Manufacture of footwear

NACE code 15.2 covers the manufacture of footwear, a critical industry that plays a vital role in the global economy. Footwear production is a labor-intensive process that transforms raw materials into a diverse range of products, from everyday casual shoes to high-end fashion items. This industry not only meets the basic needs of consumers but also serves as an important contributor to the textile and apparel sectors.

The manufacture of footwear typically involves several key steps. The process begins with the selection and preparation of materials, such as leather, synthetic fabrics, and rubber. These raw materials are then cut, shaped, and assembled using specialized machinery and techniques, including stitching, molding, and gluing. The final products undergo quality control checks before being packaged and distributed to retailers or wholesalers.

The footwear manufacturing industry relies on a variety of inputs, including leather, textiles, rubber, and plastics. Additionally, the industry requires specialized equipment and machinery, such as cutting machines, sewing machines, and molding presses. Skilled labor, particularly in areas like pattern design, stitching, and finishing, is also a critical input for this industry.

The primary output of the footwear manufacturing industry is, of course, a wide range of footwear products. These include shoes, boots, sandals, and slippers, which are then distributed to 47.72 Retail sale of footwear and leather goods and 46.16 Agents involved in the sale of textiles, clothing, fur, footwear and leather goods for sale to consumers. The footwear industry also supplies its products to other related industries, such as 14.11 Manufacture of leather clothes and 15.1 Tanning and dressing of leather; manufacture of luggage, handbags, saddlery and harness.