Broker vs manufacturer – who to work with?

Choose a broker like debesto if you:

• Place orders over €30,000 — that’s where coordination and support bring real savings
• Need one all-in quote covering product, transport and documentation
• Don’t have time to manage specifications, claims or regulatory checks
• Prefer one contact responsible for the entire process — from quote to delivery
• Want a partner focused on completing the project efficiently and profitably (optional)

Go direct to a manufacturer if you:

• Are a distributor placing regular, repeatable orders
• Have time and in-house capacity to manage logistics, specs and issues
• Accept higher risk in exchange for potentially lower unit prices
• Can handle technical documentation and claims without support
• Are focused solely on obtaining a specific product at the lowest possible price (optional)

What’s the difference between debesto and a manufacturer?

debesto is an independent window broker.

We compare offers from selected Polish manufacturers, verify technical compliance with European project requirements, manage logistics and support you if issues arise.

From quote to delivery, you work with one point of contact — who takes full responsibility for coordination.

A manufacturer produces and sells their own windows, typically using systems from well-known extrusion providers.

There are over 2,000 window manufacturers in Poland. If you buy directly, you’re responsible for choosing the right one — and for what happens if they don’t meet your expectations.

That includes checking specifications, handling documentation, organising transport, and managing any claims or communication in case of delays or defects.

Costs: unit price vs. total risk

Buying directly from a manufacturer often looks cheaper at first glance. But if the system isn’t CE-certified or doesn’t meet local regulations? If documents are incorrect and delay delivery? If dimensions are off and you need to adjust project drawings?

These aren’t rare exceptions — they happen. And they add cost, delay and stress on site.

Working with a broker means all specifications, compliance issues, and logistics are checked for you. You receive one total quote upfront — no hidden charges, no chasing multiple parties, no surprises.

For orders above €30,000, the total project cost is often comparable to going direct — but with lower risk and more control over deadlines and outcomes. For smaller orders, the cost of importing may outweigh the savings.

What happens when something goes wrong?

If a window arrives damaged or missing components, and you ordered directly from the factory — it’s your job to contact them, wait for a reply, and manage the fix. That can take days. Meanwhile, your site team may be forced to pause or reschedule work.

When working with a broker, you don’t chase the factory. One point of contact handles the issue — from reporting the claim to coordinating the replacement — so your project stays on track.

It’s the difference between managing delays alone and having someone who resolves them for you.

Response time and project delays

Delays in communication — even 48 hours — can affect approvals, material orders, and site schedules. Especially if you’re waiting for dimensions, technical confirmation, or resolution of an issue.

Many European manufacturers focus on production. Support is often slower, limited to standard business hours, and spread across multiple departments.

With debesto, you work with one dedicated contact who replies within 24 hours — via phone, email, chat or video — aligned with your working hours.

That allows faster decisions, avoids unnecessary site delays, and keeps your timeline under control.

Experience with international high-end building requirements

Some European factories are used to supplying individual homeowners or small domestic projects — not large-scale developments run by professional contractors.

We’ve seen windows delivered without necessary documentation, incomplete declarations of performance, or without pre-agreed installation details. On site, that can mean delays in handover, disputes with inspectors, or costly on-site modifications.

debesto regularly supports general contractors and developers across Europe. We align technical specs, delivery terms, and documentation with local requirements — to help you avoid surprises and meet your investor’s expectations.