Hope in unsteady times
The Portuguese brand Asportuguesas is now looking back on a tenth anniversary. The beginning of the Corona pandemic marks about half of the label’s lifespan. At a time when Lockdown and HomeOffice boom were sold more slippers than ever, that blessing became a problem. “We had a time when sales even more than quadrupled,” explains Kleine.
However, this huge increase in the orders overloaded the supply chain, which was already tense due to the pandemic, not least because of a lack of staff.
“The raw goods did not arrive, the transport routes were critical and there were enormous delivery.” These challenges could not be mastered at the time.
In the meantime, however, these problems have been resolved, explains Kleine. “We have also been able to normalize the prices back to the pre-corona level.” Nevertheless, the brand – like every industry participant, but also the entire economy – has to struggle with the challenges in the market. Against this background, the topic of sustainability with one or the other dealer remains on the outside. “When I ask someone how he is on the subject, it always means that he finds it good and important. But when I ask whether he would pay more for it, it’s difficult.”
And the numerous bankruptcies, not least in the shoe trade, are also difficult for the brand. The bankruptcy of the mail -ordered raccoon, for example, who was characterized by his selection of strictly tested sustainable products, was a severe blow. “Working with raccoon was like a knighthood for us.
I therefore hope that and the other companies that are in trouble will survive. ” Of course, this is challenging times, the sales expert knows, but nothing helps to put your head in the sand. Asportuguesas, meanwhile, adapts to the demand. In addition to the slippers made of cork and felt in winter- which are also worn on the street by Italians and Portuguese- mild bodies in summer as well as Chelsea and sneaker styles expand the offer.
“As a supplier, we should continue to create attractive products, beautiful looks and interesting stories on the one hand, and on the other hand, motivate people with pleasure, optimism and good mood,” said small motto. “And with optimism and good sales, everyone has more fun in the whole thing.”
