After many years of researching the markets in Arab countries Grendene, one of Brazil's largest footwear manufacturers, has shipped its first order of 15,000 pairs of sandals to Algeria. The shoes bear the same brand names as those sold in Brazil but have been adapted to meet the fashion and size requirements of the Algerian market.

According Doris Wilhelm, Investor Relations manager, the company—which already exports 20% of its production to countries including the USA, Mexico, Spain, France, Germany, the UK, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Surinam and Venezuela—is seeking to further expand into Africa, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.

The company, which turned over R$1.392 million (approximately $700 million) in 2006 and sold 132 million pairs, employs 21,444 people and currently sells to over 60 countries.