Our story
Over a century of fragrances and memories
Welcome to a universe where time is measured in aromas and beauty is cared for with soul.
Between tradition and innovation, each soap and fragrance tells a story of family, art, and elegance that spans generations.
The beginning
At the end of the 19th century, Porto already breathed the aromas of soaps and perfumes at Claus C. Schweder, the first soap factory in Portugal. It was in this landscape of innovation and excellence that Achilles de Brito joined the company in 1903 and became a partner in 1908, acquiring a strategic vision for the future.
MADE IN PORTUGAL
In the heart of Porto, two brothers, Achilles and Affonso de Brito, brought Ach. Brito to life, uniting passion and artisanal tradition.
It was not just about soap production, but the beginning of a legacy capable of crossing generations, with distinctive fragrances that preserve stories and memories.
THE AWAKENING OF SOPHISTICATION
The 1920s brought innovation and elegance. Alongside the German perfumer Willy Thessen, the brand elevated the art of fragrances, achieving sophistication and prestige.
The launch of the iconic Patti soap, in homage to the soprano Adelina Patti, symbolized this disruptive attitude. A fragrance that celebrated art, beauty, and refinement which still endures today.
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
Between fairs and exhibitions, the brand began writing its name on the world map, appearing at events such as:
1st Autumn Salon of Feminine Elegance and Decorative Arts, organized by Voga magazine in 1928;
Portuguese Colonial Exhibition of 1934.
Over the years, Ach. Brito has won awards and distinctions at various international fairs, affirming the excellence and prestige of the Portuguese brand beyond borders.
1950
The refined essence
The aura of excellence and well-craft expanded beyond borders. A growing demand that translated into a deepening of the brand’s identity. The brand promoted the cultivation of its own aromatic plants, created the lithography studio, and transformed packaging into true works of art.
TRADITION THAT WRITES ITSELF IN TIME
Celebrating half a century was celebrating excellence itself. The presence of the President of the Republic, Américo Tomás, in 1968 made visible the recognition of a trajectory built with rigor and dedication.
A bridge between past and present, uniting generations through commitment, authenticity, passion and, above all, unparalleled quality.
The arrival of the fourth generation
With the arrival of the fourth generation, Ach. Brito reinvents itself while preserving its personality intact.
In Portugal, it asserts itself as a guardian of tradition and sophistication; around the world, Claus Porto spreads Portuguese aromas, giving them shape in fragrances that tell stories.
New facilities and store opening
In the new millennium, challenges and achievements emerged.
In 2007, Ach. Brito inaugurated modern facilities in Fajozes, Vila do Conde, a space that reflects the ongoing commitment to innovation.
Two years later, the Factory Store opened its doors to all who wish to get to know the brand’s history up close.
2018
THE CENTENARY LEGACY
In 2018, 100 years of history were celebrated—of aromas, beauty, and memories shared with Portugal and the world.
A century perfuming life.
The present
In 2022, Ach. Brito returned to the founding family, currently owned by Aquiles de Brito, the founder’s great-grandson, reinforcing the commitment to the legacy.
The rebranding of the brand identity, in 2025, marks a new repositioning of the brand, where past and future coexist in harmony, perfuming each moment with authenticity and sophistication.