Events

Simac Tanning Tech and Linneapelle attract over 9,000 visitors

Oct 3, 2025 Italy

With exhibitors from nearly 20 countries, the Italian fairs provided a platform for industry dialogue and showcased Italian resilience in a sector facing export declines and shifting global dynamics

"The figures from Simac Tanning Tech show that, in difficult times, companies and operators choose the fair to strengthen strategic relationships and present innovations for the future of the sector. Our event is not just a commercial space, but proof that the Italian industry is resilient and capable of responding to challenges with concrete, innovative and sustainable solutions", said Mauro Bergozza, President of Assomac.

Simac Tanning Tech, the international exhibition for technology and machinery in the footwear, leather goods and tanning industries, closed its 51^st edition at Fiera Milano Rho. The fair welcomed over 7,000 visitors, nearly 50% of whom were from abroad, while a quarter of the exhibitors came from around 20 different countries. Supported by the Italian Trade Agency and held in synergy with Lineapelle, the event drew around 9,000 participants who moved between the two fairs.

The Italian footwear, leather goods and tanning machinery industry continues to be a strategic supply chain in Europe, with 225 companies employing a stable workforce and generating 385 million euros in exports, according to the fair's press release. However, the first half of 2025 confirmed a challenging phase for the sector, with exports falling by 12.8%. This decline reflects a broader international context of geopolitical tensions, global conflicts and supply chain restructuring, which has weighed heavily on trade and investment.

This edition of the fair featured a comprehensive programme of conferences and debates centred on innovation, sustainability, artificial intelligence and traceability. Special attention was given to European research projects and the African continent, which is increasingly viewed as a strategic partner for industrial cooperation. Meetings hosted by Assomac focused on Kenya, involving institutions from both countries in discussions on how to strengthen partnerships, boost competitiveness and support development of local supply chains.

A strategic agreement between Simac Tanning Tech and Lineapelle reinforced this focus on collaboration. By bringing together machinery and materials under one platform, the two events aim to represent the fashion value chain. Gianni Russo, President of Lineapelle, highlighted the importance of maintaining such spaces as forums for identifying and developing new production and commercial models, particularly in the current global environment.

The next edition of Simac Tanning Tech is scheduled to take place at Fiera Milano Rho from the 15^th to the 17^th of September 2026, once again coinciding with Lineapelle.

Image Credits: Simac Tanning Tech

Italy Assomac Equipment and Machinery Events Footwear Leather Organisations SIMAC Simac Trade fairs