Papelaria Fernandes: A historic stationery company that follows generations

Generation after generation, Papelaria Fernandes has stayed present in the life of the Portuguese people for 130 years.

Located in Largo do Rato, it is impossible to miss the iconic centenary façade of the first Papelaria Fernandes store. This year, Portugal’s most well-known stationary company is celebrating its 130th anniversary.

Jorge Leal, the commercial and operational director of Papelaria Fernandes, speaks on how the brand became timeless: “It’s from seven to 77 [years old]”. Papelaria Fernandes accompanies people since they start pre-school, with the school supplies their parents would purchase for them, until they finish their degree and during their professional career. Furthermore, people also remain costumers when wanting to try new hobbies or keep the old ones. “So it's a generational company. It's the grandson who comes by the grandfather’s hand, where the grandfather was already a client and the grandson starts from an early age”, Jorge Leal elaborates.

The inside of Papelaria Fernandes // ANDREIA SIMÃO

Some of the products it offers are related to stationery, technical drawing and painting, as well as educational games. The company is also known for the private label products it has in stock, such as the Cavalinho blocks (which are one of the best-selling products) and the Ratinho collection. The clients can request a personalized service if necessary.

Due to the location of the stores, in particular the one on Rua do Ouro, Papelaria Fernandes has several visits from international clientele. “There we have a clear notion that we must also have an offer for tourists”, Jorge Leal says. Prestigious pieces of writing and notebooks with a cork cover are some of the products the stores offer.

Jorge Leal, the commercial and operational director of Papelaria Fernandes // ANDREIA SIMÃO

It was over a decade ago, in 2010, that Papelaria Fernandes slipped into insolvency, keeping only two of its 22 stores. However, in October that year, Papetarget acquired the brand and fought to give it a second life. Today, the renewed Papelaria Fernandes has six stores, having one of them opened three weeks ago, in Avenue Miguel Bombarda.

Written by Rita Silva

Reporters: Andreia Simão and Rita Silva