Welcome to PCDS Review, published trade show news/events platform.

We live in extremely challenging times; every aspect of life is in the spotlight. The world’s stage presents: - Global Warming, Pandemic/Recovery, War/Peace, Geopolitical Manoeuvring/Trade Balanced/Free Trade or Tariff, Social Media/AI, Wealth Distribution, Reduced Labour Cost, Globalisation, Legislation/Standard, Human Rights/Freedom of Speech, Religious Ideology, etc, fashion businesses prepare every scene. Evolution through creativity, development and communication, every performance to stimulating human desire for the latest trend, innovation and service.

Trade Fairs and Events provide the stage, the opportunity for the audience to participate in the next season’s wares!

Read about the next performance and check out the program of events. Coming up: - MIDO, LINEAPELLE, MIPEL...

Phil Clark Editor 10.11.25

Milano, 11 December 2025 – The General Meeting of ANFAO – Italian Optical Goods Manufacturers’ Association – was held at Palazzo Crepadona in Belluno.

The meeting focused on “Italian eyewear at the intersection of identity and global markets”. ANFAO President Lorraine Berton, together with the Executive Board and the Association’s members, reviewed the year’s activities and outlined the initiatives planned for 2026.

“The challenge we are facing is to maintain a balanced approach between staying true to our identity, to the roots of an expertise that is unique in the world, and operating within increasingly competitive, demanding and fast-changing global markets,” stated President Berton. “It is a delicate balance, but this is precisely where the strength of our sector is measured – in its ability to combine tradition and innovation, values and vision, our territory and the world.”

Milano, 4 December 2025 – The constantly updated exhibitors list of MIDO 2026, the 54th edition of the largest international eyewear event, scheduled from 31 January to 2 February 2026 at Fieramilano Rho, is now online.The show is preparing for an edition with great expectations, with a forecast of around 1,200 exhibitors from 50 countries, in line with last year’s edition, including great returns and 140 new entries, confirming the dynamism of the industry.

04.12.25

ANFAO –Italian Optical Goods Manufacturers’ Association confirms its commitment to supporting the internationalization of Italian eyewear companies by organizing, in collaboration withthe Italian Trade Agency(ITA), a group presence at Silmo Istanbul 2025.The event, continuing through November 22,2025 at the Istanbul Expo Center, is a strategic milestone in efforts to increase international engagement with the sector.

20.11.25

MOMAD will showcase new collections from national and international brands in an atmosphere of business, commercial impetus and innovation for the sector  

MOMAD, Salón Internacional de Moda, Calzado y Accesorios (International Fashion, Footwear, and Accessories Trade Show), will return to IFEMA MADRID from 5 to 7 February 2026, featuring an edition that showcases the creative energy and potential of current fashion. Hall 10 of the Recinto Ferial will showcase the richness, diversity, and quality of the participating brands, offering a journey through the latest trends in textiles, footwear and accessories, where sustainability and Spanish fashion will set the tone for the season.

In this regard, numerous established and emerging firms, buyers, and key players in the sector will converge in a unique space that inspires and fosters business. At the same time, and with the aim of completing the offer and providing a global market vision, MOMAD will once again coincide with Bisutex, the meeting point for the fashion jewellery and accessories trade.

Spanish fashion: sustainability, creative engine and symbol of quality

With a strong presence of national brands, the upcoming edition of MOMAD will highlight the quality, design, and international vision that are the hallmarks of Spanish fashion. According to the Economic Fashion Report for Spain 2025, the sector accounts for 2.9% of domestic GDP and has a significant international impact, with over 23 billion euros in international sales in 2024. Furthermore, the report highlights the strategic role of circularity and sustainability as pillars of change for the industry.

In this context, the new collections to be presented at the show will offer a cutting-edge interpretation of craftsmanship, functionality, and seasonal trends, reflecting the balance between tradition and modernity that distinguishes products made in Spain.

Meanwhile, the Conscious Boutique space will gain in prominence within the Hall by presenting new proposals for responsible and circular fashion, featuring several brands committed to recycled materials, traceability, and low-impact processes, all while maintaining the style and elegance that define the sector. 

The MOMAD Catwalk and the MOMAD Talents by ISEM competition are back

The dynamic nature of fashion will also be reflected at the fair in areas dedicated to creativity and new proposals. For example, the iconic MOMAD Catwalk will be a highlight of this edition with a revamped programme of shows and presentations. This space will once again provide an enriching overview for the industry, with activities that will set trends and address the sector's main challenges, including sustainability, technological innovation, and brand internationalisation.

MOMAD Talents by ISEM will also make a new call aimed at new brands and designers with no more than three seasons in the market. The contest, designed to spotlight emerging talent and the sector's most innovative proposals, will select two winners to showcase their collections at the next edition of MOMAD, accompanied by a complimentary stand. In addition, the winner will have the opportunity to attend the Fashion and Creativity Management by ISEM. programme.

