Italcompo’s co-founder shares his perspective on how the high fashion industry has evolved over the years, and the growing importance of sustainability in custom heel manufacturing.

At the heart of Italian craftsmanship, Italcompo has established itself as a benchmark in custom heels design for the luxury fashion world. We spoke with Carlo Pisoni, who founded the company together with his brother Rodolfo.

With over thirty years of experience, the two have built solid relationships with some of the most iconic international fashion brands—always blending tradition with forward-thinking innovation.

Over the last two decades, some priorities have become increasingly demanding. I’m referring to the speed of execution, both in prototyping and production, the growing focus on product quality, and the importance of certifications—which have become essential for anyone working in the luxury sector.

We’ve always strived to stay ahead of the curve, continuously investing in both cutting-edge equipment and employee training. Today, we’ve reached a high level of automation , but for us, innovation isn’t a one-off objective—it’s a strategic mindset.
Custom heels design requires flexibility, precision, and the ability to evolve—while preserving the artisanal identity that defines us.

Sustainability is now a core value in our industry. At Italcompo, we’ve tackled it on multiple levels, starting with the infrastructure. In 2018, we moved into a new facility equipped with heat pumps, underfloor heating, and a solar energy system—expanded in 2023 to a total of 107 kW. We’re also investing in new materials: we’ve opened our production to biobased materials and GRS-certified recycled materials. Our commitment is also reflected in our certifications: we’ve achieved ISO 14001 for environmental management and ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety —a strong signal of our commitment to people and the planet.

Today, customer relationships require a fully integrated approach. We need to be fast, but also precise, proactive, and dependable. We don’t just deliver a component—we see ourselves as project partners. A good manufacturer of custom heels must be able to tailor each solution, just like a fashion house tailors a bespoke gown.

The greatest challenge will be keeping up with innovation. Our goal is to keep raising the standard of custom heels design for high fashion—without ever stopping our evolution.

Absolutely, and it’s something we’re particularly proud of. We’ve welcomed my son and Rodolfo’s daughter into the company. They grew up around our work and are now bringing their own perspective. With different but complementary skill sets, they share the same energy that drove us at the beginning. I truly believe that with passion, humility, and dedication, they can lead Italcompo toward even greater achievements.

Blending automation, sustainability, and personalization, Italcompo continues to grow—always with an eye toward the future and deep respect for its artisanal roots. In an increasingly competitive landscape, we stand out for our ability to deliver tailored solutions to luxury fashion brands seeking speed, precision, and reliability.