Penza, 19 March 2015. PenzaNews. The Penza manufacturers are able to offer high-quality products for consumer market that can compete with imported goods, said the governor of the Penza region Vasily Bochkarev during the press conference held on the evening of Thursday, March 19.

© PenzaNewsBuy the photo

As a proof of his words, he demonstrated his new shoes that were tailor-made in Penza.

“Here, you can see them yourself,” the head of the region said, responding to a journalist’s question whether they are comfortable.

“These are the shoes made by the local masters. Just some time ago, you might have seen, I was wearing suede shoes, also made by Penza masters. If that goes on, I’ll be wearing domestic products little by little,” the governor added.

Vasily Bochkarev noted that the local products are currently in demand: for example, the customers of the company “Alfa” that made him two pairs of shoes have to wait for their orders for two months due to demand.

The Penza company makes both male and female footwear, the head of the region noted.

“I suggested Ryabikhina [deputy head of Penza administration] to order a pair of shoes there,” he said.

According to the governor, the Penza manufacturers can offer goods at good market-competitive price cheaper than importers.

He also noted with surprise that Penza shoes are comfortable for toes.

“You know, I did not expect it to be this comfortable: just wear them and walk away. Usually, freshly-bought shoes need some time to fit your feet,” the head of the region said.

Vasily Bochkarev expressed confidence that local manufacturers will be able to fully realize their current potential and show quick growth in the times when import replacement grows important.