What's Happening?
Swiss sneaker brand On has announced the expansion of its robotic production facilities with a new location in South Korea. Known for its cushioned, cloud-like sole sneakers, On initially opened its first robotic factory in Zurich in July 2025. The facility
began with four robots producing the laceless LightSpray Cloudboom Strike LS shoe. The new South Korean facility will utilize 32 additional robots to increase production. The robotic process involves a robotic arm spraying On's LightSpray material onto the shoe, creating a lightweight, one-piece upper in minutes. This expansion is part of On's strategy to enhance efficiency and reduce waste and carbon emissions in its manufacturing process. The company plans to launch the LightSpray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, a new shoe designed at the South Korean factory, in North America on March 5, followed by a global release on April 16.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of On's robotic production facilities signifies a growing trend in the footwear industry towards automation and sustainability. By increasing the use of robots, On aims to enhance production efficiency and reduce environmental impact, aligning with broader industry goals of sustainability. This move could set a precedent for other companies in the sector to adopt similar technologies, potentially leading to significant shifts in manufacturing practices. However, the increased automation also raises concerns about job displacement, as robots may replace human workers in certain roles. The balance between technological advancement and employment is a critical issue that industries must navigate as they integrate more automation into their operations.
What's Next?
On plans to continue expanding its robotic production capabilities globally, with potential future locations in the Americas and increased production in Europe. The company aims to leverage South Korea's advancements in automation and robotics to further enhance its manufacturing processes. As On and other companies continue to adopt robotic technologies, stakeholders, including labor organizations and policymakers, may need to address the implications for the workforce. The success of On's expansion could influence other industries to explore similar technological integrations, potentially accelerating the shift towards automated manufacturing across various sectors.