The most recent edition of MOMAD attracted more than 300 brands from 23 different countries and saw an increase in trade visitors (+11%) from 70 countries compared to September 2024

17.11.25

Staged by the Brazilian Footwear Industries Association (Abicalçados) and organized by NürnbergMesse Brasil, BFSHOW enters its fifth edition, reinforcing its global vocation and its strategic role in driving business across the footwear value chain. From November 10 to 12, at the Anhembi District venue in São Paulo/SP, the event will welcome 670 buyers (505 domestic and 165 international) invited by the Buyer Program, a BFSHOW initiative that aims to invite retailers and importers—selected in partnership with exhibitors—to discover and do business with the brands of the largest footwear industry in the West.

Among the invited Brazilian buyers, consolidated companies stand out as they look for strategic partners and innovation. Antonio Carlos Amorim, Purchasing Manager at Armazém Paraíba — a 45-store chain with a strong presence in Piauí, Maranhão, and Bahia — has taken part in the trade show since its first edition. “We look for suppliers that will also be partners in after-sales support. Retail is going through a challenging time, so we want fashion products at affordable prices, especially geared toward Holiday 2026 collections,” he says.

The executive also underscores the event’s networking potential: “BFSHOW is a unique opportunity for negotiations and connections in one of the world’s largest business hubs, with experiences and contacts with people from everywhere.”
Leandro Aparecido Del Bianco, owner of Dolce Store Calçados, a retail brand with two stores in Catanduva (SP), is also looking for opportunities: “We are always looking for new suppliers, with bold products that will help us sell more in our stores,” says the entrepreneur, who has visited the event since the beginning and will be at this edition. “When we take part in something at the scale of this trade show, we seek to be increasingly aligned with high-quality brands and with a higher average price point. That’s why it’s extremely important for us to stay attuned to what the event offers.”

International presence and new markets

The 163 importers invited by the Buyer Program come from 56 countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The trade show projects to receive around 12,000 visitors in total, with at least 10% of them from overseas.
Among the international guests is Puseletso Mwakalombe, CEO of Glamshoes Limited, Zambia, who is attending the event for the first time. With e-commerce operations focused on the Southern African market (a region comprising several countries in southern Africa), Mwakalombe is seeking premium, innovative products with an emphasis on comfort, sustainability, and design. “Consumers are more attentive to trends and comfort. In addition to footwear, I’m looking for accessories, digital retail solutions, trends, new technologies, and shopping experiences such as virtual stores,” she says.

Content and Services

And to serve visitors seeking not only strong business opportunities but also information and new ideas, BFSHOW will feature a series of talks at the Content Arena. Among them is “The Link That Drives the Market,” by Rodrigo Prado, a mentor to sales representatives who will bring a strategic view of how to align industry, representation, and retail to turn relationships into results. The session “From the Feed to the Sale: Real Stories of How Content Sells Footwear on TikTok Shop” will delve into the platform’s sales experience. The talk will be led by Eric Chien, Head of Fashion, and Gabriela Pereira, Account Manager at TikTok—which will have its own booth at the event, within the area dedicated to specialized services for the footwear sector.

In this dedicated area of the venue there will also be exhibitors such as DataSystem, a software and digital solutions company 100% focused on footwear and apparel retail—which will operate a concept store on the show floor; Shoppub, an e-commerce platform specialized in fashion, with footwear and apparel as the strongest segments in its client base; as well as Linx, a technology specialist with deep expertise in retail management software. Other service providers will also be on site, including Lukaflex, a manufacturer of customized bags made of plastic, paper, and nonwoven (TNT), and Patrus Transportes, a national leader in less-than-truckload (LTL) freight.

“For Patrus Transportes, taking part in the 5th edition of BFSHOW is a strategic and valuable opportunity to connect with the key players in the sector, strengthen our market presence, and expand our network of relationships. The trade show is a vibrant business environment, where every conversation can turn into a promising partnership and every contact can open doors to new possibilities,” concludes Clóvis Severino, the company’s Commercial Director.

SERVICE

5th BFSHOW
Date: November 10–12, 2025 — 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the 10th and 11th, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the 12th
Location: Anhembi District (Av. Olavo Fontoura, 1209, Santana district, São Paulo, Brazil)

Registration: https://bfshow.com.br/pre-credenciamento-filtro/

05.11.25

The Mexican fair Anpic, which took place in León between October 22 and 24, is expected to generate over US$ 2.7 million for 20 participating Brazilian companies. The participation was supported by Brazilian Materials, a program to foster the internationalization of the components and machinery sector maintained by the Brazilian Association of Companies of Components for Leather, Footwear and Artifacts (Assintecal) in partnership with the Brazilian Export and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil).

The International Market Manager at Assintecal, Luiz Ribas Júnior, reports that more than 350 new contacts were generated at the event with buyers from Latin America, mostly from Mexico. "Of our ten main international destinations, six are in Latin America. So, being at the largest fair in the sector in Mexico was very important for our companies to expand their exports," he evaluates. The tenth largest footwear producer in the world, Mexico is a relevant market for Brazilian materials. Last year, the country produced over 214 million pairs of shoes.

