Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags closed another edition earlier this month with 9,000 attendees, consistent with last year’s figures, from approximately 100 countries. Exhibitor satisfaction exceeded expectations as well, with 1,100 participants from 36 countries reporting “excellent” outcomes.
While the global economic downturn has posed difficulties, the event showcased its strength in fostering a thriving community, organisers said. Riva del Garda continues to be a hub where commercial partnerships and enduring human connections flourish, transcending cultural differences.
Further validating Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags’ role as a global hub for footwear and bags are its impressive figures. Roberto Pellegrini, Chairman of Riva del Garda Fierecongressi, explained: “The fair continues to attract industry professionals from all over the world. Exhibitors hail from 36 countries, while visitors represent around 100 nations – 80 per cent from Europe, 12 per cent from Asia, with attendance from the Americas and Oceania remaining stable, and a notable increase in visitors from Africa.”
The show remains a vital platform for facilitating business opportunities, connecting supply with demand, offering insights into consumer trends, exploring major international markets and presenting retail innovations.
Most importantly, it continues to invest in and anticipate the future. This June will see the launch of an innovative Gardabags format, while the next two years will see the start of works to expand the exhibition centre.
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.”
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.
The Innovation Village
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 Retail and the grand finale of the Startup Competition, which concluded with a victory for Cloov, recognised for its ability to merge technological innovation 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.
2025-26 footwear and fashion trends
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.
Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags will return from 14 to 17 June 2025, with the 103rd edition!
