CEC Expands European Footwear Network with Two New Associate Members
LW Desk
The European Footwear Confederation (CEC) has added two new Associate Members to its growing network, Trade Partners Sweden and CAST Trade Platform for the Footwear, Sports & Fashion Industry in the Netherlands.
The move will help CEC bring more companies and organizations from across the footwear industry together. The organization said working more closely across the industry is becoming increasingly important as footwear businesses deal with weak consumer demand, higher costs, geopolitical uncertainty and new regulations.
“By bringing together manufacturers, brands, technology centers, experts, distributors, retailers and other stakeholders, we can share knowledge, identify common solutions and ensure that the expertise of the entire footwear ecosystem is heard at European level,” said Carmen Arias, CEC’s Secretary General.
She also said CEC’s ambition is to strengthen these connections and contribute to a competitive, innovative, sustainable and truly European footwear sector
Trade Partners Sweden has more than 110 years of experience supporting commercial agents, distributors and suppliers in Sweden. Through the Stockholm Fashion District, it also connects businesses from the fashion, footwear and textile industries. Its Stockholm Shoe House has 55 footwear showrooms featuring Swedish and international brands.
Trade Partners Sweden also runs the Swedish Shoe Environmental Initiative (SSEI), which helps footwear companies understand and respond to new sustainability rules and EU regulations.
CAST Trade Platform has been supporting the footwear, sports and fashion industries in the Netherlands and the wider Benelux region since 1984. It brings together more than 500 brands, retailers and industry professionals through showrooms, trade events and digital platforms.
CAST also works on areas such as digitalization, product data, sustainability and compliance with European regulations.
With the two new members, CEC aims to improve cooperation, share knowledge and connect more footwear businesses across Europe. The organization believes that a stronger network can help the industry become more competitive, innovative and sustainable.
