Elche will take a prominent place on the international footwear stage when the European Footwear Confederation convenes its plenary session at the Ciutat d’Elx Congress Center. This gathering marks a significant moment for the Spanish footwear sector, which is a cornerstone of the region’s economy. The Confederation, known as the European Footwear Confederation (CEC), represents a network of about 19,000 footwear companies employing roughly 240,000 people across Europe.
During this pivotal event, Spain will assume the presidency of the Confederation, with its national federation presiding over the transition from the outgoing president, Luis Onofre of Portugal, to Rosana Perán of Elche. This leadership change underscores Spain’s growing influence in European footwear policy and strategy.
The meeting is organized under the auspices of the Elche City Council and in collaboration with Caja Rural Central, Clave i, and Shoes Dusseldorf. Delegations from major producing countries will participate, including representatives from France, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Romania, and Hungary, alongside members of the national shoe federations from Spain and other key partners.
Objective: Boost European Competitiveness
The European Footwear Confederation serves as the umbrella for the European footwear industry, with a mission to strengthen the competitiveness and growth of member companies. It actively supports industry interests within European institutions and fosters cross-border initiatives to launch new projects. The federation encourages collaboration across Europe to drive innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation in the sector.
The event also highlights a broader commitment to sustainability and responsible production. By supporting modernization and digitalization, the Confederation aims to help companies meet evolving consumer demands for high-quality, environmentally friendly products while maintaining competitive pricing and efficient supply chains. This aligns with regional and national strategies to promote responsible industry standards and sustainable growth.
A morning session is scheduled to begin around 11:30, when Spain will formally assume the chairmanship of the CEC. The agenda will focus on strategic priorities for the European footwear sector, including standards, trade policy, and collaborative projects that advance research, innovation, and market access for European brands.
Attendees will include the president of the Valencian Community, the Industry Minister, and other senior regional and national representatives. The event will also bring together business associations, labor unions, and public institutions from across the country to discuss shared goals and opportunities for cooperation in the footwear industry.
In summary, the gathering at Ciutat d’Elx positions Elche as a pivotal hub for European footwear policy, signaling a renewed emphasis on sustainability, digitalization, and international collaboration within the sector. The leadership transition further cements Spain’s role in shaping the future of European footwear while highlighting Elche’s enduring influence in the industry.