about us

Who we are

The Spanish ceramic tile manufacturing industry is one of the most important worldwide and is currently the second largest exporter in volume. Spain has a long tradition in the production of ceramics, and the ceramic industry has an important weight in its economy.

The sector is geographically concentrated in the province of Castellón, next to the Mediterranean Sea, and is formed as a unique industrial cluster in the world with auxiliary industries such as enamels and frits, machinery, with innovation centers such as the ITC or the Jaume I University, etc.

Three out of every four tiles manufactured in Spain are sold abroad and are highly appreciated for their quality, design and versatility. The more than 100 Spanish ceramic tile and flooring manufacturers use the umbrella brand Tile of Spain as a seal of guarantee of a product made in Spain manufactured under the highest quality standards.

A bit of history...

Pottery in Spain has roots dating back to prehistoric times, with evidence of pottery made by prehistoric populations on the Iberian Peninsula. However, it was with the arrival of the Romans that the production and use of ceramics expanded significantly in the region.
With the arrival of Islam in the 8th century, Andalusian ceramics had a great impact on the Iberian Peninsula. The word azulejo, of Arabic origin, designates a ceramic tile covered with an opaque glaze.

In the 18th century, the Royal Factory of Fine Earthenware and Porcelain of l’Alcora was an important production center that promoted this manufacture in an outstanding way. It was the first industrial ceramic factory in the province of Castellón, an area rich in clay soils and water, where there was already a long tradition of popular potteries.

At the beginning of the 19th century, the first factories for the production of tiles were set up in Onda, but it was not until the middle of the 20th century, thanks to the housing construction plans, that the industrial sector took off with a progressive and lasting growth until the present day and spread to other towns in the province of Castellón. Thus was born the ceramic cluster or industrial district with main production companies, auxiliary companies, road and transport network, port, university and technology centers, which together allow a competitive positioning of first magnitude worldwide.

Design

Spanish ceramic tiles are recognized for their level of design and infinite aesthetic possibilities. In terms of shapes and finishes, the Spanish ceramic tile industry is a worldwide reference for its high degree of innovation, wide range and level of design. Spanish ceramic manufacturers offer an infinite catalog of products ranging from the most traditional small-format tile to large-format porcelain tile.

Designers and architects appreciate ceramics for its versatility and beauty. Despite being one of the oldest materials in the world, it continues to impress with both its technical capabilities and the aesthetic options it offers creative professionals.

ascer

We are the Spanish Association of Ceramic Tile Manufacturers (ASCER) that represents and defends the interests of the associated companies before institutions and different public or decision makers. Founded in 1977, it is made up of more than 100 companies that manufacture ceramic tiles. The associated entities represent approximately 95% of the production, being ASCER one of the most representative sectorial associations in Spain. Our headquarters are in Castellón de la Plana because the industry is concentrated in the province, forming a cluster or industrial district. We are a sector with a high degree of innovation and internationalization, our products can be found in more than 180 countries. Thanks to the continuous progress of applied research, processes and ceramic products evolve minimizing the impact on the environment and favoring a sustainable and circular construction.