WASHINGTON, DC, February 24, 2026 __ USFMA is pleased to welcome new members Gusbi, Autec Automation, and Robot System Automation, Italian footwear machinery leaders with a strong record of supporting USFMA members, as we work to build greater American production capacity.
“We are thrilled that Gusbi, Autec, and Robot System Automation are joining our growing coalition and bringing a renewed commitment to advancing the Made in the USA renaissance in our industry,” said USFMA Executive Director Bill McCann. “These new partnerships are critical to ramping up more production with the most advanced manufacturing technologies and processes and further strengthening domestic supply chains for footwear products.”
Founded in 1946, Gusbi specializes in the design and supply of turnkey industrial systems to produce polyurethane soles and complete footwear. The company prides itself on its “on demand philosophy” of custom-tailored machines, operator training, and “just in time” maintenance.
Now in its 80th year, Gusbi has successfully installed machinery in more than 5,000 factories worldwide. Among its current customers are USFMA members Red Wing, Poly Labs, Glacial Lakes, Huntsman, and Meramec. Other partners are McRae Footwear and SAS Shoes.
“Gusbi is integrating new technology into our machines to allow our partners to remain competitive,” said David Rivet, North American Sales Representative for both Gusbi and Autec. “By becoming a member of the USFMA, Gusbi is strengthening its presence in the U.S. market with its experience, know-how, and technical support to serve U.S. footwear manufacturers.”
Autec, founded in 1993, specializes in the design and manufacture of custom automation solutions for footwear, leather goods, and the automotive industry – including robotic roughing systems, robotic release operations, and conveyor lines. Autec also offers a long-term partnership model, by supporting customers during start-up and throughout the production process. It has installed more than 750 automation systems worldwide to meet manufacturing needs.
“AUTEC Automation has built a solid track record delivering reliable, production-ready solutions designed around real manufacturing needs,” said Rivet. “By joining USFMA, AUTEC brings to the U.S. footwear industry a combination of cross-industry experience, full in-house development, and direct technical support, positioning itself as a long-term technology partner.”
Robot System Automation (RSA), founded in 1984, is a manufacturer of industrial machinery and robotic systems for footwear production, with exclusive distribution and service partnerships in the United States. It offers advanced solutions ranging from 3D scanning to robotized stitching and has also worked with a range of USFMA members, including Red Wing, Weinbrenner, and New Balance.
“We have some unique technology, especially for military boot production,” said Marco Minutillo, RSA’s Sales & Innovation Manager. “Some of our customers asked us to join the association to launch new projects to support the future of advanced manufacturing in the U.S. market.”
“We are looking to help U.S customers be competitive and increase capacity in the next three to five years,” Minutillo added.
“USFMA is more vibrant and active than ever in advocating for our domestic agenda,” added McCann. “As we gather this week in Washington for policy discussions and to advance our objectives with government leaders, our diverse expertise from across the footwear supply chain gives us the expertise and influence we need to achieve more results.”