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‘All fabrics manufactured at Riopele are meant for garment production.’ For this reason, one of the main benefits of creating ‘an RFS unit lies in supporting the technical area of Riopele by testing fabrics, analysing their behaviour in garments, and ensuring they are suitable for specific designs.’ Additionally, ‘it provides clients with a full package service, freeing the client from the entire process, from fabric purchase and product development to accessory procurement, production, quality control, and shipping.’ This is the perspective of Cristina Gonçalves, head of RFS at Riopele, with a special focus on the demanding French market.
Riopele's clothing department, already sought after by major international brands, is poised for further growth in the years ahead. A key factor in this expansion will be the company's commitment to vertically integrating all aspects of its business, including R&D, Spinning, Dyeing, Twisting, Weaving, Finishing, and Private Label services.
‘Diversification is key to reaching more customers,’ said the President of Riopele. This comprehensive approach has been evident, particularly in the mobility segment. In the professional segment, Riopele recently joined a consortium that developed the new camouflage for the Portuguese army.
‘Diversification is key to reaching more customers,’ said the President of Riopele. This comprehensive approach has been evident, particularly in the mobility segment. In the professional segment, Riopele recently joined a consortium that developed the new camouflage for the Portuguese army.
Riopele's investment on the clothing segment has enabled the Famalicão-based company to enhance its offering of comprehensive services, from raw materials to finished products. As a result, Riopele grew again in 2023, particularly in more technical domains, despite a particularly challenging business environment due to the economic slowdown of its main international trading partners.
Riopele currently has over 1000 employees and exports its entire production, directly or indirectly, to more than 50 markets.
