Francisco Laranjo
Fernando Jorge
Fortunato Frederico
Founder of Kyaia Group
There may be some who still think that the Fly London brand is actually from London, but in fact it is one of Portugal’s most famous labels. The strategy came from the head of Fortunato Frederico, who bought it from two Englishmen and made it a made in Portugal business. It is the best-known part of a larger universe, the Kyaia Group, which the entrepreneur founded in the 80s and which today also includes the brands Softinos and ASPORTUGUESAS, as well as the Foreva chain of stores. This year he launched Overcube, an online platform for the sale of footwear and accessories by Portuguese brands, which promises to get noticed. The plan has always involved going beyond national borders and reaching as many markets as possible. That is how the group turned 34 years as a leading name, going from 50 to 600 workers, and with a presence in real estate and tourism too. In the midst of all this, Fortunato Frederico also found time to chair the APICCAPS association for 18 years, which he left last year having done excellent work at promoting the sector.
Do you think you are born a leader or do you have to learn to be one?
No one is born a leader. The school of life, and everything around us, is what shapes us. We just have to put into practice everything helps us to achieve our goals in life.
What do you think is the personal trait that has contributed most to your success?
Combining willingness and energy to achieve the projects I’ve been dreaming of.
What are the goals of Overcube for the next five years?
Helping the Portuguese footwear industry to conquer new markets. Supporting new talents in the industry to forge their future. For Overcube to fulfil its role, which is to grow, so that the Kyaia Group, in 2024, achieves the project for growth that was presented in May of 2014, when Kyaia turned 30.
«No one is born a leader. The school of life, and everything around us, is what shapes us»
What do you think is the future of physical stores at a time when online commerce is gaining prominence?
The time will come for a perfect marriage.
As you own a footwear company, do you like to walk?
Not necessarily because of this, but because I like playing golf; it’s the only way to walk for the joy of it and not out of obligation.
