Centennial Companies: A Century-Long Legacy of Resilience in Alicante
Only a rare few businesses pass the milestone of twenty years, and even fewer reach thirty, fifty, or a full century. A heritage handed down through generations, weathering countless storms and challenges. National statistics show that only about 18% of active companies in our country survive twenty years or more. Because these steadfast firms endure, they deserve recognition and celebration.
Once again, the Centennial Companies Gala returns, now in its third edition for the Alicante province. On November 9, at the Main Theater, the event organized by the Alicante Chamber and the Alicante Family Business Association (AEFA) will honor a carefully documented group of centennial companies in the province. Sponsored by Cajamar and the Alicante Provincial Council, these firms are invited to join the Centennial Companies Club after being selected from a comprehensive list each year.
In 2022, seven longstanding companies will be acknowledged for surpassing a century of experience. These are firms that endured multiple economic crises, a Civil War, two world wars, and even a historic pandemic that tested resilience with unyielding spirit.
Presentation of the event
During the opening ceremony, Carlos Bath, head of the Chamber, noted that the centennial companies of the province serve as exemplars and guides for best practices. Reaching a century of existence in times of rapid economic shifts is a notable achievement for small businesses, and it carries a lesson about endurance.
Maite Anton, representing AEFA, highlighted that most centennial firms are family businesses. Their continuity is often tied to a family name, a tradition that has endured across generations, enriching the local landscape and remaining deeply connected to the land and its people.
Carlos Mazon, head of the provincial committee, emphasized that centennial companies set an example for current and aspiring entrepreneurs. Their legacies extend beyond economics; they embody principles and values that sustain them through all kinds of political and economic upheavals. The Centennial Companies Club is a flagship initiative that showcases these strong practices in the Alicante region.
Manual Gran, the regional director of Cajamar, attended the meeting and stated that recognizing century-old firms motivates present-day entrepreneurs. These firms have modernized while staying true to their roots, turning challenges into opportunities and adapting strategies to changing conditions.
The gala also involves support from KPMG, Padima, the Trade Museum, and the Alicante City Council through the Local Development Agency. Their collaboration helps highlight the stories of centuries-old businesses and the value they bring to the community.
Seven centuries-old companies to be honored
One company produces high-quality, 100% recycled and eco-friendly yarn for fashion items, shoes, leather goods, and home textiles. Its Recover™ cotton fiber is among the world’s lowest-impact recycled options.
Another firm operates in the confectionery, ice cream, bakery, nougat, and chocolate sectors. It earned the Alicante Chamber’s best export company award in 2009 for its standout performance.
For six generations, El Tendre has preserved the family structure and handed down the art of traditional oil processing. Since 1839, it has run the oldest mill in the Valencian Community.
Borrell specializes in designing, manufacturing, and installing machines and complete plants for processing dried fruits, legumes, cereals, and seeds. It covers almonds, hazelnuts, carob, chickpeas, lentils, rice, maize, and more.
In 1918, a fleet of carriages and horses signaled the start of Viuda de Tadeo Juan, a transport history written on the plates of its trucks that joined the growing fleet.
Since 1885, Butchery Vicente Giner has produced artisanal sausages and developed its own recipes in the Raval Roig neighborhood. In 2008, the business earned the Artisan Butcher-Deli qualification from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Innovation.
Another firm specializes in packaging, marketing, and distribution of spices, saffron, rice, olive oil, infusions, herbs, salt, blends, and specialty seasonings. Its retro-inspired packaging stands out in the market.
A sign that lights the way forward
Centennial companies in Alicante stand as beacons for new and existing ventures. The Centenary Companies Gala projects a lighthouse-like image, signaling resilience, stability, and forward-looking vision. These firms often exceed expectations, serving as socioeconomic benchmarks that illuminate a path for others to follow.
In summary, a century of business mastery in Alicante embodies a blend of endurance, community value, and principled leadership. The annual gala celebrates these enduring enterprises and their continued influence on local economies and social fabric.