Margres moves ceramic plant from Ílhavo to Aveiro, sparking concerns

The municipal council of Ílhavo said it was completely surprised by Margres' decision to reorganise its industrial operations, transferring ceramic production from the Ílhavo facility to a site in Aveiro. The council highlighted the move as a loss of an important industrial unit that has contributed to local wealth, qualified jobs and the economic identity of the municipality for decades.

While acknowledging market pressures and the company's right to make the decision, the council warned that dozens of workers and their families now face uncertainty. It urged that the relocation be carried out with transparency, dialogue and respect for workers' rights, and pledged to monitor the situation, cooperate with competent authorities and support initiatives that protect the interests of the employees and the town. The Lusa news agency was unable to obtain a comment from Margres.