Events

Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags unveils new vision for 2025

Jan 24, 2025 Italy

The revamped Gardabags format, set to start in June 2025, focuses on aligning with buyer needs through distinct categories for sourcing, private-label collaborations and branded product showcases

“We are extremely pleased with the positive feedback received from the participants of the 102^nd edition of Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags. In a challenging market context, the event proved to be a valuable opportunity for the industry to connect, share experiences and strengthen business relationships”, commented GianPaola Pedretti, Exhibition Manager at the Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags.

The recently concluded Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags trade fair in Riva del Garda, Italy, reaffirmed its footwear and accessories industry presence. The fair attracted 1,100 exhibitors and 9,000 attendees, including 130 new exhibitors and brands. The organisers introduced a dynamic programme of 19 events held both within the fair and across the city.

In preparation for June 2025, a comprehensive project aims to revamp Gardabags, the fair’s accessories segment, enhancing its role as a business hub for the bags, leather goods and accessories market.

Gardabags

The new Gardabags format will feature a new organisational structure tailored to buyers’ needs. Exhibitors will be grouped into three distinct categories: Sourcing, Sourcing4Bridge and Brands.

The Sourcing category will cater to low-range manufacturers offering mass-market products. Sourcing4Bridge will focus on mid-range producers specialising in private-label collaborations. Finally, the Brands segment will showcase established manufacturers presenting their collections.

The transformation reflects a year-long effort by Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags organisers to adapt to shifting market demands. A key addition will be the exhibitor Identity Board, which will display essential details such as production facilities, monthly capacities and key clients, further facilitating connections between buyers and exhibitors.

Gardabags aims to triple the number of exhibitors, currently 41, to around 120 by 2026. Organisers envision the updated format as an innovative, business-friendly platform that aligns with Expo Riva Schuh’s expertise in fostering trade partnerships.

“The overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received motivates us to continue raising the bar and delivering a valuable experience. We are already dedicating our full efforts to organising the next edition of Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags, scheduled for 14^th to 17^th of June, 2025”, concluded Pedretti.

Image Credits: exporivaschuh.it

Italy Accessories Events Expo Riva Schuh Footwear Trade fairs