AMAL SOAP Company Profile

Background

Overview

AMAL SOAP is a social enterprise based in Portugal, dedicated to producing handmade soaps crafted by migrant and refugee women. The name "AMAL" translates to "hope" in Arabic, reflecting the company's mission to empower these women through flexible employment opportunities, enabling them to support their families, develop new skills, and integrate into their new communities.

Mission and Vision

The company's mission is to promote the inclusion of refugees in the job market by providing them with meaningful employment in soap production. Their vision is to build a world with room for everyone, fostering intercultural understanding and economic empowerment.

Primary Area of Focus

AMAL SOAP specializes in the production of artisanal soaps made from natural ingredients, inspired by the ancient traditions of Aleppo soap from Syria. Their products are biodegradable, vegan, and free from palm oil, catering to consumers seeking eco-friendly and socially responsible personal care products.

Industry Significance

Operating within the social enterprise sector, AMAL SOAP addresses critical social issues such as refugee integration, women's empowerment, and sustainable production practices. By combining traditional soap-making techniques with social impact initiatives, the company contributes to both cultural preservation and social change.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Empowerment and Integration: Provide employment and training to migrant and refugee women, facilitating their economic independence and social integration.

Sustainable Production: Utilize natural, biodegradable ingredients to produce eco-friendly soaps, aligning with global sustainability trends.

Cultural Exchange: Promote intercultural understanding by sharing the rich history and traditions of Syrian soap-making.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Artisanal Soap Production: Crafting soaps using traditional methods, ensuring high quality and authenticity.

Social Entrepreneurship: Implementing business models that prioritize social impact alongside financial sustainability.

Key Technologies Utilized

Traditional Soap-Making Techniques: Employing age-old methods to create high-quality, natural soaps.

E-commerce Platforms: Utilizing online sales channels to reach a broader customer base and support the business's growth.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Eco-Conscious Consumers: Individuals seeking sustainable and ethically produced personal care products.

Supporters of Social Causes: Customers interested in supporting initiatives that empower refugees and promote cultural integration.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

In 2017, AMAL SOAP launched a crowdfunding campaign aiming to raise €2,500 to support the production and distribution of their soaps. The campaign successfully raised €2,775, exceeding the target by 11%.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

The initial crowdfunding campaign attracted 111 backers, including individuals from various backgrounds who supported the social enterprise's mission.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds raised were allocated towards:

Production Costs: Sourcing natural ingredients and materials for soap manufacturing.

Marketing and Distribution: Promoting the brand and expanding its reach to new customers.

Operational Expenses: Supporting the daily operations of the business, including wages for the artisans.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

AMAL SOAP's product line includes various soap scents such as bay leaf, lavender, lemongrass, rosemary, and mint. Each product is crafted to meet the needs of eco-conscious consumers seeking natural personal care options.

Stages of Product Development

Recipe Development: Refining soap formulations to ensure quality and authenticity.

Production Scaling: Increasing production capacity to meet growing demand.

Market Expansion: Exploring new sales channels and partnerships to broaden the customer base.

Target Conditions

The company focuses on producing soaps that are biodegradable, vegan, and free from palm oil, catering to consumers with specific ethical and environmental preferences.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for future product developments and market expansions are not publicly disclosed.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

AMAL SOAP employs traditional soap-making techniques inspired by the ancient Aleppo soap from Syria, ensuring high-quality and authentic products.

Significant Scientific Methods

Natural Ingredient Sourcing: Selecting high-quality, natural ingredients to create effective and eco-friendly soaps.

Sustainable Production Practices: Implementing methods that minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Currently, there is no indication that AMAL SOAP utilizes AI-driven technologies in its operations.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

Benedita: Co-founder who initiated the project after meeting a Syrian family in Portugal, leading the social entrepreneurship efforts.

Michele: Co-founder involved in the development and execution of the business plan, focusing on the integration of refugees.

Lauranne: Co-founder contributing to the strategic direction and growth of the enterprise.

Duarte: Joined the team to work on the soap recipe, ensuring product quality and authenticity.

Pedro: Assumed a leadership role, overseeing operations and strategic initiatives.

Fanny and Graça: Joined the team in 2020, contributing to production and community engagement efforts.

Leadership Changes

In 2020, Fanny and Graça joined the AMAL SOAP team, bringing new energy and perspectives to the organization.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for eco-friendly and socially responsible personal care products is growing, with consumers increasingly seeking products that align with their values. AMAL SOAP operates in a niche segment, focusing on artisanal, natural soaps produced by migrant and refugee women.

Competitor Analysis

While specific competitors are not detailed, AMAL SOAP faces competition from other artisanal soap producers and eco-friendly personal care brands. However, its unique social mission and focus on refugee integration provide a distinct competitive advantage.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Significant Collaborations

In December 2023, AMAL SOAP became part of MEERU | Abrir Caminho, constituting the organization's social business and leading to the creation of the AMAL Academy.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions