AI
FAIST Voices: meet Olifel
Under the FAIST, Olifel, a software provider company based in Felgueiras, is exploring how artificial intelligence can help footwear companies modernise their production processes under the FAIST project
JD Sports to enable direct purchases through AI platforms
The sportswear retailer has announced that its US customers will be able to use AI platforms to search for and purchase sports footwear, apparel, and accessories without having to leave the interfaces
AI has not yet matured sufficiently to meet the specific needs of the industry
This is one of the key findings from the World Footwear Business Conditions Survey, conducted in October and November 2025. We asked our panel of experts to share their views on the impact of AI in the footwear industry. Here’s what they told us
FAIST Voices: meet Atlanta and JPM
Atlanta is a family-owned business specialising in the production of footwear soles. Its main partner, JPM, focuses on providing technology solutions. Together under the FAIST consortium, they are exploring how to replace labour-intensive processes in the footwear sector with technology
AI gains ground across the footwear industry
Artificial intelligence is being increasingly adopted across the footwear industry, with applications ranging from optimising design and production to managing the supply chain and creating smart footwear
Rethinking business models in a changing footwear market
In response to evolving market conditions, footwear companies are reshaping their business models through customisation, digitalisation and the use of artificial intelligence
Global fashion braces for a challenging 2026
According to the latest State of Fashion report, 46% of executives expect industry conditions to worsen in 2026. Tariff pressures and shifting consumer behaviour are key concerns, while artificial intelligence is seen as a major opportunity
Consumer-to-Consumer and a big shift in work culture: how Nicoline Van Enter (Footwearology) sees AI
During the 22nd UITIC Congress in Shanghai in September, we had the opportunity to speak with Nicoline Van Enter, CEO and founder of Footwearology, who shared some valuable insights about AI with us. Watch the video with the converstation now
Christian Decker (DESMA): New technologies require a mindset shift
During the 22nd UITIC Congress in Shanghai back in September, we had the opportunity to talk with Christian Decker, CEO of DESMA, who shared with us some great insights about technology and innovation. Watch it now
Agostino Apolito (Assomac): Robotics and AI are reshaping the footwear and tanning industries
During the last edition of Simac Tanning Tech in September 2025, we spoke with Mr. Agostino Apolito, the Managing Director of the National Association of the Italian Manufacturers of Footwear, Leather Goods, and Tanning Technologies. Watch the interview here
Sergio Dulio (UITIC): AI is an important tool that companies cannot be unware of
The World Footwear attended the 22nd UITIC Congress in Shanghai back in September. We had the opportunity to talk with Sergio Dulio, president of the UITIC, about some of the main conclusions of the congress. Watch the interview below to learn about it
CLIA President points to AI and sustainability as footwear industry drivers
In his speech at the last UITIC Congress, CLIA President Li Yuzhong emphasised the importance of AI and sustainability in reshaping the global footwear industry, presenting China as a key partner
Crocs offers Jibbitz customisation with AI-powered design platform
The US-based casual footwear company has partnered with the AI-powered fashion design platform Ablo to allow consumers to create one-of-a-kind Jibbitz charms
Under Armour hires former Estée Lauder executive to lead its AI and analytics efforts
The sportswear company has appointed Liz Bacelar, the former executive director of global tech innovation at Estee Lauder, to lead its new artificial intelligence and advanced analytics division
World Footwear Voices: interview with Kubilay Genckan from Alibaba.com
Today we bring you a conversation with Kubilay Genckan from Alibaba.com. Watch the new episode of the World Footwear Voices dedicated to discussing some of the pressing issues around the business of B2B platforms-
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Footwear Consumer 2030
A study reflecting on the main global consumer trends and the key changes for the footwear industry.
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World Footwear Public Calendar
Click here to subscribe an updated version of the calendar displaying the footwear trade shows.
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