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What does a shoemaker do? – Tasks and work environment

A shoemaker primarily works on repairing and maintaining shoes, boots, and other leather goods. Tasks include repairing soles and heels, replacing zippers, polishing and treating leather, and sometimes manufacturing custom shoes or orthopedic insoles. Many shoemakers also offer services for bags, belts, and other leather accessories. The work environment is often a small workshop or retail setting, where hand tools and machines are used daily. The work requires precision, dexterity, and the ability to handle different materials under sometimes high customer pressure.

Salary development over time

The salary for shoemakers has increased steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,600 kronor per month. In 2023, it rose to 29 300 kronor, an increase of about 2.4%. The largest increase has occurred in the most recent year, where the average salary in 2024 has reached 33 300 kronor, a rise of over 13% compared to the previous year. This positive salary trend can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled craftsmen and a general upturn in traditional craft professions. At the same time, the industry's small scale and specialization influence salary levels, with some regions offering higher compensation depending on local demand and customer base.

Shoemaker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 300 kr/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Varies depending on experience and region, but the current average for men is 33 100 kr/month
• Hourly wage: 200 kr/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Only salary data for men is available (33 100 kr/month)
• Regional differences: Salary levels can vary depending on local demand and competition, but detailed statistics are lacking

Education and qualifications

To work as a shoemaker, a vocational education in crafts is usually required, often with a focus on shoemaking or leather craft. The educational path can vary between high school programs, adult education, or apprenticeships, and it is common to combine theory with practical work. There are also opportunities to deepen skills through courses or certification programs, and practical experience is highly valued in the profession.

• Formal education: High school vocational training in shoemaking (approximately 3 years)
• Certifications/courses: Specialized vocational courses or industry certifications
• Internship/apprenticeship: Apprenticeship or practical training with an established shoemaker is common
• Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites are required, but interest in crafts and material knowledge is advantageous
• Self-study: Opportunities to deepen knowledge through online courses and self-practice

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for shoemakers include discounted or free repairs for their own and family members' shoes, flexible working hours, and opportunities for self-employment. Additional advantages may include bonuses based on turnover and access to work clothing and tools provided by the employer. In some cases, wellness allowances and collective agreement benefits are also offered.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the profession of shoemaking is characterized by a limited number of active practitioners, which provides some opportunities for new entrants but also challenges from established competitors. The market is strongly influenced by consumer habits and attitudes towards repairs versus new purchases. Technological advances and new materials require ongoing skill development, while price pressure from larger chains and online players can affect profitability. Building a loyal customer base and adapting to changing demand patterns are central to long-term survival in the profession.

Tips for aspiring shoemakers

To succeed as a shoemaker, it is good to combine precision with a willingness to constantly develop your craft. A genuine interest in materials and techniques makes it easier to adapt to new working methods and customer needs. Social skills are valuable since the profession often involves recurring customer contacts and personal service. Being solution-oriented helps to find creative ways to repair unusual items. Initiative and independence are important qualities, especially for those who want to start their own business or take responsibility for their own workshop. Patience and perseverance are also helpful, as some jobs require both time and precision for a durable result.

Key facts about Shoemakers

• Education level: High school vocational education or equivalent
• Work environment: Workshop or small retail environment
• Typical employment: Self-employed or employed in small companies
• Demand: 341 job openings in the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Craftsmanship and material knowledge

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a shoemaker can undertake more advanced tasks, such as manufacturing custom shoes or orthopedic solutions. Many choose to start their own business or take over an existing workshop. Other opportunities include further education in leather craft or specializing in repairing exclusive bags and accessories. The future outlook for shoemakers is difficult to assess precisely, as the profession is part of a larger occupational group where the Swedish Public Employment Service does not make a separate forecast. Due to limited data, no specific assessment is provided for the profession, but a certain number of job openings are continuously available on the labor market.

Common questions about Shoemakers

• What does a shoemaker earn?
  - A shoemaker has an average salary of 33 300 kronor per month, with men earning 33 100 kronor. The hourly wage is around 200 kronor.
• What education is required to become a shoemaker?
  - Vocational training in crafts, often at a high school level, along with internships or apprenticeship periods is recommended.
• What is the job market like for shoemakers?
  - There are approximately 341 job openings within the profession, but no exact forecast for the future is provided by the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• Is there an opportunity to work as a self-employed person?
  - Many shoemakers run their own businesses and have the opportunity to start their own company or take over an existing workshop.
• What personal qualities are important as a shoemaker?
  - Attention to detail, patience, creativity, and good customer service skills are essential qualities for success in the profession.
• What else does a shoemaker do besides repairing shoes?
  - In addition to shoes, bags, belts, and other leather goods are repaired, and sometimes custom solutions are offered to meet customer needs.
• How do salaries vary between regions?
  - Regional differences exist, but detailed statistics are lacking; salary levels are influenced by local demand and competition.