Argentina footwear sector sees retail expansion and manufacturing closures

The Argentine footwear sector is experiencing contrasting shifts as international brands expand while local manufacturing faces closures.

Lifestyle brand Cole Haan has entered the Argentine market, opening its first physical store in Buenos Aires at Galerías Pacífico. The company has also launched an e-commerce platform for the country, offering a range of footwear for men and women. This move follows a trend of international brands increasing their presence in the region.

Conversely, the manufacturing sector is facing significant challenges. Coopershoes, which produced Converse sneakers at its plant in Las Flores, has dismissed its remaining production workers. While company leadership previously denied rumors of a shutdown, the footwear workers' union (UTICRA) has stated that the definitive closure of the facility is now a certainty. The plant, which once employed approximately 150 people, is currently operating with only five administrative staff members.