29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Mass market and fast fashion

Pernambucanas

Brazil

Pernambucanas is a Brazilian department store chain founded in 1908 that sells fashion, home textiles and household goods. It operates hundreds of stores across Brazil and is known for offering accessible credit to customers.

Facts
Founded1908
OriginBrazil
StoresAround 485
Coverage15 states and the Federal District
Websitepernambucanas.com.br
Segment
Value
Categories
WomenswearMenswearHome
Sales channels
Own storesE-commerce

What is Pernambucanas?

Pernambucanas is one of Brazil's longest-running retailers, officially founded in September 1908. Swedish immigrant Herman Theodor Lundgren is regarded as its posthumous founder, and the business was registered as Arthur Herman Lundgren & Cia.

History

The company has roots in both Pernambuco and São Paulo, where its first store opened on Praça da Sé. It originally specialised in popular textiles such as chintz and printed fabrics, together with bed, table and bath linen.

Products and positioning

Today Pernambucanas sells fashion clothing, home products and computing items in a value-oriented format. Its longevity is linked to products and financial services designed to suit customers' budgets, and it is credited with pioneering instalment purchasing in Brazilian retail.

Distribution

The chain operates around 485 stores in 15 Brazilian states and the Federal District, alongside its online shop.

Why it matters

Pernambucanas is a reference point for mass-market fashion retail in Brazil, combining apparel and home textiles with consumer credit for a broad customer base.

Frequently asked questions

When was Pernambucanas founded?

Pernambucanas was officially founded in September 1908.

What does Pernambucanas sell?

Pernambucanas sells clothing, home textiles, household goods and computing items, along with financial services.

All brands