Mindstep Blog - Mindstep Sourcing

3 months ago

How Technology Affects Positively the Footwear Industry

As sustainability becomes a non-negotiable value for both consumers and brands, the footwear industry is undergoing a powerful transformation—driven by technology. From eco-friendly materials to data-driven production processes, innovation is reshaping how shoes are designed, manufactured, and consumed. Advanced Materials and 3D Printing Among the most groundbreaking developments in the footwear industry is 3D printing. … Continued

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3 months ago

Portuguese Footwear: Quality and Sustainability

Footwear production in Portugal has become a strategic choice for brands seeking high-quality craftsmanship, ethical practices, and agile supply chains. With a deep-rooted shoemaking tradition, modern infrastructure, and a commitment to sustainability, Portugal is now one of the most trusted destinations for European footwear manufacturing. Why Choose Portuguese Footwear? Portugal offers a rare combination of … Continued

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3 months ago

Key Steps and Challenges in Footwear Production

Understanding the shoe manufacturing process is essential for any footwear brand, whether you’re launching your first collection or scaling an established label. From concept to final delivery, each phase of footwear production involves critical decisions that impact cost, quality, and time-to-market. As a leading shoe sourcing consultancy, we guide you through the entire journey. 1. … Continued

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3 months ago

How to Find Reliable Shoe Factories in Europe?

Looking for reliable shoe factories in Europe? You’re not alone. Europe is known for its world-class footwear manufacturing, blending quality craftsmanship with modern production standards. From luxury collections to sustainable everyday styles, European shoe manufacturers are trusted by both emerging and established brands. But finding the right footwear production partner takes more than a Google … Continued

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4 months ago

Sustainable Footwear Development: Key Materials and Industry Challenges

As environmental awareness grows, sustainable footwear development has become a top priority for brands looking to meet both consumer expectations and industry standards. The footwear industry is undergoing a major shift towards eco-friendly shoe materials and ethical shoe manufacturing practices that reduce environmental impact and support long-term sustainability. 1. Why Sustainable Materials Matter in Footwear … Continued

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4 months ago

How to Work with a Shoe Factory?

We frequently receive inquiries from individuals seeking to contract a shoe factory to produce their footwear collections. While experienced professionals in the industry typically know the process well, many aspiring shoe designers and young entrepreneurs dream of building their own collections but often don’t know where to start. Finding the right shoe factory is a … Continued

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4 months ago

How to Select the Right Shoes for Your Collection

1. Choose a Reliable Sourcing Partner Your manufacturing partner is the foundation of your collection’s success. Whether you work directly with a shoe factory or through a sourcing agency, reliability, transparency, communication, and experience are fundamental. Choose a partner who understands your brand vision, speaks your language, and can offer end-to-end support — from prototyping … Continued

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4 months ago

How Much Does It Cost to Make a Shoe?

One of the most common questions brands ask when starting footwear production is: how much does it cost to make a shoe? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, this post breaks down the major cost components — helping you understand where your budget goes and how to make informed decisions. Design and Shoe Development Before production … Continued

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4 months ago

Why Brands Should Produce Their Shoes in Portugal?

In a highly competitive global market, where and how your shoes are made defines your brand’s value. From quality to cost control, sustainability to reputation — production location matters. Portugal has become a preferred choice for global brands looking for reliability, quality, and ethical manufacturing in footwear. Here’s why it might be the ideal place … Continued

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5 months ago

Choosing the Right Footwear Sourcing Agency

Selecting the right footwear sourcing agency is more than a logistical decision — it’s a strategic move that impacts your product quality, time-to-market, and brand reputation. Whether you’re a start-up or an established fashion brand, having the right partner on the ground makes all the difference. In this post, we explore what to look for … Continued

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