The Australian extension of UK's Palmaira Sandals has grown exponentially since launching in the Aussie market in 2013.
The local start-up was 18 months in when it ran a “like and share” competition on Facebook.
The lightening bolt moment saw all stock sell out overnight (500 pairs), with followers booming from 3000 to 33,000 within 24 hours.
The two sister-in-laws who run the Australian arm – Jenny Sewell and Gemma Taylor – woke up to 1000 emails in their inbox.
The business has now grown 60% from last year and the expected 2018 turn-over is $3 million.
“We contacted the [brand] and asked to sell them in Australia," Sewell and Taylor said.
"We have seen different types of Avarcas and new the high quality of these and could see how the shape had been tweaked to flatter the female foot.
"We now have the sole distribution rights to selling Palmaira & MIBO sandals in Australia."
A team of four process 100 orders per day, and during peak season there can be a 1000 large wait-list. The brand also garners over 800 online orders a day during peak season.
Sewell and Taylor have since localised select designs, mixing colours and fabrics to suit Australian consumers.
"As we grew we had more of a hand in the design process and took our own direction on colours and fabrics."
The pair will release a men's line in September.
Palmaira Sandals are handmade authentic Avarca's, with a stamp of certification from the Menorcan Government in Spain.
The sandals are made from leathers sourced from animals that are never exposed to cruelty, and the rubber sole is 100% recyclable.