BFSHOW strengthened business opportunities and expanded its international reach
The fifth edition of BFSHOW took place from November 10 to 12 across more than 25,500 square meters at the Distrito Anhembi exhibition center in São Paulo. Around 350 domestic brands presented their Autumn/Winter footwear collections.
In this edition, the Brazilian event consolidated its position among the leading global trade meetings of the sector and concluded with an international attendance considered record-breaking, according to the organizers.
Haroldo Ferreira -Executive President of the Brazilian Footwear Industries Association (Abicalçados)-, stated that the fair received key domestic buyers as well as a strong influx of Latin American importers. He also noted that the steady flow of visitors was accompanied by the closing of business deals.
More than 10,000 buyers participated in BFSHOW, according to information compiled by Abicalçados and NürnbergMesse Brasil. International attendance reached 1,300 visitors from 46 countries, accounting for 13% of the total.
The organizers also highlighted the strong global interest despite a challenging external environment. Ferreira reported that the fair received importers from Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Oceania.
The Buyer Program played a central role in driving commercial activity. The initiative gathered 165 buyers from 32 countries, along with 520 representatives of the Brazilian market.
João Paulo Picolo -CEO of NürnbergMesse Brasil- explained that the program aimed to expand distribution to multiple destinations, prioritizing the invitation of importers with purchasing potential from diverse regions. He stated that results were positive, as participants attended with the intention of generating orders and establishing new business relationships.
According to Ferreira’s estimates, the industry projects growth of around 1.4% in 2025, exceeding 940 million pairs. A further increase of nearly 2% could follow in 2026, bringing annual production above 960 million pairs.
This productive outlook coexists with challenges arising from the surtax imposed by the United States on Brazilian footwear.
Given this scenario, the Executive President explained that the Buyer Program was designed to intensify diversification, as attracting new importers is essential for companies seeking commercial alternatives beyond the U.S. market.
The BFSHOW Arena served as a meeting point to exchange perspectives on the digital environment in footwear and fashion, featuring specialists, industry leaders and content creators.
Activities included the presentation of the conference “Trend Line: Season Forecasts and Inspirations,” which introduced the Winter 26 Buying Guide and addressed color palettes, inspirations and products to support purchasing decisions.
Panels also focused on the use of digital content to drive sales through platforms such as TikTok Shop and on the coordination between industry, agents and retail to generate results.
BFSHOW will take place from May 18 to 20, 2026, showcasing Spring/Summer collections. The event will again be held at Distrito Anhembi in São Paulo.
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