Alan Fisher, centre, from FAC with members of the mission at McBraida in Poland
Members of Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) have returned from a visit to Poland to further strengthen links with that country’s Aviation Valley Cluster.
Ties between the two associations were created at the 2022 Farnborough Air Show and at this year’s show the relationship was brought even closer.
The recent trip was so successful in terms of business and leads generated that a longer and larger visit is planned for next year.
Representatives of Rushmoor Borough Council and Hammersmith and Fulham Council also went in order to understand the needs of the aerospace sector in their regions.
The delegation met the mayor of Rzsezow and made presentations to decision-makers and leaders in Poland’s aerospace, aviation and defence industries.
Barnbrook Systems, FT Gearing Systems, Aero Gear and CG Tech – a Vericut company – went with FAC’s Alan Fisher on the visit.
Alan said: “It was an extremely good trip with presentations, networking and one-to-ones with important figures in the Polish aerospace industry.
“We met with Konrad Fijolek, mayor of Rzeszow, who came to see us at this year’s Farnborough Air Show.
“There were also meetings with senior management of McBraida and MTU – both big players in Poland’s aerospace industry.
“Having members of Rushmoor and Hammersmith and Fulham councils with us was very useful for the businesses.
“We also met with the British representative from the Department of Business and Trade who joined us from the embassy in Warsaw.
“Lots of follow-ups have been organised and we’ll be visiting again next year and taking more members with us.
“Aviation Valley Cluster is an association like ours and the potential for our members to do business together is huge.”
Andrew Barnett, managing director of global solutions provider Barnbrook Systems Ltd, said: “It was an extremely productive visit and a privilege to meet with Polish companies, share expertise and discuss how we can support innovation and growth in both markets.
“We’ve been energised by the opportunities and excited for the future of UK and Poland relations in this sector.
“Our thanks go to our partners and hosts for making this event such a success. We look forward to building on the connections made.”
