Bringing together over 150 exhibitors and 7 000 visitors, the upcoming 28^th edition of Inspiramais will introduce innovative materials in the development phase for the footwear, clothing, furniture, and jewellery industries resulting from the “Homo Faber” research project, which emphasizes the organic and handmade nature of materials and supplies for the industry, in contrast to standardized production.

More specifically, the main topic has unfolded into two subthemes, namely, pragmatism, focused on the essence of materials, thereby relying on geometry to make reason and logic resonate in the search for timeless products, and craftsmanship as the antithesis to the implementation of artificial intelligence processes in the fashion industry. In addition, the presence of João Maraschin, a finalist of the LVMH Prize, “already attracting attention in the international market”, is expected to highlight the importance of craftsmanship to the industry.

“Sustainable processes are the foundation of his brand, not only from an environmental perspective but also from a social and cultural standpoint. It is a brand that functions as a platform to generate positive impact and a more inclusive, diverse, and fair fashion scenario”, says Walter Rodrigues, the coordinator of the Design and Research Center of the Brazilian Association of Companies in the Leather, Footwear, and Artifacts Components (Assintecal), one of the organizers of the event.

Inspiramais is organized by Assintecal in partnership with the Brazilian Association of Tanneries (CICB), the Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association (Abit), and the Brazilian Furniture Industry Association (Abimóvel), and planned the By Brasil Components, Machinery and Chemicals programme, alongside the National Service of Micro and Small Enterprises (Sebrae Nacional).

Footwear Industry

Another highlight of the 28^th edition of the trade show is the arrival of some of the largest footwear producers from Colombia and Mexico, within the scope of the Buyer Project, carried under the By Brasil Components, Machinery export promotion programme, developed by the Assintecal with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil).

The representation includes the Colombians Cueros Vélez, Mario Hernandez and Bosi and the Mexicans The Flexi and Michel Domit. “Both Colombia and Mexico are among the main destinations for Brazilian components abroad. The selected groups attending the event have great import potential, which generates excellent business expectations during Inspiramais”, commented Luiz Ribas Júnior, the International Market Manager at Assintecal.