30 Aug Competition, Better Management, Shifting Categories Top Issues In Footwear Factory Report
As footwear brands diversify their sourcing chains, factories around the world are facing new demands and issues according to a report released by the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America. The annual footwear factory survey asks workers and factory owners to weigh in on the biggest challenges, concerns and trends they’re experiencing.
Not surprisingly, Chinese factories are continuing to adjust as brands relocate business abroad, but the adjustments also bring opportunity. FDRA president Matt Priest shares some top takeaways from the report.
China Becomes A Business Hub
While China is still the leader in the number of exports to the U.S., a number of smaller nations and Vietnam continue to take a bite out of the production volume. That pressure was especially obvious as more than 42 percent of factory owners indicated that competition from other outlets was one of their biggest concerns. Competition was also one of the top listed challenges.