Automation and Digitalisation Reshape European Footwear and Leather Machinery Industry
VDMA TFL study examines industry development through 2045, highlighting technology, specialisation and new business models
The European footwear and leather machinery industry is undergoing changes driven by global competition, technological innovation, automation and digitalisation. A new study by VDMA Textile Care, Fabric and Leather Technologies (VDMA TFL) examines the development prospects of the European footwear and leather machinery industry through 2045 and identifies technological innovation, specialisation and customer value as key areas for future competitiveness.
VDMA TFL Presents Study on Industry Outlook Through 2045
The study, titled “Threads of the Future – Footwear and Leather Technology Edition,” was presented by VDMA TFL on 16 September 2026 during a press conference at SIMAC Tanning Tech in Milan.
Conducted by consulting firm Gherzi on behalf of VDMA TFL, the study analyses the long-term development prospects of the European footwear and leather machinery industry, covering footwear manufacturing, automotive interiors and leather goods.
“The future of European footwear and leather technology will largely depend on how successfully companies combine automation, digitalization and new business models,” said Elgar Straub, Managing Director of VDMA Textile Care, Fabric and Leather Technologies. “The study identifies where the greatest opportunities for innovation and growth lie and highlights the strategic decisions companies need to take today.”
Technology Identified as Key to Competitiveness
The study focuses on automation solutions, digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and new data- and service-based business models. According to the analysis, European manufacturers can strengthen their competitiveness through technological leadership, specialisation and high customer value.
Connected production systems and digital services across the value chain are also becoming increasingly important. The study indicates that machinery suppliers are facing higher demands as customer requirements change, innovation cycles become shorter and manufacturing processes become more digitalised.
Future machinery solutions are expected to increasingly integrate machinery, software, data and services.
Adjacent Markets Offer Further Growth Potential
Beyond traditional application areas, the study identifies opportunities in adjacent markets, including automotive interiors and leather goods.
These markets are developing alongside changes in customer requirements and manufacturing processes, creating additional demands for machinery suppliers and integrated technology solutions.
International Competition Continues to Increase
The study notes that global competitive conditions have changed significantly in recent years. For European machinery manufacturers, innovation speed, quality, application expertise and customer proximity are identified as important differentiators.
The analysis also points to the role of combining established engineering expertise with digital technologies and automation solutions in addressing long-term market developments.
VDMA TFL Reports Growth in Orders and Sales
The latest economic data from VDMA TFL indicates positive market development. Between August 2025 and July 2026, order intake increased by 5.5 percent in real terms compared with the previous year, while sales grew by 5.4 percent.
During the three-month period from May to July 2026, order intake was 14.3 percent above the previous year's level, while sales increased by 26.1 percent.
China Remains Largest Supplier in 2025
On the global market for footwear and leather technology, China remained the largest supplier in 2025, with exports totaling €454.1 million. Italy followed with exports of €245.6 million, while Germany recorded exports of €51.1 million, remaining almost at the level of the previous year.
For Italian footwear and leather technology, China was the most important export market in 2025, with imports worth €25.5 million. It was followed by France at €20.8 million, while Spain and the United States each accounted for around €16.7 million.
German exports were primarily destined for the United States (€10.9 million) and Mexico (€6.8 million). Other important markets included France, Italy, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.