About Us
Founded over a century ago, Cifial, S.A. is a reference in the fittings, taps, and bathroom solutions industry, blending tradition and innovation to offer products of excellence. With a trajectory marked by quality and cutting-edge design, the company has established itself as one of the leading manufacturers in the sector, continuously investing in technological development and sustainability.
Internationally recognized, Cifial boasts a portfolio of multiple design and innovation awards, reflecting its commitment to excellence and market differentiation. Its commercial presence extends beyond Portugal’s borders, exporting to various countries and strengthening its global position through a solid network of partners and distributors.
With a robust industrial legacy and a forward-looking vision, Cifial continues to expand, staying true to the values that have made it a prestigious brand.
VISION
To enrich the bathroom space with innovative design solutions, intelligent technology, and unquestionable quality. We transform functionality into art, elevating everyday standards.
MISSION
To be the reference brand in the bathroom space, leading with innovation, aesthetics, and sustainability. We create experiences that impact generations.
VALUES
Surprising Design – We create iconic pieces that merge form and function.
Purposeful Innovation – Technology and creativity for a more efficient future.
Uncompromising Excellence – Quality you can feel, durability you can trust.
Global Attitude – Born in Portugal, we live worldwide.
1904 – The Origins
CIFIAL has its roots in Centro Industrial de Ferragens, Lda (CIF), founded in 1904 by Alberto Costa Reis. In its early days, the factory focused on producing locks, latches, hinges, and safes, establishing from the outset a commitment to quality and innovation.
1930’s – First Steps in Internationalization
In the 1930s, CIFIAL took part in the first trade fairs in Portugal, becoming a pioneer in exploring international markets. Demonstrating advanced commercial vision, the CIFIAL brand was registered in 1934, protecting its heritage and consolidating the company’s identity.
1940’s – A New Era of Growth
In 1944, José Marques acquired the company with an innovative spirit, focusing from the start on exports – not only to expand the business but also to bring in new industrial and commercial ideas. His vision led to commercial relations with countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, and France.
To meet increasing demand, in 1946 CIFIAL acquired Portugal’s first key-cutting duplication machine – one of the first in the Iberian Peninsula.
1950’s – Global Expansion
CIFIAL’s internationalization gained fresh momentum. By 1954, the company already had more than 280 clients in South Africa, Rhodesia, Lourenço Marques, and Bissau. Expansion into overseas provinces continued throughout the decade, consolidating its cross-border presence.
1960s – Industrial and Technological Growth
In the early 1960s, CIFIAL employed around 200 workers, and its manufacturing area kept expanding. In 1961, it installed the country’s first electrical discharge machining (EDM) machine.
The second half of the decade was marked by significant modernization: equipment upgrades led to the replacement of drive shaft systems with electric motors. In 1967, the company took another step in internationalization by starting operations in the United States.
1970’s – Innovation and New Technologies
Modernization continued with the introduction of a line of programmed lathes and the country’s first automatic chrome-plating line. In 1975, Portugal’s first ZAMAK injection foundry began operations.
Growth in the U.S. market intensified, and in 1976, CIFIAL achieved an annual turnover of 10.5 million escudos.
1980’s – International Prestige
CIFIAL’s innovation and product quality strengthened its relationship with American clients. The brand’s prestige grew, and as a result of these partnerships, the Edwardian faucet collection became the first CIFIAL range to be installed in the White House, chosen by First Lady Nancy Reagan.
It was also during this decade that CIFIAL began marketing taps under its own brand, reinforcing its identity in the sector.
1990’s – Global Consolidation
CIFIAL’s international presence was solidified with the opening of branches in the UK (1993), USA (1996), and Spain (1991). In 1992, the group acquired a stake in Aquatis, later transforming it into CIFIAL – Indústria Cerâmica, S.A.
Aiming to become a leader in integrated bathroom solutions, the company acquired the OLIVA and LUSEPI brands.
In 1996, CIFIAL became a pioneer in Europe by installing and using PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) processes.
2000’s – Recognition and Expansion
The early 21st century was marked by international recognition: CIFIAL won 18 design awards, including the Red Dot Design Award, GOOD DESIGN, and ADEX.
With 90,000 m² dedicated to metalworking and 60,000 m² to ceramics, daily production reached 10,700 metal units and 1,360 ceramic units. In 2004, the company acquired full ownership of Aquatis, strengthening its market position. At this stage, CIFIAL employed nearly 1,000 people across its three industrial units.
2020’s – Renewal and Sustainability
Under new leadership, CIFIAL redefined its strategy to face future challenges. Investing in innovation and strengthening its position in both the national and international markets, it expanded its portfolio with new product categories such as furniture and shower trays.
Production became globalized, with external units in Portugal, Spain, and Italy, always maintaining high-quality standards. Simultaneously, CIFIAL made a strong environmental commitment, optimizing the water consumption of its products and making its industrial processes more sustainable.
In 2023, a Photovoltaic Power Production Unit was inaugurated, covering a total area of 3,000 m² with a production capacity of up to 847 MWh/year.
The brand’s visual identity evolved alongside this renewal, maintaining the values that have made CIFIAL a benchmark for over 120 years. International recognition continued: the new Legacif faucet collection received the GOOD DESIGN AWARD, granted by The Chicago Athenaeum.