The Future of the Footwear Industry: Bibliometric and Systematic Analysis of Literature from 2018 to 2023

The footwear industry in Portugal is one of the sectors with the greatest representation in national exports and a sector of high importance for the country's economy. Although it is a mechanized industry, it is still very dependent on human labour and for which it is increasingly difficult to attract talent and captivate younger generations, putting this sector in danger in terms of its continuity. The digitalization of the footwear industry could be one of the alternatives to solve this problem, enabling cost reduction, greater autonomy, and production flexibility, as well as a closer approach to the demands of customers and consumers. This article presents a bibliometric and systematic analysis of literature in the footwear industry from 2018 to 2023. The study investigates the futuristic concept of footwear manufacturing, the integration of 3D printing technology in footwear production, the benefits of customization in footwear and perspectives for the future of the industry. The methodology used involved a five-step approach to collecting and analyzing data. Technologies such as 3D printing and 3D scanning, alternative materials to conventional ones and the use of seamless knits can contribute to a footwear industry where customization, control of smaller production, comfort and a unique and exclusive design can go to the next level, meeting a more sustainable industry prepared to face the future with optimism.