In the world of business and rally driving, Michał Sołowow stands as a prominent figure, defying the odds to achieve immense success. Born in Kielce on July 11, 1962, Sołowow has become a billionaire businessman and a renowned rally driver.
With an industrial group spanning 18 production plants across 8 countries and products sold in over 60 countries, his influence reaches far and wide. With a workforce of more than 16,000 employees, Sołowow has cemented his position as a powerhouse in the business world. Zatrun.com has taken a closer look at the remarkable journey of this exceptional entrepreneur and rally enthusiast.
Michał Sołowow: A Solid Foundation for Success
Michał Sołowow’s journey towards success was grounded in a strong educational background. He was born in Kielce and studied at Kielce University of Technology, setting the stage for his future endeavors. In the 1980s, he seized the opportunity to work in the West, allowing him to establish the Mitex construction enterprise during a period when Poland was still under communist rule. This early venture marked his entry into the world of business and paved the way for future achievements.
Business Empire: Diversification and Expansion
Michał Sołowow’s initial success in construction provided him with the financial means to explore new horizons. He diversified his investments, entering various industries such as chemical manufacturing, ceramic tiles, wood floors, real estate, new technologies, and biotechnology. A key turning point was his acquisition of shares in Dwory, now known as Synthos. He utilized debt financing while capitalizing on favorable interest rates to fund the company’s expansion.
This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that saw him take on diverse business interests. As a result of his strategic investments, he became one of the biggest players on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. His investments extended beyond Poland’s borders, establishing him as a significant Polish private investor abroad.
In October 2019, one of Michał Sołowow’s companies, Synthos Green Energy S.A., entered into an agreement with US-Japanese GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy for cooperation in the potential construction of a nuclear power plant in Poland based on small modular reactors (SMR) BWRX-300 technology. This groundbreaking collaboration marked a significant milestone and demonstrated Michał Sołowow’s forward-thinking approach in the energy sector.
Management and Investment Funds: Ensuring Steady Growth
Sołowow skillfully manages his vast assets through several investment funds, including the Black Forest SICAV-SIF fund, FTF Columbus Fund, FTF Galleon, and Magellan Pro-Equity Fund I S.A. These funds play a crucial role in maintaining the steady growth and diversification of his portfolio.
Sołowow is the sole or key shareholder of various companies, each contributing to his multifaceted business empire. Some of these companies include Synthos S.A., a major player in the chemical industry, Cersanit S.A., a leading producer of sanitary ceramics and tiles, and Barlinek S.A., known for producing high-quality floorboards. His interests also extend to sectors like automotive, interior decoration, renewable energy, and technology, reflecting his diverse investment portfolio
Parallel to his thriving business ventures, Sołowow has nurtured a passion for rally driving. He started his professional rally career in 2001, with sponsorship from his companies Synthos and Cersanit. Over the years, he achieved significant success, including European vice-champion titles and recognition in both European and Polish rally championships. Although he temporarily suspended his racing career in 2015, he made a comeback in 2020, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his passions.
Personal Life: A Commitment to Giving Back
Beyond his business and racing endeavors, Sołowow’s daughter, Karolina Sołowow, runs a charitable foundation named “Fabryki Marzeń” (“Factories of Dreams”). This foundation is dedicated to supporting disadvantaged youth, reflecting the family’s commitment to giving back to the community.
Michał Sołowow’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, innovation, and strategic investment. From his early days in construction to the diversification of his business empire and his passion for rally driving, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering drive for success.
His forward-thinking approach in areas like green energy and his commitment to philanthropy further underscore his multifaceted impact on both the business world and the community. Sołowow’s story is a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and those looking to balance their professional success with their passions.
