Business Climate

The Leszno region has always been known for religious tolerance, an admirable agriculture output and its overall economy, as well as for being a world famous gliding center. It has also been famous for speedway racing and horse riding, as numerous stables are located in the city environs. This still holds true, though several new qualities should be added to the list because modern Leszno is a business and financial center, and the seat of the county authorities.
 It is a fact that the atmos-phere in  the city is especially favorable for economic prosperity. The city authorities consciously and purposefully create such conditions. Apart from the local government, the Chamber of Commerce in Leszno, the Agency for Regional Development, the Leszno Trade Association and the Crafts Guild augment their efforts on a day to day basis. In addition, the Targi Regionalne s.c. organizes regional fair events that serve the same purpose. According to the city's Urban Development Strategy, which outlines the development plans for the future and that has been adopted by the local society, Leszno is to become a medium-sized city offering its residents attractive jobs and excellent living conditions.
 So far, the city has been successful. The largest number of jobs is offered in trading, services, construction and industry.  In all, over seven thousand companies operate on the local market, with 98% of them in the private sector. This is one of the highest privatization rates in Poland. In addition, the Business Council that has been established by the Mayor's Office aims at the integration of local business circles and drawing their attention to issues related to sustainable growth of the city and its economy.  The economy in Leszno is already supported by 17 banks and 40 insurance companies operating there. These indicators are impressive, especially as the city has a population of only 60 thousand.The number of foreign investors present there, amounting to 63 companies from countries such as Japan, Sweden, the Netherlands, the US, France and Germany, are the best proof of the attractiveness of Leszno for businesses. This is not surprising, as one of the

elements creating the favorable economic climate is the large numbers of well-qualified workers. 43 colleges and schools of higher education are located there, among them the private Wyższa Szkoła Marketingu i Zarządzania (School of Marketing and Management) and branches of Poznań's School of Economics, School of Agriculture, and Technical University. In addition, the Wyższa Szkoła Zawodowa (Vocational College), Teacher Training College for language teachers and many others operate in Leszno. It is of importance that the schools adjust their courses and curricula to the needs of the local market, and thus do not provide education to people bound to become unemployed, but to needed professionals, who will find interesting jobs. This is why the 6.1% unemployment rate in Leszno is one of the lowest in Poland.
 This is Leszno, a city with a business character and a comfortable place to live. What is more, its local investments and sports and recreation facilities can be the envy of larger and richer cities. A water sports complex, indoor tennis courts, a skate park and areas and sights of natural beauty scattered around the region make it not only a perfect place to invest and work in, but also to relax. Leszno is already a place of interest to many, and it is only a matter of time before an influx of investors starts there. Now is the best time to take the opportunity.