Business initiatives in the field of social assistance and welfare in Portugal: The case of Mundet & C.ª, Lda.’s social policy (1930-1953)

Abstract

This article focuses on the corporate social practices provided by the cork company Mundet & C.ª, Lda. for its workers and their families. Framed by the corporatist ideology of the Estado Novo, between 1930 and 1953 the company progressively widened the scope of its social intervention, becoming part of a small group of industrial establishments in Portugal which, on a non-profit basis and without financial support from the state, set up private facilities for social and maternal and childcare facilities, welfare, medical and social services and family allowances. By examining the most emblematic social initiatives undertaken by Mundet, this article aims to contribute to a better understanding of the scope of the company’s social work in support of its workers and their families in situations of vulnerability.