The Fédération Française de la Chaussure (FFC), which brings together around a hundred companies representing approximately 200 brands, plays a key role in supporting and developing players in the French footwear industry. With 14 million pairs manufactured in France each year, the Federation stands out for promoting French craftsmanship and creativity, while assisting its members in marketing, social, regulatory, and international matters.
But how does the FFC address the growing issues of traceability and transparency, which are essential in the fashion sector? Here is an overview of the Federation’s initiatives:
For several years, the FFC has been working with the Centre Technique du Cuir (CTC) to support its members in implementing traceability practices. A dedicated working group has been set up to:
These efforts have led to deliverables shared with ADEME, as well as webinars within the Fashion and Luxury sector. The Federation also continues to participate in cross-industry working groups led by the Strategic Committee for Fashion and Luxury.
To promote manufacturing transparency, the FFC focuses on communication. Through platforms like french-shoes.fr, the Federation highlights:
These initiatives help raise public awareness about traceability and increase the visibility of French brands.
In response to growing regulations, particularly the AGEC law and the upcoming Digital Product Passport (DPP), the FFC acts as a facilitator. It informs members of their regulatory obligations through newsletters and offers tailored tools, such as a solution for displaying environmental qualities, developed with the CTC. This solution was presented in a webinar, providing practical support for companies to comply with regulations.
French footwear manufacturers face several major challenges, including:
To overcome these barriers, the Federation promotes the use of internal tools such as ERPs and encourages voluntary engagement within companies.
The FFC works with the CTC on technical solutions, such as ALIS, a tool dedicated to leather marking. These technologies, adapted to the specificities of the footwear industry, are regularly presented at dedicated events and training sessions.
Through these initiatives, the FFC actively supports its members in transitioning towards a more transparent industry, aligned with increasing traceability demands. By promoting French expertise and providing concrete solutions, the Federation helps position the footwear industry as a committed and innovative player.
Thank you to Clémentine COLIN RICHARD, Présidente de la Fédération Française de la Chaussure et de Au-delà Du Cuir and to her team for the information they provided to us for this article.
Catherine Lomonaco
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The Centre Technique du Cuir (CTC)
The CTC is a key player in providing technical support to companies in the leather, footwear, leather goods, and glove-making sectors. It offers a wide range of services, including audits, inspections, laboratory analyses, CE marking, innovation, consulting, and training, thus covering the full range of industry needs.
The ALIS Solution for Traceability
To address growing challenges around traceability and transparency, the CTC has developed ALIS (Automatic Leather Identification System). This technology is based on five modules that ensure full traceability, from the animal's birth to the leather cutting stage. It notably relies on CO₂ laser marking of hides, ensuring individual and permanent identification throughout the entire transformation process.
Find back all the webinars by CTC:
https://www.ctc-services.org/mots-cles/48/webinaire.html
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