Tiago Almeida, born in São João da Madeira, has a master’s in economics and is the face behind BAREBOUND, a new footwear brand that encourages people to "go further” while keeping their feet firmly on the ground.
Was working in the footwear industry a natural choice?
No. Although both my parents are connected to the footwear industry, I never considered entering it myself. Joining the footwear industry was simply a consequence of setting up BAREBOUND.
No. Although both my parents are connected to the footwear industry, I never considered entering it myself. Joining the footwear industry was simply a consequence of setting up BAREBOUND.
How would you define your brand/project, and what makes it stand out in the market?
I would say that BAREBOUND is not just a barefoot footwear brand, but a movement for wellbeing and confidence.
Our main goal is to ensure that people wear shoes that fit the shape of their feet and that they are proud of what they wear.
We greatly value the sense of community and boldness of those who trust their instincts.
Our main goal is to ensure that people wear shoes that fit the shape of their feet and that they are proud of what they wear.
We greatly value the sense of community and boldness of those who trust their instincts.
What have been the biggest challenges so far?
Changing the mindset and habits of a traditional industry to make it adapt to a more demanding and environmentally conscious public.
What advice would you give to a young person just starting out in the industry?
I’m not sure if I am the right person to offer advice, as I am still relatively new to this universe.
But if there is one thing I have learnt over this time that I can recommend to young people, it’s to never stop studying and learning – new things are happening every day. On the other hand, they should think for themselves and never believe in limits. Just because something has never been done before doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
But if there is one thing I have learnt over this time that I can recommend to young people, it’s to never stop studying and learning – new things are happening every day. On the other hand, they should think for themselves and never believe in limits. Just because something has never been done before doesn’t mean it’s impossible.