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The 98th edition of MICAM Milano, held from 15 to 17 September 2024, has once again proved its status as a world leader in the footwear industry. Bringing together over 40,950 trade visitors from 140 countries, the event showcased not only the finest in footwear but also the resilience and adaptability of the industry in the face of global challenges.
With over 932 brands present, from established giants in the industry to emerging designers, MICAM Milano truly fuelled the future of fashion and demonstrated the fusion of tradition and innovation. Exhibitors from Spain, Turkey, Brazil, Portugal, and Germany were among the most represented, and 45% of the attendees were international visitors, with particularly strong showings from Spain, Germany, and France, while North America and the Far East exhibited significant growth, with countries like Canada, the USA, China, and Japan leading the charge.
Innovation was a core theme at this edition of MICAM, evident in the cutting-edge designs and technologies presented. The MICAM X area, a hub for innovation, hosted discussions on the future of retail, including contributions from experts like Catherine Barba and Melissa Gonzalez. These thought leaders explored the integration of digital transformation in the retail space, offering insights into how technologies like virtual try-ons, augmented reality, and 3D footwear reconstructions are shaping the future of commerce.
The synergy between creativity and technology was further highlighted through hands-on demonstrations at the MICAM Academy, where young attendees were introduced to the evolving footwear industry. With technologies like virtual foot measurement apps and 3D printing, MICAM provided a glimpse into the future of shoemaking.
The Emerging Designers section, where 12 new talents from across Europe, included: Daphne Wattiez (AKVO) and Guillaume Mesly D’Arloz (MEEKO) from France, Alberto Tassinari & Francisco Batta (SISTTA) from Mexico, Luisa Soriano (BABU MILANO), Giacomo Morelli (GIO*MILANO) Ardemia De’Gennaro (ARDEMIA), Sibilla De Vuono & Cecilia Bringheli (CB MADE IN ITALY), Francesca Parisi (PARISY), and Lello Romano (SNEARK) from Italy, Corine Ferrer (O.SUR) and Sabina Teruel Martinez (SABINIS) from Spain, and Cristiano Magnoni (CRIMAGNO EARTH) from Switzerland. They had the opportunity to present their innovative footwear designs, and represent the next generation of visionary designers set to make their mark on the global fashion scene.
While MICAM celebrated creativity and innovation, it also addressed the stark realities facing the Italian footwear industry. According to Giovanna Ceolini, Chair of MICAM and Assocalzaturifici, the industry has seen significant downturns in both turnover (-9.1%) and exports (-8.5%) during the first half of 2024. The challenges posed by weak demand, geopolitical uncertainties, and economic slowdowns have taken a toll, specifically within the luxury segment.
Despite these difficulties, MICAM maintained optimism, providing a platform for businesses to reconnect with buyers and industry leaders. The event played a crucial role in setting the stage for future recovery, offering a space for collaboration and innovation in the face of adversity.
In a unique collaboration between MICAM and the Associazione Italiana Ambasciatori del Gusto, the event took a multisensory approach, blending the worlds of Italian footwear craftsmanship and haute cuisine. The Taste Arena, a newly introduced feature, allowed visitors to experience the flavors of Italy’s seven major footwear districts through exclusive culinary creations from renowned chefs. Michelin-starred talents like Marco Stabile from Tuscany and Andrea Costantini from Veneto dazzled attendees with their dishes, creating an unforgettable fusion of taste.
As guests indulged in live cooking demonstrations and tastings, the Taste Arena added a new dimension to the event, reinforcing the deep cultural connection between Italian food and fashion, highlighting the shared values of quality, creativity, and tradition.
Ultimately, MICAM Milano 2024 was not just about showcasing the present state of the footwear industry but about shaping its future. From the educational initiatives at MICAM Academy to the spotlight on sustainable business models in the MICAM X area, the event embodied the forward-thinking spirit necessary to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.
For those in the fashion world, MICAM remains an essential platform—where trends are not only set but defined, where creativity meets technology, and where the heart of Italian craftsmanship continues to beat strongly despite global uncertainties.
