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Footwear Industry Leader in Rio Grande do Sul Lays Off Over 190 Employees and Sounds Alarm

Written by Sara Aquino
Published on 18/08/2025 at 10:58
Crise no setor calçadista: em Dois Irmãos mais de 120 desligamentos na Usafex, em Campo Bom foram demitidos cerca de 70 trabalhadores.
Crise no setor calçadista: em Dois Irmãos mais de 120 desligamentos na Usafex, em Campo Bom foram demitidos cerca de 70 trabalhadores. Imagem: InfoMoney
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Crisis in the Footwear Sector: In Dois Irmãos, More Than 120 Terminations at Usafex; In Campo Bom, About 70 Workers Were Dismissed.

A concerning news shook the footwear sector in Rio Grande do Sul. Usafex, a reference in the footwear sector of Rio Grande do Sul, announced this Thursday (14) the dismissal of about 190 employees.

The measure, which mainly affected the company’s units in the cities of Dois Irmãos and Campo Bom, generated an atmosphere of uncertainty and concern among the workers. 

The decision, made as part of a reorganization of the workforce, reflects the difficulties faced by the industry in an increasingly challenging market.

Mass Dismissals and Their Impact on the Cities

The news that the factory is laying off 190 employees was confirmed by the Shoe Workers’ Union, which closely monitors the situation. 

The biggest impact was felt in Dois Irmãos, where the company carried out more than 120 dismissals. The city, which has its economy tied to the footwear industry, felt the weight of the decision.

Simultaneously, the unit in Campo Bom was also affected. In Campo Bom, the Shoe Workers’ Union estimates that between 70 and 75 workers were laid off

The combined measure, totaling approximately 190 dismissals, shows that Usafex is implementing a cost-cutting strategy to remain competitive.

Company Communication and the Future of the Units

In light of the wave of layoffs, Usafex made a statement to reassure the market and the other employees.

In an official statement, Usafex denied any possibility of closing the units located in Igrejinha, Parobé, Campo Bom, and Dois Irmãos

The company stated that the layoffs are part of a necessary strategic adjustment to optimize its operations and that production in the factories will continue in full operation.

The company’s official statement aims to quell rumors and speculation that the crisis in the sector could lead to the closure of units. 

Usafex, a reference in the footwear sector of Rio Grande do Sul, reaffirms its commitment to the communities where it operates, despite the difficult readjustment decisions it has had to make.

The Context of the Crisis in the Footwear Sector of Rio Grande do Sul

The layoffs at Usafex are not an isolated case. 

The footwear sector in Rio Grande do Sul has faced significant challenges for years, such as intense competition from imported products, market fluctuations, and changes in consumer behavior. 

The dismissal of 190 employees is a reflection of this complex scenario.

For the Shoe Workers’ Union, the measure is concerning, but the priority now is to ensure that the labor rights of those dismissed are respected and to seek alternatives to mitigate the social impact in the region. 

The situation reinforces the need for a broader debate about the future of the sector and the search for measures that ensure its long-term sustainability.

Usafex, one of the largest and most important companies in the segment, with its history of success and quality, now has the mission of adapting to a new scenario while maintaining relevance and competitiveness without compromising its operation.

The news that the factory is laying off 190 employees is, therefore, a reminder of the challenges that the industry still faces.

Official Note from Usafex:

“Usafex comes forward to clarify recent information regarding the alleged closure of one of its factories. All the company’s units remain in full operation, including those located in Igrejinha, Parobé, Campo Bom, and Dois Irmãos.

The company has been making strategic adjustments to its operations, including a reorganization of its workforce, aimed at optimizing logistics between its plants and aligning production with market demands. 

This restructuring is part of a long-term plan, designed to ensure greater efficiency in processes and strengthen the capacity to serve customers. We emphasize that these decisions are made based on market studies and operational planning, focusing on the sustainability of the business and maintaining the quality and innovation that characterize the brand’s products. 

The company remains committed to operational excellence and maintaining its quality standards, reaffirming its prominent position in the footwear market and the trust of customers and employees.”

Sincerely, Usafex Team

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Sara Aquino

Pharmacist and Writer. I write about Jobs, Geopolitics, Economy, Science, Technology, and Energy.

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