The transition towards digital technology and the environment is forcing the footwear industry to change. The pandemic accelerated this trend and, at the same time, has impacted the economy, forcing a reorganisation of the supply chain and logistics. In this context of transformation, new and interesting opportunities for creating a different business model are arising. Certainly, things will no longer be the same as they were in the past.
Christian Decker, CEO of Desma Shoemachinery during the Technical Footwear Revolution Summit organised by AMF Safety Shoes confirms that “we are witnessing a strong trend of digitalisation and robotics both in Europe and China, differing from other Asian manufacturers like those in Indonesia and Vietnam. We must consider automation, information technology, and digital expertise as factors that can bring production back from Asia to Europe. Even speed-to-market is an important factor in favour of reshoring: the delivery of goods from China to Asia requires 8 to 12 weeks, which is too long to reply to the demands of the market, like, for example, when certain climatic conditions are required. The same is true of on-demand production and customisation that require quicker response time and accordingly need the support of a shorter supply chain”.
The shortened supply chain is an added value also in helping alleviate the possible effects of global crises, as we saw in recent months: just like ten years ago, when the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjöll erupted, preventing flights and putting international trade into crisis, also the Covid-19 pandemic blocked the supply chain. A network of integrated production is accordingly needed now more than ever before to make up for the damaging effects of events like this one.
How will the new industry be? “Strongly automated and digitalised, capable of processing big data and biometric data provided through the use of footwear, with an intensive use of technologies like 3D printing – declares Christian Decker -. In assembly, we will witness the circulation of thermal fusion, NC stitching, and total melt glue; in the sector of ornamentation, we will go towards personalization. Making headway will be a smart supply chain from design to production planning with the aim of becoming more sustainable and engaging consumers with a new experience. Sustainability will be a key factor also for bringing productions back to Europe: to realise a bona fide circular economy, local production will be essential to reducing CO2 emissions. Additionally, in Europe, there are the technologies and innovation needed to develop new sustainable products”.
“The future has begun – ends Christian Decker, while warning – the next decade will be fast-paced”.
