In this episode of Talk Commerce, Elias Stahl, CEO of HILOS, discusses the transformative impact of 3D printing on the footwear industry. He highlights the inefficiencies and waste in traditional shoe manufacturing, where 24 billion shoes are produced annually, with a significant portion ending up in landfills. Elias explains how HILOS aims to empower designers by streamlining the design and production process, allowing for on-demand manufacturing and reducing waste. He also addresses the challenges of bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. and the implications of tariffs on the industry. The conversation emphasizes the potential for innovation and creativity in footwear design, making it accessible to a broader audience.

Takeaways

• Elias Stahl is the CEO and founder of HILOS.
• The footwear industry produces 24 billion shoes annually, with significant waste.
• 3D printing can revolutionize shoe manufacturing by reducing waste.
• HILOS aims to empower designers to create and launch their own products.
• The traditional shoe manufacturing process is lengthy and inefficient.
• HILOS is working to bring manufacturing back to the U.S.
• The company is developing a platform called Interplay for shoe design.
• Elias compares the potential of footwear innovation to the craft beer movement.
• The future of footwear could see unique American aesthetics.
• Tariffs and supply chain issues are significant challenges for U.S. manufacturing.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Hilos and Elias Stahl

02:50
The Footwear Industry's Challenges

06:54
3D Printing Revolution in Footwear

11:08
Empowering Creators in Footwear Design

13:13
Bringing Manufacturing Back to the U.S.

17:32
Navigating Tariffs and Supply Chain Dynamics