Fewer visitors at Milan supplier trade fair due to Winter Olympics
The 107th edition of Lineapelle, held from February 11th to 13th, 2026 at the Fiera Milano Rho exhibition center, was marked by unusual circumstances. For over two years, the international fashion, luxury goods, and leather goods supply industries have been suffering from a persistent market downturn. Added to this were scheduling changes due to the 2026 Winter Olympics, some of whose venues are located on the exhibition grounds – resulting in significant logistical challenges such as dramatically increased hotel prices.
The trade fair was therefore all the more important as a barometer of the industry's mood. In recent weeks, initial, albeit cautious, positive signs had emerged – more in the sense of "less bad" than a genuine upswing. Against this backdrop, Lineapelle became a platform for many to demonstrate how resilient and capable of action the global fashion community remains.
848 exhibitors from 33 countries
A total of 848 exhibitors from 33 countries presented their products and services, including 436 tanneries, 290 accessory manufacturers, 95 suppliers of synthetic materials, and 27 other companies along the value chain. Despite an expected decline in visitor numbers – around 16.000 trade visitors from 99 countries were counted – organizers and exhibitors rated the quality of the contacts made as predominantly positive.
While the deliberate rescheduling resulted in a lower attendance rate, many companies reported more focused discussions and more specific inquiries. The general consensus was that the audience had changed: less casual visitors, but more decision-makers with a clear interest in product, quality, and service.
quality not quantity
Interest in high-quality leather craftsmanship has noticeably increased – even for simpler items, provided they offer added value through special details or innovative features. This trend could certainly provide positive momentum for the coming seasons.
The trade fair's central theme also reflected this attitude: naturalness combined with technological innovation was highlighted as a key factor for the future of the entire supply chain. Many buyers focused their interest precisely on this combination.
Outlook for September 2026
The next edition of Lineapelle will take place from September 15th to 17th, 2026, once again at Fiera Milano Rho. This will be the 108th edition of the trade fair, and it will continue its established practice of coordinating its dates with the finished goods fairs: Micam, Mipel, and TheOne Milano will run from September 13th to 15th, sharing their final day with the opening of Lineapelle.
The first-ever collaboration with Filo, the leading trade fair for yarns and fibers, which took place within Lineapelle, was also positively received. This networking along the textile and leather-based value chain underscores the ambition to further strengthen the competitiveness and visibility of "Made in Italy" products.
