Evereste, one of the oldest Portuguese footwear groups, was founded in 1942 by João Fernandes. The name arose from an ambitious feeling: to reach the peak of the shoes industry. Nowadays, Evereste is one of the most recognized names within the Portuguese footwear industry and is still managed by the Fernandes family, now in its third generation.

The quality of the products and the focus on the medium high segment were always goals set and met by the group. Hence the importance of manual work when manufacturing the shoes, and why machinery’s importance goes to second plan. Many of the shoes are handcrafted and the company has always tried to keep up with the trends, allying quality, fashion and design in its products.

To be able to focus on what’s is driving the business and to have the ability to be determined are key to overcome the difficulties, according to the Fernandes family, and are the secret of the group’ success.

In Portugal the group has 200 points of sale, and Germany and France are important international markets. Production for Portuguese designers and major international brands and new business niches have also contributed to the growth of the group, working on the consolidation of Cohibas, the brand launched in the 90s.

At the moment, Evereste is also working on an alternative assembly line to respond to specific requests for personalized footwear. Customization is a new niche market for the company and results from acknowledging that as the markets change in a more than ever world in motion it is key for businesses to keep up with the latest trends.

More information about Everest and Cohibas please refer to the group’s website.