The fair
With more than 22,000 square meters of exhibition area and 900 exhibitors, Anpic is one of the largest fairs in the sector in Latin America. This edition received more than 8,000 buyers from about 20 countries.

The following companies participated in the exhibition, with the support of Brazilian Materials: Artecola, Killing, Jotaclass, JS Metais, Corium, Seta, OTB, Tecmec, Retma, Usicon, Rodamatrizes, Maquetec, Quasa Metalização, IBK, Couro Modas Juazeiro, HG, DWC Matrizes, Usitec, GP Matrizes and Eliza Design.

30.10.25

ANFAO IN BRAZIL TO PROMOTE
ITALIAN EYEWEAR EXCELLENCE

Milano, 27 October 2025 – Brazil, all eyes on Made in Italy: from sportswear design to beach fashions, up to and including major cultural and business events. ANFAO (Italian Optical Goods Manufacturers’ Association) was the star player in a tour that carried Italian eyewear excellence abroad, organized by ITA (Italian Trade Agency) for overseas promotion and internationalization of Italian enterprise– with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), and in collaboration with the leading fashion industry trade associations.

27.10.25

The world's largest trade fair in the occupational safety segment, A+A, which takes place in Düsseldorf/Germany between November 4 and 7, will feature ten Brazilian companies. They will be supported by Brazilian Materials, an export promotion program for the sector maintained by the Brazilian Association of Companies of Components for Leather, Footwear and Artifacts (Assintecal) in partnership with the Brazilian Export and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil).

Assintecal's International Market Manager, Luiz Ribas Júnior, highlights that the fair attracts buyers not only from the security segment but also from footwear in general. "More than a large consumer of footwear, Europe is also a producer, especially in Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Italy, and Germany. Our materials are always highly sought after and valued due to their quality, innovation, and sustainability, which is even one of the discussion points proposed by A+A," comments the manager, emphasizing that five of the Brazilian companies are certified by Origem Sustentável, the only ESG practices certification program exclusively for the footwear chain in the world.

Participating in A+A, with the support of Brazilian Materials, are the companies Ambiente Verde, Cipatex, Jotaclass, ITM, Colorgraf, Flecksteel, Globalfit, Brisa, Bandtex, and Intexco.

24.10.25

Created in 2015, the BrazilianFootwear.com platform, which connects footwear brands with buyers around the world, has been revamped. The project, carried out under the Brazilian Footwear program—an export-promotion initiative for the sector maintained by the Brazilian Footwear Industries Association (Abicalçados) in partnership with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil)—comes at a time of growth in international B2B e-commerce (between companies).

The new version brings significant improvements to the buyer’s navigation journey. Among the updates are features that enhance brand search, the use of data intelligence to suggest new options based on the buyer’s interest profile, a new system for managing searches and information, as well as an updated messaging tool that allows sending product photos and expands opportunities for direct negotiation between buyers and manufacturers. “The new platform features a completely refreshed layout and a more modern programming framework, which delivers faster navigation. The enhancements also benefit manufacturers, showcasing each brand’s collections in an even more compelling way,” explains Carla Giordani, from Abicalçados’ Business Unit.

Currently, the project features 212 Brazilian brands registered and reports more than 164,000 active users in 2025. The top visitors come from the United States, Argentina, Colombia, the United Kingdom, Chile, China, Ecuador, Peru, Spain, and Canada. Registration is free for both brands and visitors. More information is available at: BrazilianFootwear.com.

21.10.25

21,433 professional operators, together with 1,150 exhibitors, were the key players at LINEAPELLE 106, the leading trade fair for the global luxury, fashion, and design manufacturing industry, held at Fiera Milano Rho from 23 to 25 September 2025.

Creative exploration, design sharing, business networking. Models of artisanal engineering. New horizons of artificial intelligence.LINEAPELLE will celebrate its 106th edition by offering an inspiring wealth of content and synergies. Elements that confirm it as the moment of perfect stylistic and production synthesis for the global fashion, luxury, and design supply chain.

The first half of 2025 closed in a global context characterized by high economic and political instability. Italian eyewear, which exports about 90% of its production, faces significant challenges related to the new import duties introduced by the Trump administration and slowing demand in some key markets. At the same time, encouraging signs are coming from Europe and several emerging markets that could open up new growth opportunities.

Received 10.09.25 Published 11.09.25 BACK

Fashion system:
Simac Tanning Tech, increasingly an international benchmark event,
with 25% of exhibitors from abroad

• From 23 to 25 September, Milan will once again host the leading event for the footwear, leather goods and tanning industries, with 312 exhibitors, 25% of whom are international.

• President Bergozza: “In a particularly difficult year, with a 12.8% decline in exports in the first five months of 2025, our sector is showing solid resilience”

• As part of Simac Tanning Tech, a Memorandum of Understanding will also be signed with the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) which, as part of the Mattei Plan for Africa, aims to support the development of the entire leather supply chain in the African country.

