51 2025 - number 4 - promzvak.nl MAKE YOUR OWN PIZZA FLOUR, SAUCE, HERBS, RECIPES MAKES 6-8 PIZZAS A LOOK INSIDE MALFINI: We spoke with COO Jan Chovanec and technical director Michal Seltenreich from the ultra-modern distribution center in Ostrava. Together, they outline the story of a European manufacturer that prefers to achieve big things quietly, rather than loudly announce small steps. In our view, this is a company worth taking into account for the future. From product to brand. Malfini is no newcomer. Since 1999, the company has been steadily building its presence in the promotional and later also professional textiles market. But in recent years, its ambitions have grown considerably — not only in volume (millions of items are now shipped annually), but especially in brand positioning. “Most people know us for blank T-shirts and basics,” says Chovanec. “But we also want to be recognized as a brand. Malfini stands for quality, availability, and responsibility.” Step inside Malfini, the textile giant based in Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic, and you’ll quickly realize this is about more than just B2B sales of T-shirts, hoodies, and polo shirts. Everything here breathes vision, dedication, and a generous dose of down-to-earth pragmatism. CZECH SOLIDITY WITH FLAIR That last word — responsibility — is key. Because while Malfini doesn’t run marketing campaigns filled with green leaves and trendy slogans, sustainability is deeply rooted in the Czech company’s DNA. No screaming, just action At Malfini, sustainability is approached pragmatically. “We have solar panels on the warehouse roof,” explains the plant manager in Ostrava. “They generate about 30% of our energy needs. That’s a big step, especially considering that the roof surface also has to accommodate other equipment and emergency installations.” Following further research, the company also decided to install panels along the side of the warehouse, which turned out to be a golden move — especially in winter (when they remain free of snow ed.). “This has brought us to more than 100% energy generation compared to what we need. The great thing is that in the Czech Republic, companies with multiple sites are allowed to share energy. So the excess we produce here can be transferred to our offices in Prague or Ústí.” BY PETER VAN GESTEL 8
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