In 1805, a new process to obtain fire was developed. Through the chemical composition of two elements, phosphorus and sulfur, the ignition was achieved and although this composition was rather aggressive, it produced the much sought fire for the user.

This ignition process took several years of research and development in order to produce the marvel of the modern match. To rub it against sandpaper is all that is required to light the match in a paused, controlled and perfect manner.

In 1885, the brothers Leon and Manuel Mendizabal, partnering with the brothers Jose and Pedro de Prida, established in the port city of Veracruz, a match-making company that was named Compañía Industrial de Fosforos y Cerillos.

Due to the location of the factory -very close to the Veracruz railroad central station- the factory was usually called "La Central"; The Central.