Tre Bi: research, craftsmanship, and tradition

Research, craftsmanship, and an international outlook, alongside innovation and tradition. These remain the cornerstones for Guardolificio Tre Bi of Cornuda (Treviso), a global leader in producing welts for shoe factories, sole manufacturers, printers, and leather goods companies, which exhibited at the Lineapelle trade show held at the Fiera Milano this September. Once again this year, despite a reorganization of the pavilions required for the installation of an ice rink for the upcoming Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the Venetian company held onto its prime position at the entrance, a strategic location capturing high visitor footfall.
“It’s an acknowledgment of our history and our consistency,” owner Silvano Peron told us proudly at the stand, flanked by export manager Carlo Sammartini. “This ‘marriage’ began with the very first edition, back when the event was held in a different Italian city. We’ve been attending for half a century and have never missed a single show; at this point, we are part of the core of the event. It is a recognition of our history and steadfastness, and we are very proud of it.”
During the international fair, Tre Bi presented a series of innovations designed to anticipate market demands. “We brought new models featuring specialized stitching,” Peron specified, “along with welts that are hand-worked and hand-stitched, a hallmark of high quality that is appreciated and requested worldwide. A commitment to experimentation is an integral part of our corporate philosophy. We are convinced that innovation is essential: we are constantly engaged in R&D. Anyone who doesn’t invest in this area gets left behind.” Despite a challenging market environment, the Treviso-based company remains robust, thanks to a loyal clientele and a balanced footprint between Italy and abroad. “We operate with a balanced split,” noted Peron and Sammartini, “50% for the domestic market and 50% for export. Our main partners are in Europe and the Far East, but we also have clients in South Africa, the United States, and Canada. Our absolute key market, aside from Italy, is the United Kingdom. We have a presence in numerous countries across all five continents, a number that has grown in recent years, and we see interest for further expansion.”
Guardolificio Tre Bi is already looking ahead, with production for the Winter 2026 season underway and advanced materials research in progress for the subsequent summer collection. “Seasonality is another critical aspect of production: for international clients, you must work far in advance. In winter, the welt plays a more significant role due to the heavier, more substantial shoe structures, whereas summer footwear demands lighter lines and smoother welts. I am convinced the market will rebound: artisanal shoes, besides often costing less, are frequently superior to industrial ones.”
Regarding the atmosphere at this year’s fair, they noted that attendance was strong, but the visitor profile was different from the past. “We saw a lot of footfall, and genuine interest, but there was a decline in visitors from the Far East, the United States, and Turkey, the latter being a market currently in downturn. South America, on the other hand, shows decent potential, although local producers there still don’t match our level of craftsmanship. The ‘Made in Italy’ concept remains central, even if it’s primarily represented by the major fashion houses. That added value is always present, an aspect that is particularly appreciated abroad.”
Despite working with major brands and high fashion, Guardolificio Tre Bi continues to uphold its artisanal spirit. “That is our strength,” concludes the owner of the Venetian company, “even though it’s difficult for an artisan today to bear the costs of trade shows and promotion. There are very few true artisans left, which is precisely why they are so highly wanted in the market.”

GUARDOLIFICIO TRE BI – www.tre-bi.it