, DIHK (German Chambers of Industry and Commerce)
Key Insights:
Renewable Energy Expansion: Europe is accelerating its transition to renewable energy sources, with significant investments in solar, wind, and hydrogen technologies. Poland, in particular, is making strides in diversifying its energy mix and reducing reliance on coal.
Energy Security and Independence: The geopolitical landscape has underscored the importance of energy independence. European countries are prioritizing domestic renewable energy production and strategic partnerships to ensure energy security.
Decarbonization Policies: EU regulations and national policies are creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses. Companies that proactively adopt decarbonization strategies will benefit from incentives, while those that lag risk penalties and competitive disadvantages.
Infrastructure Investment: Significant investment in energy infrastructure—including smart grids, energy storage, and cross-border transmission—is essential to support the renewable energy transition.
Fintech Innovation: BLIK's Digital Payment Revolution
Dariusz Mazurkiewicz, CEO of BLIK, shared insights into the remarkable growth of BLIK, Poland's leading digital payment system. BLIK has revolutionized how Poles make payments, offering instant, secure, and convenient transactions via mobile devices.
Key Highlights:
- Rapid Adoption: BLIK has become the preferred payment method for millions of Poles, with usage growing exponentially year over year.
- International Expansion: BLIK is expanding beyond Poland into Slovakia and Romania, positioning itself as a regional fintech leader.
- Digital Transformation: BLIK's success demonstrates Poland's leadership in fintech innovation and digital transformation, offering lessons for other emerging markets.
This session highlighted the importance of digital payment infrastructure in driving e-commerce growth and financial inclusion across Central and Eastern Europe.
AI and Business Transformation with Google
Patrick Warnking, Google Vice President for Central and Eastern Europe, delivered an engaging presentation on how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming businesses across the region.
Key Insights:
Productivity Gains: AI can dramatically boost productivity by automating routine tasks, enabling employees to focus on higher-value activities.
Supply Chain Optimization: AI-powered analytics and predictive modeling help companies optimize supply chains, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.
New Business Models: AI is enabling entirely new business models, from personalized customer experiences to data-driven decision-making.
Data Privacy and Ethics: Warnking emphasized the importance of responsible AI deployment, including data privacy protections and transparent algorithms.
Workforce Reskilling: As AI transforms industries, companies must invest in reskilling and upskilling their workforce to ensure employees can work effectively alongside AI technologies.
Patrick's presentation reinforced the critical role AI will play in the future competitiveness of European businesses, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, and customer service.
The Future of Mobility in Europe
A highlight of the conference was a fireside chat with Michael Kretschmer, Prime Minister of Saxony, Germany, on the future of mobility in Europe.
Kretschmer discussed the automotive industry's transformation, including the shift to electric vehicles (EVs), the development of autonomous driving technologies, and the need for sustainable transportation infrastructure. He emphasized Saxony's role as a hub for automotive innovation and the importance of maintaining Europe's competitive edge in this critical sector.
The discussion also touched on the challenges facing the automotive industry, including supply chain disruptions, the need for battery production capacity, and the importance of government support for research and development.
Closing Keynote: Europe Between Disruption and Opportunity
The conference concluded with a powerful reflection by Prof. Marek Belka, former Prime Minister of Poland and former President of the National Bank of Poland, on "Europe Between Disruption and Opportunity."
Prof. Belka addressed the significant challenges Europe faces—including geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, energy transition, and demographic shifts—while also highlighting the continent's strengths and opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
Resilience and Adaptability: Europe has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of disruption. The continent's ability to adapt and innovate will determine its future competitiveness.
Unity and Collaboration: European countries must work together to address shared challenges, from climate change to digital transformation.
Investment in Innovation: Continued investment in research, development, and innovation is essential to maintain Europe's leadership in key industries.
Opportunity in Transition: While transitions—whether energy, digital, or demographic—present challenges, they also create opportunities for forward-thinking companies and countries.
