Galp Energia

Galp Energia was singled out by the jury for its strong growth and performance over the past years. It has shown a consistent growth between 2001 and 2005, with a EUR 4247 million difference between the two years. The jury commended Galp Energia for its ability also to leverage the hike in international petroleum product prices through its focus on refinery. Together with the improved operating performance of the refineries in Sines and Porto, this generated a 26% gross margin increase over 2004.

Logoplaste

Packaging manufacturer Logoplaste took home the 'Growth' category award for SMEs. The company edged out the competition in this category by partnering with highly reputable companies to gain access to new markets, proving technical leadership and by investing strongly in research and development. As one of the leading players producing integrated plastic packaging for consumer goods worldwide, Logoplaste had secured partnership deals with Danone, Coca-Cola and Nestlé, among others, to expand its business. The jury praised the company's decision to invest almost 3% of sales revenues into R&D each year, giving it the competitive edge.

Mota Engil

Mota Engil, the leading construction company in Portugal has pursued a strong diversification and internationalization strategy over the past few years. The jury was convinced particularly by its approach to new EU member state, Poland. Here, Mota Engil has set up operations in public works and real estate. The company was praised for its expansion strategy to Slovakia and Romania and its differentiated offerings for the various target markets in Europe. the company had also realized the opportunities awarded by the structural funds flowing to Central and Eastern Europe: and thus channeled activities toward the construction of motorways, as these countries are planning sizable investments in infrastructure with EU support.

Renova

Among the SMEs shortlisted, Renova, the tissue and paper product manufacturer convinced the jury with its sales figures: 50% of its revenues comes from sales in Spain, France, Belgium and Luxemburg. Renova's differentiated product line was based on its own technological research, the jury highlighted, helping the company to launch innovative products across its line. Of particular note was Renova's aggressive global brand communication strategy: judges praised its branding concepts, including the introduction of dermatological testing for toilet paper and the launch of the first ever black tissue of its kind.

Grupo EDP

Grupo EDP, the third largest energy company on the Iberian Peninsula was chosen by the jury for its strategic approach to mergers and acquisitions. EPD's focus on renewable energies was underlined by its acquisition of Nuon España (EUR 478 m), with a portfolio of wind energy projects totaling 1407 MW. In addition, the company bought five wind parks from different firms and closed contract with Tecneira for the acquisition of 5 companies promoting wind energy projects in Portugal (120.7 MW). The result: an increased total gross installed wind energy capacity (a 23% increase from 2004 to 2005) and a reduction in CO2 requirements.