"Kruszwica" Oil Plants

Zakłady Tłuszczowe „Kruszwica” S.A. is a major player in the food industry, located in Kruszwica in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship. As the largest oilseed processor in Poland and one of the leaders in Central Europe, the company specializes in the production of bottled oils, margarines, and fats for the food and industrial sectors, including biofuels. As part of the Bunge Group, the company operates three production facilities, all certified according to ISO 14001 standards. The history of the plant dates back to the 1950s, when the authorities of the Polish People's Republic decided to build a fat-processing factory in the Kuyavia region, enabling local sourcing of raw materials. The facility gained significance in the 1960s as margarine production reached high levels, and its operations had a positive impact on the local community. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the plant underwent several expansions, though these efforts faced challenges due to the economic realities of the time. Following the political transformation of 1989, the enterprise underwent a series of changes, becoming a joint-stock company and listing on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. The privatization in the 1990s and subsequent acquisition by Bunge Limited were crucial for the company’s further development. ZT Kruszwica strengthened its market position through industry consolidation and by 2012 had become the leading producer in Poland. The history of the plant exemplifies the evolution from state-controlled production to a modern market-driven enterprise that has significantly influenced the local economy, including cultural aspects through its support of socio-cultural activities. Interestingly, although the factory was a symbol of the region's economic success, it also faced environmental challenges, highlighting the importance of sustainable development in the industry. Zakłady Tłuszczowe „Kruszwica” is not only an industry leader but also an important part of the architectural and cultural landscape of Kruszwica.