V F Innovation

Founded in 1944, the Footwear Distributors & Retailers Association (FDRA) stands as the leading voice for the footwear industry in the United States. Representing over 95% of the footwear market, FDRA serves a diverse membership base comprising manufacturers, brands, retailers, and importers.

Our Mission

Our mission is to foster a thriving footwear industry through advocacy, education, and industry advancement. We empower our members to navigate the complex landscape of footwear business through:

1. Advocacy and Policy Support

• Championing crucial issues like intellectual property protection, import regulations, and trade policies.
• Engaging in policy dialogues on footwear safety, sustainability, and workforce development.
• Providing expert testimony to government agencies on footwear-related matters.

2. Knowledge and Resources

• Offering comprehensive educational programs on footwear design, development, sourcing, and compliance.
• Publishing industry-leading research reports and data on footwear consumption, production, and market trends.
• Connecting members with valuable business partners through networking events and online directories.

3. Business Development and Growth

• Facilitating international trade opportunities through trade missions and market intelligence reports.
• Connecting manufacturers with reliable suppliers and retailers to expand market reach.
• Promoting sustainability initiatives and fostering innovation within the footwear industry.

4. Community and Collaboration

• Fostering a vibrant online community for members to connect, share ideas, and collaborate.
• Organizing networking events and conferences for industry professionals to connect and learn from each other.
• Celebrating the footwear industry through awards and recognition programs.

5. Trusted Leadership

• FDRA is governed by a board of directors comprised of prominent footwear executives.
• Our experienced staff provides dedicated support and guidance to members.
• We maintain close relationships with key stakeholders in government, media, and other industry sectors.