The British Footwear Association (BFA) has announced details of its first ever Sustainability Summit, which will bring together businesses across the footwear sector from manufacturing and sourcing to retail and everyone in between, who are at all stages of their environmental, sustainable and governance journey.

The event will take place on 19 April 2023 at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole (near the NEC) from 9am to 5pm, with networking drinks after until 6pm.

BFA CEO, Lucy Reece-Raybould, shared why this event is a must-attend for anyone in the footwear industry: “It’s time to be a part of the most significant conversation in the UK footwear industry. This is your chance to collaborate with industry leaders, make a positive impact, and support the growth of our sector.

“Join us and let’s work together to create a sustainable and profitable future for the UK footwear sector!”

This is a new initiative from the BFA that will bring together businesses at all stages of their environmental, sustainable and governance journey. The Summit will feature several expert presentations and discussions on current key sustainability issues and will provide a 2023 ESG outlook to help companies better plan for challenges and opportunities.

The relaxed conference event will be hosted by international footwear sustainability champion and Senior VP of Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA), Andy Polk.

Speakers will be from brands and organisations including Dr. Martens; Eurofins BLC Leather Technology Centre Ltd; Vivobarefoot; Sustainable Leather Foundation; Leather Naturally; and Allbirds, plus many more.

The Summit is open to both members and non-members of the BFA who consider sustainability to be a crucial aspect of their business.

The attendees will include business leaders, sustainability officers, footwear designers, product development professionals, and sourcing and material specialists. The goal is to initiate a discussion that is pertinent to all attendees.

Standard tickets are £125, member price with a code is £75, and partner price with a code is £75.

Ms Reece-Raybould added: “Whether you are starting the conversation within your organisation or have already achieved B-Corp status, we aim to provide insightful and engaging presentations and discussions about the challenges many brands and businesses face and offer best practice advice for our amazing sector.”

For more information and to book your place, CLICK HERE.