Death of Kangnai founder announced

It has been announced that Zheng Xiukang – founder of Wenzhou-based footwear company Kangnai – recently passed away at the age of 75. He was succeeded at Kangnai by his daughter, Zheng Laili, and son, Zheng Laiyi, around ten years ago. According to the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA), Mr Zheng’s death is a ‘major loss’ to the nation’s footwear and leather industries.

Described as an early pioneer of mechanised production in the city of Wenzhou, Mr Zheng was a published author, registered more than 70 technical patents and contributed to Chinese national standards for leather footwear.

Mr Zheng held a number of posts during his career, including vice-chair of both the CLIA and the China National Light Industry Council, executive vice-chair of the Zhejiang Leather Industry Association, and lifetime honorary chair of the Wenzhou Shoe and Leather Industry Association. Over the years, he also received numerous awards in recognition of his entrepreneurship.

Established in 1980, Kangnai is one of the leading shoe manufacturers in China, specialising in making dress shoes, casual footwear, Goodyear welted shoes, sneakers, slippers, boots, sandals and fashion footwear.

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 2 of the May 2022 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

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