Received 11.09.25 Published 11.09.25 BACK

Milan, August 29, 2025 – From September 7 to 9, 2025, MIPEL returns to Pavilions 1 and 3 of Fiera Milano-Rho, in conjunction with MICAM Milano. Now in its 128th edition, the event is exceptionally bringing forward its dates, breaking with the traditional overlap with other fashion system trade shows (Milano Fashion&Jewels, Lineapelle, and TheOne Milano). This extraordinary decision was made necessary by the work that will be carried out on the exhibition center in preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics. This change of course, dictated by exceptional circumstances, only affects this September's edition; from the next edition (February 22-24, 2026), the show will return to its usual calendar.

Received 01.09.25 Published 02.09.25 BACK

Milano, 30 July 2025 – Italian fashion in the spotlight with the debut on Sunday, August 3rd, of the Days of Italian Fashion in the World, a project sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to maximize appreciation of Made in Italy around the world, in partnership with ITA (Italian Trade Agency) and with the leading fashion trade associations: ANFAO, Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana (National Chamber for Italian Fashion), Confapi Uniontessile (Italian federation of private industry SMEs, textiles), Confartigianato Moda (association representing Italian craft and SME fashion industries), Confartigianato Orafi (goldsmith division), CNA Federmoda (Union of Fashion System Enterprises of the National Confederation of Craftsmen and SMEs), CNA Orafi (Goldsmith & Jewelry Federation), Confindustria Accessori Moda (Leather Fashion Accessories Federation), Confindustria FEDERORAFI (National Federation of Gold, Silverware & Jewelry Manufacturers), Confindustria Moda - Federazione Tessile e Moda e Altagamma (Italian Federation of Textile and Fashion Accessories Industry - Altagamma Foundation).

This promotional tour will be launched at Expo Osaka, in the Italy Pavilion, and in 2025 will continue to the United Arab Emirates,with a stop in Dubai in early September, then move on to Brazil in mid-October, with events in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte, to conclude in India, at New Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai at the end of October. The project is designed to narrate the strength, beauty and vision of Made in Italy through three keywords: creativity, sustainability and internationalization.

The first stop of the “Italy is Fashion” exhibit (curated by Clara Tosi Pamphili and organized by Italy’s Consulate General, the Expo Commissioner, and ITA in collaboration with the Directorate General for the Promotion of the Country System of the Farnesina), will be a synthesis of contemporary Italian fashion, where, alongside the voices of industrial and artisanal production, space will also be given for young creative talents
.
ANFAO – Italian Optical Goods Manufacturers’ Association, will represent the excellence of Italian eyewear with a finely curated display that presents an engaging overview of the world of Italian eyewear. An everyday object that, in Italy, has become a symbol of style, innovation and artisanal identity.

Visitors will follow a pathway of avant-garde design and materials that blends historical memory and future vision. Starting with six vintage eyewear pieces from the Eyewear Museum in Pieve di Cadore – each representing a different decade from 1900 to the 1990s – the exhibit transitions to a selection of materials that showcase the industry’s technical excellence: titanium, known for its lightness and strength; cellulose acetate, natural and versatile; and Grilamid TR90, a high-performance polyamide that adapts to the shape of the face with memory retention, perfect for sports eyewear.

Also on display are semi-finished components, front pieces, temples and multicolor acetate blocks that illustrate the artisanal process of color layering, with each pigment blended with millimetric precision and arranged by hand to create unique patterns, transforming the material into structure and visual narrative.

The design section focuses on Italian design capabilities through original hand-drawn sketches, like those by Sergio Cereda from 1970-1990, reflecting the evolution of style and aesthetic sensibility. Alongside, a selection of contemporary technical drawings: an acetate model with bold shapes and graphic design, a sports wrap with hi-tech details and an aerodynamic profile; a sculpted model with three-dimensional proportions; and lastly, development drawings for titanium styles that express the focus on precision engineering and sustainability in state-of-the-art manufacturing.

To complete the ANFAO narrative, a selection of historic images: photographs that portray artisans at work and the earliest factories in the Cadore – heartland of Italian eyewear – between 1890 and 1934; the first editions of MIDO | Milano Eyewear Show, that is now the leading trade show event worldwide; and ad campaigns from the 1950s to the 1980s that illustrate the evolution of style and convey the full cultural and identity impact of the Italian eyewear supply chain.

Received 30.07.25 Published 31.07.25 BACK

Presented by the Ross Viva Family Foundation and MIDO | Milano Eyewear Show
Applications now open for 2026; $10,000 Grand Prize; Winners to be honored live at MIDOExhibition  in Milano

[New York, 14 July 2025] — The Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award, presented by the Ross Viva Family Foundation in partnership with the MIDO Exhibition in Milano, is proud to announce its global expansion for 2026. Now open to the world’s most prestigious eyewear and fashion design schools, the award is a premier international platform exclusively dedicated to recognizing the next generation of visionary student designers in the optical space.
To apply: https://optyx.com/sergio-cereda-award-application/
While other design competitions highlight industry professionals or brands, the Sergio Cereda Award is one of the few global honors created specifically for emerging student designers, offering significant cash prizes, mentorship opportunities, and a live stage at the world’s leading eyewear trade show — MIDO |Milano Eyewear Show.

