Outgoing Assocalzaturifici Chair, Siro Badon described the current state of the footwear sector: “From our survey, it emerged that seven associations out of 10 reported a worsening of their economic situation, from the second quarter of 2022. This data leaves us no choice but to exercise great caution in the second half of this year.”
In his talk, he also explained how the Russian-Ukraine conflict has seriously affected the industry and required footwear companies to embrace diversification.
He added: “We don’t need money randomly thrown at us as a stopgap in emergencies; what we do need is a new industrial policy that promotes our excellence, both in terms of brand and industry.”
Digitalisation and sustainability emerged as priorities for the industry during the meeting, with Badon confirming that, without digital skills and an approach to new sustainable production standards, the industry will not be able to survive global competition.
During the event, Carlo Bagnoli, Full Professor of Strategic Innovation at the Ca’Foscari University of Venice Management Department and Scientific Director of Strategy Innovation, spoke about the founding myth of Italian production for footwear companies and the image of Italian footwear held by clientele around the world.
Spin 360 was present to discuss the VCS project, from the pilot phase, involving three companies in the footwear industry, to the presentation of districts and the illustration of the scientific committee.
The launch of the Micam event was also announced, which is set to take place in September, with an area at the venue dedicated to the Micam Sustainability Lab, “powered by VCS”.
