OUR HISTORY
1939-1950s
THE BIGINNINGS
The origin of the actual Gladiator brand can be found in the company Maletas Queralt , which started with a small warehouse in Blancafort where watch straps were made, but soon Luis Queralt saw the needs of the moment and started manufacturing school bags in Montblanc.
Demand was growing and the range of products was expanding. Each model evolved according to the needs of the time. In 1950, 32 different models were manufactured, becoming one of the most important travel suppliers.
1960s
IN CONTINUOUS GROWTH
A new factory was settled by the 60. New facilities and new materials such as skay, a material that would revolutionize the industry. And also new additions, Luís Queralt Jr. starts in the company contributing his desire and youth. And at that time, the son-in-law of Mr. Queralt, Josep Sanahuja Casas, also took part in the workforce, to take charge of the factory management.
They are a time of prosperity with the creation of the brand MALQUER – predecessor and embryo of Gladiator – and new models that fit the needs of consumers: suitcases with all details, bellows, gold or nickel-plated and profiles aluminum. The models and collections multiplied but with a common denominator: quality, comfort and fashion.
1970s
THE HARD SUITCASE ARRIVES
In 1973 its third factory of almost 3000 square meters is inaugurated. The growth and expansion as producers of travel items seems to have no limits, acquiring in those years one of the only two German machines ILLIG that arrived Spain, with which it was possible to manufacture the practical and resistant thermoformed suitcase, known as hard suitcase.
And it is in that decade when Maletas Queralt sponsors the Gladiator brand that has remained until today as emblem of the company. The benchmark in travel, quality, design and functionality. An image that has been modernizing over time and has not lost its essence.
1980-1990s
THE DESIGN ON THE SUITCASES
The 80’s begin with the technological modernization of offices and the introduction of products with a young, daring and sporting spirit. New designs, colors and materials: canvas, plastic and revolutionary designs; Intended for the whole public. Gladiator combines the experience and the youth to satisfy all the demand of the market.
Suitcases Queralt celebrates its 50th anniversary with the prestige of its brands, a strong and powerful customer network and clear ideas.
2000-2010s
THE NEW GENERATION
From that moment a new stage begins with the incorporation of the third generation of the Queralt family. An important change in the production and distribution of travel articles was in the way according to the new context of a more competitive market in a global world.
Experience as manufacturers, care in the designs, materials and a quality after-sales service has allowed Gladiator products to remain in the front line having already reached 80 years of existence and on the way to the 100th anniversary.
Among all we managed to grow as a brand, not just by selling suitcases. Each article helps us to fulfill a dream: the dream of traveling.
And in Suitcases Queralt – Gladiator we hope that this journey undertaken in 1939 will take us together even further afield.