The 85th edition of Expo Riva Schuh opened today, and runs until 19th January, kicking off with a debate concerning the future of the international footwear market, and from this, the key principals which will change the face of the footwear scene over the next few years emerged.
The main change will come about as a result of the fact that we are witnessing a rapid evolution of low added value as well as fast fashions products which are increasing and reflecting more rapidly the latest fashion trends. In particular, as far as shoes are concerned, fast fashion production happens at a lower speed than fashion and in general, footwear manufacturers are turning mainly to eastern markets, such as China for example, as they require large volumes in order to satisfy sales demands.
E-commerce is another phenomenon demonstrating strong growth, especially “mobile e-commerce”: from the producers’ point of view, on-lines sales are continuing by having specific products which appeal to a small segment of the market, as they would not be able to support high distribution costs. From the consumer point of view, on the other hand, there is a significant increase in on-line purchases by means of mobile devices, even though real shops continue to provide a point of reference where products can be tried on before buying them on-line. The international trend, therefore, is heading towards an even greater integration of on-line and off-line sales.
Finally, another aspect that emerged from the debate was the increased presence on the international marketplace of companies which have a mixed supply strategy: alongside companies which produce entirely their own collections, there are others which outsource a part of their own production and creative element and yet others who outsource their entire production and creative processes. This results in a world of footwear which reflects the segment relating to Expo Riva Schuh, that is volume footwear, and which is becoming increasingly complex and inter-connected.
The opening ceremony included the participation of BernadetteKissane from EUROMONITOR INTERNATIONAL, an independent market-leading research company at world level. João Maia, Executive Director of Apiccaps - Portuguese Footwear Components Leather Goods Manufacturers’ Association and Gianluca Mirante, Director, Italy - Hong Kong Trade Development Council also took part in the debate.
Others present included the Chairman of Riva del Garda Fierecongressi, Roberto Pellegrini, and the Managing Director, Giovanni Laezza. The debate was moderated by the Business and Finance journalist for “La Repubblica,” Giorgio Lonardi.
The 85th edition of Expo Riva Schuh will run from January 16th – 19th 2016 in Riva del Garda with previews of the footwear collections for Autumn/Winter 2016/2017.