Manz AG has signed a cooperation agreement with adidas AG to build on the successful development of the new automated production technology for sports equipment. With this flexible technology, the design of custom-tailored shoe components, textiles and accessories can be transitioned into production data and produced on a fully automated basis in the future. In connection with the partnership, the technology will be implemented in so-called "Speedfactories," first in Germany and the USA, and ultimately worldwide. In these "Speedfactories", shoes will be produced locally in the target markets in the future. This collaboration with a leading company in the sporting goods industry and the transition of a newly developed technology from pilot production to series production underscores Manz AG's capability to develop innovative solutions for demanding customers from a wide variety of industries.

Dieter Manz, CEO and founder of Manz AG, commented: "Our engineers in our 'New Business' innovation incubator have done pioneering work in developing this technology. The automation of manufacturing and the integration of the end customer in the design of the customized final product open up completely new and innovative business models to our customers … the collaboration with adidas represents the kickoff for us in the field of additive manufacturing technologies. With the ever-increasing customization of final products, this future-oriented technology takes on an even more important role. I see a good development potential for our company in this area.”

In the future local shoe production in "Speedfactories" will enable adidas to manufacture shoes at the consumer's location, in a customized, resource-friendly and cost-effective way. Eric Liedtke, Executive Board Member Global Brands adidas AG: “Speed wins in every sport. And speed is a competitive advantage in our industry, too. Therefore, we are looking forward to working closely with Manz AG as part of our Speedfactory initiative that will allow us bring production closer to our consumer."