Alpargatas Strikes U.S. Deal With Eastman to Expand Havaianas Business

Alpargatas positions itself in the market. The Brazilian giant seals an exclusive distribution agreement with Eastman Group for Havaianas in the United States and Canada to boost the company's business and launch a transition process for the 2026 season.

This move transforms Alpargatas' operating model, which will now shift from direct operations to distribution. Alpargatas will continue to focus on brand development, driving Havaianas' global positioning and strategy.

The agreement, which includes an initial term of four years, does not provide for any initial cash outflow for either party, the company said in an official statement. The terms of the agreement allow for an extension, if certain metrics are met or by mutual agreement.

In the same statement, the company said the "strategic" partnership with Eastman Group will address two objectives. The first will be the use of an operating and commercial model "that allows for efficiency" in costs, since it will be supported by a more "agile" local structure. The second is to strengthen the brand's presence in "strategic" channels, thus expanding its distribution network.

Alpargatas boosts Havaianas' global positioning and strategy.

Eastman Group has been operating in the U.S. market since 1939, with a presence in various footwear, apparel and lifestyle categories, distribution centers on both U.S. coasts and relationships with major retailers through different distribution channels.

The Brazilian giant closed the first quarter of fiscal 2025 with both revenue and profit growth. Specifically, Alpargatas posted sales of 1,092.5 million reais (169.6 million euros) during the first three months of the year, an increase of 12.2%. In fact, the figure has once again surpassed the R$1 billion mark, after closing the first quarter a year ago with a turnover of R$931.8 million (144.6 million euros).

Through Rothy's, the other company in the giant's portfolio, Alpargatas posted sales of 43.4 million reais (6.7 million euros), 26.6% more than in the first quarter of 2024. "Rothy's started the year with a quarter that, despite being one of the least significant for the brand, registered important advances," the group explained.