1979
Foundation of SANITANA
SANITANA was founded in 1979, becoming the first Portuguese company exclusively dedicated to sanitary ceramics for bathrooms. At a time when most companies in Portugal manufactured a variety of ceramic products, such as tiles, flooring, or porcelain, SANITANA stood out with a clear and innovative focus: sanitary ware.
1981
Ceramic Ware Production
With no industrial tradition in the sector and limited know-how in Portugal, SANITANA developed a factory project with the capacity to produce 2.200.000 pieces per year. Production began in early 1981 with a team of six technicians and local workers who manufactured the first pieces.
1988
New Investments
From the outset, SANITANA stood out for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, quickly gaining market recognition. To meet the growing demands of the sector, the company enhanced its production capacity with advanced technology, including 6 kilns, glazing robots, various types of molding machines, medium and high-pressure machines, and fully automated facilities for paste and mold preparation.
SANITANA expanded its portfolio by producing toilet seats in lacquered MDF, finished with polyurethane paint. This enabled the development of exclusive models previously unavailable on the market, further strengthening the company’s ability to innovate and differentiate.
1990
New Trends
In response to increasing exports and evolving consumer expectations across Europe, SANITANA launched, in 1989, the first manufacturing unit in Portugal dedicated to the production of acrylic bathtubs and shower trays, starting with six initial models. In 1990, the company began producing kitchen sinks using Silacryl, a highly resistant composite material.
2000
Integration into the ROCA Group
SANITANA was acquired by the prestigious European brand LAUFEN, which, shortly thereafter, became part of the ROCA Group, a multinational company present in over 100 countries worldwide. This integration was a key milestone in SANITANA’s development, enabling a continuous focus on innovation. Despite this expansion, SANITANA retained its Portuguese identity, now strengthened by international synergies that allow it to operate both independently and as part of the ROCA Group.
2007
Expansion of Production Capacity
SANITANA expanded its sanitary ceramics production with the addition of a 2ª manufacturing unit. In response to market evolution and the growing demand for composite materials, new production processes were developed. In 2011, SANITANA began producing shower trays made from mineral-filled resin (Stonex®), a durable and resistant material that reinforced the brand’s commitment to innovative solutions adapted to market demands.
2013
Bathroom Furniture
SANITANA entered the bathroom furniture segment with products designed to meet everyday needs, focusing on high-quality materials and innovative design. In 2017, this area of production was further developed with the introduction of a new assembly line, reaffirming SANITANA’s commitment to excellence and its ability to adapt to market trends.
2014
35 Years Making a Difference
SANITANA marked 35 years of activity, solidifying its position in both national and international markets as a benchmark in sanitary ceramics. This milestone reflects a journey defined by innovation, quality, and a strong commitment to developing modern and functional bathroom solutions.
2016
Surfex® Production
SANITANA began producing washbasins, shower trays, and bathtubs in Surfex®, a solid surface material known for its high resistance and durability. This allowed the brand to launch functional and aesthetically distinctive bathroom solutions, once again showcasing its drive for innovation.
2022
Merger with BLB
SANITANA incorporated BLB, a Portuguese company specialized in enamelled steel products, which had been part of the ROCA Group since 1995. This merger represented a strategic reinforcement of SANITANA’s industrial capabilities and its product portfolio.
2023
Partitions and Accessories Unit
In 2023, SANITANA inaugurated a new factory dedicated to bathroom partitions and accessories. This marked a significant step in its ongoing commitment to innovation and quality, backed by more efficient and environmentally responsible production processes.
2024
45 Years of Excellence
SANITANA celebrated 45 years of history, marked by continuous innovation, product quality, and dedication to its customers. This anniversary symbolized the company’s consolidation in the market and the recognition of its efforts to stay ahead of industry trends and challenges. The celebration reinforced SANITANA’s motivation to keep growing, innovating, and maintaining its status as a leading reference in sanitary ceramics and bathroom solutions.
Since 1979, Sanitana has combined innovation, design, and manufacturing to create bathroom solutions that are functional, durable, and elegant, with a Portuguese identity and a global vision.
Explore our manufacturing processes and the materials we use, which blend innovation with precision to ensure high-quality products.
Discover the certifications that demonstrate our commitment to excellence, safety, and sustainability.
