The British Footwear Association (BFA) hosted the much-anticipated Footwear50 2024 event in Central London last month, bringing together the brightest minds and most innovative leaders in the footwear industry.
This year’s Footwear50 list, now live here, highlights the exceptional talent and dedication of professionals who continue to shape and redefine the sector.
The event, held in partnership with Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags, welcomed attendees from across the globe, including special guests GianPaola and Caterina, who travelled from Italy to join the celebration.
BFA CEO, Richard Shetliffe, set the tone with his opening speech: “The Footwear50, now in its third year, has quickly become a cornerstone of the BFA calendar. It’s a moment for us to pause, reflect, and celebrate the individuals and teams that shape and drive our industry forward. This year’s list showcases an inspiring mix of professionals – from retailers to designers, manufacturers, suppliers, and advocates for sustainability.”
The Footwear50 celebrates a diverse range of professionals, including trailblazing retailers, visionary designers, skilled manufacturers, and dedicated sustainability advocates. Attendees had the opportunity to network, share ideas, and recognise the achievements of their peers.
The event showcased heartfelt stories and reflections from honourees: Deborah Carré & James Ducker, Creative Director & Head of Bespoke, Carréducker: “What we both like and appreciate most about the footwear industry – is the people. It’s not an easy business; it takes grit, but the people are great, welcoming, keen to share, and their enthusiasm is infectious.”
Dean Girling, Director at Gaziano Girling, said: “I’ve always been inspired by shoes made around the world and wanted to keep the industry alive in its home county of Northamptonshire, hence we set up the first shoe factory to be set up in the county for over 100 years.”
As the profiles of the Footwear50 2024 honourees lit up the screens, guests celebrated with drinks, shared stories, and applauded the accomplishments of their peers. The evening was a testament to the strength and camaraderie within the footwear community, reaffirming the BFA’s mission to champion and grow the industry.
Footwear50 category sponsors included Streathers Solicitors, Buyerdock, ReBound, Goral, Petaurum HR, Covation Bio PDO, RIF Group, and SATRA.