Celebrating Rising Stars in Eyewear Design
The award made its live debut at MIDO 2025, where Tea Rocco, a student at LABA School of Design in Italy, was named the first winner. The announcement was delivered in front of hundreds of attendees. The excitement was palpable as industry professionals from around the world witnessed her breakthrough moment. The award announcement, led by MIDO President Lorraine Berton, set a new tone for how the industry celebrates industry heritage along with fresh talent.
Later in 2025, Sophia Denison of Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) earned the North American title during Vision Expo 2025. 

2026 Awards: What to Expect

• Eligibility: Students under age 30 enrolled in or recently graduated from an accredited design program
• Theme: "A Deep Dive into Olympic Sports Eyewear." As the world prepares for The Winter Olympic Games Milano/Cortina 2026, this year’s theme invites applicants to explore the rich intersection of sport, design, and mountain culture. The Dolomites — close to Cadore, cradle of the Italian eyewear industry — provide a symbolic and literal backdrop for this exploration.
• Prizes:
  
• 1st Place: $10,000 USD
• 2nd Place: $5,000 USD
• 3rd Place: $2,500 USD
  
• Deadline: November 2025
• Live Award Ceremony: MIDO 2026, Fiera Milano Rho, Milano, Italy
  

2026 International Jury
A globally respected jury will review all entries for design originality, technical execution, and vision:

• Harvey Ross – Founder, Viva International Group; CEO, OPTYX New York and HMR Holdings
• Stefania Cereda Oppermann – Design Consultant, EssilorLuxottica North America Product Team
• Caterina Cereda – Freelance Consultant
• Lorraine Berton – President, MIDO Exhibition
• David Friedfeld – President, ClearVision Optical
• Giovanni Vitaloni – Founder, VANNI Eyewear
• Bruno Palmegiani – Eyewear Designer
  

Quotes
“Sergio Cereda was not only my business partner for decades—he was my best friend and creative soulmate,” said Harvey Ross, founder of the Ross Viva Family Foundation and co-creator of the award. ‘’This competition is my way of honoring his legacy and ensuring that his passion for bold, beautiful, forward-thinking design lives on. We’re proud to present this award alongside MIDO to elevate the future leaders of our industry.”
“We are very enthusiastic about the 2026 edition! Our dad would be very honored to know that his work is inspiring the creative minds of the new generations. We encourage the participating students to enjoy this opportunity to the fullest, and we thank Harvey and MIDO for making this happen.” The Cereda family
“Presenting the first winner of the Cereda Award at MIDO 2025 was a truly meaningful moment for me – said Lorraine Berton, MIDO President. Sergio Cereda made an important contribution to our industry, and it is a pleasure to pay tribute to his memory. In a sector like eyewear, where tradition and innovation go hand in hand, preserving and celebrating the legacy of those who shaped it is essential. I was also particularly pleased that the award went to a young woman, and now I’m really looking forward to discovering the winners of the next edition”.

About the Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award
Presented by the Ross Viva Family Foundation and the MIDO Exhibition, the Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award was created to honor the legacy of Italian eyewear pioneer Sergio Cereda. Known for his eye for elegance, technical brilliance, and commitment to mentorship, Cereda helped shape the global eyewear industry. The award is now one of the most respected honors for emerging designers and continues to celebrate bold new ideas with global impact.

Received 14.07.25 Published 15.07.25 Updated 24.07.25 BACK

AEC is organizing the joint participation of Spanish footwear component companies in the next edition of Lineapelle London, to be held on July 8, 2025, in London.

Spanish companies in the footwear component sector will participate prominently in the Lineapelle London fair, being the country with the second largest number of exhibitors, reflecting the cutting-edge, exclusivity, and quality of Spanish components that brands from the United Kingdom and other European countries need to incorporate into their collections.

On this occasion, eight Spanish accessory, tanning, and fabric companies will attend, under the umbrella of the Footwear Components From Spain brand, with the collaboration and support of ICEX Spain Export and Investment.
The participating companies are Adornos Clement from Elche, Artesa Manufacturas from Crevillente, Curtidos Badia from Igualada, Eustaquio Cantó Cano from Villena, Inter Leather from Barcelona, ​​Poveda Textil from Petrer, Pyton from Sant Boi de Llobregat, and TexlessEcofabrics from Petrer. They will preview their Fall/Winter 2026-2027 collections, which they will subsequently present at other international trade fairs.
Lineapelle London is one of the most influential trade fairs on the international fashion calendar for leather and materials for footwear and leather goods. Held twice a year at the prestigious hotel HamYard, in the heart of London's Soho, this event has established itself as an exclusive and select space that connects innovation in materials with the leading names in British and European design.
With a compact and dynamic format, Lineapelle London is a highly strategic trade fair for showcasing trends and new products, and forging direct relationships with designers, fashion brands, and high-level buyers.
This one-day event features the most exclusive European and international producers of leather, textiles, synthetics, accessories, and components for the footwear and leather goods industry in general. The high-quality, cutting-edge collections presented there make it a must-attend event for stylists and designers from the United Kingdom, creating a high-fashion networking environment in a vibrant and modern space.
Forty-four companies are participating in the exhibition, with 70.5% coming from Italy, 25.5% from Spain, 5% from Portugal, among others. Fifty-seven percent of the products on display are leather goods, 27% accessories and components, and 16% fabrics and synthetics.

