The Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP) once again stands out in the field of technological innovation, this time with the presentation of the first electric motorbike prototype developed by the MotoStudent FEUP (MS FEUP) team. The model, called MS01, is the result of almost two years of joint and interdisciplinary work by 42 students from the areas of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Industrial Engineering and Management. The MS01 was officially presented on 25 September in the FEUP Auditorium. Frezite, one of the team's sponsors, was represented at the rollout, which marks the beginning of MS FEUP's participation in the prestigious international MotoStudent competition. The event will take place in Aragon, Spain, between 15 and 19 October, bringing together more than 80 university teams from around the world. This project is yet another example of collaboration, innovation and young talent, reinforcing Frezite's commitment to supporting educational institutions in the development of cutting-edge technological solutions.

The European Space Agency (ESA) PLATO (PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of stars) mission reached an important milestone: Its arrival at ESTEC – European Space Research and Technology Centre, in the Netherlands, on 1 September. The PLATO satellite was transported by boat along the Rhine River, in a rare logistical operation for space telescopes, and is now in the clean room of the ESTEC technical centre. FHP supplied the Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI), which surrounds the cameras with black protection and the satellite body with a gold layer. These materials are essential to protect sensitive instruments from the extreme conditions of space. In the coming weeks, engineers will install the sun shield and solar panels, subjecting the satellite to rigorous vibration, acoustic and thermal testing crucial steps before its launch, scheduled for December 2026. The PLATO mission will search for Earth-like exoplanets, contributing to the exploration of the universe.

Following the success of previous editions, Frezite once again had a team of employees participating in the Trofa Trail. The event, which combines sport, nature and socialising, is organised by the municipality of Trofa in partnership with the Team Lantemil Association. Thirteen employees enthusiastically took up the challenge, making Frezite the third largest team in the race. Their exemplary participation was rewarded with a pack of regional cheeses. The event, which offered three different challenges, took place on 14 September, as part of an excellent Sunday programme. The long trail, approximately 37 km, was part of the national circuit, covering paths and trails in the municipality of Trofa; the Sprint/Youth trail, 17 km, was part of the national sprint and youth trail circuit; and the mini-trail/10 km walk. Congratulations, team!

After competing in the Netherlands and Portugal during July and August, the FS FEUP team, which has the technical support of FHP, also took part in another competition. Between 18 and 24 August, the Formula Student team competed in Hockenheim, Germany. This was a stage for innovation where future engineers come together to collaborate, compete and excel in the construction and racing of formula-style vehicles. In this third event, the team – which passed all technical inspections - competed for the first time in a Driverless Dynamic Event and came third in the cost and manufacturing category. It should be noted that FS FEUP competed in three different events in the autonomous category – Acceleration DV, Autocross DV and Trackdrive. Bring on the next challenge!

Bringing employees together in a relaxed atmosphere before the holidays, SERI held its traditional summer get-together on 25 July. This year, the theme was Mexico – one of the company's most important markets – and a source of inspiration for its colours and joy. Amidst Mexican delicacies and music, employees enjoyed a lively afternoon marked by team spirit and the celebration of achievements made throughout the semester. The get-together was further proof that, at SERI, success is also built on moments of sharing and relaxation.

On 9 July, FHP once again welcomed a delegation from the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Portuguese Space Agency (PT Space). The visit strengthens collaboration between the entities and opens doors to new opportunities in the aerospace sector. Discussed topics related to Portugal's role in international scientific missions. Also the meeting brought a challenge: To invite FHP to participate in upcoming scientific missions, with a focus on deepening knowledge about Jupiter's moons. This mission represents a significant step for European space science and a unique opportunity for the national industry to contribute with innovation and cutting-edge technology.

Following its successful participation in Ligna, the company has decided to replicate part of the cutting solutions exhibition presented in May, in Hannover, Germany, at its facilities in Trofa. FREZITE now offers visitors its range of tool solutions displayed by operation. In the hall of pavilion three, there is a display dedicated to tools for wood construction, showcasing the various options that the company has for this growing market. The space, currently converted into a showroom, has a display dedicated exclusively to circular saw blades and another with tools for moulding and edging. This makes it possible to combine a tour of the company's manufacturing capacity with an exhibition that showcases the tools produced.

