The initial sentiment is positive in Milan, at the halls of Fiera Milano Rho, where yesterday (Sunday, February 22, 2026) the 101st edition of Micam (footwear) and the 129th edition of Mipel (leather goods) kicked off. Until tomorrow, Tuesday, February 24, 794 footwear brands (402 international and 392 Italian) will present their winter collections. Around 180 leather goods brands are also exhibiting (two-thirds of them Italian). From February 21 to 23, The One Milano is also taking place at the same venue (118 brands evenly split between Italian and international exhibitors).
Initial sentiment is positive
Visitors to Micam and Mipel certainly did not get the impression of an industry in difficulty. The majority of exhibitors expressed satisfaction with how the trade shows have started. In other words, the fairs confirm their role as meeting and networking hubs for international industry professionals. However, this satisfaction is somewhat tempered by necessary caution while waiting for the final results.
Micam: good vibes
“It’s a positive Micam. I’m glad I decided to return to exhibiting after six years,” says Enrico Paniccià, CEO of Giano (licensee for La Martina and Harmont & Blaine) and Woolrich Footwear. “We were a bit concerned about the geopolitical situation and the overlap with the Winter Olympics. Instead, we’re experiencing an edition that benefits both companies and the Italian footwear sector.” A positive assessment also comes from Annarita Pilotti, head of Loriblu. “It’s been a good start. We’ve collected orders from clients we hadn’t seen in some time. In addition to European buyers, we received visitors from Senegal, Bosnia, Turkey, and other countries.”
Mipel restyling
At Mipel (which has moved to Hall 5 and undergone a logistical restyling), exhibitors also appear satisfied. “We returned to exhibit after 4–5 years of absence because we want to believe in and invest in Mipel again. We see our participation as an investment to expand our customer base,” says Giuseppe Piccolo from the sales department of the Naples-based brand Io Pelle. A similar opinion comes from Dudu Bags of Pordenone. “So far, this Mipel has brought visits from Italian and international clients (including Asian buyers), as well as new ones,” says Sales Manager Nicola Manente. In some cases, visits have resulted in orders. “Mipel confirms itself as a rewarding investment. It’s the right opportunity to showcase the product and the leather at a time when customers are looking for quality at the right price.”
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