Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, is a country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and emerging business opportunities. In recent years, Portugal has gained recognition as an attractive destination for investors seeking to establish or expand their businesses. The country offers a range of advantages, making it an appealing choice for entrepreneurs and companies across various sectors.
Business opportunities in Portugal
One of the key sectors driving the Portuguese economy is tourism and hospitality. Portugal’s stunning coastline, historical cities, and diverse landscapes attract millions of tourists each year. With a growing number of international visitors, there is a strong demand for accommodation, restaurants, transportation, and leisure activities. Investing in the Portuguese tourism and hospitality sector can benefit from the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the government’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism.
Starting a company in Portugal
Another thriving sector in Portugal is renewable energy. The country has made significant strides in transitioning to clean energy sources, particularly in wind and solar power. Portugal aims to be a global leader in renewable energy, with ambitious targets for the expansion of renewable capacity. Investing in the Portuguese renewable energy sector can leverage the country’s favorable regulatory framework, abundant natural resources, and expertise in clean energy technologies.
Portuguese business culture
Portugal also has a strong manufacturing sector, with a focus on industries such as automotive, textiles, electronics, and machinery. The country offers competitive production costs, skilled labor, and a strategic location for accessing European and global markets. Investing in the Portuguese manufacturing sector can tap into its well-established supply chains, favorable business environment, and the availability of skilled workers.
Investing in Portugal
Furthermore, Portugal has been attracting attention in the technology and innovation space. The country has a growing startup ecosystem, with numerous incubators, accelerators, and venture capital funds supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. Lisbon, in particular, has become a hub for tech companies and entrepreneurs. Investing in the Portuguese technology sector can benefit from access to talent, supportive government programs, and a thriving innovation ecosystem.
Portuguese startup ecosystem
Portugal’s agricultural sector is also significant, with a focus on wine production, olive oil, fruits, and vegetables. The country’s favorable climate and fertile soils create ideal conditions for agriculture. Investing in the Portuguese agricultural sector can leverage its high-quality agricultural products, traditional farming practices, and the growing demand for organic and sustainable food. Here is top 4 business in Portugal
EDP RENOVAVEIS
EDP Renováveis focuses on the development, construction, and operation of renewable energy projects. It is primarily engaged in the generation of electricity from wind and solar sources.
The company has a significant presence in the wind energy sector, with a diverse portfolio of onshore and offshore wind farms. EDP Renováveis operates wind power projects across various countries, contributing to the global transition to clean energy.
Jerónimo Martins
The company is known for its supermarket chains, including Pingo Doce in Portugal and Biedronka in Poland. Pingo Doce is one of the largest supermarket chains in Portugal, offering a wide range of grocery and household products. Biedronka is the leading discount supermarket chain in Poland, with a focus on providing affordable products.
Jerónimo Martins also operates specialized retail businesses such as Hebe, a health and beauty store chain in Poland. In addition to its strong presence in Portugal, Jerónimo Martins has expanded internationally, particularly in Poland. It has a significant market share and a growing footprint in the Polish retail sector.
THE NAVIGATOR COMPANY
The Navigator Company is a leading European producer of uncoated woodfree paper, pulp, and tissue. It specializes in the production of office paper, printing paper, tissue paper, and specialty papers.
The company is committed to sustainable forestry practices. It manages its own extensive forest plantations in Portugal, which provide a renewable source of raw material for its paper and pulp production.
SONAE
Sonae operates in the retail sector, primarily through its subsidiary Sonae MC. Sonae MC is one of the largest retail companies in Portugal and operates various supermarket chains, including Continente, Continente Modelo, and Continente Bom Dia.
Sonae Sierra, another subsidiary of Sonae, specializes in the development, management, and ownership of shopping centers. It operates shopping centers in several countries, including Portugal, Spain, Italy, Germany, Greece, and Brazil.
Sonae also has a presence in the telecommunications industry through its subsidiary NOS. NOS provides a range of services, including television, internet, fixed and mobile telecommunications, and data centers.
Below are some companies in Portugal
- ALTRI SGPS
- IBERSOL-SGPS
- BENFICA SAD
- PHAROL, SGPS, SA
- NOS, SGPS, SA
- MARTIFER, SGPS, SA
- COFINA-SGPS
- RAMADA INVESTIMENTOS E INDUSTRIA S.A.
- CTT-CORREIOS DE PORTUGAL, SA
- CORTICEIRA AMORIM-SGPS
- NOVABASE, SGPS – NOM.
- ESTORIL-SOL SGPS-NOMINATIVAS
- TEIXEIRA DUARTE, SA
- MOTA ENGIL
- IMPRESA, SGPS – NOM.
- INAPA INVESTIMENTOS PARTIC GESTAO NPV
- VAA VISTA ALEGRE
- SEMAPA
Portugal offers a range of investment opportunities across sectors such as tourism, renewable energy, manufacturing, technology, and agriculture. The country’s strategic location, favorable business environment, and commitment to innovation make it an attractive destination for investors. Investing in Portugal can tap into its market potential, skilled workforce, and the government’s support for economic growth and sustainability. With its blend of rich culture, natural beauty, and emerging business opportunities, Portugal presents an exciting prospect for those looking to establish or expand their business ventures. Data taken in may 2023.