VIAMO clarifies and confirms it remains in operation
Through direct contact between SERMA and VIAMO’s owners -the Chiodini family- the company had the opportunity to clarify its current operational and financial situation, which, in their view, was overstated by the press without a full understanding of the details of the case.
They referred to the severe crisis affecting Argentina’s footwear industry, marked by weakening consumption, indiscriminate import liberalization and a high level of labor-related litigation, all of which have also impacted their company. The company’s executives reaffirmed their intention to continue manufacturing and marketing handcrafted leather products, despite having had to undertake a deep restructuring in order to compete under the current conditions of the Argentine footwear market.
Within the commercial network, the number of sales points was reduced, while in the production area, both staff and physical space were scaled back, with operations now taking place in a smaller industrial plant. Regarding workforce reductions, the company stated that it had complied with all legal and contractual requirements in order to ensure a proper and fair termination process.
As for debts with suppliers, the executives said that payment plans had been agreed upon, which they expect will help the company rebuild its financial capital and fully normalize operations over the medium term.
The company’s management reaffirmed its firm commitment to continue with both the business and the brand, noting that it has built a 38-year track record and reputation in the sector that they are not willing to lose because of a temporary economic situation in the country.
“VIAMO will remain in the market because of its commitment to its history and family legacy, which has always served the community and the industry,” the company stated.
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