Monteiro Ribas group is a family owned group founded in 1917. It started as a tannery which became a market leader in the 1950’s. In the 1960’s the group started diversifying and expanding its range. The production of vinyl coated fabrics began, along with other products, and the first PU coated fabric was launched in the 1970’s.
Interview with Alexandra Martins, Marketing Manager at Monteiro Fabrics.
Easy Engineering: A brief description of the company and its activities.
Alexandra Martins: Our unique experience and know how, along with the combination of traditional manufacturing with updated technology, enables us to be present in demanding markets around the world.
Going on our fourth generation as a family business, we develop fabrics with outstanding design, function and performance.
Headquartered in Northen Portugal, Monteiro Fabrics has all its manufacturing facilities in Porto and offices and showrooms in Germany.
Our plant in Porto has a Total area of 6000 m2 and a production capacity of 4.5 million linear meters per year in a wide range of coated fabrics.
E.E: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
A.M: Monteiro Fabrics has specialized in the production of coated fabrics.
We design and manufacture vinyl and PU fabric for different sectors and applications.
We focus on developing long-lasting products that minimise our environmental impact. All our fabrics are specially designed for the most demanding upholstery and fashion applications and are consistently tested by independent labs to meet different markets requirements concerning abrasion, fastness to rubbing, lightfastness and flammability.
E.E: What’s the news about new products?
A.M: Our new PEEL fabrics is made from 65% plant based materials from chestnuts, organic cotton, and natural oils.
Featuring a range of 8 colours available from stock our customers can create innovative products without having to choose between cost, performance, aesthetics, or sustainability.
In other words, the Peel Collection is an eco-friendly solution that reduces the use of non-renewable resources and helps to decrease carbon emissions. This collection is not only sustainable but also durable and resistant, making it a perfect choice for a wide range of applications, from upholstery to interior design. Moreover, the Peel Collection is a great example of circular economy as it uses waste from other industries to create a new product.
E.E: What are the ranges of products?
A.M: We develop unique products that can be found in hotels, cars, offices and also in shoes and bags.
From trendy colours, contemporary textures, innovative performances and environmental awareness, we supply several markets around the world.
E.E: At what stage is the market where you are currently active?
A.M: Our In-house Stock Service is ready to ship in 48h more than 900 SKU available in various engravings and colours.
Monteiro Fabrics exports more than 90% of its annual production worldwide.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
A.M: Market trends indicate a strong and lasting shift towards sustainability.
Consumers are increasingly driving this change, demanding more environmentally friendly products throughout the supply chain.
At our company, we have embraced sustainability as a core principle, and it is evident in our approach to product development. Apart from using renewable resources, we are committed to crafting top-quality products designed to endure for several years. By promoting items with extended life cycles, we aim to minimize frequent replacements, thereby reducing waste generation.
Our dedication to sustainability is further emphasized by our stock range, which comes with an impressive 10-Year Warranty, the longest guarantee available in the market. This warranty not only reflects our confidence in the durability and reliability of our products but also underscores our commitment to present and long-term sustainability goals.
In summary, sustainability has become an integral aspect of the market’s transformation, and our company is actively responding to this demand by producing eco-conscious and long-lasting products, as evidenced by our extended warranty offering.
E.E: What are the most innovative products marketed?
A.M: In addition to our ongoing commitment to developing biobased products following Peel approach we also presented recently a new collection featuring 228 shades.
CHANCE collection is one of our iconic textures, and now is offered in an unrivalled spectrum of colours available from stock service.
CHANCE collection allows countless options for all upholstery applications, where durability, comfort and high performance are assured.
E.E: What estimations do you have for 2023?
A.M: We are continuously focused on maintaining the high standard of service and quality that distinguishes us in the market. It’s an essential characteristic that we take great pride in. As the world evolves rapidly, we understand the importance of staying at the forefront of innovation to stay relevant and competitive.
We have a strong emphasis on innovation across the board. In product development, we are exploring new ideas, enhancing existing offerings, and researching cutting-edge technologies to provide our customers with the best possible solutions. Simultaneously, in manufacturing processes, we are streamlining operations, implementing automation where suitable, and constantly seeking methods to improve efficiency and overall quality.