On 2 July, SERI was delighted to welcome students from the metalworking technical course at Rocha Peixoto Secondary School in Póvoa do Varzim (North of Portugal) to its premises. Throughout the day, the students had the opportunity to learn about the products, processes and technologies that are part of SERI's daily routine. The team welcomed the visitors enthusiastically, explaining how the concepts learned in the classroom come to life in an industrial environment. This initiative bridges the gap between industry and technical education to motivate, guide and prepare young talents who will shape the metalworking sector in the coming years.

The European Space Agency's (ESA) PLATO (PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of stars) mission has reached a crucial milestone in its development. This involves connecting its two main components — the ‘eyes’, the observation module equipped with 26 ultra-sensitive cameras, and the ‘brain’, the support module that integrates the spacecraft's power, propulsion, communication and control systems. FHP is proud to be part of this scientific journey, having contributed by supplying MLI (Multi-Layer Insulation) for the observation module cameras. This material is essential to ensure the thermal stability and optimal performance of the mission's optical systems, protecting them from extreme temperature variations in space. The assembly is currently undergoing integrated testing, a key step before launch, scheduled for December 2026. This mission aims to study terrestrial exoplanets orbiting in the habitable zone of Sun-like stars, helping to answer one of humanity's most fascinating questions: Are we alone in the universe? This collaboration reinforces FHP's role in the European aerospace sector and highlights the importance of its participation in large-scale scientific missions. Find out more about this stage here.

On 11 June, the Técnico Solar Boat project, supported by Frezite, officially presented its latest prototype — the São Gabriel (SG01) — at a ceremony held in the Noble Hall of the Instituto Superior Técnico (Lisbon, Portugal). This new model, built using Frezite tools, represents an important milestone in the team's journey, reflecting months of dedicated work to developing an innovative vessel that combines cutting-edge technology with sustainable mobility. The São Gabriel represents another step forward in the project's mission to promote clean and efficient energy solutions in the nautical sector. The presentation of the SG01 coincides with the 10th anniversary of Técnico Solar Boat, a decade marked by the promotion of engineering and its growth in conjunction with renewable energies. Frezite is proud to support initiatives such as this, which inspire new generations of engineers to contribute to a more sustainable future in mobility.

On 3 June, the Distributor Advisory Board (DAB) brought together key Walter channel partners from the Iberian Peninsula to the Frezite facilities, in Trofa (Portugal). This strategic event was attended by 12 Walter Ibérica distributors with the aim of analyzing the market and identifying opportunities to boost business. Participants visited the Walter FMT production unit and learned about Frezite's circular sawblades production. The trip to Portugal demonstrates the installed production capacity and reinforces Walter Ibérica's commitment to proximity and collaboration with its partners, promoting the sustained growth of this channel.

This is a collaborative event promoted by Walter in partnership with machine manufacturer Heller, which took place on 12 and 13 May in Germany. It showcased innovation, technology, and experience in this expanding industry. The program brought together customers and dealers in the headquarters of the companies — in Tübingen and Nürtingen — where SERI clamping fixtures were in the spotlight. This initiative brought together partner companies at a landmark event to build a reputation for excellence in the aerospace market, where Walter aims to grow as a leading supplier.

Reaffirming its commitment to the safety and well-being of its employees, the Group's safety team organized an interactive quiz to assess employees' knowledge on these topics. Held as part of the celebration of World Day for Safety and Health at Work, and using an educational and fun approach, this initiative involved employees from Frezite, SERI and FHP in Portugal, who replied to the challenge with great enthusiasm and participation. Fire brigade training was also provided to reinforce the preparation and readiness of the teams responsible for responding to emergencies. This ensured the active participation of employees promoting a culture of safety.

