SHOEfabrik develops full-service model
Visiting a Vietnam-based footwear design company.

After many years of working in the performance footwear sector, David Solk and Irmi Kreuzer founded SHOEfabrik in 2003. They took this step after seeing what they believed was an opportunity to revolutionise the entire footwear development process – from the initial concept to the end product. David and Irmi also wanted to devise a new customisable full-service model, meaning that their team could offer as little or as much help as was needed, while tailoring the process to suit each client’s individual requirements.
SHOEfabrik’s headquarters are in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Its state-of-the-art facility is said to be constantly evolving to include the latest advances in technology. Every department needed for the company’s work is on site, including the sample room, testing laboratory, virtual modelling centre, knitting workshop, photographic studio, creative agency and innovations arena. As a result, any adjustments can be carried out immediately to save time and resources.

SHOEfabrik designs on display
The SHOEfabrik building is home to more than 200 international footwear professionals who have each worked on leading global brands, and share a combined wealth of over 3,000 years of experience. Each client’s specifications are carefully considered before building a team with the relevant knowledge and skillset.
Members of the SHOEfabrik team have reportedly worked on some of the most technologically-advanced footwear in the performance sector. They are multiple award-winning, internationally acclaimed, detail-driven experts and, according to the company, it is this level of expertise that has allowed it to guide new brands from humble beginnings to creating world-class products. As part of its contribution to helping the environment, SHOEfabrik has the declared goal of becoming a positive impact operation.
The photograph at the top of this page shows the SHOEfabrik facility, which is home to more than 200 international footwear professionals.
Publishing Data
This article was originally published on page 6 of the February 2021 issue of SATRA Bulletin.
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