SATRA holds successful footwear open day

The event provided delegates with an insight into SATRA’s world-renowned testing facilities.

A group of footwear industry personnel was welcomed to SATRA’s recent open day event, from which they learned about the organisation’s expertise in the assessment of finished footwear, materials and components. Open to SATRA members and non-members, the day was designed for employees of all levels from manufacturers, sourcing companies and retailers of all types of footwear and materials. It proved to be an ideal way to showcase SATRA as our members’ ‘technical arm’, which exists to help solve their design and production problems.

The event was over-subscribed, with the capacity number of 27 delegates arriving for registration and coffee at 10 am. Although most of the attendees had journeyed to Kettering from around the UK, a small number had also flown in from Europe specifically to be at the open day. The group was comprised of footwear technicians, buyers and production operatives from large manufacturers and retailers, as well as smaller independent firms.

During the subsequent sessions, the delegates were provided with information about the importance of footwear testing and the legislation involved, as well as the key properties assessed. Attendees also learned about some of the latest test methods, innovations being made to accommodate the latest materials, components and manufacturing techniques, and opportunities for relevant training.

Starting the tour

After an introduction to SATRA’s testing aims by footwear business area manager Hannah Coe, Sunny Hirani from the membership team explained the benefits enjoyed by the delegates’ companies.

Having split into smaller groups, the attendees had the chance to meet SATRA’s footwear experts and familiarise themselves with our facilities and procedures. They were able to experience testing being demonstrated in the laboratories on the topics of ‘slip resistance’, ‘whole shoe tests’, ‘heel attachment’, ‘adhesive bonds’, ‘colour and light fastness’, ‘water resistance’ and ‘trims and fasteners’. Then, after a buffet lunch, the open day continued with delegates learning about ‘innovations’ as well as ‘uppers, components and whole shoes’. Attendees from SATRA member companies were then invited to stay for private discussions with experts about specific footwear issues. Some of the non-members requested information on the SATRA Laboratory Accreditation scheme and membership.

Positive comments

At the conclusion of the open day, it was evident that the delegates had certainly benefited from being present at the event. Positive comments were received about the programme, including the following from Lauren Witchell, senior footwear technologist at Moda In Pelle:

“I just wanted to thank you again for such a wonderful experience at yesterday’s open day. Everyone I met from SATRA was so enthusiastic, informative and friendly. I found the day extremely beneficial due to its industry relevance and SATRA’s in-depth experience within the footwear sector. I learnt so much from you and your team regarding footwear testing and further SATRA services. The day flew by and I left very inspired! Many thanks again to all.”

It was apparent that such events are very popular. As a result, additional SATRA open days will be held in Kettering on 24^th June and 25^th November, and places can be reserved through the relevant event section of the SATRA website at www.satra.com – early booking is recommended!

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 26 of the April 2026 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

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