The 8th Congress of the Wood and Furniture Industries, organised by AIMMP – the Portuguese Wood and Furniture Industries Association – took place on 28 November at the Grande Hotel de Luso, under the theme "Towards Excellence". With over 230 participants, including industry leaders, specialists, and stakeholders, the event reaffirmed the sector's crucial role in the Portuguese economy. Contributing more than 4% to the national GDP, the wood and furniture industry has seen significant growth over the past decade, doubling exports to more than €3 billion annually. Innovation, technology, design, and digitalisation have driven this success, establishing the sector as one of the most dynamic and profitable in Portugal.
Photo: Linkedin.
Isabel Damasceno, President of CCDRC – the Centre Region Coordination and Development Commission – opened the congress, emphasising the importance of the region's companies to the national economy. 'Around 20% of the country's companies are located in the centre,' she noted, highlighting the congress as a key platform to reinforce the region's role as an engine of economic growth. The event successfully bridged innovation and tradition, two fundamental pillars of the sector.
Keynote Speaker Miguel Macedo participated in a discussion with Jaime Quesado on 'Portugal after Michael Porter,' addressing the future trajectory of the industry. The congress agenda also featured discussions on pressing topics such as decarbonisation, sustainability strategies to align with global climate goals, and the impact of artificial intelligence on marketing, led by Pedro Dionísio, focusing on management and innovation.
Two roundtable sessions explored critical challenges for the sector: talent management and forest management. Both topics are seen as essential for future growth and sustainability, underlining the sector's need for continued development. The 'Stories Outside the Curve' panel provided inspiring examples of business innovation, while themed workshops offered in-depth knowledge in specific areas, promoting a practical and strategic approach to future challenges.
Vítor Poças, President of AIMMP, expressed that the congress reinforced the sector's commitment to excellence and sustainability. 'We are at a decisive moment to consolidate the growth of our sector and address global challenges like decarbonisation and digitalisation. The success of the industry depends on effective forest management, a renewable resource that sustains our activities. To sustain growth, we must strengthen exports, reduce imports, and invest in training talent,' he stated.
The Secretary of State for Forests, Rui Ladeira, concluded the congress by focusing on the importance of forests for the country's sustainability and economic well-being. 'A lot of work has been done, but we still face challenges,' he said. 'We need better management, greater protection, and opportunities for the forest. Our approach must shift beyond just addressing forest fires and disasters. The forest and its contributions must become a national priority, not just in terms of productivity but also protection.'
The second day of the congress was dedicated to AIMMP members, focusing on defining internal strategies to strengthen the sector. Sub-sector meetings discussed specific challenges and priorities, fostering productive dialogue between companies and managers. 'This second day is crucial for consolidating our strategic vision,' Poças explained. 'AIMMP is not only a bridge between companies but also a driver of transformation. These meetings allow us to adjust strategies and align with future challenges, reinforcing the association's role as a key partner for company success.'
AIMMP remains dedicated to internationalisation and sustainability, with growing markets in the United States, the Middle East, and the United Kingdom. The sector is well-positioned to tackle new challenges while continuing to play a vital role in Portugal's economy.
Source: www.mobiliarioemnoticia.pt