AEBA - Associação Empresarial do Baixo Ave has been in business for 25 years. To celebrate this special anniversary, it organised a series of initiatives to strengthen ties between the association and the business community. On 11 April, the AEBA 25 Years Conference took place at the Maia Forum, with the Frezite Group as one of the event's sponsors. Frezite's founder, José Manuel Fernandes, was one of the founders and president of AEBA and since its foundation the company and the association have actively contributed to the economic development of the region and the country. The guest speakers debated the parts that add to the whole: the North and Baixo Ave, as well as geopolitical tensions and their economic impacts, in a session attended by the Portuguese Secretary of State for the Economy, João Rui Ferreira.

As part of its growth strategy in Central European markets, SERI's technical and sales team travelled to Slovenia and Hungary between 7 and 11 April. In addition to visiting strategic customers, this trip also provided an opportunity to present the potential of SERI's turnkey systems to colleagues at Walter Slovenia. It was an enriching exchange of technical and market knowledge between colleagues, aimed at better serving customers and responding to their challenges with innovative solutions.

On 14 March, SERI celebrated 37 years in business. The team got together to celebrate the achievements along this journey, full of challenges, innovation and, above all, teamwork. Along the way, SERI has built a solid reputation in the market, focusing on innovation, quality and commitment to excellence. The support and trust of its customers and partners are an essential part of this success. We would like to thank you all very much and hope for many more years of achievement and development, with the same spirit of unity and excellence.

On 6 March, Frezite welcomed a group of 11th and 12th year students from the professional metalworking production course at the Rocha Peixoto Secondary School in Póvoa de Varzim (Portugal). This school, which combines secondary education and vocational training, gave its students a unique opportunity to get to know our industrial reality up close. During the visit, the students were able to explore our facilities, understand the manufacturing processes and realize the importance of innovation and technology in industry. By opening its doors to these initiatives, Frezite maintains its commitment to strengthening relations and sharing knowledge with educational institutions, participating in the training of qualified professionals.

Martinrea International, a key customer of Walter FMT and SERI, has received the prestigious Ford Supplier Excellence Award. Recognizing the quality and reliability of its products, the Hermosillo and Querétaro plants in Mexico were awarded Ford's Q1 certification. Collaboration with Walter FMT and SERI proved essential in this process and the satisfied customer thanked us for our contribution to this important achievement. This project has a special significance because it was one of the first in which SERI and Walter FMT collaborated directly on the definition, study and engineering applied to clamping and cutting tool concepts. After the successful start-up, Walter FMT continues to ensure the supply of all new tools and to carry out repairs – through the repair center in Mexico – guaranteeing a consistent and high-quality service. This recognition and testimony from Martinrea reinforce our group's commitment: to be a strong link in our customers' value chain, guaranteeing quality, rigor and customized solutions to their needs. We thank you for the trust you have placed in our teams. Find out more here

On 11 January, with the enthusiastic participation of 17 Frezite and SERI employees, the Group was represented at the 22nd edition of the São Silvestre da Trofa, an event that brought together sport, fun and a spirit of mutual help. The main event, a 10-kilometre race, started and finished at Alameda da Estação. At the same time, the event offered a 5-kilometre walk and the São Silvestre Kids, aimed at the little ones, who ventured on a 500-metre mini-circuit. This initiative projects the city in the region, promoting sport as a tool for unity and overcoming obstacles. Congratulations to all the participants for adopting a healthy lifestyle, promoting the region and Frezite's values with pride and team spirit!

The return to work at the beginning of the year was marked by general meetings with the employees of the Production Units in Trofa (Portugal). These sessions are fundamental for reflecting on the results achieved in the previous year and aligning strategies and objectives for the future. On 6 January, the Walter FMT team took stock of 2024 and, two days later, the Frezite Wood & Composites team met for the same analysis exercise. During the meetings, key indicators relating to safety, quality and operating results were presented, as well as the highlights that marked 2024. On 9 January, the management team and FHP employees also carried out the balance of the year exercise. As far as SERI is concerned, it had already carried out the alignment exercise at the end of 2024. These sessions are an opportunity to strengthen alignment and team spirit, preparing employees for the challenges and goals of 2025.