2 October 2025
Franco Santoli, Senior Director of Materials at Puma, shared his insights on the brand’s global sourcing strategy, supplier requirements, and the value of industry exhibitions during a recent conversation at APLF, Hong Kong.
Based in Vietnam, Santoli oversees Puma’s materials portfolio for footwear, apparel and accessories, working closely with the company’s global network. Puma produces footwear, sportwear and sport accessories with sales spread evenly across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
Sourcing for Innovation and Sustainability
For Santoli, staying ahead of market trends and material innovations is a constant priority. “We are always trying to be on top of the new trends and knowing what is coming to the market, and knowing all the suppliers that are investing in innovation and sustainability,” he explained.
Events like APLF provide Puma with a concentrated opportunity to meet potential partners. “These events are very good to meet everybody in the same place, and the people who are actually showing all their innovations and all their investments,” Santoli said.
Read more: PUMA develops biodegradable RE:SUEDE sneaker with Zeology leather
Setting the Bar for Suppliers
Puma’s expectations for suppliers are clear. They must comply with global chemical requirements and meet Puma’s physical performance standards, which vary depending on the type of product — from performance football boots to lifestyle sneakers.
New suppliers face an additional challenge: they must demonstrate a clear point of difference from Puma’s current sourcing base. “It can be innovation, it can be price, it can be fashion, it can be sustainability. To be a new supplier, you need to be clear about your strong point and communicate the value you bring to the table,” Santoli emphasized.
Positive Impressions of Hong Kong Exhibition
Santoli spoke highly of APLF’s role as a networking hub. “I think it’s a very good place not only to show product but also to connect. It’s a good exhibition to connect the industry and have everybody coming to the same place very easily,” he said. He also praised Hong Kong as an accessible meeting point for global stakeholders, and described the event’s organization as “very smooth” with “the right space for suppliers.”
Spotlight on Leather Traceability
One area that particularly impressed Santoli was the progress some leather suppliers are making in traceability — a key factor in combating deforestation. “Traceability is going to be key for leather to avoid deforestation, and I see some suppliers that are already going further than anybody else,” he noted, citing standout examples from Brazil.
For Santoli, gatherings like this are more than just product showcases. They are a vital link in fostering innovation, strengthening sustainability practices, and building lasting partnerships in the global footwear industry.
