MD Group: The Portuguese Automotive Lighting Giant Strengthens Its Presence in Morocco
In a balance between international expansion and focusing on local markets, the Portuguese MD Group continues to develop its business with around 500 employees distributed between its two main branches, MD Moules and MD Plastique, which are at the heart of the automotive industry. Having been present in Morocco for nearly ten years, the group aims to enhance its activities and explore new opportunities in the local market.
Bruno Machado, the group’s commercial director, stated, “Our goal is to be seen as a provider of engineering solutions rather than just a manufacturer of tools or plastic components.” This approach, along with the quality of products and services, has afforded the company a distinct global reputation in its sector.
Founded 35 years ago in Leiria, Portugal, by Manuel Domingues, MD Group began by designing and managing mold projects in the automotive tools and lighting field. It quickly expanded its scope to include the manufacturing of complex parts, paving the way for accelerated and continuous growth.
In 1998, the MD Moules branch, specialized in injection molds, was established, followed by another branch focused on plastic injection in 2002. The group expanded internationally by entering the Asian market in 2012, and opened the MD Plastics factory in 2016. The opening of the latter facility in Mexico bolstered its strategic presence in North America, meeting the increasing demand, particularly in the United States.
Focusing on automotive lighting solutions, MD Group has targeted a specialized market that demands high precision and features less competition than other sectors of the automotive industry. Machado explained that this specialization allows the company to offer advanced technical solutions while maintaining its competitiveness, forming a cornerstone of the group’s international strategy. Currently, its locations are in Portugal (Leiria and Nazaré) and Mexico (Querétaro).
Morocco, recognized as one of Africa’s most crucial automotive industrial platforms, is a key market for MD Group. For nearly a decade, the company has been providing technical support and maintenance of equipment to local clients.
Bruno Machado emphasized, “Our ambition in Morocco is to expand our business and explore new growth opportunities,” noting that the group’s relationships with the Moroccan market are strong and solid. It aims to strengthen its partnerships in line with the accelerated growth of the automotive sector and Morocco’s desire to increase local industrial integration.
