Multilem was created in 1986 with a well-defined purpose: to design and build exhibition stands. And it could not have presented its work any better as the company began its internationalisation process only a few years later and has expanded into two more business areas: event organisation and remodelling projects.
The two founders of Multilem, brothers José e Pedro Castro, have assertively initiated an innovative business that is already worth 8 million euros and is growing at a two-digit pace. Among company clients are large-scale companies like Vodafone, Google and Visa. Multilem has already expanded to the Angolan, Dubai, Brazilian and Spanish markets.
Multilem’s facilities are in Vila Nova da Rainha, Azambuja. They are wide, modest and, most importantly, inviting in summer days. Yes inviting: the pool embellishes the building entrance and is available for all workers and their families. The pool is also the place where people gather at the end of the day. The Multikids week, where worker’s children were brought to the facilities, included multiple activities that have also involved their parents. In addition, the gym, with classes available twice a week, encourages the practice of physical activity and promotes health care.
Vasco Soares, the Marketing and Human Resources coordinator, states that Multilem’s operation relies on two key pillars: sustainability and people welfare. In order to address people welfare, also in psychological terms, the company has recently created a special department, the Happiness Office, run by a psychologist, employed by the company, that is available for all workers and is in charge of measuring the balance between work life and personal life. In addition, nutrition concerns are a given fact: nutrition consultations are available, as well as four dietary options at the cafeteria, including a vegetarian meal.
SUSTAINABILITY NEEDED
Sustainability is the other foundation of Multilem and concerns the entire company. Multilem is currently promoting an internal policy on the decrease in plastic consumption – mainly bottles and cups – and has also performed an energy audit to increase consumption efficiency and thereby reduce company carbon footprint and, evidently, company costs. The vehicle fleet is also being renovated as regular vehicles are being replaced by less polluting, electric vehicles: “Seven vehicles are already integrated and an additional seven have been ordered” said Vasco Soares.
The company is also thinking in its human resources sustainability when investing in their professional and personal development. The company provides training programmes, customised according to performance assessments, and English and Spanish lessons for all those who are eager to improve their language skills. In addition, by means of the initiative Conversas Não Tão Fiadas (Not-So-Small Talk) people can learn for one hour from an expert – like, for instance, a football coach – in the area of soft skills.
