Meltio, a Linares-based company specializing in metal 3D printing for industrial parts, has been named SME of the Year Award 2023 by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce and Banco Santander. The company was recognized for its innovation and professionalism in the seventh edition of the award.
Founded in 2019, Meltio has developed a pioneering method of metal 3D printing by patenting the first head that extracts welding wire from a multilaser. The company employs over 100 people and exports 96% of its production to more than 70 countries. Meltio serves industries such as automotive, aerospace, and naval, achieving lower costs and increased efficiency through its innovative manufacturing process.
The CEO of Meltio, Ángel Llavero, expressed his pride in the company’s contribution to the revival of Linares area. The Minister of Economy, Carlos Body, and King Felipe VI were invited to visit Meltio’s facilities to see firsthand the impact on local economy. The award highlights the efforts made by SMEs in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and adapting to market challenges.
Felipe VI emphasized technology’s importance in maintaining competitiveness while Minister Corps highlighted the need to support SMEs for a strong and competitive economy. Innovation, sustainability, employment creation, digitalization were key factors considered when selecting Meltio as winner with nearly 2000 applications received and 21 finalists considered.
The president of Spanish Chamber of Commerce José Luis Bonet lauded SMEs as job creators and wealth generators in Spain’s economy while Banco Santander’s CEO in Spain Ángel Rivera acknowledged SME resilience amidst challenges and their continuous efforts towards job creation and project development.