Sustainability
An extraordinary tomorrow starts today — by changing the way we design, make, and care for our shoes. For Melissa, sustainability isn't a marketing promise; it's a journey that runs from production to packaging, from the sole to recycling.
Where are Melissas made?
Every Melissa is made in Brazil, in factories 100% owned by Grendene, one of the world's largest footwear manufacturers. Nothing is outsourced; working conditions, fair pay, and career development are guaranteed directly.
How are Melissas made?
Vegan. Since 2017, every Melissa has been registered with the Vegan Society: no animal-derived ingredients are used, and no product is tested on animals.
MELFLEX®. The main material in our shoes is MELFLEX, Melissa's exclusive flexible and durable compound. Its single, simple composition makes our products easy to recycle and repurpose.
Bio-based content. The share of certified bio-based material, derived from sugarcane and vegetable oils, keeps growing: from 26% in 2021 to 48% in 2022.
Eco-friendly production. 100% of the wastewater used in the factories is treated, and 86% is reused.
Low carbon. Since 2018, production has run on 100% renewable energy, backed by more than 4,000 solar panels installed at the Crato factory.
Recycled factory waste. On average, 30% of every shoe is made from recycled factory waste, and 90% of all production waste goes back into manufacturing. The goal: zero waste.
Where does that iconic scent come from?
The bubblegum-candy scent that has become Melissa's signature isn't a fragrance applied afterwards; it comes from a special essence blended directly into the MELFLEX® material during production. That's why the scent is inseparable from the shoe — it's with you from the moment you open the box.
Because it's part of the material, it doesn't harm the shoe or alter MELFLEX's single, simple composition — so your Melissa stays recyclable, scent and all. Top note: bubblegum. Base note: the sweet tutti-frutti of summer, with plenty of nostalgia — an inseparable part of the jelly experience.
How do I recycle my Melissa?
MELFLEX is durable, washable, and lasts for years. When its life is over, the material can re-enter the circular economy: recycled Melissas can become new products, from flooring to furniture. Instead of throwing away Melissas you no longer wear, drop them off at a plastic recycling point in your area.
Sustainability certifications
Audited by independent bodies, these seals show that every step — from the choice of materials to the processes inside the factories — meets strict social and environmental standards.
The certifications belong to Grendene, the manufacturer of Melissa. Every Melissa and Mini Melissa product we sell in Türkiye is made in these facilities.
