EBRD and EU help Ukrainian lighting company boost efficiency amid war

Pikart Lights began its journey in the vibrant Ukrainian city of Lviv back in 2006, driven by a passion for exquisite lighting design. Founded by Ihor Chuba and Orest Kanych, the company initially focused on producing custom-made chandeliers and lamps, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. When Andriy, Ihor’s son, took over, his passion for design and dedication to quality quickly set Pikart apart.  

Navigating early challenges and surviving amid war 

The early days were not without hurdles. Establishing a foothold in a market dominated by mass-produced imports required persistence and ingenuity. Pikart's commitment to bespoke designs and high-quality materials soon paid off, however, earning it a loyal customer base. The company expanded its product range and ventured into new markets, steadily building its brand. 

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 posed an unprecedented challenge. Orders dwindled and the future seemed uncertain. "When Russia invaded Ukraine, the business was in shock," Andriy recalls. But adversity often breeds innovation and within a few months Pikart had revamped its marketing strategies and orders began to flow again, including a significant project for a hotel in California.  

The war, however, has not only affected business but also the people behind it. Many of the designers Pikart was working with relocated abroad, continuing their work from new countries, thus expanding Pikart's international footprint. Despite this, the company remains committed to its roots, with 90 per cent of its products still sold within Ukraine. 

Support from international partners 

Support from international partners has been crucial. The EBRD together with the European Union via their joint initiative, the EBRD’s EU4Business Credit Line, enabled Pikart to acquire a state-of-the-art moulding machine for die-casting aluminium. This investment has significantly enhanced production efficiency. 

Looking ahead: global ambitions 

With a firm eye on the future, Pikart Lights aims to expand its presence in European and American markets. Andriy believes that Ukrainian products can stand toe-to-toe with their global counterparts, bringing a touch of Ukraine to homes and businesses worldwide. "We are very talented and capable of making very good products that are in no way inferior to European or American ones," he asserts. 

Pikart Lights exemplifies how dedication, innovation and community spirit can overcome the most daunting challenges. From its humble beginnings in Lviv to illuminating spaces around the globe, Pikart Lights continues to shine brightly, a beacon of Ukrainian resilience and creativity.