The U.S. Footwear Manufacturing Association (USFMA) held its annual meeting at KX Lab in Los Angeles to plan the “next wave” of USA shoemaking, Sourcing Journal reported on October 2, 2024.
The meeting
- KX Lab, a 3D-knit footwear maker in the Fashion District, hosted.
- USFMA, formerly the Rubber and Plastic Footwear Manufacturers Association, is recruiting members nationwide, executive director Bill McCann said.
- Members include suppliers such as Vibram USA, Unifi, Signet Mills, Karl Mayer, Jones & Vining and Desma, plus LA makers ComunityMade and Lalaland.
- New Balance is its most prominent brand member.
“You can see at meetings like this supply chains for new shoes being formed right in front of your eyes.”
Bill McCann, USFMA
Why it matters for Made in USA
Almost all shoes sold in the USA are imported. Linking regional clusters in New England, the Carolinas and LA is the group’s plan to grow domestic output. The group later lobbied in Washington for a USA-made boots bill; see our March 2025 report.
FAQ
What is USFMA?
The U.S. Footwear Manufacturing Association, a Washington, D.C. trade group.
Where was the meeting?
At KX Lab in Los Angeles.
Which brand is a member?
New Balance.
Source & credit
Source: Sourcing Journal, October 2, 2024: “Footwear Manufacturers Convene in Los Angeles to Game Out ‘Next Wave’ of Made in the USA”, by Kate Nishimura.