In your opinion, what measures should be taken for the growth of the sector?
Associativism is undoubtedly one of the fundamental vectors for the growth of our companies. We have to come together and exchange experiences and ideas.
Product design and marketing are areas where companies have to bet regularly. These are investments that don’t give immediate results, but in the medium / long term will be an asset.
In the sector, we know how to produce well and with quality, but we know little about how to promote what we do.
The companies need to be supported by hiring technicians in these areas. In a digital marketplace, attractive and modern websites and catalogs are also the key.
At a time when the 5G is emerging and here to stay, the lighting cannot be left out. It is necessary to have a cluster of technicians who can support different companies in the sector.
Companies, because of its size, don’t have the economic power to support these costs and the State support is needed, which will certainly have a significantly higher return than the investment made.
Do you think exports are crucial for the growth of the sector? And for companies growth?
Portugal is a small country, so exports are a very important factor for the growth of the sector and companies.
The national market, although very competitive, is small. We know how to do well, so we can and should take advantage of the current trend of “Portugal is in fashion” to export more and more.
We have artisans, we master new technologies and we are recognized abroad for the quality of our work. Exports are thus a fundamental step that our companies will have to take.
In the case of Begolux, how important are exports to the commercial area?
At Begolux, after solidifying our position in the domestic market, we began our journey in the international market.
We have been present at several international fairs, namely France (Maison & Object), Spain (Habitat), Germany (Light + Building) and Russia (Mosbuild). We have been very well received by those who visit us, who are sometimes surprised by the quality of the products and solutions we present. This is however a background race.
The international market is also attended by many companies, so we have to do more and better to win customers.
This will be the direction we will continue to follow.
Very recently, Eng. Silva Macieira assumed the position of President of AIPI. What motivated you to embrace this new challenge?
As we said above, lighting has always been part of my professional career. I know and hear about this Association, probably, since it was created (1997).
After the creation of Begolux I became a member and the Association always helped me.
I embraced this challenge because I felt it would be my turn to help, share my knowledge and motivate sector members to go further and further.
It’s being an interesting and motivating challenge. I hope at the end of my term we will have a stronger Association.
What are your ambitions as AIPI President?
Contribute to the growth of AIPI and each of the associated companies.
Contribute with innovative ideas and my total commitment to the development of associated companies and the sector.
I would like to organize some events such as workshops, trainings or debates on topics such as “innovation in lighting”.
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