Stepping Forward
Mario Moretti Polegato ventured out of the family business to create Geox, a globally known brand of high-technology footwear 116
Stepping out of the family business to create one’s own comes with a set of triumphs and challenges. The venturing out of Mario Moretti Polegato, the founder and CEO of Geox, resulted in setting foot in the world by dressing feet with elegant yet comfortable shoes.
“I have decided to dedicate my time to Geox because it has become a large brand with approximately 30,000 employees and 1,200 shops worldwide,” he says, adding that his satisfaction “comes from seeing my idea develop and take hold in the world”.
Rapidly changing global tastes marked by the popularity of fast fashion brands does not faze him as Geox’s emphasis on technology keeps it a step beyond the rest. “Geox is unique, with technology as our true benefit. Once a person uses Geox, that person will discover how Geox is different to other shoes,” he says, adding that globalisation means that consumers, especially the young, are searching for similar fashion elements.
“At Geox, we try to anticipate future problems through the products we offer,” he says. As an example, Mario points to the special, porous rubber soles that promote good ventilation while remaining waterproof. To produce these high-technology shoes, the shoe-making company relies on its research and development facility at the brand’s headquarters in Italy.
“We have 15 engineers at our special laboratory who study the human movement,” he points out, noting that the brand then patents the technologies it produces. “Geox patents its every new idea because we value innovation. We even have many patents for technologies that are not in the market yet, but these are what will help us grow in the future.”
Technology is then intertwined with good design, a hallmark of Italian fashion. Geox, Mario says, collaborates with designers across Europe. “As you know, Italy makes the best shoes in the world,” he says, adding that the Nebula collection is one of the most popular among consumers.
“Geox produces shoes for everybody in the family, be they children, women, or men,” he says, pointing out that the brand is just as perfect for Indonesian consumers. “Geox is highly suitable for the heat, humidity, and rain of the city, which is why we are working with our partners to open shoe stores across cities.”
When not overseeing the production of shoes for Geox’s middle- to upper-segment clientele, Mario says that he rides his bicycle in Italy, especially during the weekends. Another favourite is enjoying wine, with prosecco being his top pick. “Prosecco is made in the region that I live, and I love its fruity, sparkling taste,” he concludes.