Rothy's
Minority investment by Alpargatas (49.9 per cent stake, 2021) · United States
Rothy's is a San Francisco footwear and bag brand known for washable shoes made from recycled materials. Brazilian group Alpargatas, owner of Havaianas, bought a 49.9 per cent stake in 2021. It matters as one of the best known digital native footwear brands.
| Founded | 2012 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Stephen Hawthornthwaite and Roth Martin |
| Chief executive | Jenny Ming (since January 2024) |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, California |
| Investor | Alpargatas (49.9 per cent, 2021) |
| Segment | Digital-native and DTC brands |
| Website | rothys.com |
What is Rothy's?
Rothy's sells washable shoes and bags made from recycled materials, and describes its positioning as classic style, durable design and sustainable craft. The range covers flats, clogs, Mary Janes, loafers, sneakers and slippers, plus totes, crossbodies and backpacks for women, men and children.
History
The company was founded in San Francisco in 2012 by Stephen Hawthornthwaite and Roth Martin and launched its first shoes in September 2016. Jenny Ming, a former cofounder and president of Old Navy, became chief executive in January 2024.
Products and positioning
Rothy's uses thread made from recycled plastic water bottles, knits its uppers in 3D to reduce waste and pairs them with recycled foam and rubber soles. Its factory in Guangzhou, China opened in 2017.
Business model and distribution
The brand is primarily direct to consumer through its online shop, with free shipping and returns. Wikipedia reports about 20 stores as of January 2024, although its infobox lists 34 locations. In May 2024 it launched on Amazon Fashion.
Ownership
In December 2021 Alpargatas, the Brazilian owner of Havaianas, bought a 49.9 per cent stake, valuing the company at 1 billion US dollars. Earlier investors include Goldman Sachs and Lightspeed Venture Partners. Current ownership after 2024 was not verified.
Why it matters
Rothy's helped show that a single material and manufacturing idea can support a scaled, direct to consumer footwear business.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Rothy's?
Alpargatas, the Brazilian owner of Havaianas, bought a 49.9 per cent stake in December 2021. Earlier investors include Goldman Sachs and Lightspeed Venture Partners.
Where is Rothy's from?
Rothy's is a US brand headquartered in San Francisco, California. It was founded in 2012 and launched its first shoes in 2016.