Networking and Cultural Celebrations
Beyond the formal conference sessions, the AHK Europe Conference 2024 offered exceptional networking opportunities that allowed us to connect with business leaders, government officials, and industry experts from across Europe.
German Day of Unity Celebration
On October 3rd, we attended the celebration of German Day of Unity (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) at the German Ambassador's residence in Warsaw. This special event commemorated the reunification of Germany and provided an excellent opportunity to connect with German and Polish business leaders in a more informal setting.
Networking at Varso Tower
We also had the privilege of networking at Varso Tower, Poland's tallest skyscraper and one of the most iconic buildings in Central Europe. The event offered breathtaking views of Warsaw while facilitating meaningful conversations with professionals from diverse industries.
These networking opportunities reinforced the importance of personal relationships in international business and allowed us to strengthen existing partnerships while forming new connections.
Key Insights for G&E Sales and Our Clients
The AHK Europe Conference 2024 provided G&E Sales with valuable insights that directly inform our market entry and expansion strategies for clients looking to grow in Central and Eastern Europe.
1. Sustainability is a Strategic Imperative
Companies entering European markets must prioritize sustainability from day one. This includes:
- Adopting green production processes
- Investing in renewable energy
- Implementing circular economy principles
- Demonstrating commitment to decarbonization goals
Sustainability is no longer just a regulatory requirement—it's a competitive advantage that attracts customers, investors, and partners.
2. Digital Transformation is Accelerating
Digital technologies—including AI, IoT, automation, and data analytics—are reshaping industries across Europe. Companies that embrace digitalization will:
- Improve operational efficiency
- Reduce costs
- Enhance customer experiences
- Create new revenue streams
For companies entering CEE markets, investing in digital capabilities is essential to compete effectively.
3. Poland and CEE Offer Strategic Advantages
Poland and other Central and Eastern European countries continue to offer compelling advantages for international companies:
- Cost-effective manufacturing with access to skilled labor
- Strategic location with proximity to major European markets
- Growing consumer markets with rising purchasing power
- Government incentives for foreign investment and innovation
- Strong infrastructure and improving digital connectivity
4. Energy Transition Creates Opportunities
Europe's energy transition is creating significant opportunities in:
- Renewable energy technologies (solar, wind, hydrogen)
- Energy storage solutions
- Smart grid infrastructure
- Energy-efficient manufacturing equipment
- Green building technologies
Companies with solutions that support decarbonization will find receptive markets across Europe.
5. Fintech and Digital Payments are Growing
The success of BLIK and other fintech innovations demonstrates the rapid digital transformation of financial services in CEE. Companies entering these markets should:
- Integrate digital payment options
- Leverage fintech partnerships
- Understand local payment preferences
- Ensure robust cybersecurity measures
6. Collaboration and Partnerships are Essential
Success in European markets requires strong partnerships with:
- Local distributors and sales channels
- Industry associations and chambers of commerce
- Government agencies and economic development organizations
- Technology providers and service partners
Building a network of trusted partners accelerates market entry and reduces risk.
How G&E Sales Can Help You Enter European Markets
At G&E Sales, we specialize in helping companies successfully enter and expand in European & Overseas markets, with particular expertise in Central and Eastern Europe, including Poland, Hungary, Romania, and the Western Balkans.
Our participation in events like the AHK Europe Conference 2024 ensures we stay at the forefront of market trends, regulatory developments, and business opportunities—insights we leverage to help our clients succeed.
The AHK Europe Conference 2024 reinforced what we already know: Europe offers tremendous opportunities for companies with the right strategy, partnerships, and local expertise.
Whether you're looking to enter Poland, expand across Central and Eastern Europe, or establish a broader European presence, G&E Sales can help you navigate the complexities and accelerate your success.
Let's discuss how your company can capitalize on the opportunities in European markets. Contact G&E Sales today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can support your international growth.
You can book an appointment either via our chatbot or directly on the booking page.
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