The last edition in January 2025 received around 500 visitors, primarily from high-end British brands, international luxury brands, designers, and fashion consultants, among others.

This event is a key platform for showcasing our collections, establishing business contacts, and consolidating strategic relationships. Showcasing the Spanish brand at an event like this consolidates the components industry as a global benchmark in quality, innovation, cutting-edge design, and top-level design.

Received 07.07.25 Published 07.07.25 BACK

Milan, 2nd July 2025 – Shanghai is preparing to become the global hub of footwear innovation. From 31 August to 3 September 2025, the Chinese metropolis will be the venue for the 22nd UITIC International Technical Footwear Congress, an unmissable event that promises to redefine the future of footwear under the crucial theme: “Competitiveness and Sustainability in the Era of Artificial Intelligence”.
Jointly organised by UITIC and CLIA (China Leather Industry Association), in collaboration with Assomac, the congress aims to explore the profound transformations that Artificial Intelligence and sustainability are bringing to the industry.
 
Artificial Intelligence: A Turn in Design and Manufacturing
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as the driving force behind innovation in the industry. UITIC President Sergio Dulio points out: "More than half of the submitted papers are about AI, with mature and exciting projects. This is a breakthrough." This highlights the increasing adoption and experimentation of AI, particularly in the footwear product design phase. Companies are recognising AI as a strategic lever to rethink design processes, opening up unprecedented scenarios for creating innovative and competitive footwear.
 
Sustainability: From Obligation to Competitive Advantage

Alongside AI, sustainability is emerging as a key pillar,no longer just a regulatory constraint, but a decisive competitive factor for companies in the industry. 'Today, companies recognise sustainability as a strategic element for competitiveness,' says Dulio. This paradigm shift underlines how sustainable footwear production has become an intrinsic value, essential for the long-term prosperity of the industry.
 
A Programme Rich in Content and Distinguished Speakers

The 22nd UITIC Congress will offer a high-profile programme, divided into four main thematic sessions: materials and products innovation, sustainability as an opportunity for competitiveness, smart and AI empowered manufacturing and successful industrial stories.
Among the most eagerly awaited speeches are Nicoline van Enter's keynote speech on the application of AI in footwear development and Liu Wei of the Li Ning Company. The concluding panel will be entirely dedicated to the future of AI in the footwear world, promising food for thought and vision. The quality of the interventions is guaranteed by authoritative speakers, as highlighted by Dulio.

The Growing Chinese Influence in Footwear Innovation

This edition of the congress marks an unprecedented Chinese participation. "There was an important participation of Chinese companies in the Call for Abstract with high quality proposals and briefs," reveals Dulio. This reinforces China's role as a key player in the development of innovative footwear technologies and strategies.
 
Innovation: The Key to Overcoming Industry Challenges

At a delicate time for the global footwear industry, investment in innovation is more crucial than ever. Emerging technologies, in particular artificial intelligence, represent a keyway to regain competitiveness. This is particularly true for manufacturing companies that can no longer compete on volume but can distinguish themselves through process and product innovation.
 
An Unmissable Opportunity for the Entire Footwear Production Chain

The 22nd UITIC International Technical Footwear Congress is an essential event for the entire footwear value chain. From conception to production, from R&D to distribution, the event offers a unique opportunity for a fundamental update, constructive discussion and redesign with a view to the future. As Dulio emphasises, it is a crucial moment not only for manufacturers of finished shoes, but also for those who develop and supply the technologies that make them possible.
 
The Evolution of UITIC and Future Prospects

The congress is not only a point of arrival, but also a springboard for the future of UITIC. With the association wondering about its future evolution, important news can be expected for the next editions.
Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this transformative event. The 22nd UITIC International Technical Footwear Congress in Shanghai is the gateway to understanding and anticipating the profound transformations taking place, exploring how Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability can become the pillars of future competitiveness in the world of footwear.

 
For more information about the UITIC 2025 International Congress, including submission guidelines and registration details, please visit the Congress website: https://www.uitic2025.com/  and the official website: https://uitic.org/

Received 02.07.25 Published 03.07.25 BACK

• President Mauro Bergozza: “Deep crisis but Made in Italy can become a protagonist again with vision, supply chain and targeted investments”.
• The current contraction involves both the domestic market - penalised by the slowdown in investments in the fashion supply chain - and exports.
• Despite the difficulties, Italy confirms its leadership in the segments with the highest technological value, maintaining a 30% share of world exports in the sector by 2024.

Bergamo, 20 June 2025
Quality, skills, technology. It is on these pillars that the Italian footwear, leather goods and tannery machinery sector is called upon to build its relaunch. The occasion to take stock was the General Assembly of Assomac, hosted today at the Kilometro Rosso Innovation District in Bergamo, from which a certainly complex picture emerged: according to the 2024 preliminary results, the sector has recorded a 12% drop in turnover, with an estimated closure of around 575 million euros.

