Sourcing and Manufacturing in CEE Countries
Best Practices and Keys to Success
with Cédric Fromont, CEO of Valians International
On August 28, 2025, we had the pleasure of hosting an insightful and engaging webinar in collaboration with our valued member, Valians International.
Key Insights from the Webinar with Mr Cédric Fromont, CEO of Valians International:
Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) is becoming a strategic destination for sourcing and manufacturing. During our recent webinar, we explored why companies are increasingly looking to this region and how to approach it effectively.
Why CEE?
- Competitive labor costs and qualified technical talent
- Strong industrial clusters in automotive, aerospace, electronics, pharma, food, and IT
- Geographic proximity to Western Europe, ensuring fast logistics and reliable supply chains
- A supportive business environment with incentives for investors
The Roadmap to Success
The key steps for building a sustainable sourcing or manufacturing strategy in the region:
- Define clear criteria — both tangible (costs, logistics, skills) and intangible (cultural fit, responsiveness).
- Select the right countries & hotspots based on industry strengths.
- Engage with suppliers carefully — consider total landed cost, not just price.
- Visit and audit suppliers to validate capabilities and strengthen relationships.
- Ensure long-term support through ongoing partnership management.
CEE is not one single market, but a network of specialized industrial hubs. With the right preparation and local expertise, it offers significant opportunities to accelerate international expansion.
For access to the full webinar, please email us at [email protected] to receive the link.
