Another open day success at SATRA

This popular event provided delegates with an insight into SATRA’s world-renowned testing facilities.

A group of footwear industry personnel was welcomed to SATRA’s recent open day event, from which they learned about the organisation’s expertise in the assessment of finished footwear, materials and components. Open to SATRA members and non-members, the day was designed for employees of all levels from manufacturers, sourcing companies and retailers of all types of footwear and materials. It proved to be an ideal way to showcase SATRA as our members’ ‘technical arm’, which exists to help solve their design and production problems.

The capacity number of delegates arrived for registration and coffee at 10 am. Although most of these had journeyed to Kettering from around the UK, some attendees had also flown in from Malaysia to be at the open day. The group was comprised of footwear technologists and buyers from large manufacturers and retailers, as well as smaller independent firms.

During the subsequent sessions, the delegates were provided with information about the importance of footwear testing and the legislation involved, as well as the key properties assessed. Attendees also learned about some of the latest test methods, innovations being made to accommodate the latest materials, components and manufacturing techniques, and opportunities for relevant training.

Starting the tour

Delegates received a warm welcome from SATRA’s head of footwear and innovation, Hannah Coe, who also presented an introduction to the organisation’s testing aims. Then Poonam Patel from the membership team reminded them of the benefits to which their companies are entitled as a result of their SATRA membership.

Having split into smaller groups, the attendees had the chance to meet SATRA’s footwear experts and familiarise themselves with the facilities and testing procedures. They were able to explore the topics of ‘innovation developments’, ‘chemical testing’, ‘uppers, components and whole shoes’, ‘fitting, lasts and comfort’, and ‘outsoles and comfort’, some of which included tests being demonstrated in the laboratories.

The open day included a buffet lunch, and at the end of the sessions, attendees from SATRA member companies were invited to stay for private discussions with experts about specific footwear issues. Some of the non-members requested information on the SATRA membership.

Positive comments

At the conclusion of the open day, it was evident that the delegates had certainly benefited from being present at the event. Many positive comments were received about the programme, including the following remarks:
“Great to see the equipment and labs up close.”
“Fantastic overview of tests and standards, very relatable delivery and content.”
“Good overview of the company. Information communicated in a clear way, which was helpful.”
“Very informative and engaging.”
“As a shoemaker of 42 years, I found it a refreshing and engaging course throughout.”
“Very in-depth. All seemed really passionate and enthusiastic about their area.”

It was apparent that such events are very popular. As a result, an additional SATRA open day will be held in Kettering on 25th November, and places can be reserved through the event section of the SATRA website at www.satra.com – early booking is recommended!

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 16 of the July/August 2026 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

Other articles from this issue »

---