The 8th AIMMP Congress, hosted by the Portuguese Wood and Furniture Industries Association (AIMMP), was held on 28 November at the Grande Hotel de Luso, under the theme 'Towards Excellence'. This significant event gathered over 230 participants, including industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from across Portugal, solidifying its status as a vital gathering for the sector. With the wood and furniture industry contributing over 4% to Portugal's national GDP, the sector has experienced robust growth over the past decade, doubling its exports to more than €3 billion annually. Innovation, technology, design, and digitalisation have been key drivers in making the industry one of the most dynamic and profitable within the Portuguese economy.
Photo: Grande Hotel de Luso.
Isabel Damasceno, President of the Centre Region Coordination and Development Commission (CCDRC), underscored the importance of regional companies in bolstering the national economy, noting that 'around 20% of the country's companies are located in the centre'. She highlighted the congress as an opportunity to strengthen the region's role as a growth engine for Portugal, encouraging dialogue between innovation and tradition—essential pillars for the industry's future.
The event's agenda featured a keynote conversation with Miguel Macedo and Jaime Quesado, titled 'Portugal after Michael Porter'. Discussions also included sustainability and decarbonisation strategies aimed at aligning the industry with global climate objectives, as well as Pedro Dionísio's talk on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on marketing. Two roundtable discussions addressed talent management and forest management from a business perspective, both crucial challenges for the sector's growth.
The 'Stories Outside the Curve' panel showcased innovative business success stories, while specialised workshops allowed participants to gain in-depth knowledge on specific topics, promoting a practical and strategic approach to future challenges.
Vítor Poças, President of AIMMP, reiterated the sector's commitment to excellence and sustainable growth, emphasising the need for efficient forest management—a vital, renewable resource for the industry. He remarked, 'We are at a decisive moment for the sector's growth, but also for addressing global challenges such as decarbonisation and digitalisation. Continued success relies on strengthening exports, reducing imports, and investing in training talent.'
The congress concluded with a speech by Rui Ladeira, Secretary of State for Forests, who emphasised the forest's crucial role in Portugal's sustainability and economic resilience. 'We must go beyond addressing forest issues only when crises occur,' he said. 'The forest and its benefits should be a national priority, ensuring that it remains a source of value and wealth, while protecting communities from potential distress.'
On the second day, AIMMP members participated in strategic meetings to discuss internal strategies and align priorities for the sector's future. Poças highlighted that these meetings are essential for maintaining AIMMP's role as a transformative partner, fostering innovation and competitiveness. The congress reinforced the importance of internationalisation and sustainable growth, with markets like the United States, the Middle East, and the UK taking on an increasingly prominent role as the sector prepares to face new challenges and maintain its leadership in the national economy.
Source: www.mobiliarioemnoticia.pt