Adelante Shoe Co. is a social enterprise founded in 2016 by Peter Sacco. It operates on a unique made-to-order model, connecting customers directly with skilled artisans in Pastores, Guatemala, who handcraft high-quality leather footwear. The company is committed to ethical production and transparency, notably by paying its craftsmen the 'Vivax' (Living Well) wage, which is significantly above fair trade standards, aiming to foster sustainable economic development and community empowerment. Adelante's approach emphasizes not only quality craftsmanship but also a personal connection, allowing customers to 'meet' the artisan making their shoes online, thereby enhancing the value and story behind each pair.
The Cambridge office serves as the administrative, strategic, and market-facing hub, managing e-commerce, brand development, customer engagement, and coordinating with the Guatemalan production teams.
While specific details of the Cambridge office are modest, its true notability lies in its function as a lean operational center that supports a globally-conscious, ethical manufacturing model. The focus is less on physical infrastructure and more on efficient, mission-driven operations.
The work culture is likely entrepreneurial, mission-driven, and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on social impact, ethical practices, digital innovation, and fostering a connection between customers and the Guatemalan artisans.
The Cambridge headquarters is significant as it bridges Guatemalan craftsmanship with the U.S. market and beyond, driving the commercial success that enables the company's social impact programs in Guatemala. It's the nerve center for their ethical e-commerce model.
Adelante Shoe Co. demonstrates a focused global presence centered on its unique production and sales model. Production is entirely based in Pastores, Guatemala, leveraging local artisan skills. Sales and marketing are primarily targeted towards customers in the United States, managed from their Cambridge, MA office, with e-commerce capabilities allowing for a broader international reach. Their operational model inherently supports global logistics, cross-cultural collaboration, and a commitment to international social responsibility through fair labor practices in Guatemala.
12 Eliot St
Cambridge
Massachusetts
USA
Address: Workshop operations are centered in Pastores; specific artisan workshop addresses are generally kept private to respect the artisans' work environments. Adelante coordinates with a network of workshops in this town.
This location serves as the primary production hub, empowering local artisans through fair 'Living Well' wages and stable employment. It preserves and promotes traditional Guatemalan shoemaking craftsmanship while driving economic development within the community.
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As of April 2025, Adelante' leadership includes:
Adelante has been backed by several prominent investors over the years, including:
No major publicly announced executive new hires or departures at Adelante Shoe Co. have been noted in the last 12 months. The core leadership team, including the founders, continues to guide the company's mission and growth.
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Adelante Shoe Co. primarily utilizes a first name-based email format for its team members, which is common for companies fostering a direct and personal approach to communication. Other standard formats might be used less frequently.
[first]@adelanteshoe.co (e.g., peter@adelanteshoe.co)
Format
peter@adelanteshoe.co
Example
80%
Success rate
Gear Patrol • February 7, 2024
Gear Patrol highlighted Adelante Shoe Co. in its updated guide to the best made-to-order boots, recognizing the brand for its quality craftsmanship, customization, and ethical production model connecting consumers with Guatemalan artisans....more
Heddels.com • December 1, 2023
Heddels.com featured Adelante Shoe Co., emphasizing their commitment to high-quality Goodyear welt construction, premium materials, and the unique business model that creates a direct link between customers and the artisans in Guatemala....more
Forbes • May 9, 2023
Forbes magazine showcased Adelante Shoe Co.'s innovative approach to the footwear industry, focusing on its 'Living Well' wage model for Guatemalan artisans and highlighting how purpose-driven strategies can benefit both workers and consumers....more
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