2022 stands out as a landmark year for J’hayber, the family-owned maker of durable footwear, as it reaches half a century of uninterrupted success. The brand has become a legend in both national and global markets, living up to its motto: 50 years walking with the world.
The anniversary sparked a broad slate of celebratory activities, including the publication of a commemorative book charting the brand’s milestones, a long-running series of campaigns, and fan-driven contests that celebrated loyal customers. There were fifty trips organized for distributors and a formal recognition event honoring the entire commercial network.
Last Friday, in the gardens of the Huerto del Cura hotel, J’hayber hosted an event that brought together the entire Elche-based team—office staff, manufacturing and logistics personnel, and the sports facilities crew. Half a century ago, a determined family, alongside trusted partners, embarked on a business journey that would prove remarkably successful. The evening became a sincere celebration of 50 years marked by hard work, passion, and the deft leadership of the Bernabéu family.
During the gala, the company acknowledged its workforce for contributing to the lama brand’s peak status in the sneaker arena over five decades. The CEO, Rafael Bernabéu, spoke at length about the people who form the company’s large family, naming them individually. He affirmed that the brand remains a benchmark in the country thanks to its human capital, highlighting not only the J’hayber line but also other brands the group has developed over the years. Jhayber Works offers safety footwear and workwear, while Jhayber Padel supplies racquets, shoes, apparel, and accessories for paddle tennis, with courts and equipment exported around the world.
Colleagues at J’hayber also honored the founders, Rafael and Mariano Bernabéu, for their long careers and the positive culture they fostered within the company. The event underscored the values and the respectful treatment everyone has received over the years. A poignant moment came when employees and retirees who joined the company at its start were celebrated, underscoring that the true heroes of the story are the people across departments who have kept the brand’s family ethos alive in Spain and beyond.
Also part of the evening were tributes to figures tied to the brand’s journey, including Eva Latorre, the widow of the iconic basketball coach Antonio Díaz Miguel, and Dani Martín, a beloved singer who helped carry J’hayber’s name globally with emotional videos and collaborations spanning the past fifty years. The brand’s birthday celebration also recognized solo ventures after the departure of El Canto del Loco and the World Padel Tour presence of Agustín Gómez Silingo. Sara Escudero, a well-known actress and TV host, led the event with humor and warmth.
More about J’hayber
Founded in 1972, J’hayber specializes in the design, manufacture, and sale of footwear, textiles, and athletic and lifestyle accessories. The brand maintains strong ties to music and sport through collaborations with notable performers and professional paddle tennis players, such as Dani Martín and competitors like Miguel Lamperti, Gaby Reca, and Agustín Gómez Silingo. With more than 50 years in operation, MADE IN SPAIN remains a hallmark of the company, as seen in the enduring strength and durability of the classic New Olimpo shoe.
J’hayber has long positioned itself as a community-oriented brand, actively supporting local charities and sports clubs and forging meaningful connections within business networks. This heritage of giving back continues to shape its identity as a family business that values people, quality, and perseverance. [Cita: Fuente de la compañía]