Known for its iconic plastic boxes, a Tupperware It prepares to return to the European market. However, Portugal was left out of the brand’s relaunching plans, which leaves an uncertain future for the unit operating in the country.
French businessman assumes brand control
Following the bankruptcy of the mother company in the United States, Tupperware has managed to reach a deal with creditors, allowing the sale of its intellectual property. The head of the relaunch in Europe is a French entrepreneur who recently acquired Tupperware France.
The businessman announced through social networks that brand products will be available again in the market as of April. The initial plan foresees the reopening of the brand in five European countries, including Germany, Italy, Belgium and Poland.
Portugal outside the reopening list
Despite the enthusiasm generated by Tupperware’s return to several European markets, Portugal was not included in relaunching plans. The factory located in Montalvo, in the municipality of Constância, was declared insolvent in February, leaving about 200 workers in unemployment.
Portuguese unit employees continue to wait for compensation that, in total, rise to nine million euros. In addition, the company also has a debt of about one million euros to suppliers and almost two million to other companies in the group.
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Negotiations to ensure continuity
The French businessman who acquired Tupperware França indicated that in the coming weeks will present a plan to ensure continuity of the activity. The goal is to negotiate with the US company the exploration and distribution licenses of products in the five selected countries.
Although no specific reference has been made to Portugal, the possibility of a future investor may bring new opportunities to the Montalvo factory. However, so far, there is no guarantee that production is resumed in the country.
Tupperware’s future in Portugal remains uncertain
As it refers to, the departure of tupperware from the Portuguese market represents not only the closure of a production unit with decades of history, but also a significant impact on the local economy. The Montalvo factory employed hundreds of workers and represented an important source of income for the region.
Without a concrete plan for their reopening, former employees now face a period of uncertainty while waiting for possible developments.
Many expect a new investor to come and give a new life to the factory, but until then, Tupperware’s future in Portugal remains undefined.
Brand relaunch in other European countries may serve as a test of business viability. If the operation is successful, there is a possibility of a future expansion that includes Portugal. However, until then, there is only the uncertainty and struggle of workers for justice and the rights due to them.
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