Evolution of the Motives for Foreign Direct Investments in Poland between 1990 and 2018
Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate changes in the motivation for making foreign direct investments in Poland between 1990 and 2018. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study was divided into two stages. The first stage covered the period from 1990 to 2008, for which our analysis of the motivation behind FDI in Poland was based on results of studies completed by other authors. The second research stage involved analyses based on our direct survey research conducted according to the CAWI method among 1,965 companies which started economic activity in Poland between 2009 and 2018. The research was conducted using a poll approach and a questionnaire designed by the research authors. Findings: The review of the studies conducted by other researchers suggests that the motives for undertaking FDI in Poland are relatively stable. The key reasons, both in 1990-2008 and 2008-2018, were motives connected with business efficiency (cost-related), market and resources. Significantly, factors within the categories of motives which determine investors’ decisions underwent certain modifications over the time period analysed. Practical Implication: Because of their impact on the socio-economic dimension of economy, foreign direct investments have been the subject of research for many years, in an effort to identify the reasons why FDI are made. Exploring the motives and factors which determine the location of FDI in a given country could provide the information necessary to design a policy whose aim is to shape the volume and structure of foreign direct investments. The goal is to achieve desired economic effects. Originality/Value: The social and economic development is determined by well prospering enterprises, including those with foreign capital. It is still necessary to conduct studies in the FDI motives and determinants area in the aspect of forming their value, especially in view of the fact that the current interest in this situation is still very important