Democrata 10.202.44

In an emotionally charged moment, entrepreneur Urias Cintra describes Democrata Calçados, one of Brazil's leading brands of men's leather shoes, as “my daughter, whom I love.” This deep emotional connection underscores his commitment to the business he founded.

Urias' passion for shoemaking emerged during his adolescence when he sought to contribute to his family's income. At just 14 years old, having completed only primary education, Urias secured his first formal job as a shoemaker—a decision that would unknowingly nurture his entrepreneurial spirit.

The beginnings of Democrata were humble, starting in 1983 in Franca, São Paulo—the company's current headquarters—with a mere production of fewer than 10 pairs. However, Urias always aspired to something greater. Today, his two factories in Ceará produce 12,000 pairs daily, with 30% of that output earmarked for export. He employs 2,100 workers, all benefiting from an increasingly higher standard of work.

Urias has experienced the highs and lows of the economy and has navigated crises with a calm and focused management style. Democrata was a pioneer in producing men's shoes with comfort soles and developed the exclusive Air technology, which features air bubbles to reduce impact while walking. Furthermore, it revitalized heavy boots and combat footwear with the Garage line, which has enjoyed significant sales success since its launch.

This innovative approach has established the brand's models as benchmarks in the industry, earning recognition not only among Brazilians but also attracting a global clientele. Since 2006, ongoing research into modern technologies and trends in the footwear sector has enabled Democrata to export to over 60 countries across Latin America, the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.