Early Life
Pedro Grendene Bartelle was born on January 23, 1950, in Farroupilha, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. He was born into a family with an entrepreneurial spirit. In the early 1970s, his entrepreneurial journey began with his twin brother, Alexandre, with support from their grandfather. They started with Plástico Grendene Ltda., which produced screens for wine bottles.
Rise to Success
The family's focus shifted to footwear, and in 1978, they launched the Nuar brand of sandals. A year later, in 1979, they launched Melissa, one of their most successful brands. They introduced Rider sandals, in 1986, catering primarily to the male market. In the 1990s, the company expanded, moving to Fortaleza and later establishing a factory in Sobral, Ceará. Grendene went public in 2004, accelerating its growth and becoming a major exporter.
Key Business Strategies
Bartelle's leadership is characterized by innovative strategies, contributing to Grendene's success. The company expanded its brands through strategic partnerships and investments. Grendene’s revenue has surpassed billions of dollars annually. Bartelle also diversified into other ventures, including the Nelore Grendene, a major producer of Nelore bulls. He is known for seeking innovation in all his business endeavors. In 2013, he stepped down as Grendene's CEO.
Philanthropy
Beyond his business achievements, Pedro Grendene Bartelle is recognized for his commitment to social causes. He supports initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.