João Paulo Mateus

João Paulo Mateus is a Brazilian entrepreneur and businessman. He is the founder and CEO of Grupo Mateus, a retail company that operates a chain of supermarkets in the Northeast of Brazil. Mateus was born in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, and grew up in a family of modest means. He started his career as an engraver and later became a garimpeiro, a gold miner. Mateus's entrepreneurial journey began when he started a small business selling cachaça, a type of Brazilian rum, in his hometown. He later expanded his business to include a small supermarket, which eventually grew into a large retail chain. Mateus has been recognized for his business acumen and has received several awards for his entrepreneurial achievements. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in his hometown of São Luís, Maranhão.