Portugal footwear industry, renowned for its craftsmanship and quality, is taking a bold stride towards the future with a staggering €600 million investment by the end of the decade. This strategic move isn’t just about churning out more shoes; it’s about propelling Portugal onto the global stage as a leader in sustainable and innovative footwear.
« We’re not focused on quantity, » asserts Paulo Gonçalves, spokesperson for the Portuguese Footwear, Components, Leather Goods Manufacturers’ Association (APICCAPS). « With 80 million pairs already rolling off our production lines annually, our sights are set on optimizing processes and becoming an international benchmark for cutting-edge products. »
This ambitious plan is already in motion. Two major projects, BioShoes4All and FAIST, are spearheading the charge in automation, digitalization, and sustainability, paving the way for completion by 2024/2025.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the initiative. An impressive 150 companies have joined forces with APICCAPS to undergo audits aimed at minimizing energy consumption, optimizing material usage, and embracing eco-design principles. « These audits are crucial for effective change and pave the way for a new generation of eco-conscious footwear, » explains Gonçalves.
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And what exactly will this « new generation » look like? Think fruit peel biomaterials, natural cork and wood accents, and innovative uses of recycled materials, all carefully woven together with a renewed focus on leather’s inherent sustainability. Leather, Gonçalves emphasizes, is « a durable byproduct of the food industry, contributing to the planet’s well-being by minimizing waste. »
But Portugal’s ambitions extend beyond eco-friendly materials. They’re tackling energy efficiency, water conservation, and even the very design of their shoes, ensuring minimal environmental impact throughout the entire lifecycle.
This proactive approach is driven by a clear vision: « 24 million pairs of shoes are produced daily, 90% in Asia, » says Gonçalves. « We believe there’s space for a small player like Portugal, offering a sustainable alternative in a market dominated by mass production. »
With 1,500 companies strong and 40,000 jobs supported, the Portugal footwear industry is a significant economic force. But more importantly, it’s a community united in its commitment to excellence, innovation, and environmental responsibility. As Gonçalves concludes, « This investment is a testament to our confidence. We know Portugal can be a global leader in sustainable footwear, shaping the industry for the future. »