Expectations are growing for the 2024 edition of Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags, which will mark the 100^th anniversary of an event that has welcomed about 500 000 visitors and, in the last 10 years, has attracted industry operators from at least 100 different countries. The internalisation of the event is undeniable: today 80% of the visitors come from Europe and 20% from outside Europe, a very high figure compared to other events.

“In 100 editions, Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags has proven to be essential in preserving the competitiveness of Italian and European distribution channels. While Italy is no longer a hub for mass production, we now have the opportunity to be – and remain – a leading hub for worldwide distribution: Riva del Garda is a place for international trade”, said Chairman Roberto Pellegrini, adding that the success of the event was due to its ability to “interpreting changes in the market, and accommodating them”.

Director Alessandra Albarelli also agreed that “it is our internationality, superior to all other industry events, that makes us such an important crossroads for trade: on a global level, 2 out of every 3 pairs of shoes are bought in a country other than the one where they were made”.

Looking Into The Future

But what to expect of 2024? GianPaola Pedretti, Exhibition Manager, emphasized at the press conference in Rome that “the 100^th edition is the perfect opportunity to “take stock” of an event that started out with 12 exhibitors and today boasts 1300 footwear brands from over 40 countries, with a real waiting list, despite a pandemic that left no international event unscathed”.

The highlight of the upcoming event is a presentation of the key consumer trends in the new Highlights area, which will complement Riva’s customary Innovation Village retail. “In collaboration with the publishing house and school, Arsutoria”, “Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags will speak of trends for the first time”. “Pragmatic information will be provided about the latest consumer trends. A space where insightful speeches, naturally on the latest trends and consumption, will be held”, she explained.  

In addition, to make it easier for first-time buyers, the organisation has designed a supporting Incoming Programme, drawing on “an extensive network of delegates present in more than 60 countries, very familiar with the markets and which thoroughly understands the needs of local distribution”. But thinking of everyone, it has ensured the digitisation of the Fair Catalogue, to help participants to “better organise their visits and identify the partners most compatible with their needs”.

At last, “to mark the occasion, a special Celebration Night will be held [on the 14th of January 2024], during which our most loyal stakeholders will be awarded, and a short film, photo exhibition and monograph will also be presented.”

The next edition is just a few weeks away and will take place from the 13^th to the 16^th of January at Riva del Garda Fierecongressi.