The bad weather in July and August may not have helped retail over the summer, but it would be ill-advised to believe that’s what it’s all about. Despite some improvements in the general consumer price index, the footwear segment continues to show some resistance to going along with the trend. Inflation will have to continue to fall in order to contribute to sustained sales growth in the future, as most consumers have too much on their plate to spend on non-discretionary items. The only positive sign comes from imports, whose data seems to indicate that at least a stabilisation in retail trade is on the horizon   

As the World Footwear Congress draws closer, we give you some more details about the speakers, who will be debating new business solutions, sustainability and circularity, and the future of labour   

The French-based luxury group posted a 13% revenue decline in the third quarter of 2023, as compared to the same period of last year, due to weak performances at all of its main Houses   

The Hong Kong-based group posted its third quarter and nine months results, emphasising that the decline in shipment volumes was partially offset by an increase in average selling prices   

With a degree in architecture, Hélder Santos began his career in the family business, the Portuguese footwear manufacturer Comforsyst, 11 years ago. His aesthetic vision and creative process methodology were essential to the identity he created for the Softwaves brand