About us

History and Evolution of the FIRSTLINK Group

Origins of S&C Tejo Lda. (1991–2002)

The origins of the group date back to 1991, with the creation of the company S&C – Gestão de Navios e Tripulações Lda., founded by Transinsular S.A. with a focus on the nationalshipowning market, in the area ofshipmanagement.

In 1995, the affiliated company S&C Tejo Lda. was established, maintaining its activity focused on the management of vessels for the transport of goods, passengers, and tourism on the Port of Lisbon. Two major projects stood out during this phase:

  • The organization and management of logistical operations on the Tagus River for the construction of the Vasco da Gama Bridge.
  • The management of river operations during the expansion works of the 25 de Abril Bridge.

In 2002, S&C Tejo began the technical management of the vessels operated by Soflusa S.A., a passenger transport operator on the Tagus River, which would later be integrated into Transtejo.

Creation of New Specialized Companies (2007–2009)

On October 16, 2007, FIRSTLINK SGPS S.A. established the company EUROSHIDE – European Ship Design Lda., specialized in:

  • Naval design and engineering;
  • Consulting and expert assessments;
  • Technical assistance for shipbuilding and repair;
  • Training in naval engineering;
  • Commercialization and technical support for naval engineering systems and equipment;
  • Inspection, classification, and regulatory services for ships and maritime structures.

On June 11, 2009, FIRSTLINK ORIENT LIMITED was established in Macau with the aim of operating in the following areas: import and export, and trade and representations.

Restructuring and Expansion (2003–2007)

In June 2003, a group of managers and technical staff with experience in engineering and economics—mostly from Transinsular S.A.—decided to launch an independent project in the maritime sector by acquiring full ownership of S&C Tejo Lda.

Following this acquisition, the company’s name was changed to SCMA – Sociedade de Consultores Marítimos Lda., marking the beginning of a new phase aimed at expanding its activities, adopting a more proactive approach toward clients, and redefining its market positioning.

At the same time, the project promoters received support from NAVEGAR – Companhia Portuguesa de Navegação Internacional S.A., a shipping company founded in 1993 and specialized in bulk chemical transport.

As a result of the new structure and strategic vision, the holding company FIRSTLINK SGPS S.A. was established on October 8, 2003, to manage the group’s various corporate holdings.

Conclusion

The evolution of SCMA and FIRSTLINK SGPS reflects a sustained trajectory of diversification and specialization in the maritime sector, starting from a solid foundation in river vessel management and progressing toward advanced technical activities in naval engineering and international expansion.

Mission

We are a Portuguese company committed to the maritime industry, aiming to cover all segments of the sector by providing liquid cargo transport services in European cabotage, Ship Management and Maritime Consultancy services, all under high standards of quality and safety at controlled costs. We operate in Germany, Angola, Cape Verde, Spain, Mozambique, Russia, and Portugal, and specialize in the global trade of raw materials and industrial products.

As such, we are better equipped to face the different business cycles and respond swiftly to market developments. We are not focused on short-term results, but rather on maximizing long-term value.

Vision

FIRSTLINK SGPS S.A. aims to:

  • Be a reference company in Portugal and in the countries where its subsidiaries operate.
  • Enhance the value of our shareholders’ investments;
  • Invest in industries where the experience and expertise of the employees within our subsidiaries serve as key differentiators;
  • Continue the diversification and internationalization of the company’s operations, targeting developing markets that offer acceptable returns on investment;