Manufacturing
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Soap opera
Ach. Brito soaps are instantly recognisable by their vintage-inspired packaging and Claus Porto label. This family-run company dates back to 1887 but still continues to innovate and appeal to new markets.
Reinvent the wheel
Aficionados of the simple sweatshirt know there’s only one label to turn to. Monocle meets the man behind Tokyo-based company Loopwheeler.
The plough factor
If you’re in the market for the latest tractor or combine harvester, the National Farm Machinery Show is the place to be. Monocle goes to Kentucky to sow our seeds.
Material gains
Faribault Woolen Mill Co seemed dead and buried when it was forced to close in 2009. Its renaissance under the guidance of two local businessmen has proven blanket-like: comforting and all-encompassing.
Real corker
Amorim, a cork producer since 1870, is barking up the right tree after a company revamp and now supplies iconic wine estates as well as fashion houses and Nasa.
Design for life
Artisans have embellished everyday utensils with a heavy dose of design without sacrificing performance. Here’s our selection of tools to perk up your quality of life, from Dutch garden tools to Japanese candleholders.
2nd Cycle – collectable castoffs
In 1935 the founders of Artek drew up a manifesto that the Finnish furniture company still lives by. Their "one chair is enough" slogan promoted a philosophy of consuming in an intelligent way. And…
Industry targets
Well-run businesses keep the wheels of war turning. Many recognisable household brand names have advanced technology and innovation by supplying new products to the military, from couriers to car-makers.
Overseas export
Netherlands shipbuilder Damen manufactures the boats that keep navies and coast guards up-to-speed worldwide. A near-century old success story, theirs is a contribution to a local tradition stretching back even further.
Seeing is believing
From camera-maker to a world leader in binoculars by accident. We look at how German firm Steiner built a global reputation for its rugged and precise optics, used by militaries and civilians alike.