This is a significant contraction, which involves both the domestic market - penalised by the slowdown in investments in the fashion supply chain - and exports, in a global context characterised by geopolitical instability, inflation, shrinking consumption and tightening trade barriers. “Our sector is going through a phase of deep, but not irreversible suffering - said Mauro Bergozza, President of Assomac - The quality of our technologies, the solidity of Italian know-how, and the innovative drive that distinguishes us must once again become a driver of competitiveness. To achieve this, we need investments in digitisation, automation, sustainability and above all a shared vision between companies, institutions and the education and research system. We must be ready to play a system game, otherwise we will remain on the sidelines of the global market."

Despite the difficulties, Italy is confirmed as the technological leader in the high-end segment at international level, maintaining a 30% share of world exports in the sector in 2024. In particular, it holds 52% of the global export of tannery machinery and 35% of that of leather goods machinery. More penalised is the footwear segment, which stands at 12%, in a competitive context dominated by the growing Chinese presence: Beijing has strengthened its industrial role in the Asian region.

The Assembly was also a moment of wide-ranging discussion on the future trajectories of the supply chain. Under the title “Growth, Collaboration and Innovation for the European Fashion Industry”, the event was attended by institutional and academic speakers, including Maurizio Tarquini, Director General of Confindustria, Maurizio Forte, Managing Director Export Promotion Department of Italian Trade Agency, and Giuliano Noci, Professor of Strategy and Marketing at the Milan Polytechnic.

At the heart of the debate: the need to ensure technological neutrality in order to preserve and valorise medium technology, a key element to give continuity to the sustainable transition of European fashion; the strengthening of synergies between companies and institutions; and the urgency of joint action at European level to defend and relaunch the manufacturing identity of our continent.

Among the priorities that emerged: greater access to subsidised finance tools - starting with the funds provided by Industry 5.0 - support for exports in key markets such as Africa, India, South-East Asia and South America, investment in technical training and acceleration of digital innovation processes. The competitiveness game, it was emphasised, cannot be played alone: it is necessary to network between players in the supply chain, the fashion system, research bodies and associations, to create a solid industrial ecosystem, with a unified voice in Europe.

“Aggregating to compete is no longer an option, but a necessity - President Bergozza concluded - We have to build a system in which companies are supported not only in terms of technology, but also in terms of infrastructure, industrial policies and international relations. Italy can and must become a protagonist again, but to do so we need cohesion, investment and a long-term vision. The time to act is now”.

Received 24.06.25 Published 24.06.25 BACK

In an economic and geopolitical context characterized by increasing complexity and instability, the Italian technology industry for the footwear, leather goods and tanning sectors is called upon to strengthen its competitiveness through innovative industrial strategies, cooperation between companies and authoritative representation at European level.

The meeting will be an opportunity for discussion between institutional representatives, entrepreneurs, stakeholders and the academic world, with the aim of outlining a shared vision for the future of the sector.

Program
Institutional greetings:
🔹 Salvatore Majorana, Director Kilometro Rosso Innovation District
🔹 Maurizio Tarquini, General Manager Confindustria
🔹 Matteo Zoppas (TB), President ITA - Italian Trade Agency
🔹Opening speech: Mauro Bergozza, President of Assomac
🔹Keynote speech: Giuliano Noci, Professor of Strategy & Marketing, Vice Rector for China Politecnico di Milano
🔹The round table will be attended by: LUCA SBURLATI, President Confindustria Moda - Textile and Fashion Federation; Erika Andreetta, PwC Italy Partner, EMEA Fashion & Luxury Leader; guido cami, Chairman and CEO Industrie Chimiche Forestali; Alberto Russo, Founder and Managing Partner
Russo De Rosa Associati; Micaele Pietro Golferenzo, Private Banker, Wealth Advisor Fideuram - Intesa Sanpaolo Private Banking; edoardo imperiale, General Manager Stazione Sperimentale per l’Industria delle Pelli e delle materie concianti.

The work is conducted by Luca Orlando, Journalist - Correspondent Il Sole 24 Ore.

For information: office@assomac.it
Registration here: https://lnkd.in/eMFQVVZw

MIPEL Milano- 07.02.25

MIPEL126
DIGITAL SHOW
S NOW ONLINE!

Read In Full & More Mipel Reports

 

MIPEL Milano- 04.09.24

MIPEL126
DIGITAL SHOW
S NOW ONLINE!

Read In Full & More Mipel Reports

 

MIPEL Milano- 02.06.24

Mipel is waiting for you! Download your entrance ticket

Read In Full & More Mipel Reports

MIPEL Milano- 16.02.24

WELCOME ON BOARD!
MIPEL 125,"TAKES OFF"

Read In Full & More Mipel Reports

MIPEL Milano- 22.01.24

MIPEL125
Reaching MIPEL125 has never been easier: discover MIPEL hospitality services!

