Set to take place in Shanghai, the upcoming 22nd UITIC International Technical Footwear Congress will focus on the theme “Competitiveness and Sustainability in the Era of Artificial Intelligence.” The event will showcase how AI technologies and advances in material science are reshaping the footwear industry—driving innovation in design, development, manufacturing, and consumer engagement while promoting sustainable practices.
Before the main sessions, participants will have the opportunity to visit regional manufacturing facilities from 31 August to 1 September. The official program will then run on 2–3 September, structured around four thematic sessions (three on the first day and one on the second).
Session 1: Materials and Product Innovation
This session will examine how cutting-edge materials can meet evolving consumer needs. Topics include the role of AI in material discovery, design optimization, and the creation of sustainable, high-performance, and customizable footwear. Speakers include Juan José Hinojo (INESCOP, Spain), Pedro Duarte (CTCP, Portugal), Mikael Noel (CTC Groupe, France), and Han Xu (Sichuan University, China).
Session 2: Sustainability as an Opportunity for Competitiveness
Focusing on how AI can drive sustainability across the supply chain, this session will highlight innovation as a key enabler of competitiveness and responsibility in the industry. Contributions will come from Vera Pinto (CTCP, Portugal), Guillaume Grunewald (CTC Groupe, France), Elena Orgilés (INESCOP, Spain), and Sabrina Frontini (ICEC, Italy).
Session 3: Smart and AI-Empowered Manufacturing
Exploring next-generation production, this session will discuss the integration of AI, automation, robotics, big data, and the Industrial Internet of Things. The aim is to show how advanced technologies can improve efficiency, scalability, and reliability, while responding to new consumer demands. Presentations will be given by Paul d’Arras (CTC Groupe, France), Davide Catena (ASSOMAC, Italy), YiBo Diao (Jihua 3513 Industrial Co., China), and Beatriz Faria (CTCP, Portugal).
Session 4: Successful Industrial Stories
Closing the congress, this session will highlight real-world success stories that illustrate the themes discussed earlier. Speakers will share lessons learned, breakthroughs, and strategies to help businesses anticipate challenges and seize opportunities. Contributors include Cristiano Figueiredo (CTCP, Portugal), Ana Maria Vasconcelos (Belcinto, Portugal), Wei Ming Gu (Shuangchi Enterprise, China), and Linli Cao/Zheng (BM Technology).
Programme Highlights
In addition to the four sessions, the Congress will feature:
Two keynote speeches:
“From Shoes to Systems: AI-Driven Workflows for Next Generation Footwear” by Nicoline Van Enter
“Technological Innovation Promotes Sustainable Development” by Liu Wei and Li Ning
One panel discussion.
16 oral presentations and 24 poster presentations from experts representing ten countries, including China, Italy, France, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Portugal.