The top five visitor markets were Europe’s largest: France, the UK, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Germany. Visitor numbers rose 25% compared with July 2024, confirming this the strategic move to September to meet the changing needs of fashion brands.
Reportedly for the first time, the event achieved near balance between textile suppliers and finished product exhibitors, reflecting brands’ growing need for turnkey solutions. Messe Frankfurt France’s Julien Schmoll noted that buyers increasingly seek partners who can deliver creative, high-quality collections without taking on production or design in-house. This is an approach also impacting the leather and accessories sector.
Highlights included the Near Sourcing Hub, where European suppliers such as Portugal’s FashionTeam met demand for high-quality, fast-turnaround production. The Avantex Paris area spotlighted innovation in sustainable fashion, with awards going to GoldenEye Smart Vision (AI quality control) and Green Worms (waste recycling). TikTok Shop also debuted live shopping sessions, showing new retail opportunities for exhibitors, including leather goods makers.
The next edition is set for February 2–4, 2026 at Paris Le Bourget, with organisers promising a curated sourcing offer aligned with market trends.
