Today, more than 60 years since its establishment, Portuguese company Porteme says it is a solid, trusted market leader in the country.

They are characteristics which, it says, have been achieved thanks to the diligence and dedication of a team which has persevered to meet its goals, despite inevitable market changes through the years.

Now the company, which specialises in the manufacture of interior flush and panel wooden doors, is looking to explore new markets in the Middle East following the success of the last year's Big Five show in Dubai, where the quality of Porteme's products was well received.

"The Middle East is one of the most promising markets in the world today," says Porteme export manager Valter Mendes.

"We were very pleased with the number of new and serious enquiries we had at the exhibition and we are looking forward to making business," he adds.

More than a company, Porteme says it is a brand, widely recognised as reputable. A brand which has been associated with innovation without abandoning the strict, demanding traditions upon which it is based, says Mendes.

"Functionality, resistance and design are features of its products recognised by the most demanding architects and consumers.

"Technological innovation, regular machinery upgrades and computerisation of the whole production system, together with careful selection of raw materials have been combined with indispensable investment in training and recruitment of specialised personnel," he says.

The company's target is to achieve 'work of excellence' in both products and services. Porteme is ISO9002-certified by SGS International Certification Services, and is working to gain ISO14000 environmental certification, proving that it is possible to achieve a balance between an industrial activity and the preservation of nature and the environment, according to Mendes.

The development of the business and the frequent participation at national and international exhibitions has led to successful export campaigns. Today, following a major expansion policy, Porteme is represented in several countries in Europe, Africa and Asia.