Cláudia Costa Santos
Eduarda Silva
David Ribeiro
CEO of Cutipol
Cutipol is a world-famous cutlery company. It is run by three brothers of the Ribeiro family, continuing a business started by their grandfather and made a serious national concern by their father and mother. It all began at the start of the 20th century in a cutlery workshop, but from the 1940s manufacturing moved up to the next level, with industrialisation. It was then given the name Cutipol, a name chosen for how it sounded, for being easy to say and to remember, in any part of the world. David Ribeiro entered the next chapter, in the 80s, when he joined the company with his brothers and took over the legacy of his parents. This was followed by growth in sales and prestige, with design and commercial strategy making a difference in an increasingly international market. Today, Cutipol can be found in royal palaces, luxury hotels, prestigious restaurants and in homes all over the world, revealing the best of Portuguese cutlery.
What is the greatest challenge of a family-run company?
The greatest challenge for Cutipol is continuing the work and mission of our parents and founders, Alice and José Ribeiro. There is a name to defend, and so we feel an even greater obligation to be successful. Preparing the way for the third generation is one of our goals, as well as being one of the great names in the international flatware industry.
Does Cutipol’s story, in itself, provide a good commercial argument?
I would say Cutipol’s story would made a good script for a film! I think the company is a success story in the international market, especially in countries where it is very difficult to achieve renown: Japan, South Korea, Germany, the United States, China and France.
«On the last list of the 50 best restaurants in the world, more than half have cutlery from Cutipol»
The world of gastronomy has grown a lot around the world. Is this reflected in an increase in interest in cutlery and other tableware?
Yes, without a doubt. The world of gastronomy favours fine products. This is where Cutipol cutlery comes in: on the last list of the 50 best restaurants in the world, more than half have cutlery from Cutipol. About 30% of the company’s turnover is aimed at the food service industry, in about 65 countries.
Does Cutipol seek a common identity in all its products? How would you define it?
I would define it wiht three words: innovation, design and quality.
What goals do you hope to achieve in the coming years?
The main goals for the coming years are to consolidate the markets in which we are present, to maintain the quality levels that are our products are known for and our ability to surprise.
