Protective footwear to get “toe-hold” in new markets

14/07/2005

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, the U.S. markets for industrial protective footwear, reveals that the sector’s market revenue totalled $65.4 million in 2004 and is expected to reach $74.2 million in 2011.

 

Demand will come from the growing service-sector industries, including restaurants and hotels, as well as from first responders, the military, law enforcement and others concerned with hazardous materials. The advancements in product materials, design, and construction that are required to supply these industries are expected to drive the market.

 

Average product quality is high, the market provides low margins to suppliers and innovation is difficult to achieve and exploit. For that reason most manufacturers distinguish themselves by offering superior or unique services, the report says.

Companies are hence learning to become more flexible in terms of innovation and product customisation. Developments in lightweight composites are expected to minimise, if not eliminate, the issue of discomfort caused by irritant materials.