Nextec Srl, the Italian company behind the OutDry laminated waterproofing technology, has signed a capital/equity agreement with André Bruère, a partner at private equity firm Referencia International.

Born in Brazil, Mr Bruère has a great deal of experience in the footwear industry having held various executive positions at Brown Shoes including VP sales and marketing for Latin America. He also served at Reebok as president of Reebok Mexico and most recently as president of Reebok Italy.

In addition to being chairman of the Nextec board, Mr Bruère will actively participate in the company’s day-to-day operations and will be responsible for developing OutDry technology with a range of international brands, particularly in the US.

Mr Bruère says: “The development work that Nextec Srl has accomplished to-date is excellent and has clearly paved the way for significant growth with OutDry in the coming years. The waterproof market is difficult and somewhat stagnant, but it is also ripe for innovation, better products and ultimately added consumer satisfaction. Those who are in a position to make a difference will be the winners in the decade to come and based on where they are today, OutDry has a real chance to seize this opportunity."

Luca Morlacchi, co-founder of OutDry, says: “We are exceptionally pleased to add someone of Bruère’s calibre to our team to accelerate our growth and trajectory in near term. His experience in the footwear industry across the globe will bring unequivocal knowledge and advantages to our team.”

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