Wedoany.com Report-Dec.11, The FAIST project (Agile, Intelligent, Sustainable and Technological Factory), coordinated by the Portuguese Footwear Technological Centre (CTCP), was presented on 18–19 November 2025 at the Palácio da Bolsa in Porto. Florbela Silva, CTCP representative and FAIST project coordinator, outlined the initiative's ambition to modernise Portugal's footwear sector through advanced automation, digital manufacturing, and sustainable practices.

Supported by more than €50 million from Portugal's Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), FAIST unites 45 partners, including footwear manufacturers, industry associations, universities, and technology centres. The consortium aims to deliver 80 tangible innovations by the end of 2026, with 36 results scheduled for completion within the project timeline. These include market-ready systems for integrated production, automated traditional processes, advanced robotics, specialised software, and solutions that enhance traceability and sustainability.

The project is designed to create approximately 300 new skilled jobs and to support the deployment and operation of these technologies.

Key developments focus on introducing robotics that complement human workers, digitising production flows, and enabling rapid, flexible responses to market demand. The resulting technologies will allow manufacturers to offer higher-value products while improving resource efficiency and maintaining full supply-chain transparency.

FAIST directly supports the strategic roadmap published in 2022 by the Portuguese Footwear Association (APICCAPS) and CTCP, which rests on four pillars:

- Upgrading skills of workers and companies

- Transition to sustainable materials and processes

- Comprehensive digital transformation

- Strengthening international market positioning

By aligning research, development, and industrial implementation, the initiative positions Portugal's footwear cluster—already one of Europe's most dynamic—to lead in smart, sustainable, and competitive manufacturing. The project is expected to reinforce the sector's global reputation for innovation while preserving its strong export orientation and contribution to national economic growth.