Cohnpol

Is it difficult to build an internationally recognized brand from Poland? Henryk Konopka proves that it’s not only possible. It’s achievable with the right mix of determination, a solid plan, and above all, an exceptional product.

Over 40 years ago, he founded Conhpol, starting with the production of classic men’s dress shoes. In the beginning, he worked from home, with no machines, crafting everything by hand during the challenging times of communist Poland. But even then, customers recognized the quality and style of his shoes. His mission was clear: to create shoes so reliable and well-crafted that a father would wear them, and years later, his son would choose the same brand.

Today, Conhpol shoes are worn in over 50 countries across 5 continents, by businessmen, graduates, grooms, even Arab sheikhs and Pope Francis himself, who received two custom pairs.

From its roots in small-scale craftsmanship, Conhpol has grown into a respected global brand, with up to 70% of its production exported. The brand is associated with quality, elegance, tradition, and authenticity. Values that have guided its journey from day one.

“You should never compromise,” says founder Henryk Konopka. “If someone offers you a cheaper material to cut production costs, and it could affect the quality, don’t do it. Once customer trust is lost, it’s very difficult to regain. At Conhpol, over 70 people work on a single pair of shoes. That’s a huge responsibility, but it results in truly outstanding footwear.”

Craftsmanship runs in the family. All five of Henryk’s children now work in the company, continuing the proud shoemaking tradition. Conhpol produces not only classic and casual men’s shoes, but also elevated shoes and wedding shoes. In Conhpol Elite showrooms, both men and women can find shoes for any occasion: a formal banquet, business meeting, or a casual stroll.

The brand regularly participates in international fashion fairs in Milan and Las Vegas, staying ahead of global trends while maintaining its signature craftsmanship. Even aristocrats and sheikhs travel to the small town of Stanisław Dolny in Poland to order custom-made shoes, including luxurious models crafted from crocodile leather.

Now, after four decades of leadership, Henryk has passed the reins to the next generation. With the launch of sub-brands like Conhpol Bis and the expansion of Conhpol Elite boutiques, the company is poised for continued growth.

Conhpol’s story is a shining example of how Polish entrepreneurship, rooted in tradition and fueled by quality, can truly conquer the world.