Record participation and global growth
The 40th edition of Milano Unica, the premier high-end textile and accessories trade show, concluded with record-breaking numbers at Fiera Milano Rho. A total of 723 exhibitors participated, reinforcing the event’s growing international appeal. International visitors surged by 30.5 per cent, representing 98 countries. For the first time, foreign companies accounted for 40 per cent of total attendance, further cementing Milano Unica’s global standing.
Overall, approximately 12,000 buyers attended the event, representing 6,476 companies, a 10 per cent rise compared to January 2024. Among them, 4,800 international buyers from 2,500 companies contributed to this milestone, alongside 4,000 Italian companies (+3.5 per cent).
Strong growth in key markets
Double-digit increases were seen in several key export markets, with France (+35 per cent), the UK (+41 per cent), the USA (+25 per cent), Spain (+55 per cent), Germany (+51 per cent), Japan (+27.5 per cent), Switzerland (+19 per cent), and China (+14 per cent) leading the way. Emerging markets also posted strong gains, including the UAE (+75 per cent), Saudi Arabia (+50 per cent), and Brazil (+55 per cent).
Simone Canclini, President of Milano Unica, expressed optimism about the industry’s resilience despite economic and geopolitical challenges. He highlighted France's impressive performance, with a 40 per cent rise in French exhibitors and 213 visiting French companies the highest among all countries.
Industry challenges and opportunities
During the opening ceremony, Minister of Economy and Finance Giancarlo Giorgetti delivered a video message, while Milan’s Prefect Claudio Sgaraglia emphasized new measures to combat illegal labor practices in the fashion supply chain.
A key discussion panel, Textiles: Production is the True Luxury, moderated by journalist Nicola Porro, featured Toni Belloni (President, Italy LVMH) and Alessandra Gritti (Vice President & CEO, Tamburi Investment Partners). The panel addressed market shifts post-Covid, including rising prices, creative stagnation, and the booming second-hand fashion market. Belloni and Gritti emphasized the vital role of small family-run businesses in driving creativity and innovation, calling for strategic alliances and better access to bank credit.
Regulatory burdens, particularly sustainability-related EU policies, were another concern. Italy’s Vice Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, alongside Lombardy Region President Attilio Fontana, pledged to advocate for more business-friendly policies at the European level.
Future outlook and upcoming edition
Milano Unica’s leadership acknowledged the unwavering support of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) and other partners in expanding its international reach. Massimo Mosiello, General Manager of Milano Unica, announced a special celebration at Teatro Alla Scala in Milan for the upcoming 41st edition, scheduled for July 8-10, 2025.
"Over the past 20 years, Milano Unica has grown into a powerful global event. Beyond the record figures, the true success lies in the appreciation of exhibitors and buyers alike. We are committed to making the next edition even more remarkable," Mosiello concluded.
