Dimac: Polyurethane chemistry is shaping the future of global footwear
From the beating heart of Barletta, Dimac, now guided by its third generation, is solidifying its position as a stronghold in applied chemistry for the footwear sector. Specializing in polyurethane systems, liquid colours, TPU, and additives since 1985, the Apulian company is globally recognized, particularly in the Work & Safety segment. Through strategic partnerships with world leaders, Dimac serves not just as a raw material provider, but as a critical partner, guaranteeing excellent technical and logistical support, and weaving an entrepreneurial narrative defined by resilience and success. Progress in the footwear industry increasingly hinges on the synergy between advanced chemistry and business strategy. We sat down with Francesco Diterlizzi, the head of the company, to discuss their latest strategic moves, the ongoing debate surrounding material lightness, and the crucial importance of ethical and regulatory compliance in the global market.
Mr. Diterlizzi, industry trade shows often serve as a barometer for measuring a company’s dynamism. What key strategic developments is DIMAC presenting, beyond just consolidating its presence?
“The most impactful news is our impending infrastructure expansion. We are working hard to open a new facility by mid-next year, effectively tripling our current operating capacity. This is a significant but essential effort, allowing us not only to strengthen the local supply chain in Barletta – a footwear district that, while struggling like others, holds enormous potential, specializing in safety footwear and footwear for the healthcare/home segment – but also to enlarge our support in other areas where the footwear sector is present. This move also enables us to internalize and manage the direct distribution of two prominent brands, Repi and Dow, a strategic benefit that significantly aids the entire production ecosystem.”
Does this logistical and operational expansion coincide with a more aggressive push into foreign markets?
What new horizons are you exploring, and what geopolitical challenges are you navigating? “Absolutely. In addition to our established markets, this year, we signed an agreement with Dow for the distribution of polyurethane systems for the footwear industry in Spain. This transaction, although bureaucratically complex due to the creation of a new corporate entity in Spain, allows us to both reach new international customers and complement our product portfolio by offering our entire range to existing customers. This project requires us to commit to a meticulous adaptation strategy to ensure a seamless and fully compliant transition. Our core sectors remain steady, with 80% focused on Safety, a segment that holds up well against fluctuations in the casual market, and the rest directed toward outdoor and branded fashion.”
The market is constantly chasing ultra-light materials. What is your stance on this trend, especially within the critical safety footwear segment?
“The debate on lightness often risks being hollow. In the Safety sector, we’re dealing with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), where the absolute priority is safety and durability. Trimming a few grams from the midsole, the comfortable, cushioning part, doesn’t substantially impact the overall shoe weight, which typically exceeds 600 grams. A focus on lightness cannot, and must not, compromise the resistance of the sole and tread, which must guarantee structural integrity, resistance to cutting, perforation, and slippage. Currently, we keep on favoring thoroughly tested materials with calibrated densities and blends. At the same time, we work with our partners to develop “safe” solutions that meet this market demand. The risk with unproven innovations is encountering processing defects or, worse, premature failure of the finished product.”
Sustainability and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable pillars. How is Dimac ensuring an ethical and technologically advanced approach?
“Our commitment to green issues is paramount, and our research focuses on materials that are fully compliant with regulations like REACH. We maintain a specialized internal team, with the new generation carefully overseeing raw material selection and conducting semi-annual regulatory updates. This rigor is vital because the market, especially through less-controlled channels, is saturated with non-compliant materials that allow for unfair price competition. Our company is the custodian of highly advanced chemical know-how: we don’t sell ‘plastic,’ but scientifically valid and rigorously controlled polyurethane solutions, which is a chemical reaction we know how to control.”
You mentioned an ‘emotional bond’ with your clientele. What is the biggest challenge for a service-oriented company like yours operating in such diverse sectors? “Dimac is a fundamental connection point. We act as the trait d’union between the massive and complex chemical industry, which often lacks the flexibility to assist every single footwear manufacturer, and the producer who needs immediate technical assistance. Our mission is proactive problem-solving. We don’t arrive with a catalogue; we arrive with the question: ‘What problem is your current supplier unable to solve?’ Our added value is forging a solid, almost emotional bond with the client, ensuring availability and a response that transcends a simple commercial transaction. Our ultimate goal is to guarantee business continuity, which is why the investment in the new plant is dedicated to future generations. We must constantly nourish our core strategic assets to ensure long-term stability and prosperity, rather than just focusing on immediate returns.”
La famiglia Diterlizzi allo stand Dimac durante l’ultima edizione di Simac Tanning Tech
The Diterlizzi family at the Dimac booth during the latest edition of Simac Tanning Tech.
