Miguel Carvalho, Adico's managing director, highlights the special moment the company is experiencing as it celebrates its 104th anniversary.
This historic milestone is being followed by a series of strategic investments that have strengthened Adico's response capacity, consolidating its position in the markets where it already operates and opening the way for further expansion into new continents, while remaining loyal to its DNA, based on a history of success and resilience.
We are a century-old, family-run company with an original and iconic product, representative of the best that is made in Portugal
Adico recently announced a series of new strategic investments. In what areas have these investments been made?
MC — Adico has been pursuing an investment strategy focused on respecting and continuing its legacy and creating value for all its stakeholders. In the last two years, we have carried out strategic initiatives that reinforce this vision, among which I would highlight: the acquisition of the entire share capital of JMS; industrial and environmental investments in the various hubs, totaling around two million euros; the opening of the first store and showroom outside Portugal, and the strengthening of the senior management team. These achievements reflect Adico's ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability and strengthening its position in the market, always in line with its values.
Are these new investments aligned with the company's sustainability and innovation policy?
MC — Adico is deeply committed to the concept of our common future, embedding care for the environment, strengthening its social role and responsible management in its daily practices. In the field of environmental sustainability, this commitment is highlighted by Adico's ISO 14001 certification, which reinforces our commitment to adopting environmentally conscious practices and having a positive impact on the planet.
Adico is going through a time of peculiar and diverse change, with new initiatives in its management model. What does this new paradigm objectively consist of?
MC — The company has achieved double-digit growth for the last five years, despite the challenges caused by the pandemic. This success has put Adico at the limit of its ability to respond, demanding an adaptation to the new paradigm. Today, our focus is on creating the human and technical conditions necessary to achieve efficient self-management and sustainable growth. We have reinforced our senior management team with highly experienced professionals, both from our sector and from complementary areas. The combination of their experience with the in-depth knowledge of the team that was already here is the basis for guaranteeing solid solutions.
What do you believe are the main challenges for the brand in the future? And how is Adico getting ready to face them?
MC — The brand's main challenge is to build a present and a future that consolidates its century-old legacy, while maintaining the authenticity and value of our products. We continue to take Portugal across borders, but it's time to change the paradigm: to move from mere export to true internationalization of the brand. Although we are already present in many markets, it is essential to strengthen current relationships and establish new strategic partnerships. Successful internationalization results from a combination of these factors. We are prepared for this challenge. We are a century-old, family-run company with an original and iconic product, representative of what is best produced in Portugal. Made in Portugal is widely valued today, and if we increase our offer, communicate it effectively, create distinctive value propositions for our commercial partners, and maintain production efficiency, there's no reason why we can't overcome every single obstacle and reach new heights of success.
Does Adico intend to expand into new international markets? What can you say?
MC — Adico already exports regularly to around 30 countries, consolidating its presence on the international market. Although we are looking for new opportunities to expand, our priority is to strengthen our position in the markets where we already operate. With this focus, we believe we can continue to grow at a double-digit rate.
What are the target markets, and what makes them attractive to Adico at the moment?
MC — The most attractive markets for Adico are those where we are already operating and where we have in-depth knowledge of the sales channels. However, we are still on the lookout for new opportunities that can enhance Adico's legacy and where our experience and quality can make a difference. Although our focus is on Europe, our strategy for internationalization is broad and diversified, with solid partnerships that allow us to operate from Canada to South Korea. Recently, we have also achieved significant success in demanding markets such as Japan and Australia, reinforcing the brand's global potential.
How does the company intend to adapt its products or strategies to suit the specific needs of these markets?
MC — The longevity of the brand is unequivocal proof of Adico's ability to adapt to the challenges and demands of different markets. We are a strongly market-oriented company, but with a focus on our DNA.
Adico’s vision for the future is ambitious. What does the market offer for the next few years?
MC — What the market holds for us is directly linked to our ability to deliver. Although we can't control the situation, we guarantee that, as far as Adico is concerned, we will continue to offer a solid and distinctive value proposition.
What is the biggest goal you wish to see achieved at Adico?
MC — When I accepted this challenge, I committed myself to creating value for the company, promoting people's well-being and preserving the values that shape Adico. In seven years, we have grown from a turnover of around 3 million euros to 12 million, covering the universe of the three companies. Today, we are a recognized player in the health sector, a business sector that was at the origin of Adico. My greatest wish is that, on the day I leave this role, the company will be prepared to face the future with the same strength that enabled us to celebrate our centenary. May Adico have the necessary conditions to one day celebrate 200 years of success and resilience.
What message would you like to share with Adico's clients, partners and employees regarding the future of the company?
MC — Adico is the oldest metal furniture company in activity in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe. Being part of this history is not only a professional privilege, but also a personal one. Adico may have modern facilities, cutting-edge machinery and state-of-the-art technology, but the real difference is the people. They are what make this company unique. My message is simple: let each one of us commit to making a difference. Individual contribution is the key to collective success.