Barrett

Barrett was born in 1917 in Parma, from the partnership between the owner of a tannery in London's East End, John Richardson Barrett, and a historic Emilian footwear workshop, "Zanlari e Tanzi". In the early 1900s, Mr. Barrett, on one of his trips to Italy, fell in love with the extraordinary comfort and elegance of the shoes produced in a small workshop in Parma, becoming first a loyal customer, then the main supplier of English-tanned calves. Thus begins the story of Barrett, a tale of craftsmanship tradition and identity deeply rooted in the Emilian territory. A story of people who, for 100 years, with passion, create those products that have always been Barrett's true strength. The outbreak of the Second World War, however, disrupts the balance even in the Parma factory, which is forced to suspend shoe production and convert it into a supply line for the Italian Army on military commission. After the war, production is restarted but struggles to recover. The turning point comes in 1952 when an enterprising gentleman, a great lover of luxury shoes, Eliseo Putzolu, decides to join forces with the intention of restoring Barrett to its former excellence. The rebirth of our country accompanies that of the company, and it is with great satisfaction that Eliseo manages to elevate Barrett to a Premium Brand of men's footwear. In 1999, the company launches its own line of sports shoes with BluBarrett. The new brand succeeds thanks to its cutting-edge design and the casual-chic mood of sneakers, while always maintaining the distinctive craftsmanship and luxury features of Barrett. In the 2000s, the brand becomes an international icon of luxury and Made in Italy, entering increasingly strategic foreign markets for the brand. From the Parma workshop, Barrett shoes land in more than 25 countries worldwide. In contrast to many Italian footwear companies, Barrett has always focused on a policy of centralizing the entire production cycle, with great sacrifices, keeping production in Italy. They believe that only in this way can they guarantee extremely high-quality standards and an excellent product.