French-Brazilian beach shoe maker bullish on Phl

MANILA, Philippines - Beach shoe brand Praiaz is seeing growth potential in the Philippine market, citing the Filipinos’ love for the beach, fashion as well as the young population’s high disposable income.

The French-Brazilian brand has forged a partnership with Terry S.A. for the distribution of their shoes designed to take individuals from the beach to the bar and everything in between, in the country.

Praiaz principal owner Vincent Lelard said in an interview that their shoes are perfect for the country’s beaches and the Filipino lifestyle.

“We decided to launch the brand here because it is a tropical country and Filipinos are very fashion-conscious,” he said.

Terry S.A. managing director Anne Gonzalez said the Philippines is a growth market for Praiaz shoes as the country’s tropical climate has made going to the beach a must for every Filipino.

“But the potential of the business is really in the millennial which is the largest part of the population. They have the purchasing power and they love to travel,” she said.

She said Praiaz beach shoes fill a gap in the market by offering an alternative option to thong sandals or slippers.

The shoes were officially launched in the Philippine market on April 8.

The Praiaz brand is a concept born out of the desire to marry the elements of Rio de Janeiro’s laid-back and chill living with Paris’ superiority in style.

The shoes, which are available in three variants: the Bonito, Bonita and Sarado, retails for P1,995 per pair.

As the shoes are made from the same material as the sole of running shoes, they may be used for all kinds of terrain may it be rocks, the sand or the street.

Aside from providing comfort, the shoes are easy to clean, infused with coconut and vanilla scent, waterproof, buoyant and breathable.

Praiaz shoes are available in the following stores and outlets nationwide: Aloha Boardsports located in Rockwell, Alabang Town Center (ATC), SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, Trinoma, Oceanfront in Festival Mall, Common Thread in Greenbelt 5, Rustan’s Department Store in EDSA Shangri-La and ATC, as well as in The Flatshop in Eastwood and Shangri-La Boracay.

The shoes may also be purchased online by visiting www.pormada.com and www.ava.ph.