Our history
Tres Estrellas has been Spain's leading brand of matches since 1887. Today, it is a seal of natural quality and safety in the Spanish market, not only for matches but also for other fire-related products such as briquettes, tablets, and other fire-lighting products.
1831
The first matches were invented, which were lit by rubbing the match head against any surface. The risk of spontaneous ignition was high, and the match head contained highly toxic components.
1836
The first Swedish match factory opens in Stockholm. In Spain, Don Pedro González was the first match manufacturer, operating from Barcelona.
1884
Swedish professor Gustav Eric Pasch invented a scratching surface on the outside of the matchbox.
1887
The "Three Stars" brand was founded and successfully marketed throughout the British Empire. It became so well known for its boxes featuring local customs and tastes that the brand was nicknamed "The Mona Lisa of labels."
1892
To raise money, the Spanish government decided to nationalize the match industry by passing a law to create a state-controlled monopoly, Gremio.
1908
When the Guild's contract expired, the government created a new monopoly to be administered by the Ministry of Finance.
1956
The industry returns to private ownership and the auction is won by the Fierro Group. Two new companies are formed: Fosforera Española and Fosforera Canariense.
1992
Swedish Match acquires Fosforera Española and begins working toward the goal of producing a natural, sustainable, sulfur-free match from renewable raw materials.
1994
The well-established and highly regarded Three Stars brand launches its Spanish branch, Tres Estrellas.