Amorim gives Portugal premises major refurbishment

by admin

Leading cork producer Amorim is undertaking a multi-million-euro refurbishment of its premises in Argoncilhe, near Porto, as demand for its stoppers continues to grow.

Work will include the building of an expanded new production area, new technology equipment and new optical­ scanning quality controls. In line with this increased production capacity, the company has reinforced its experienced in-­house design team, and has expanded its product­ development team from two to six specialists. These changes will enable the company to respond to customer demands and invest in new techniques and products. In 2016, the company unveiled two major innovations: Whitetop stoppers, specifically designed for white spirits, and Freedecor, a revolutionary printing technology for capsulated stoppers that enables any design or image to be printed on the stopper. Amorim has identified that cork capsulated stoppers are increasingly popular in spirits, particularly white spirits. “Over recent years there has been a marked trend in the drinks business towards premiumisation, which has affected all segments, from limited-edition wines and craft beers, through to high-end whiskies, and small batch gins,” the company said. “Consumers are looking for new and original experiences, and cork is a key driver of this trend, since it guarantees both a superior seal and is viewed as a sign of class. Capsulated cork stoppers distinguish leading spirit brands and are collected by many people as treasured souvenirs." Amorim currently exports to more than 100 markets globally.