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Mattheis Borg, The Largest Horseshoe Manufacturer In The World, Completes 130 Years Maintaining 100% Brazilian Production And Presence In Over 100 Countries
Amid the mountains of the Fluminense mountain range, a giant of the global industry continues firm in the beat of iron against the anvil. Mattheis Borg, located in Itaipava, a district of Petrópolis (RJ), will complete 130 years in 2025. Recognized as the largest horseshoe factory in the world, the company produces 16 million units per year and supplies not only the national market but also several countries around the globe.
Centuries-Old Tradition With Brazilian Roots
The company’s history began in 1895, still under the name National Nail Factory for Horseshoeing. At that time, animal traction was essential for transportation and agriculture in Brazil.
The company emerged with a focus on horseshoes and nails, and over time, kept pace with technological advancements, withstood economic crises, and adapted to changes in the sector.
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In 1978, the company became part of the international group Mustad, specialized in equine products and present in over 100 countries.
This union marked the beginning of large-scale exports and the modernization of operations. Despite the integration with the multinational group, production remains entirely in Brazil.
“We are world leaders in production, but we take pride in being a company with a Brazilian soul,” affirms the Mattheis Borg management in its institutional channels.
The Importance of Horseshoes For Horses
The horseshoes produced in Itaipava are not decorative items. They serve essential functions for the health and performance of horses. They protect hooves against wear and injuries caused by hard or uneven terrain, in addition to improving the animal’s traction and balance.
Among the benefits are:
- Prevention of cracks and injuries;
- Shock absorption to preserve joints;
- Greater grip on slippery surfaces such as mud and sand;
- Orthopedic corrections with specific horseshoes;
- Weight distribution and comfort for the horse.
These functions make horseshoes a veterinary care and sports performance item. Horses used in rodeo, jumping, racing, or rural traction require models adapted for each purpose.
Production, Employment, And International Reach
The factory in Itaipava employs around 200 direct collaborators. The operation runs at an intense pace. The horseshoes are cast, molded, and finished with precision. The quality control is rigorous. The units go to equestrian centers, breeders, and competitions both inside and outside Brazil.
The product line meets various demands, including:
- Horse racing;
- Equestrian endurance;
- Draft horses;
- Competitions such as barrel racing and rodeo;
- Veterinary orthopedic rehabilitation.
The diversity of models follows the growth of the equestrian sector and the need for more technical, safe, and adapted horseshoes.
Recognition As An Excellent Place To Work
In 2025, Mattheis Borg earned the “Incredible Places To Work” seal, awarded by FIA Business School. The certification evaluates companies that stand out in organizational culture, internal climate, and appreciation of professionals.
The recognition came through practices adopted by the company such as:
- Constant training of employees;
- Encouragement of innovation;
- Well-being and workplace safety programs.
This set of actions reinforces Mattheis Borg’s commitment to its collaborators, which directly impacts the quality of the final product.
Innovation, Sustainability, And Vision For The Future
Even being a traditional industry, the company invests in innovation. The plant in Petrópolis uses sustainable technologies such as material reuse and systems to reduce metal waste. The rational use of energy is also part of the company’s goals.
In addition, partnerships with universities and research centers have generated new orthopedic and therapeutic models. One of the launches is the Mustad Equi‑Librium Air horseshoe, which promises to be 15% lighter, with greater grip and less wear on the horse’s joints.
Connection With The Field, Sport, And Culture
The presence of Mattheis Borg goes beyond the industry. In a country where the horse is still an important part of the field, sport, and culture, the company operates in multiple fronts. Its horseshoes are found in arenas, tracks, farms, and equestrian events throughout the country.
Over the years, the factory has maintained its Brazilian identity while expanding into the world. With deep roots and a forward-looking perspective, Mattheis Borg shows that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand.
Legacy Of The Factory
With 130 years of operation, Mattheis Borg represents not only the largest horseshoe manufacturer on the planet. It also represents the strength of the national industry. Each horseshoe that comes out of the furnaces of the Itaipava factory carries a piece of Brazilian history. From the interior of Rio de Janeiro to the world — one horseshoe at a time.
With information from Compre Rural.
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