Craftsmanship Between Tradition and Modernity

What does a craft business—even a highly modern one—like a carpentry firm have to do with the Internationalization Center Styria (ICS)? A great deal, as Tischlerei Prödl in Kirchberg an der Raab proves.

“We manufacture high-quality, custom-made furniture, working closely with architects and designers,” explains Managing Director Josef Prödl. The carpentry business always strives to stay ahead of the curve: “Craftsmanship is always associated with a lot of tradition, but we also try to keep up with the times—in that sense, we are a traditionally innovative company,” reports son Matthias, who is already the third generation to work in the family business as Deputy Managing Director.

New markets are also being developed, and this is where the collaboration with the ICS comes into play: “The cooperation with the Internationalization Center Styria was and is truly perfect. The ICS supports us in all matters relating to foreign countries, whether of an economic nature, concerning the establishment of companies, or similar.”

Sought and Found

With its “ExportKnowHow” project, the ICS actively supports all types of companies. “For example, we were looking for a partner in Berlin to distribute our furniture there. The ICS helped us with the search and also supported us in all questions regarding the appropriate EU funding,” explains Prödl. The young entrepreneur is enthusiastic: “There are hardly any bureaucratic hurdles and the ICS is exceptionally well-connected—the collaboration is highly recommended. The joint trips and events are also worth a visit; that’s where you really find out everything the ICS has to offer.”

Take the opportunity and apply today at www.ExportKnowHow.at to ensure your international business is a complete success!