The German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (GPCCI) organized a company visit "Securing Every Step: Company Visit to BFD Global Footwear Philippines." With about four hours-worth of travel, members and professionals gathered for a briefing on the region with the Authority of Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) and an exclusive tour of BFD's manufacturing facility at the FAB.
While being German-owned, BFD's operations continue to emulate Filipino virtue especially their commitment to precision and efficiency. The facilities highlighted how much work goes into creating secure and high-quality footwear. Part of which is the research and development process that is an integral step prior to mass production. Depending on client's requirements, BFD is able to test its shoes' durability and capabilities. While its manufacturing capability relies on skilled labor, BFD has committed to continuing integrating newer technology to increase its production value.
With this, they remain export-ready with clients all over the globe from famous American brands to highly customized requests from Asia and Europe. This further diversified its product portfolio – ensuring that they can keep up with the demands and contemporary practices in shoemaking.
Quite significantly, its location at FAB compliments its business model; benefitting from the incentives of the exclusive economic zone. Besides the tour, participants were also able to meet representatives from the AFAB to hear about investment opportunities at the region. They were able to highlight the strategic location of the port, especially among key trading routes in the region. Including the footwear, several consumer goods are also manufactured within the freeport area such as eyewear, apparel and sporting goods — with growing industries such as the renewable energy sector and defense.
We would also like to acknowledge the presence of our Premium Partner, Siemens Inc., during the visit that surely added value to the event and its participants.
Finally, the event would not be possible without the generosity and hospitality of our company host, BFD Global Footwear Manufacturing Inc. Thank you for graciously opening your doors to our members and showcasing German and Philippine manufacturing excellence.
