Launched: June 2026
The challenge
The textiles, clothing, leather and footwear (TCLF) industries have long been pillars of the Greek economy, particularly in Central Macedonia and Attica. However, the sector has been impacted by rising energy costs, regulatory pressures and growing global competition.
Many companies struggle to remain profitable as high expenses and cheaper imports weaken competitiveness, prompting a shift of production to neighbouring Balkan states and resulting in significant employment losses. Additionally, firms in Attica report persistent difficulties in hiring, with a shortage of skilled workers.
Additionally, skills shortages remain a critical barrier across the region. The workforce is ageing, the sector struggles to attract younger generations and structural changes linked to the green and digital transition are reshaping job profiles.
The ambition
The Regional Skills Partnership for the TCLF sector in Attica aims to create a holistic learning environment that strengthens education and hands‑on training, helping younger generations recognise the opportunities available in the TCLF industries.
Its long‑term vision is to position Attica as a dynamic hub for modern and innovative training, supported by upgraded infrastructure and training centres, and a new generation of trainers equipped with digital, green and circular economy skills.
The RSP aims to establish a responsive skills ecosystem capable of anticipating technological and environmental transitions while staying aligned with EU priorities.
The commitments
The RSP will work closely with local, regional and national stakeholders to develop strategies and training initiatives that address the skills needs of the TCLF workforce.
It will run dissemination and awareness‑raising activities to make careers in the TCLF sectors more attractive, helping to promote the industry to younger generations and potential workers.
It will also strengthen skills intelligence by sharing information on job roles, existing skills gaps and emerging needs, enabling companies to better anticipate and adapt to changing labour‑market demands.
Another commitment is to promote the use of new technologies by encouraging the development of digital skills and green skills across the sector. Therefore, the RSP will support SMEs and designers through hands‑on training, mentoring and apprenticeship schemes.
The impact
To fulfil these commitments, the RSP will pilot expanded training courses in new knitting techniques. An educational web platform for flat‑bed knitting will offer immediate, sector‑relevant upskilling opportunities, while on‑the‑job training cycles will help preserve and pass on traditional craftsmanship across SMEs.
The RSP will also support talent development through a fashion design contest centred on sustainable product innovation, with winners receiving mentorship and hands‑on experience.
In addition, a coordinated outreach campaign – including school visits, open‑days, features in the Greek-Fashion magazine, a presence at the Athens Fashion Trade Show and ongoing engagement with journalists, bloggers, educators, chambers and social partners – will raise awareness of TCLF careers and attract new talent to the sector.
The RSP will also organise joint workshops with companies, vocational education and training (VET) providers and universities to integrate sustainability, circular economy and digital skills into TCLF education.
An in‑depth assessment of regional skills needs, supported by new processes for sharing skills intelligence, will help anticipate emerging profiles and guide the adaptation of training provision.
Finally, the RSP will strengthen its cooperation with other initiatives by taking part in activities under the TCLF SkillBridge project, including a National Networking Event and a Call for Services to support SMEs.
View the document below to learn more about the Regional Skills Partnership the TCLF sectors in Attica.