HE international leather, components and machinery exhibition for shoes and leather products, fashion of the future opened this Wednesday in Fira Alacant with a distinct mood. The fair marks its fiftieth edition and occurs amid global price volatility and slowing consumer demand, a backdrop that has weighed on the sector in recent months.
AEC president Manuel Roman stepped forward to offer an optimistic message. He stressed that diversification across markets is essential to counter negative effects. The year has been tough, with declines in production and orders, and he highlighted proactive measures such as expanding search efforts for alternative markets. For component manufacturers, sectors such as construction offer potential salvation as new sales channels emerge.
The atmosphere in the early hours of Futurmoda was noted by photographer Axel Alvarez as a sign of cautious energy on day one.
Influx
Futurmoda president Jose Antonio Ibarra noted that while a number of companies reported softer traffic in the opening hours, the organizers anticipate a visitor count comparable to 2022. He urged producers to participate in large numbers to maximize opportunities at the event.
Futurmoda overcame the downturn and returned to Elche this week with 260 signatures
Representatives from the Consell attended as the event opened, with the Undersecretary for Industry Elena Lumbreras apologizing for the absence of President Carlos Mazón. She underscored the commitment to sustainability among participants and the goal of material recycling. Elche Mayor Pablo Ruz reaffirmed that this fair is essential to understanding the social and economic realities of the province.
Pavilion 2
The exhibition unfolds in Pavilion 2, hosting 190 exhibitors and 260 companies. The fair has international reach, with 68 percent national and 32 percent from other European nations such as Italy, Portugal and France, alongside a number of firms from China and Turkey. The venue spans roughly 11,000 square meters and this edition emphasizes more structured networking areas for attendees.