The TCLF sector is present and established all over Europe, with various traditions and expertise that were cultivated over time. We asked a number of professionals, experts, and students from six different countries for their thoughts on the TCLF sector’s present and future outlooks. Take a look at their interviews and tell us what you think.

ITALY – A perceptive revolution will bring the younger generation closer to the footwear sector

Daniela Diletti, an entrepreneur and teacher in the footwear sector, emphasises on the need to revolutionise the way in which the sector is perceived, in order to draw young people closer. She adds that the sector needs to be recognised, not as a place for those ‘unworthy’ of higher education, but as ‘the place to be’ for all entrepreneurial souls and creative hands!

SPAIN – Connecting the newer generation to an industry rich in history

The importance of guaranteeing the industry’s handover to the younger generation, and the continued sustainability of the craft industry – these are core objectives for Miriam Arrechea, the Deputy Director for Projects, Competitiveness, and European Affairs at Federación de Industrias del Calzado Español (FICE). Arrechea added that both technology and industry 4.0 would facilitate the shaping of a new future for the TCLF sector.

GERMANY – The huge growth potential of the textile and clothing industries

The textile and clothing industries are at the core of the labour market, and offer much growth potential across many different fields, including mobility, construction, and medicine. Furthermore, the world of footwear offers much room for potential innovation and change – while maintaining an ever-watchful eye on the principles of sustainability.

ROMANIA – Building your own personality while keeping a responsible attitude towards the environment

Gheorghe Bostaca reveals how working in the TCLF industries means so many things: from the realisation of one’s own image up to being part of a world that’s ever-changing and evolving, depending on trends and needs. Not only new methods for reusing classic materials, but also the use of plant fibres such as seaweed and oranges that help to reduce the consumption of water and chemicals.

PORTUGAL – Eyes wide open to the world and traditions passed down through generations

Internationalisation is the keyword, according to Paulo Gonçalves: the footwear industry in Portugal exports up to 95% of its entire production and this means the conquest of new markets is an absolute priority. Gonçalo Santos, in the meantime, takes us on a romantic trip in the leather sector, where family traditions and the beauty of this material merge, making us dream.

POLAND – From raw material to an elegant accessory: the fascinating world of leather

Krzysztof Chudy from Poland reveals how he got fascinated by the world of leather since childhood. A passion instilled by his father for a material that at the beginning of its lifecycle is the result of recycled waste/residue from the meat industry and then turns into the symbol of sophistication and style we all know so well.