TheCentenary Companies III Gala, scheduled for November, was announced today in the chamber auditorium. Seven firms will be recognized under the law: HIJOS DE ANTONIO FERRE SA; Quintin Waffles; HAND TENDRE OIL MILL; JOSE BORRELL; TADEO JUAN’S WIDOWS CARRIAGE; VICENTE GINER AND JOSÉ MARÍA GOZ MIRA (plane) BUTCHER SHOP.
Attending were Carlos Bathhead, Alicante Chamber and Maite Anton, head of the Alicante Family Business Association, along with regional director Cajamar. The organizing committee of Alicante and Cajamar sponsored the Gala, acknowledging participating companies and organizations. KPGM, Padima, and the Trade Museum daily information unit and the Alicante Town Hall through the Local Development Agency also contributed.
Each year, the organizers Cámara, AEFA and Cajamar select from a list of nearly one hundred documented centennials in the state to be honored at the Gala and invited to join the Centennial Enterprise Club. The Gala uses a lighthouse as its emblem, an allegorical image symbolizing the strength, perseverance and forward vision these companies embody, guiding others toward shared values and socioeconomic benchmarks that often go beyond borders.
Carlos Baño emphasized that reaching a century of operation is an extraordinary milestone, especially during turbulent times in Spain and the global economy. Centenary firms in the province stand as examples and benchmarks of good practice. For smaller enterprises, some of which will be honored at the III Gala, surviving through the decades carries heightened significance.
Maite Antón, president of AEFA, noted that perseverance and personal development are tightly linked to century-old enterprises, many of which remain family-owned. They often have deep roots in their land and a trade carried forward by the family name. Despite ups and downs, these companies demonstrate adaptability and should inspire others during challenging periods.
Manuel Nieto, Cajamar’s regional manager, highlighted the strong bond between the cooperative bank and Alicante’s business fabric. Recognizing century-old companies sends a message of confidence to current entrepreneurs and young business owners. These firms have modernized and transformed their operations and products by adjusting strategies to fit prevailing conditions, overcoming crises, uncertainty, and difficulties. Their enduring values and social responsibility underpin a resilient, profitable business model, making them a model to follow in today’s climate.
The companies named for awards at the III Gala are listed below:
THE CHILDREN OF ANTONIO FERRE SA
Mariola Banyeres
1914
A producer of high-quality recycled yarn for fashion, accessories and home textiles. Its Recover™ line uses the lowest-impact recycled cotton fiber available globally.
Quintin Wafers
1908
Ibís
Manufacturer of wafers and cookies for desserts. Supplying a range of confectionery, ice cream, bakery, nougat and chocolate sectors.
HAND TENDRE OIL MILL
1839
Elx
Olive oil
JOSE BORRELL
1922
Denia
Machinery for almonds and hazelnuts
TADEO JUAN’S TRANSPORTATION IS FULL
1918
Alcohol
Transport and logistics
VICENTE GINER butcher shop
1885
Alicante
Meat and sausage
JOSÉ DOESN’T LOOK AT MARÍ. AEROPLANE
1918
Aspe
Spices and condiments