A Comparison between Fashion and Orthopaedic Footwear Supply Networks to address the needs of specific Target Groups

In order to stay competitive, European manufacturing companies need to enter new markets implementing innovative production methodologies based on networking economy. Taking as reference the SMART network model [12] and comparing the literature and the “as-is” fashion and orthopaedic footwear supply networks through multiple case studies, this paper aims at highlighting the guidelines for designing an innovative reference model for footwear supply networks. The model will allow to industrialize fashion footwear production for new niche markets – i.e. elderly, obese, disabled and diabetic people –integrating practices of the fashion and orthopaedic supply networks.