Alliance for circularity: how it affects the footwear wholesaler

Distribution and textile scrap join forces: what does it mean for footwear?

The distribution trade association and the entity Re-viste, specialized in textile waste management, have announced a strategic alliance to boost circularity in the fashion sector. The agreement focuses on the future Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulation and the development of joint projects for collecting, recycling and reusing materials. Although the initial focus is on textiles broadly, footwear —with its many components (leather, rubber, textiles, synthetics)— faces specific challenges and opportunities that wholesalers and retailers cannot ignore.

EPR will oblige producers (manufacturers, importers, distributors) to finance the management of waste from their products. In Spain, the draft waste law already points to footwear being included, with deadlines such as 2025-2026 on the horizon. This alliance between the distribution sector (which includes large chains, franchises and warehouse operators) and Re-viste aims to create an efficient collective system, similar to those already in place for packaging or electronic devices.

B2B implications for footwear stores and wholesalers

For the retailer (physical or online store)

• Future costs: EPR will imply a fee per shoe sold to fund its collection and recycling. Although initially borne by the wholesaler/manufacturer, it is likely to be passed on to the final price. The retailer must be prepared to explain this surcharge to the customer or absorb it to maintain margins.
• Returns and waste management: Some chains already offer collection points for used footwear. With the new regulation, it could become mandatory to have a container in store. It is advisable to get ahead and implement a collection service (even with discounts) to retain customers and comply with future law.
• Communication and reputation: Consumers increasingly value sustainability. A store that communicates its membership in a circularity system (whether proprietary or collective) can differentiate itself and attract a conscious segment.

For the wholesaler (importer, distributor, warehouse operator)

• Producer responsibility: If the wholesaler is the one placing footwear on the Spanish market (as importer or manufacturer), they will be considered a "producer" under the law. They must register, report volumes and pay the corresponding fee. This alliance can facilitate wholesalers to group together in a collective system, reducing administrative burden and individual cost.
• Eco-design: The regulation will incentivise more recyclable products. The wholesaler can get ahead by selecting suppliers that use detachable soles, chrome-free leathers or easily separable adhesives. This will not only reduce the fee (by generating less difficult waste) but also open the door to "circular footwear" lines with added value.
• Textile scrap and footwear: Re-viste focuses on textile waste, but footwear has similar components (fabrics, linings, laces). The alliance may lead to pilot projects for shoe recycling. A wholesaler that collaborates with Re-viste could offer its retail customers a collection and recycling service, turning a cost into a competitive advantage.

Spanish market context: footwear plays for its footprint

Spain is a European footwear hub, with production clusters in Elche, Almansa, Valverde del Camino, etc., and a strong distribution from markets such as Mercazaragoza or the Polígono de la Viña (Elda). Circular economy has been on the agenda of the footwear cluster (Pibci, FICE) for years, but implementation has been slow. This distribution-Re-viste alliance can accelerate the adoption of take-back and recycling systems, something that countries like France have already implemented in textiles and footwear with mixed results.

For the wholesaler, the key is traceability: knowing which shoes are sold, where they end up and how they are recovered. Digital identification systems (such as product passports) will be necessary. Initiatives like Re-viste's can centralise reverse logistics, reducing costs and ensuring regulatory compliance.

A critical fact: discarded footwear represents approximately 5% of total textile waste in Spain (according to 2022 data), but its recycling is more complex due to the mix of materials. Therefore, collaboration with expert entities like Re-viste is essential to prevent footwear from being left out of collective systems and treated as improper fraction, which would increase costs.

"EPR is not a threat, it is an opportunity to rethink the business model and gain consumer trust" — industry source.

What if no action is taken in time?

Wholesalers that ignore circularity risk fines (foreseen penalties can reach €1.5 million in serious cases), losing customers who demand sustainable products, and being excluded from large chains that already incorporate ESG criteria (e.g. Inditex, Decathlon or El Corte Inglés). On the other hand, those who join this alliance will have access to training, eco-design tools and possibly tax advantages in R&D&I.

For a neighbourhood store or a small wholesaler, the recommendation is clear: ask their suppliers to join authorised collective systems such as the one taking shape between the distribution sector and Re-viste. Demand certifications and documentation. And start separating waste at source.

The circular economy is no longer a trend: it is an imminent legal requirement. This alliance paves the way for Spanish footwear not to be left behind.

Looking for a wholesale footwear supplier? Register at CalzadosJAM →