“… theMICAM closed … and looked to the future, in spite of the difficulties of the Russian market and the heavy shadow over internal consumption. We had a chance to verify the effectiveness of the earlier date and new layout, and are increasingly convinced of having made a far-sighted decision for the promotion and development of theMICAM, confirming it as the key international event for the footwear industry and facilitating the work of buyers coming from all over the world. We are, however, looking for the positioning for the event that will take place in the second half of 2015, which might be slightly changed, while still remaining in tune with the international trade fair calendar, in light of the many suggestions and opinions shared with us in the last few days", commented Cleto Sagripanti, theMICAM President.

When questioned about possible new dates for the summer edition of the fair in 2015, ASSOCALZATURIFICI said nothing is decided yet, but a choice will be made soon.

According to official numbers the international trade fair, running from the 31st of August to the 3rd of September, had 1 557 exhibitors present (617 of which were non-Italian) distributed along 67 511 square meters, and a total of 34 176 visitors.

The Italian Association suggests that the reduction of visitors can be attributed to a reduction in representatives sent by each company, as part of a “cost optimization strategy”. The drop in Italian visitors continued, due to the persistent difficulties of the domestic market. A smaller number of visitors from Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan was also registered. Mr. Sagripanti commented: “we cannot conceal our concern about the deterioration of the situation in Russia, which is becoming increasingly tense and sending out discouraging signals. This does not, however, mean that the companies will let themselves be intimidated by the situation”.

The next edition of theMICAM trade fair will run from the 15th to the 18th of February 2015.