Over the past decades, the agricultural sector has transformed at a remarkable pace, driven by demands for productivity, sustainability, and adaptability to various geographical contexts. In this setting, Pulverizadores Rocha has established itself as a strong reference point, both in Portugal and in international markets. Recognition by AICEP – the Portuguese Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade – with an Honorable Mention as Best SME Exporter confirms this exemplary trajectory.

Innovation as a Strategic Pillar

Innovation is not a one-off initiative in the recent history of Pulverizadores Rocha – it is a strategic pillar maintained over the past 15 years. A pivotal milestone was the introduction, in 2015, of a new production system that revolutionized the company's internal processes. This change enabled the reduction of average delivery time from 30 to just 10 days, while service levels increased from 55% to 90%.

These improvements did not happen by chance. They resulted from a consistent commitment to continuous improvement, combining more efficient methodologies with operational management attentive to market needs. The results are evident and measurable, reflected in significantly faster responsiveness and a stronger relationship with customers.

Exporting with Identity and Long-Term Vision

Pulverizadores Rocha does not treat exporting as an opportunistic operation. Its internationalization policy has been meticulously planned and executed, focusing on consolidating markets where it is already present—namely Europe, Africa, and more recently, South America.

Currently, around 40% of the company's turnover comes from international markets—a stable figure that reflects a robust base of international customers and partners. This stability stems not from a conservative approach, but from a strategy that values deeper commercial relationships over geographical breadth.

At FIMA 2020, this same strategic direction was reiterated: the priority was to strengthen ties with existing markets rather than expand prematurely into new geographies. Time has proven the solidity of this choice.

National Recognition with Seal of Excellence

In 2022, AICEP honored Pulverizadores Rocha with an Honorable Mention as Best SME Exporter, reinforcing the company's role in stimulating national foreign trade. The ceremony, held in Viseu during the “15 anos a fazer crescer Portugal” conference, featured the Prime Minister, who presented the award to Sérgio Oliveira, the company’s Marketing Technician.

In an interview with abolsamia magazine, Sérgio Oliveira emphasized that this distinction validates the internationalization strategy that has been consistently implemented. According to him, Pulverizadores Rocha’s success is built on strengthening its own brand, commitment to quality, and clear investment in human resources talent.

With more than 75 years of activity, the company’s age provides additional confidence to international partners. However, it is the ability to combine this legacy with an innovative approach and a youthful team that truly distinguishes Pulverizadores Rocha in the market.

Quality Above All

In the competitive export world, Pulverizadores Rocha did not choose the easiest path. Instead of competing on price, it opted to stand out through quality. This strategic decision has allowed the company to build a sustainable international presence, based on a solid reputation and a value proposition that does not depend on market fluctuations.

As Sérgio Oliveira explained, “when the only differentiating factor is price, it is difficult to build a sustained and structured effort.” Pulverizadores Rocha has invested in robust products with high durability, and a complete range that meets the needs of agricultural professionals—from sprayers and fertilizer distributors to vineyard equipment.

This strategic and technical consistency is valued by partners, who appreciate not only the reliability of the equipment but also the company's ability to keep pace with sector developments.

The Future Is Built on Trust

Pulverizadores Rocha’s journey exemplifies how innovation and internationalization can go hand in hand sustainably. AICEP’s recognition is more than an award—it confirms that investing in efficient production processes, a strong brand, and a culture of continuous improvement is worthwhile.

For cooperatives, technical education entities, and agricultural research centers, this case offers valuable lessons. It shows that it is possible to develop technological excellence in Portugal and take it to the world without abandoning identity, proximity to customers, and a long-term strategic vision.

Pulverizadores Rocha did not get here by chance—it got here because it learned to adapt, improve, and, above all, believe. And this capacity to believe will continue to guide it in the challenges ahead.