AITEX 40TH ANNIVERSARY
AITEX has celebrated its 40th anniversary, a milestone that symbolizes four decades of research, innovation, and technological development for the textile and cosmetics sectors. This journey has been made possible thanks to all the people, companies, and institutions that have believed in this project and contributed to its growth. AITEX wanted to share the celebration of its 40th anniversary with all of them.
The joy, inspiration, and collective strength we experienced together as we celebrated our past and looked forward to the future with enthusiasm
The event began with the opening speech by the president of AITEX, León Grau García, who highlighted the center’s evolution, its sustained growth, and the collective effort that has enabled AITEX to consolidate its position as a European benchmark in applied research and development.
Tribute was paid to the presidents who have led the center over the past four decades: Mr. Ricardo Cardona Salvador (1985-1992), Mr. Rafael Pascual Albero (1992-2000), Mr. Santiago Moltó Rico (2000-2004), Mr. Juan Ignacio Sanz Ortín (2004-2008), Mr. Vicente Aznar Orobal (2008-2016), Mr. Rafael Pascual Bernabeu (2016-2020) and, of course, Mr. León Grau, current president of AITEX.
Testimonials and messages were shared from individuals and institutions that have accompanied the center on its journey, recalling the value of their contribution and the legacy of their work: employees who have been with the company for more than 25 years, the entire AITEX Governing Council and former members of the same, as well as Javier Francés, CEO of AITEX from 1993 to 2000, and José Sanus, mayor of Alcoy in 1985, the year AITEX was founded, among many others who have been and continue to be part of the history of AITEX.
The closing ceremony was led by Vicente Blanes, CEO of AITEX, in a moment of great emotion. His words, filled with gratitude, pride, and recognition for all those who have been part of the center’s history, moved the audience to a standing ovation. This moment symbolized the essence of AITEX: a collective project, built with effort, passion, and commitment to innovation and sustainable development.
One of the most inspiring moments of the day was the lecture “Leading when there is no map” by Gustavo Zerbino, a survivor of the Andes tragedy. His speech conveyed a profound lesson on leadership, resilience, teamwork, and the ability of people to overcome the most difficult challenges when there are no certainties, but only willpower and solidarity. His testimony moved all those present and left a message of hope and strength that resonated with AITEX’s philosophy: innovate, collaborate, and face challenges with determination.
