Foreign visitor numbers rise 7.6% at Milano Unica

Along with the total number of visitors (approximately 19,000), the Italian Textiles Trade Show recorded a significant increase (+7.6%) in the number of foreign businesses which visited the stands during the three-day exhibition dedicated to the promotion of the excellence of Italian and European fabrics. 

The inauguration ceremony of the 18th edition was attended by Silvio Albini, President of Milano Unica, Diana Bracco, Cavaliere del Lavoro, President of Expo 2015  SpA and General Commissioner for the Italian Pavilion Section, Claudio Marenzi, President of Sistema Moda Italia, Cristina Tajani, Councillor for Work Policies, Research, University, Fashion and Design, Milan City Council, Carlo Calenda, Deputy Minister, Italian Ministry of Economic Development, who, while examining the issues and the opportunities of the market, also underscored the contribution that Italian fabrics may give to the success of Expo 2015. 

In his speech, Silvio Albini made clear reference to the recovery signs of the last part of 2013, which seem to continue in 2014, as the orders placed to businesses and exports trends testify. Specifically, exports are focusing again on Europe.  

The importance of Europe, but also of the other consolidated markets, is confirmed by the number of foreign businesses which visited Milano Unica. The following countries significantly increased participation both in percentage points and absolute terms: Germany (+30%), Spain (+16%), United Kingdom (+16%) and Sweden (+45%) as well as China (+63%), Russian Federation (+11%), Turkey (+9%)  and Japan (+13%), outside Europe.

Starting from the next edition, Japan will present ’’Japan Observatory” in a special area within the exhibition ground where exhibitors, representing the country’s manufacturing excellence, will have a chance to expand their high end offering through the presentation of complimentary fabrics, rich in innovation and mainly dedicated to sportswear technology. ’”Japan Observatory” is organized by the Fashion Week Organization, the Japanese association grouping all operators of the textiles and apparel sectors, fashion designers and distributors. 

Milano Unica