British Dance Shoe Maker Embraces Digital Transformation
International Dance Shoes (IDS), which is recognized for providing shoes for Strictly Come Dancing, is in the middle of a big technical overhaul. The Milton Keynes-based corporation wants to stay competitive throughout the world by combining old and new ideas.
Justin Patel, the managing director, stated that the investment will make the workflow more efficient and help the brand keep its reputation for British-made quality and accuracy.
Made Smarter Grant Enables Growth and Efficiency
The Made Smarter South East program, which is sponsored by the government, gave the firm £20,000 to update its manufacturing methods. The initiative helps UK firms use digital and automated technologies.
Patel said that the money will assist in buying more modern machines next year, which will increase output by 10% per year without lowering quality.
Combining Multiple Stages Into Streamlined Production
The new equipment combines many processes in the manufacturing process into one continuous operation. This cuts down on production time and wastage of materials by a large amount. Patel said it was a turning moment for both design freedom and efficiency.
He also said that updating procedures will enable the firm to make more shoes in each batch, which will speed up delivery to customers throughout the world in Europe, the US, and Asia.
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Family Legacy Continues in Modern Era
Rashmi Patel started IDS in 1981, and it is still one of the only companies in Britain that makes dance shoes. Rashmi’s early work in the shoe business helped the company stay focused on comfort and accuracy.
He remarked, “It’s great to see our shoes on Strictly Come Dancing every year,” stressing how proud he is of British design being shown on a worldwide platform.
Partnership With Made Smarter Enhances Innovation
IDS worked with Made Smarter South East to go at its products, employees, and processes in order to establish a long-term digital plan. The project finds ways to automate tasks that are done over and over again while yet keeping the artisanal expertise.
According to program director Jez Heys, the objective is not to replace people but to teach them how to use and care for the new equipment in a way that is efficient.
Precision and Quality Drive the Next Phase
IDS will be able to cut, sew, and finish more accurately using digital tools, which will make the products more consistent. Better data tracking makes sure that each couple fulfills the performance criteria that professional dancers expect.
Patel added that the improvements will help the firm keep its “remarkable reputation for reliability and craftsmanship” even as demand across the world grows.
Strictly Come Dancing Keeps Tradition Alive
Providing shoes for Strictly Come Dancing is still a source of national pride for IDS, which has been working with the show for almost 30 years. The exhibition makes British manufacturing more visible and shows how important it is.
Patel said that while the audience loves the performers, the IDS team keeps a careful eye on them “to make sure the shoes work perfectly under pressure.”
