Since 1973
Our Story
Creating outstanding garments
Discover every key milestone
in the group's 50 year history
Impetus comes into being
On the initiative of the young couple Alberto and Emília Figueiredo, a small textile business was set up in an old house on Rua do Funil in Apúlia, near the beach. The business starts with just 6 people and 4 machines. The company was called Maria Emília Figueiredo – Fábrica de Malhas Liatex.
Move to the Avenida da Praia house
The company embarked on a new growth stage, strongly betting on export. In 1978 it took on a new name and became Figueiredo & Mariz Lda. This was the moment when the new facilities, located in the same place, began to be built. The first unit of the Apúlia factory starts here.
1980
Impetus is born, a new brand
This initiative is crucial to driving the company’s autonomy and sustainability. The strategy is to develop own-brand collections and specialise in men’s underwear.
Incorporation of Acatel Dyeing
Initially set up by a group of companies, Acatel came to fill a gap in textile finishing, since at the time there were great difficulties in working with specialised dyeing factories, which increased delivery times and did not guarantee quality. Today, the company represents an important commitment to innovation and sustainability.
First branch in Barcelona
After successfully presenting its own-brand collection in Spain, Impetus takes the initiative to set up its first branch abroad, in Barcelona.
Impetus asserts itself in the international market
After the positive experience in Spain, similar approaches follow in countries in northern and eastern Europe (Austria, Denmark, Finland, Cyprus, Estonia...). The strategy is to increase the distribution network and implant the Impetus brand in various markets. In the 90s, sales structure is set up in Portugal.
Production across borders
Construction begins on a new factory in the city of Mindelo, S. Vicente Island, Cape Verde, to house Verdevest, a new Impetus project.
Fully automated warehouse
A pioneering infrastructure in Portugal, installed at the Barqueiros plant. This has made a decisive contribution to optimising the logistics operation.
A new factory in Fão
Start of “Seamless” manufacture, a pioneering initiative in Portugal, with a focus on differentiation through the development of cotton underwear technology.
Innovation
Launch of the Innovation line, with thermoregulatory technology (Outlast®) developed to minimise the effect of temperature fluctuations.
Online Shop
Launch of an online shop, to bring us closer to the end customer.
ProtechDry
An innovative line of underwear with absorption technology, suitable for light incontinence.
I Am What I Wear
Impetus’ most creative line, conceived for fashion. With assertive and irreverent design, I AM is a new brand with its very own identity.
Impetus Woman
A product line that explores and accentuates feminine traits in underwear.
Impetus celebrates 50 years in business
After 50 years in the business, Impetus is proof of a rich and successful history that has made a mark on Portugal’s textile scene. It has established itself as a benchmark for underwear, nightwear and loungewear. In 2023, the company exports 95 per cent of its production and has a turnover of 42 million euros.
A Family Legacy
Moving Towards a New Sustainable Industry
