The impact comprises reconstruction costs for critical infrastructure, including roofing, filtration systems and warehouses, in addition to export losses resulting from periods of forced operational downtime

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The Portuguese Packaging Glass Association (AIVE) estimates that Storm Kristin has caused damages amounting to several million euros, severely affecting glass manufacturing facilities in Marinha Grande and Figueira da Foz. The impact combines high reconstruction costs for critical infrastructure, including roofs, filtration systems, and warehouses, with substantial export losses resulting from forced production shutdowns.

According to AIVE President Tiago Moreira da Silva, all major industry players in the affected regions suffered significant damage. The storm disrupted operations across six furnaces and 23 production lines, representing approximately 1,000 direct jobs and a daily production volume of around 2,400 tonnes of glass. Some facilities, which typically produce between eight and ten million bottles per day, were completely shut down for up to four days and are now in the process of gradually restoring production capacity. The full cost of repairs and replacement of damaged installations has not yet been determined.

Despite considerable damage to warehouses containing thousands of tonnes of finished stock, companies such as Vidrala, BA Glass and Verallia Portugal have so far managed to maintain customer supply without major delivery delays. In parallel, companies provided extensive support to employees and their families, including fuel, water, food, hot meals, and access to on site facilities.

Industry representatives praised the strong commitment of employees and all parties involved in the recovery efforts. However, AIVE emphasized the importance of swiftly and effectively implementing the government support measures announced in response to the storm. As long as production can be resumed in the short term, jobs are not expected to be at risk.

The association warned that prolonged power outages remain the most critical threat to business continuity in this energy intensive industry. Extended electricity cuts could lead to long term business losses that are difficult to recover and, in a worst case scenario, could result in temporary layoffs or job reductions.

Storm Kristin crossed mainland Portugal in mid week, causing widespread disruption, including power, water and communication outages, infrastructure damage, transport restrictions and school closures. According to civil protection authorities, the storm resulted in multiple fatalities, with the districts of Leiria, Coimbra and Santarém among the most severely affected. The Portuguese government has extended the state of emergency until 8 February.