Founded on April 30 1955 under the name Fabal – Fábrica de Baquelite de Leiria, the company began by designing and producing its initial products in bakelite, melamine and urea through the manufacturing process of compression moulding.
Fabal was one of the five existing factories around this time to manufacture this type of products in Leiria.
On November 30 1966 the corporate name was changed to Faplana – Fábrica de Plásticos de Leiria, Lda.
During this decade a full range of products manufactured via compression, injection and extrusion/blow moulding were developed. During this phase a new commercial strategy was set which consisted of creating new brands (Fapla, Fabex and Faplex) and the release of the first general product catalogue in January 1969.
Faplana continued to invest in product development in areas as diverse as houseware, products for industry and toys.
It was in the early 80s, with the "Melaminas", that Faplana took the first steps in exporting its products, with the French market as its main client. A line of tableware products was redesigned for that particular market.
The path to external markets was open, and soon after the quality of the products was recognized by renowned designers and companies.
In 1989, under a new management, a reorganization process was initiated, focusing on seven main areas: quality improvement, design strategy, equipments and plant facilities, automation and productivity, and a marketing strategy for new markets based on a more aggressive commercial policy.
In 1991 the quality of Faplana’s melamine products was recognized by the prestigious Designer Philippe Starck who, in partnership with Faplana, developed some products, among which the famous ashtray "Joe Cactus" (marketed by Alessi) and the radio "La La La" for Thomson.
In 1992 Faplana was awarded with the Prize Design for Industry, assigned by the Portuguese Design Centre.
In December 2003 the company’s quality system was certified according to the NP EN ISO 9001:2000 norm by SGS.
Bearing in mind the new demands of environmental policies (and the increased social awareness to the problem), Faplana invested on the creation of new products for the ecological segment.
Poultry and Agriculture products remain a segment of great importance being subject to constant improvement and innovation.
Keeping in touch with its roots Faplana continues to invest in its product line made of Melamine. A full range of melamine spoons have been developed and are now a must on all professional and domestic kitchens.
The timeless design from the 50s/60s of Faplana’s vintage melamine line is the main reason why it is still sought after and appreciated by people from all over the world.
We are aware of the demands of the Hotel and Restaurant Industry where we have become well renowned and where we continue to invest in the creation and development of products.
We highlight the creation of a new range of spoons produced using highly resistant material with characteristics satisfying the requirements of a sector which has become increasingly demanding.
Our Poultry product area has been steadily increasing and in recent years, new products have been launched.
We are aware of environmental issues and we continue investing in ecological solutions.
