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Billionaire Profile
Alexandre Grendene Bartelle
Global Rank
#1706

Image: Unsplash Contributor | Unsplash License | via Unsplash

Alexandre Grendene Bartelle

CEO, Shoes
BRAZIL
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.471B
Estimated based on Shoes stock value as of April 20, 2026
+0.18% (24h)
Age
76
Source
Shoes
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
BRAZIL

Biography

Alexandre Grendene Bartelle, a Brazilian billionaire born in 1950, is a prominent figure in the fashion-retail industry. He co-founded Grendene S.A. with his twin brother, Pedro Grendene Bartelle, in 1971, growing it into one of the world's largest sandal manufacturers. His source of wealth stems from his stake in Grendene, and he has expanded his investments into other sectors. As of March 2026, his estimated net worth is 2.3 billion USD, and he remains the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Grendene. He has also invested in real estate in Brazil and Uruguay. Alexandre Grendene Bartelle holds a law degree from the University of Caxias do Sul.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Alexandre Grendene Bartelle was born on January 2, 1950, in Farroupilha, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. He has a twin brother, Pedro Grendene Bartelle. He studied at the Universidade de Caxias do Sul, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Law.

Rise to Success

In 1971, Alexandre and his twin brother Pedro co-founded Grendene. With financial and personal encouragement from their grandfather, they started with plastic packaging for wine bottles. They soon transitioned to producing plastic components for farm machinery and then to soles and heels for footwear. Grendene produced its first sandal, the Melissa Aranha, in 1979. Over the years, Alexandre played a key role in the company's growth through innovative concepts, technologies, products, and designs. The company is now the world's largest sandal manufacturer.

Key Business Strategies

Alexandre Grendene Bartelle co-founded Grendene, which has become a major player in the fashion-retail industry. He has been instrumental in developing innovative concepts and designs. The company has expanded its operations globally. Grendene owns successful brands, including Melissa, Rider, Grendha, and Ipanema. In 2013, Alexandre stepped down as CEO but remained chairman.

Philanthropy

Alexandre has supported organizations like Instituto Grendene, demonstrating a commitment to community development. In 2015, he donated funds for the construction of a veterinary hospital in Porto Alegre.

Career Milestones

1971

Co-founded Grendene

Co-founded Grendene, a sandal manufacturer, with his brother Pedro Grendene Bartelle.

2013

Stepped down as CEO of Grendene

Remained as the company's chairman.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare

Veterinary Hospital Donation

Undisclosed

Donated funds for the construction of a veterinary hospital in Porto Alegre in 2015.

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