FT Start-Up Stories Series 2: The ice breakers 7/10
Apr 11, 2016
John Lynch, a dynamic entrepreneur who relocated from Connecticut to Krakow in 1991, shares his incredible journey of establishing a corporate clothing company in the challenging post-communist landscape. He discusses the cultural nuances of hiring in Central Eastern Europe and the importance of fostering a supportive workplace. John reveals the power of employee loyalty during a hostile takeover, illustrating how solidarity can empower businesses. Additionally, he emphasizes the critical role of ongoing education and team investment in achieving success.
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T-Shirts Launched The Business
- John Lynch and a partner bought 500 plain T‑shirts, had them printed and sold them in tourist shops to test demand.
- They made about $1,500 in two weeks, which validated the business and financed early living costs.
Infrastructure Gaps Forced Creative Operations
- Poland's market lacked basic business infrastructure a year after communism, forcing entrepreneurs to improvise.
- Lynch lists problems like phone shortages, no couriers and slow postal delivery that changed logistics and operations.
Deliveries Made By Hand
- With only one telephone line for a growing company, Lynch's team had to drive and use trains to deliver orders.
- The Polish post took 21 days, so employees physically delivered products across the country.