Portugal: new major player in the European textile industry
You probably already know this, but the impact of fashion is very heavy, both on the environmental and societal levels. In the 2000s, under the influence of fast-fashion giants, the textile industry relocated to Asia in order to offer efficient labor at a very attractive cost. First in China, then little by little in other countries in Southeast Asia.
The problem? These companies impose harsh working conditions, almost non-existent pay, exposure to products that are harmful to health and excessive use of natural resources such as water, often to the detriment of local ecosystems.
This is why more and more companies and consumers are looking for more sustainable and responsible alternatives. In recent years, Portugal has taken an important place in the textile sector , and has managed to excel in a highly competitive global market.
According to a 2020 report by the National Textile Intelligence Center (CENIT) , Portugal has risen to the enviable rank of second largest exporter of textiles and clothing in Europe. The country's geographical location, at the crossroads of Europe, makes it an ideal hub for exports to other European countries.
💡But then, why is producing clothes in Portugal a good idea?
Portuguese textile know-how: a guarantee of quality
Portugal is a country renowned for its great textile know-how , and this is not new. Indeed, its heritage dates back to the Middle Ages, where its reputation for producing high-quality wool and linen was already well established.
Portuguese sailors also contributed to enriching the textile panorama by introducing new materials and patterns to the country, consolidating its leading position in the field. Traditional factories, located mainly in the Norte and Beira regions, continued to produce iconic textiles, testifying to Portuguese know-how throughout the ages.
From its traditional fabrics steeped in history to its contemporary creations, Portugal has become a major and influential player on the textile scene worldwide. Portuguese factories have developed their know-how over time and are now evolving at the pace of new technologies. This desire for R&D performance allows them to create high-end finishes . In addition, they know perfectly how to meet the needs of designers in terms of pattern making, with tailor-made creations .
Textile made in Portugal: ethical and regulated production
Trust is an essential element in the world of textile production. In Portugal, working and safety conditions are regulated . Most Portuguese factories have certifications that attest to their commitment to quality, sustainability and ethics. These include OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certificates for textiles free of harmful substances at every stage of production, or ISO 9001 certification for quality management. These labels prove that the factory is trustworthy.
An integrated textile production chain
In Portugal, textile factories are grouped into hubs , which means that all operations in the production chain take place in the same place . In France, for example, it is quite rare for a factory to have all the hubs necessary to produce the product. The integrated textile production chain guarantees better quality textiles , greater speed and, above all, fewer intermediaries and fewer kilometres travelled . Everyone wins: artisans, traders and consumers, not to mention the environment!
Custom-made creations
Another advantage of producing clothes made in Portugal is the possibility of customizing them according to our needs and down to the smallest details. Portuguese factories give us this freedom to design our custom-made pieces and select the materials and finishes that compose them.
Talc: we have chosen Made in Portugal clothing
At Talc , we have selected small textile workshops and factories in Portugal for their professionalism but also for their social and environmental commitments. We take the time to meet them regularly in order to maintain a human connection with the bosses and workers, as well as to control our productions.
For us, every piece counts . We have chosen a small-batch textile manufacturing workshop in Portugal . Thus, we only manufacture around a hundred pieces per model/colour. Thanks to this targeted production, we maintain a dynamic flow, while avoiding overproduction and allowing more responsible management of resources.
Our textile workshop in Portugal creates clothes from high-quality materials: organic cotton, Supima™ cotton and Tencel™ lyocell. These materials are breathable, soft and environmentally friendly, for your comfort and for the well-being of our planet.
By prioritizing quality over quantity , we are committed to offering you sustainable and authentic products, while contributing to a local and ethical economy. At Talc, each step of our production process is carefully thought out, with respect for people and the environment!
Discover our clothing made in Portugal , for Men and Women , combining comfort, elegance and durability.