HEATING UP
Rettig Heating, of Rybnik, Poland, is a part of the Rettig ICC Group, the world-leading radiator producer. In 2012 it celebrated its 20th anniversary. “During that time Purmo, the name of the Rettig’s ‘flagship’ brand, has become synonymous with the whole segment of panel radiators in Poland, offering the highest quality for a reasonable price is our main aim,” says marketing and sales director Wojciech Makowski to Dariusz Balcerzyk.
IN
1992, the political changes in eastern Europe led the Rettig Group to establish itself in Poland by acquiring TKM Company, the sole Polish importer of the Purmo radiators. In this way, Rettig Heating was founded. “At that time the Polish market was dominated by primitive cast-iron radiators, with no ability to control temperature. Opening windows was the only way of regulating it. So, lobbying for modern heating systems was our first task. We had to convince customers
168 Industry Europe
that our systems are better, more efficient and saved money,” recalls Mr Makowski. The quality of the Purmo radiators quickly won clients’ hearts, who appreciated their functionality and aesthetics. Sales went sharply up. As a result of their commercial success, the strategic decision was taken to start production in Poland. In 1993 a part of Silesia Steelwork in Rybnik, south Poland, was purchased and a year later the first Purmo radiators were produced there. Soon, the company established itself as the leading supplier of
heat emitters in Poland and has become the undoubted leader of the market. “Total sales of our three most serious competitors taken together are lower than sales of the sole Rettig Heating,” stresses Mr Makowski.
Heat from Finland The Finnish Rettig Group is active within the heating industry, marine industry and real estate development. In 2006, the parent company Oy Rettig AB was divided into two legal entities: Rettig Group Ltd and Tarkala