Read In Full & More Mipel Reports

MIDO - 14.02.25

MIDO 2025:
ATTENDANCE UP 9%
COMPARED TO
LAST YEAR

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

MIDO - 11.02.25

MIDO 2025
MIDO Daily:
the grand finale!

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

MIDO - 10.02.25

MIDO 2025:
VISITORS CROWD THE
STANDS TO CONDUCT
BUSINESS AND BUILD
NEW RELATIONSHIPS

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

MIDO - 10.02.25

MIDO 2025
MIDO Daily: discover
the Day Two news!

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

MIDO - 09.02.25

THE LENS OF TIME:
THE HISTORY OF
EYEWEAR IN ITALY
(7 May – 22 July, Venezia)

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

MIDO - 09.02.25

MIDO 2025
all eyes on business,
innovation and
sustainability

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

MIDO - 09.02.25

THE CURTAIN
RISES ON
MIDO 2025!

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

MIDO - 07.02.25

MIDO 2025
We wait for you tomorrow: let's go on stage!

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

MIDO - 06.02.25

MIDO TRENDS 2025
Alessandra Albarello

Read In Full & More
Mido Reports

 

Have you nominated your company for one of the 2026 awards?   CSE - Certified Sustainable Eyewear.   You have time until December 14th to sign up for the CSE Award – Certified Sustainable Eyewear, the prize that celebrates eyewear, frames, and cases that stand out for sustainable materials, production, and responsible practices. Starting this year, we are celebrating responsibility with another prize: the CSE Corporate Award, which recognizes companies that integrate ESG principles into their corporate policies.   Apply now!     Best Store Award 2026!   The Best Store Award honors optical centers that stand out for design and innovation. Take part in the competition by December 31st and share your vision of what makes a store unique, welcoming and inspiring.   Submit the application!   Get ready to meet the supply-chain!   Register now and join the world’s leading eyewear event. From January 31 to February 2, experience MIDO 2026 from the inside.   Download your pass! MIDO NEWS 2025     Follow us on social! FAQ section Contact us Privacy policy

 

Applications for the awards are now open! Innovation, Design, and Sustainability on the podium. Starting from today, optical centers and exhibitors have the opportunity to distinguish themselves for their excellence by applying respectively for the Best Store Award, which recognizes design and innovation, and the CSE Award – Certified Sustainable Eyewear, which promotes virtuous sustainability practices. An opportunity to showcase commitment and the ability to look to the future. Apply now via AWARDS page on our website!   Do you have your free pass? The international eyewear community comes together at Fieramilano Rho to share trends, innovations and new connections. Attend the event as a protagonist: MIDO 2026 takes place from January 31st to February 2nd.  Register today!   Follow us on social! FAQ section Contact us Privacy policy

 

Association of Leather Goods Producers

Accessories Italy 20.09.21

The Italian Leather Goods Sector First Half of 2021

Read In Full & More Assopellettieri Reports

Accessories Italy 20.03.21

THE ITALIAN
LEATHER GOODS
SECTOR IN 2020

Read In Full & More Assopellettieri Reports

 

 

Organiser of Mipel

ITALIAN EYEWEAR:
FIRST HALF OF 2025
AMID UNCERTAINTIES
IN THE US AND POSITIVE
SIGNALS FROM EUROPE
AND EMERGING MARKETS

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 31.07.25

ANFAO TAKES ITALIAN
EYEWEAR TO THE GLOBAL
STAGE: LAUNCHING IN OSAKA,
“ITALIA È MODA”
[ITALY IS FASHION]

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 08.05.25

ANFAO INAUGURATES
"THE LENS OF TIME"
IN VENEZIA,
AN EXHIBIT THAT NARRATES
THE STORY OF EYEWEAR
THROUGH ART, DESIGN,
AND INNOVATION

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 15.04.25

Updates to US tariffs:
ANFAO is monitoring the
situation to safeguard
the interests of Italy’s
eyewear industry

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 06.02.25

2024: A transitional
year for Italian
eyewear.
Uncertainty slows
exports.

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 25.09.24

ITALIAN EYEWEAR
FIGURES FOR THE
FIRST HALF OF 2024

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 18.06.24

Process of defining
ANFAO governance,
completed

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 06.02.24

ANFAO
INTRODUCES
CSE
"CERTIFIED
 SUSTAINABLE
EYEWEAR"

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 02.02.24

2023 AT TWO
SPEEDS FOR THE
EYEWEAR
INDUSTRY

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 29.11.23

LORRAINE BERTON
ELECTED NEW PRESIDENT

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 05.10.23

ANFAO eyewear
data first half
2023

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 11.07.23

ANFAO eyewear
data first quarter
2023

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear Italy 11.07.23

The ANFAO
General Meeting
was held
yesterday in Verona

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Eyewear 06.02.23

EYEWEAR SHINES
WITH EXPORTS, BUT MUST ACCOUNTAIN
WITH INCREASING COSTS
2022 PRELIMINARY
BALANCE:
PRODUCTION +24%,
EXPORT +22.5%.
1H 2023 FORECAST:
EXPORT +6-8%.

Read In Full & More
ANFAO Reports

Organiser of Mido