Automation and Sustainability Reshape Footwear

Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

I have over a decade of experience in the footwear industry, with a foundation in footwear technology and a career spanning product development, pattern engineering, manufacturing, and sourcing. I began my career at Good Leather Shoes as a pattern engineer, laying a strong technical foundation in the design-to-production transition. Later, at Fengtay Group, a major Nike supplier, I led commercialization and manufacturing scale-ups, eventually becoming Tech AGM. In that role, I oversaw mass production transitions, efficiency projects, and quality improvement initiatives. Currently, I work with Adidas as a Manufacturing Sourcing Manager, managing end-to-end production across partner factories with a capacity of 1.6 million, ensuring alignment with Adidas standards in quality, efficiency, sustainability, and speed-to-market. Across these roles, I have developed expertise in scaling operations, implementing digital manufacturing tools, and driving supplier performance globally.

Q2. What role is automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing playing in shaping the future scale and efficiency of production?

Automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing are no longer optional—they’re becoming central to scaling efficiency and maintaining competitiveness. In footwear, repetitive and labor-intensive processes such as cutting,…