Earlier this year, Adidas announced its intention to build a “Speedfactory” in Germany to turn customized shoe production into an automated process. On Tuesday, Adidas signed a deal with German engineering firm Manz, which will provide the necessary technology.
The aim of the Speedfactory is to design and make custom shoe components. The first Speedfactory is set to open in 2016 in Ansbach, Germany, close to the company’s headquarters in Herzogenaurach.
Manz founder and CEO Dieter Manz said in a statement that working on such a project represents a positive development potential for the company.
“I am please that we can accompany and support Adidas along this path,” said Manz. “The automation of manufacturing and the integration of the end customer in the design of the customized final product open up completely new and innovative business models to our customers.”
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Adidas hopes that in the future local shoe production in the Speedfactories will allow them to manufacture shoes in a consumer’s location in a “customized, resource-friendly and cost-effective way.”
“Speed wins in every sport,” said Eric Liedtke, executive board member global brands at Adidas. “And speed is a competitive advantage in our industry, too. Therefore, we are looking forward to working closely with Manz AG as part of our Speedfactory initiative that will allow us to bring production closer to our consumer.”
In addition to the Speedfactory, Adidas has recently announced other developments in its production processes including 3D-printed performance footwear and its Sport Infinity program that allows customers to reimagine their soccer cleats without producing any waste or purchasing a new pair.
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