This year, Copag celebrates its 114th anniversary and being in charge of a company that has gone through so many remarkable periods is a source of pride and respect. In Brazil, few companies manage to reach this mark. Our cards allow countless plays, and when the world was at war, we promoted fun in homes. When people had their accounts confiscated by the government, it was in playing cards that they found moments of entertainment. And even during times of crisis and turmoil, we consistently reinvent ourselves and stand firm.
In the last ten years, Copag has followed a path of sustainable growth, gained international visibility and none of this would be possible without the people who walk with us, without ever renouncing our legacies, values and principles. And speaking of reinvention, it is essential for a company to be successful, as the market is dynamic and trends change day by day. It is necessary to be open to changes, to follow the fluctuation of the scenario in which one is inserted, because today's game may not be tomorrow's game, and following this evolution is essential.
Two years ago we have been facing another great adversary: Covid-19. And even being a defiant enemy, we continue to grow, as the whole group is for the common benefit: expansion, in a united and human way, as it has always been and should be. In fact, this human vision is rooted in our values and the people who work with us are our greatest asset. We are indeed one big family and we all fight together for the same goals.
And we walk focused on innovation. In 2020, we announced the expansion of Copag in Latin America through a joint venture agreement signed with Big Bang Entertainment, an association that strengthens the leadership position in collectible entertainment and children's games in Chile and throughout the Latin American region. As a result, we have an industrial park that has cutting-edge technology, and within the Cartamundi Group we have more than 3,500 employees and 13 factories around the world, focused on creating elements allied to joy.
In the present, but with an eye on the future, we know about digital reality and believe in the hybrid experience, with digital games and real experiences, in the physical. Thus, we sail and we are very well positioned and prepared for both worlds. After all, nothing replaces that game of poker with friends, a game of locks with the family on a Sunday afternoon, there are countless possibilities.
Still talking about the future, we remain attentive to changes in the opening and regulation agenda of casinos in Brazil. We know that this still requires some process, but we've come a long way in recent years, with the great recognition of poker as a sport of the mind. This advance would certainly bring benefits to Brazil, which is in the common interest of all.
Copag is synonymous with category, with playing cards, with joy, with the meeting of generations. We produce something that is accessible and democratic. It is extremely gratifying to know that our products dominate the home and have an emotional connection in the affective memories of Brazilians. And we are ready for much more.
Who is with us is in the game!
Ana Carolina Gonçalves
Copag’s CEO and EVP Latam Grupo Cartamundi
