October 2026, AVECAL

As part of the European project METASKILLS4TCLF, which focuses on identifying the new skills needed by the textile, clothing, leather and footwear sectors in the context of the green and digital transitions, we spoke with Zahonero an international company specialised in technical foams and high-performance com-fort solutions.

With more than half a century of experience, Zahonero has grown from its origins in the footwear sector into a global reference in advanced materials, comfort, innovation and sustainability. The company’s evo-lution has followed the transformation of the footwear industry itself, expanding geographically alongside major production clusters and diversifying technologically through the development of high-performance polymers for cushioning, breathability and durability.

For Zahonero, the future of footwear starts with materials, but goes far beyond them. Sustainable innova-tion requires not only the use of recycled and bio-based materials, but also reliable data, traceability and transparency across the value chain. The company has implemented systems to measure environmental impact through Life Cycle Assessment methodologies, helping to ensure that every improvement is sup-ported by accurate information and measurable progress.

One of the key challenges for the sector is to develop more sustainable materials without compromising comfort, durability or technical performance. Although many new raw materials and production methods offer strong environmental potential, scaling them up remains a major barrier. Even so, Zahonero is al-ready incorporating high levels of recycled and bio-based content while maintaining the mechanical prop-erties required by the market.

This transformation is also changing the skills that companies need. According to Zahonero, future pro-fessionals in the footwear and components sector will require knowledge in areas such as process auto-mation, data analysis and ecodesign. However, technical expertise must be combined with initiative, curi-osity, critical thinking and a strong willingness to learn, especially in a context shaped by artificial intelli-gence and rapid technological change.

Internally, Zahonero supports continuous learning through transversal training for team leaders and spe-cific training within each department. The company also encourages teams to identify skills gaps and has made AI tools available to key positions, reinforcing the role of digital technologies in knowledge devel-opment and innovation.

Attracting young talent is another major priority. Zahonero believes that the sector must better communi-cate the connection between fashion, innovation and advanced manufacturing. Footwear is no longer only seen through the lens of traditional production; it is increasingly linked to new materials, automation, ad-ditive manufacturing, circularity and environmental impact.

Zahonero’s message to young professionals is clear: the footwear sector offers real opportunities to create change. By rethinking how products are designed, produced and consumed, new generations can contrib-ute to a more sustainable and innovative industry; one where materials become movement, and movement becomes progress.

October 2026, AVECAL