REVIEW


According to Alessandra Albarelli, General Manager of Riva del Garda Fierecongressi: “Being the first to open the Winter 2025/26 season is undoubtedly a winning strategy, highly valued by buyers. Even in this 102nd edition, the extensive array of international collections, coupled with suppliers offering both private label and branded production – in a variety of quality and price ranges – has proven to be the key to success.” This is a sentiment echoed by buyers, such


as Tracy Tao from Yifu Garment in China: “I represent the largest clothing retailer in China with 3,500 stores. Last year, we expanded into Western markets with three stores in Paris and one in New York. Here in Riva del Garda, we are seeking high-quality European-made fashion accessories, shoes and bags at competitive prices – a key requirement. Our goal is to increase the average transaction value for our customers and offer complementary accessories alongside our clothing collections in Chinese stores.” Jerick Sobie of Lucky Feet (USA), added: “Our


chain of stores specialises in comfort footwear. We came to Expo Riva Schuh to find reliable partners who can provide quality products at more competitive prices, as we are preparing to address the possibility of rising costs caused by potential import tariffs.” And Benvenuto Candiani Arantes from


Andacco (Brazil) highlighted another defining characteristic of the event: “For us, the fair has always been a key sales event, particularly for penetrating the European market. But it also continually proves its international stature; for example, this year we met a new buyer from Argentina, right here in Riva del Garda, despite the proximity of our countries!”


Special highlights The many events held during the fair were all met with an excellent turnout. The Highlights Area was bustling with activity, offering insights into consumer trends for men’s and women’s shoes, bags and sneakers. Engagement was high in the Market Focus


sessions, too, showcasing their full potential in connecting buyers and sellers beyond the exhibition stands. Equally popular were the presentations at the Innovation Village and the grand finale of the Startup Competition, which


concluded with a victory for Cloov, recognised for merging technology with environmental sustainability in a project set to revolutionise the industry. Cloov is an app that offers an all-in-one solution for renting, buying and selling. The Expo Riva Night was similarly a success,


providing a festive opportunity for the Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags community to strengthen connections – not only business-related but also personal. The evening’s special performance by artist Amii Stewart made for an even more exciting and classy event. Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags once again demonstrated how a trade fair can be more than just the ideal setting for placing orders; it is also a vital opportunity to gain knowledge and create an invaluable network of relationships.


New developments


Organisers used this January edition of the Riva fair to announce the introduction of a new format for Gardabags, starting in June this year, will occupy Halls A2 and B2 of the fair. These halls will be divided into three areas, tailored to align with buyers’ searching habits, making it easier to connect supply and demand. A new concept that will feature stylish,


fashion-inspired set-ups. Another major development is the doubling of the exhibition offerings, with collections from up to 100 companies and brands. Work is also soon starting on development


of the exhibition centre itself; the expansion of Hall B1 will be inaugurated as early as June this year, and by 2028, a brand-new, two-storey structure will see the light. This will provide even more space to showcase the most extensive and diverse selection of footwear, bag and accessory collections on the global stage.


Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags is gearing up for a promising and high-speed path in the years to come. The next chance to witness this momentum will be from 14 to 17 June 2025, with the 103rd edition!


16 • FOOTWEAR TODAY • MARCH 2025


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