Austrian shoemakers struggle to survive and move capitals in Eastern Europe

The Austrian "News" reported that in 2009, Austria produced 1.8 million pairs of shoes, a drop of 20%. As wage costs rose, Austrian shoe-making enterprises gradually migrated abroad, mainly to Eastern European countries, otherwise it is difficult to win in the competition. Only the production of gap products in Austria has the opportunity to survive. The Austrian Federal Chamber of Commerce’s footwear and leather products professional working group estimates that Austrians purchase 5-7 pairs of shoes per person per year, but the number of shoes made in Austria is reduced. The main reason is the impact of cheap shoes made in China and Vietnam.

On the contrary, Austrian shoes have a good momentum of sales abroad. 70% of the shoes made in Austria are exported. The main export destinations are Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Hungary and Slovakia. There are currently 22 shoe manufacturers in Austria. The main companies (brands) are Lorenz Shoes Group (Hoegl, Ganther, Hassia), Legero (Legaero, Superfit) and Paul Green. Due to the rising prices of chemical raw materials and leather raw materials, especially calfskin, some footwear prices will increase. According to different footwear materials, the increase in footwear is expected to reach 10%.