World Footwear

Companies

Portuguese JAK secures foreign investment

Mar 6, 2023 Portugal
Portuguese JAK secures foreign investment
Maisons Julien et Kelly Dassault (MJKD) has formalized a seed investment in the Portuguese unisex sneakers company to support its internationalization efforts
With the eyes set on opening new physical stores in several European capitals, JAK also intends to strengthen its online presence in key European markets for the brand, such as the UK, Germany, and France. Outside the old continent, the company will continue focusing on the US market, which already accounts for 25% of the brand's export volume. Moreover, JAK will also consolidate its presence in Lisbon, developing a global proximity brand experience, with exclusive design stores similar to the already existing points of sale in Chiado, Lisbon, and downtown Porto.

But the commitment to sustainability has clearly been assumed as a crucial element for the company's growth. The brand, which already stands for the production of timeless products capable of satisfying conscious consumption rather than irrational consumerism, is now developing a Vegan product line. The line's first sneaker, made from materials derived from apple, the Royal S01 Vegan, was launched last year.

Founded in 2014 by Isabel Henriques da Silva and José Maria Refóios, JAK is a Portuguese brand of timeless unisex sneakers that sells directly to the end consumer. Its shoes are exclusively made in Portugal, using whenever possible high-quality materials of certified origin and sustainable production methods. The company has been growing its sales systematically at double-digit rates since its inception. In 2022, online sales represented 62% of its turnover, with 95% of this volume being exported to the US (25%), the UK (23%) and Germany (13%).

For more information, please refer to JAK's website.


About MJKD

MJKD is a group focused on impact investments in projects with a well-defined purpose, helping founders implement ethical policies that demonstrate an interest in improving people's living conditions, promoting social relations and ensuring the inclusion of a sustainability strategy in their mission.


Source and Image Credits: apiccaps.pt

Related Organizations

  • CTCP - Portuguese Footwear Technological Centre

    CTCP - Portuguese Footwear Technological Centre

    Portugal
  • CFPIC - Academy of Design and Footwear

    CFPIC - Academy of Design and Footwear

    Portugal
  • APIC - Portuguese Leather Industry Association

    APIC - Portuguese Leather Industry Association

    Portugal
  • APICCAPS – Portuguese Footwear, Components and Leather Goods Manufacturers' Association

    APICCAPS – Portuguese Footwear, Components and Leather Goods Manufacturers' Association

    Portugal