Organised by Assocalzaturifici, the Italian Footwear Manufacturers Association, theMicam has undergone a fashion-oriented, structural transformation to offer larger and more functional areas to facilitate interaction between buyers and exhibitors. Reportedly, 44,610 visitors attended this 83rd edition, up +5% against the corresponding edition in February 2016, of which around 26,500 from abroad (+8%).
Fendi, Ferragamo, Gucci, Prada and Tod’s participated at the event for the first time, demonstrating their support to the Italian manufacturing industry in the brand new ‘Fashion Square’ area dedicated exclusively to the most prestigious brands. Italy’s footwear sector generates €14 billion in turnover through about 5,000 companies, of which 80% are small and medium-size, and employs around 77,000 people in direct jobs, according to Assocalzaturifici.
The products showcased were divided into precise thematic areas such as the ‘Emerging Designer Area’ entirely dedicated to emerging Italian and international designers, representing theMICAM’s “desire to stay ahead of the game by nurturing new talent and potential future leaders in the footwear sector”.
Fashion shows were scheduled daily, presenting shoes selected by international fashion forecaster WGSN, alongside international consultants who offered ideas and useful advice to footwear industry professionals through customary seminars, where commercial scenarios, trends and the latest developments in terms of retailing, marketing, visual merchandising and instore design were discussed.
Traditionally one of the most important exhibiting countries at the event, Spain was present with around 250 brands, down 7.5% compared with the September 2016 edition. Most Spanish exhibitors were generally satisfied with the event, which remains important to reach international buyers.
