Portuguese glass producer, Barbosa e Almeida, is considering moving out of Marinha Grande to set up another factory either elsewhere in Portugal or in Spain. This is because the ministries of agricult…
Portuguese glass producer, Barbosa e Almeida, is considering moving out of Marinha Grande to set up another factory either elsewhere in Portugal or in Spain. This is because the ministries of agriculture and the environment have not given permission to the company to expand the site where the company wants to transfer its city-centre plant. In spite of increased sales in 2000, profits fell by 50%. The company said it was in talks about another location and that the government would have to make a competitive offer if the plant was not to go to Spain. The decision could affect around 400 employees by 2007. The move is related to the need to replace a furnace by 2003. This means a decision will have to be taken by May. While the company would prefer to remain in Marinha Grande, it may have to look elsewhere. Chairman Moreira da Silva said the Spanish regions were more competitive and less bureaucratic. The group is currently merging its Spanish operations into a new company, BA Vidrios.