With a portfolio that includes aviation giants like Emirates, Qatar Airways, FlyDubai, and TAP, as well as cruise lines and even the Swedish police, Skypro’s reach is vast and growing. Recently, the company secured new contracts with Royal Jordanian Airlines and Air Arabia, while preparing to raise significant capital to fuel its ambitious expansion plans.

The journey of Skypro began in an unexpected way. Its founder transitioned from the financial markets, telecommunications, and information systems to retail with franchises like Lanidor and Aerosoles. However, it was the bankruptcy of Aerosoles in 2008 that gave rise to the idea of Skypro. Grounded in a deep understanding of the needs of aviation professionals, Skypro introduced the world’s first footwear designed specifically for this demanding sector. Since then, the company has expanded its client base to include some of the most prestigious airlines in the world, such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, NetJets, Royal Air Maroc, and Norse.

Around six years ago, Skypro expanded beyond footwear and entered the corporate clothing market. This move allowed the company to offer a comprehensive solution for airlines, dressing crew members from head to toe, including accessories like belts, gloves, and wallets. Skypro’s CEO has ambitious plans for the company’s future, aiming to establish it as the "Nike" of the global corporate wear industry. By diversifying into other sectors such as hospitality, cruises, and public security, the company is ensuring it does not rely solely on the aviation sector. This strategic move has already borne fruit, with the Swedish police among its clients and ongoing negotiations with other European law enforcement agencies.

Skypro’s growth trajectory is impressive. In 2023, the company achieved a turnover of 8.7 million euros, up 1.3 million from the previous year, with projections for 2024 set between 11 and 12 million euros. Remarkably, over 90% of its sales come from international markets. With clothing accounting for 75% of its sales and footwear the remaining 25%, Skypro manages the creation and development of all its products in-house, while production is subcontracted to factories in Portugal, Morocco, and Asia. The company currently employs thirty-three people but plans to double its workforce within the next two to three years to support its expected growth.

Looking ahead, Skypro has set its sights on surpassing one hundred million euros in turnover within the next three to four years. To achieve this, the company is planning a significant investment round, expected to be completed by the end of September, with a target of raising between seven and nine million euros. This capital will be crucial for its expansion, including opening new offices in Germany and France by the end of next year.

Skypro’s recent success includes securing contracts to supply footwear for the cabin crew, pilots, and ground staff of Air Arabia and Royal Jordanian Airlines. These four-year contracts are valued at 350,000 euros and 200,000 euros annually, respectively. Additionally, Skypro has renewed its contract with FlyDubai, which generates 700,000 euros per year.

As Skypro continues to expand its footprint in the corporate wear industry, it remains committed to its goal of becoming a global leader. With its innovative products, strategic diversification, and ambitious growth plans, Skypro is well on its way to achieving this vision.

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes