Tensai and Exame Magazine: Two Success Stories Celebrating 35 Years

In 2024, both Tensai Indústria and Exame Magazine are celebrating 35 years of history. Two remarkable journeys, characterized by innovation, growth, and adaptation to market changes. While Exame Magazine has become one of the leading sources of business information in Portugal, TENSAI Indústria has emerged as a major player in the refrigeration sector, exporting 92% of its production to around 80 countries worldwide.

Tensai Indústria: A Story of Persistence and Innovation

Tensai’s story began unexpectedly in the 1980s when Manuel João Preto, founder and CEO, started selling household appliances to supplement his income as a teacher. In just a few years, what started as a side project turned into one of the largest refrigeration appliance manufacturers in Portugal.

With Portugal's entry into the European Union, large multinational companies began to dominate the electronics market. Rather than give up, Manuel João Preto decided to diversify the product range and focus on refrigeration, marking the beginning of TENSAI Indústria’s successful journey.

Innovating and Diversifying: The Key to 35 Years of Success

The key to TENSAI’S longevity has been its ability to innovate and diversify its product offerings. In the 1990s, the company expanded its portfolio to include not only refrigerators and freezers but also specialized solutions for the hospitality, restaurant, and wine industries. TENSAI seized opportunities like producing freezer chests for ice cream brands, which became a significant success, particularly in Spain and Italy.

This ability to adapt to market needs has allowed TENSAI to stay competitive, even with the increasing competition from Chinese and Turkish manufacturers. By offering fast product customization and short delivery times, the company has managed to win over customers dissatisfied with larger global players.

LOTI: Innovation in the Ice Bath Market

One of TENSAI’S most recent innovations is the development of LOTI (Lord of the Ice), a line of ice bath units designed for gyms, fitness centers, and health clubs. Inspired by the growing popularity of ice baths among athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo, TENSAI invested in a solution that maintains water at low temperatures without the need for ice. The product is already being sold in markets like Germany and Italy, exemplifying the company’s continued spirit of innovation.

Sustainability: A Key Focus for the Future

In addition to expanding into new sectors, TENSAI has placed a strong emphasis on sustainability. One of the company's most recent projects is the production of furniture, using plastic excess from its main manufacturing operations. This process not only enhances the company’s energy efficiency but also ensures that no material is wasted. With this approach, TENSAI demonstrates its commitment to sustainability—an essential component of ensuring success for the next 35 years.

Tensai and Exame Magazine: A Joint 35-Year Celebration

Just as Exame Magazine has established itself over the past 35 years as a leader in economic and business journalism, Tensai Indústria has built a solid legacy of innovation and success. Both brands symbolize growth and the continuous ability to adapt to the demands of an ever-changing global market.

 The celebration of Tensai Indústria’s 35th anniversary coincides with Exame Magazine’s own milestone of three and a half decades, representing two success stories in the Portuguese and global landscape. Manuel João Preto’s vision, centered on innovation and adaptability, has allowed Tensai to become a leader in the refrigeration sector, staying ahead in competitive and ever-evolving markets. Looking to the future, both TENSAI and Exame Magazine will continue to serve as models of resilience and innovation in the business world.

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