Shoes Düsseldorf has announced a significant change for its 2025 edition, with the event now planned to take place from the 2^nd to the 4^th of February. This earlier date positions the fair as the opening event of the footwear industry's order cycle, allowing retailers and manufacturers to engage in timely discussions on Autumn/Winter 2025/26 trends. The move responds to industry stakeholders' requests for an earlier event to better coordinate with the season's order cycle and provide early insights into upcoming trends.

The rescheduled dates are a strategic adjustment to better align with global trade fairs and avoid overlaps with major events such as Milan’s Micam. Shoes Düsseldorf will now occur just after the Fashn Rooms and Neonyt Düsseldorf fashion shows, scheduled for January 25th to 27th, facilitating a smooth transition between fashion and footwear trends. This shift offers a unified experience for participants, giving them early access to product directions for both apparel and footwear.

While the new dates have been greeted with enthusiasm by many German and Austrian manufacturers, who see it as an opportunity for early trend-setting, the change has also been met with criticism. Smaller suppliers have expressed concerns about the earlier timing, as they often use the fair primarily for finalizing orders. These exhibitors worry that the new dates will be too early for them to have their collections ready.

It is expected that Shoes Düsseldorf will be moved up next summer, although the exact date and venue are still under discussion. Many industry participants are also advocating for a merger between fashion trade shows.

For more information, visit the website of the event.