Vista Alegre as a revolutionary social project

This prestigious Portuguese world-acclaimed super brand is the living proof that a respected working force is the key to success!

José Ferreira Pinto Basto, the founder of Vista Alegre factory, understood that a highly motivated and respected working force was absolutely crucial for the success of the company. Back in 1824, when he opened the first porcelain factory in Portugal, he created a true community, a place where workers could be educated but also entertained. A working community that soon became a big family. Throughout the centuries.

A mandatory condition to work at Vista Alegre factory was to learn how to write and to read and to study music. By that time, Vista Alegre was already one of the most progressive companies in Portugal. José Ferreira Pinto Basto, holder of an extraordinary vision, wanted to provide "everyone clothes, education, food and housing".

The founder put into motion a true revolutionary project based on the assumption that the better the living conditions of the workers, the greater the productive performance of the company. And he succeeded doing so. Having the factory at the core of the industrial complex, a micro-city was born, offering the working community housing, kindergarten and school for children, an agricultural cooperative where they could buy food at more affordable prices, first-aid and medical assistance, a barber, a kiosk, a fire brigade, but also a theatre, a choral society, a chapel and (already in the 20th century) a football club.

This visionary entrepreneur believed that entertainment and artistic education also played a major role in building the community bond. Workers became more united and supportive, which was essential for the growth of the company. In 1924, there was already a population of 500 persons living around the factory premises.

200 years later, Vista Alegre invites everyone to be a part of that inspiring History by sharing their stories. This prestigious Portuguese world-acclaimed super brand is the living proof that a respected working force is the key to success! Because people matter.

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