Our team was invited to Portugal to explore the vibrant footwear manufacturing industry, renowned for its innovation and quality. This visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of APICCAPS, the Portuguese Footwear Association, which unites key players in the sector. Founded in 1975 in Porto, APICCAPS represents the footwear and footwear components industries, as well as leather goods and related equipment, with 700 members dedicated to promoting development in areas such as internationalization, consulting, technical support, and innovation. The anniversary event celebrated five decades of excellence while serving as a platform to discuss the industry’s future. We engaged with industry leaders, learned about the latest technological advancements, and witnessed the commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship that defines Portuguese footwear, highlighting the collaborative spirit driving the sector forward.

The Welcome to the Industry of the Future conference took place on November 18-19, 2024, at the Palácio da Bolsa in Porto, organized by APICCAPS and the Technological Center of Footwear of Portugal. The event highlighted Portugal’s position as the second-largest European shoe producer, having exported 68 million pairs to 170 countries in 2024. President Luís Onofre emphasized the unsustainability of mass production in Asia and Portugal’s potential to lead through innovation. A total investment of 120 million euros over three years aims to modernize the industry, with major projects like BioShoes4All and the FAIST initiative focusing on sustainability and automation. Experts, including Florbela Silva and Sofia Moreira de Sousa, discussed the importance of adapting to market changes and leveraging technology, while Rosana Perán advocated for a balance between progress and tradition. The conference marked a significant moment for the industry, showcasing its commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning Portugal as a leader in the global footwear sector.

The Portuguese footwear industry is focusing on enhancing production capabilities and efficiency through automation and advanced technologies, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and materials shaping its future.

The Director of CTC’s Innovation and Digital Manufacturing Unit highlights the need for Portuguese companies to optimize processes and improve competitiveness, while Flórbela Silva envisions innovation in the footwear production chain, including modular assembly units and investment in local production of advanced technologies to reduce imports.

A significant financial commitment of €140 million is planned by the footwear sector by the end of 2024, with an additional €80 million dedicated to sustainable solutions under the bioco-my plan.

The FAIST Agenda aims to create Agile, Intelligent, Sustainable, and Technological factories to enhance efficiency, profitability, and product differentiation, involving 42 co-promoters with a budget of €50 million for automation and robotics.

Meanwhile, the BioShoes4All project, which includes 70 partners, focuses on sustainable footwear solutions, addressing ecological transition and digital transformation.

The industry has launched an international awareness campaign promoting conscious consumption, urging a shift towards sustainability in footwear production, and positioning Portugal as a leader in high-tech footwear, with brands like Birkenstock, Burberry, and Nike utilizing Portuguese technology.

In 2024, Portugal produced 76 million pairs of shoes, with exports reaching €2.1 billion, accounting for 90% of production, and significant markets in Germany, France, and the Netherlands.

The Strategic Plan for 2030 aims for a €600 million investment to enhance sustainability and innovation.

Experts, including Annika Breidthardt from the European Commission, praise the impact of the PRR on strengthening the Portuguese economy, while Fernando Vasconcelos emphasizes the importance of innovation for maintaining competitiveness against Asian markets.

Looking ahead, the industry is developing 34 innovative products and 20 software solutions aimed at improving production processes, alongside new lines of footwear made from sustainable materials such as olive residue and coffee grounds, set to redefine sustainable fashion.

The Portuguese footwear industry is at a pivotal moment, leveraging innovation, sustainability, and collaboration to enhance its global standing and aiming to become a leader in modern, responsible footwear production, setting a benchmark for the industry worldwide.

Special thanks for invitation and organisation

The Portuguese Footwear Association

Paulo Gonçalves

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