“The international manufacturing industry is returning en masse to Riva del Garda following the success of the last two post-pandemic editions”, stated the organization of the event, scheduled to take place from the 17^th to the 20^th of June. Therefore, “Halls A1 and A3 will in fact be opened to create more exhibition space, thus filling the exhibition centre to its utmost capacity”. More than 40 countries will participate, including China, Brazil, India, Turkey and several European countries, and over 120 buyers are anticipated, “eager to get a taste of upcoming trends at the first industry event, which, as per tradition, will kick off the summer 2024 season”.

But the eyes are on the return of Chinese buyers. According to the organization, the number of Chinese exhibitors has doubled compared to last January: the trade fair will host more than 250 companies from mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. In addition, the organisers highlighted the presence, for the first time, of CLIA (China Leather Industry Association), which brings together a collective of footwear and luggage companies, predominantly from Wenzhou, Wenling and Guangzhou, as well as a representative stand from Wenzhou municipality, one of the most important production districts of the country.

“Our exhibitors have strategically prepared new collections aimed at the European market. Our members also include several manufacturers highly focused on the issue of environmental sustainability. They will be offering bags at the fair made from recycled biomaterials that comply with the Global Renewable Standard (GRS)”, stated CLIA, ahead of the event.

Novelties

Visitors to the upcoming trade fair will also be able to attend a summit promoted by the Confederation of International Footwear Association (CIFA) titled “Deman meets supply: challenges and opportunities on consumer trends and the supply chain in the post-pandemic world. Leaders of the footwear industry, for both supply and demand, discuss the future of footwear sourcing.”

Moreover, the return of the Innovation Village Retail, which will feature several startups “prepared to showcase the most cutting-edge solutions to support the work of professional producers and distributors”, is also anticipated.