COOPERSHOES will return when economic conditions change
Since last September, sneaker manufacturer COOPERSHOES has closed its industrial plant in Las Flores, Buenos Aires Province, dismissing its remaining workers and retaining only administrative staff “while awaiting political and economic changes in 2027,” according to company executives.
The Brazilian-owned company decided to open its new facility in Argentina in 2008. After a successful period during which it employed more than 380 workers, current market conditions led to its closure.
A lack of orders, declining domestic consumption and competition from imported products were the determining factors behind the decision.
The company manufactured sneakers for the brands CONVERSE ALLSTAR, GRIMOLDI and PONY. According to the company's top executive, Markus Heyden, “if conditions change next year, COOPERSHOES will reopen the plant.”