Report by PwC on Polish cities
Within the last 20 years they’ve been catching up with their Western counterparts and now they have settled in the European league for good. But still aspire for more! What are the lights and shadows of the Polish largest cities?
Warsaw - the place where business needs to be done
The capital boasts great image among foreign investors and is the first place in Poland to be at according to the international businessmen – here they find it easiest to find high standard hotels, business partners or international schools for their children to attend. Every year over 32 thousand young scientists graduate from Warsaw universities and colleges. Warsaw residents have extremely entrepreneurial attitude, and are appreciated by their employers for an outstanding dynamism and zest. As the income in Warsaw is almost triple the national average, it makes a huge local market. – Warsaw does not fit the league of the large Polish cities. They’re not its’ rivals any more. Warsaw competes with huge regional hubs such as Prague and Budapest – comment the experts of PwC. They stress that Polish capital has a high potential for cultural, educational and social development, and – surprisingly – its’ residents consider it a safe city.
What are the drawbacks? Warsaw still needs to improve the quality of life it offers. And not only in terms of an aesthetic architecture. There are some purely utilitarian aspects such as convenience of communication, access to recreational areas, restaurants, cinemas as well as the theatres.
Cracow – balancing on the edge of tradition and future 
Cracow is the city of two great advantages. First of all, it boasts an excellent image. Cracow is considered an attractive place, offering high quality of life, large intellectual potential as well as cultural heritage. Financial means invested in culture are among the highest in Poland, no matter economic crisis nor budget restraints. Cracow is the place of theatre festivals, events and concerts.
The second biggest advantage of the city is its human capital – generated by well-educated residents and respected universities. Due to the large number of young, educated people, the city shall become a cluster combining investments, technology and the quality of life.
- Cracow is balancing between tradition and modernity. Firmly rooted in tradition, aspires to become a modern metropolis – indicate PwC experts. In their perspective, it is worth to consider how much effort should be invested in highlighting tradition in Cracow brand, and how much in its dynamism and modernity on the other hand.
Wroclaw - growth leader with European outreach 
Wroclaw in the South-West Poland has become the fastest developing city, attracting both tourist and international investors. It has proved the weight of its strategic planning capabilities – Wroclaw has constantly been working on developing its cultural and social potential, taking care of investors and working on its recognition in Europe. Now it has the best access to the European highways, young and entrepreneurial work staff, offers wide range of hotels, shops, restaurants and cinemas.
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