From June 13 to 16, the majestic shores of Lake Garda will once again become the global epicenter of footwear and leather goods. Organized by Riva del Garda Fierecongressi, the 105th edition of the Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags trade show promises a total immersion in the commercial and creative dynamics of an industry undergoing rapid change.
A reimagined global landscape of the industry
This season, the Italian event strongly reaffirms its status as a cosmopolitan hub, bringing together more than a thousand brands and exhibitors from 44 countries. The numbers speak for themselves: non-European exhibitors dominate the aisles, accounting for 62.63% of the total. China is consolidating its leading position with 34.46% of exhibitors, closely followed by the expertise of Italy (17%), Turkey (10.61%), and India (9.39%). This international reach is also evident in the arrival of delegations making their first-ever appearance. Vietnam, Tunisia, South Africa, Japan, and Croatia are bringing a fresh wave of diversity to the exhibition halls.
On the buyer side, the strategy to attract visitors is working on a global scale. Professionals from some 100 countries are expected to attend, supported by a prestigious invitation program. Thanks to the combined efforts of nineteen ICE offices deployed around the world, 219 elite buyers of 49 nationalities have been invited. Among them, 26 nations are making their very first appearance. To pamper this strategic community, the organizers have created a brand-new Buyers’ Lounge in the heart of Pavilion B4, designed to streamline the visitor experience and foster networking.
Focus on Technological Innovation and Emerging Markets
Far from being merely a showcase for trends, the trade show is transforming into a true think tank with a specialized series of 22 conferences. The future of retail will be shaped within the Innovation Village (Mainstage A2), where ten international startups will compete in a highly anticipated contest on Monday, June 15. Buyers seeking industry analysis will turn to the Area Highlights, organized in partnership with the Arsutoria Institute, which will break down stylistic trends from sneakers to handbags, while also highlighting the specific characteristics of the German-speaking market.
Geopolitics and digital transformation are also emerging as critical issues. Cutting-edge sessions will highlight the opportunities arising from the free trade agreement between the European Union and India, while Pedro Duarte of the Ctcp (Portuguese Footwear Technology Center) will detail the digital transformation of Portuguese production. Latin America will also have its say at the industry leaders’ summit, held at the Congress Center and attended by ACCAL executives.
Buzzing Leather Goods and Lifestyle Headliners
The Gardabags area, nestled in Pavilion A2, is adopting a bold artistic direction this year called “Glow Up.” The space will bring together more than 80 companies within a setting that celebrates light, the interplay of transparency, and aesthetic layering.
The lineup for this 105th edition promises to be particularly appealing, bringing together giants of the lifestyle and footwear industries. Visitors will be able to discover the new collections from giants like Levi’s, Gap, Windsor Smith, Primadonna, Wrangler, and O’Neill, which will be showcased alongside industry staples such as Tamaris, Igi&Co;, Marco Tozzi, Valleverde, and Xti.
To bring this professional marathon to a spectacular close, the fair will swap business negotiations for the excitement of a party. On Monday evening, “Expo Riva Nights” will take over the PalaVela for a memorable closing night, featuring live performances by dancer and choreographer Giacomo Frassica and exclusive DJ sets.