FROM THE BFA
Celebrating excellence in footwear with Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags
“Footwear50 isn’t just an initiative; it’s a celebration and a chance to bring our community together,” says BFA CEO, Richard Shetliffe.
T
he British Footwear Association (BFA) is thrilled to announce the Footwear50 2024 celebration, taking place on 27 November in central London. In partnership with Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags, this highly anticipated event will spotlight 50 influential and inspiring individuals who have made a significant impact on the footwear industry in 2024.
The Footwear50 list is the result of a robust nomination process, supplemented by careful deliberations from the BFA Board. This year, the BFA has received a notable volume of nominations, reflecting the sector’s rich diversity, innovation, and ongoing dedication to excellence. Footwear50 aims to honour individuals across eight carefully curated categories, each highlighting a distinct area of the industry – from retail leadership to sustainability pioneers and independent designers. These categories, which include Retailers, Sustainability Champions, Brands, Manufacturers, Suppliers and Wholesalers, Design Independents, Footwear
Supporters, and Next Generation, represent a holistic view of the industry’s different facets. This year’s nominations highlight the diverse expertise and dedication that drive the footwear industry’s progress, with creativity, innovation, and ethical practices shaping its future.
One of the key highlights of Footwear50 2024 is its role as an industry-wide celebration. The event serves as a valuable opportunity for the entire footwear community to come together. Whether it’s celebrating seasoned professionals who have left an indelible mark on the sector, or recognising emerging talents who are paving the way for
“The British footwear industry’s innovation and resilience are genuinely unparalleled, and we’re eager to shine a spotlight on those who make it so.”
Richard Shetliffe, CEO of the BFA
future advancements, the Footwear50 unites all corners of the industry under one roof. It also provides a rare moment to pause and reflect on the evolving challenges the industry faces, from sustainability to shifting consumer preferences and technological advancements. Set in the vibrant heart of London, the event will offer attendees the chance to network with peers, celebrate achievements, and exchange ideas about the industry’s future. As GianPaola Pedretti, Exhibition Manager at Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags, notes, “By supporting Footwear50, we celebrate the exceptional individuals whose talents and achievements propel the industry forward, and we look forward to honouring them alongside the entire footwear community.”
In a sector that continues to grow and adapt, events like Footwear50 remind us that the driving force behind every advancement is its people – their creativity, resilience, and commitment to making a meaningful impact. Richard Shetliffe, CEO of the BFA, added: “Footwear50 isn’t just an initiative; it’s a celebration and a chance to bring our community together, acknowledge the outstanding contributions, and applaud the pioneers – from those who have long been our industry’s pillars to the emerging stars who promise a bright future. The British footwear industry’s innovation and resilience are genuinely unparalleled, and we’re eager to shine a spotlight on those who make it so.” As a pillar of the UK footwear industry, the BFA operates as a membership-based organisation. Comprising a vast network of UK-based footwear retailers, manufacturers, designers, and wholesaler service providers, the BFA consistently strives to propel the industry forward. With an unmatched repository of resources, government links, and a dedicated commitment to its members, the BFA remains a beacon of expertise, support, advice, and insight.
For more information, search for “footwear50 2024” on the BFA website or find the link via the Footwear Today website.
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