Optimism in Brazil following the second edition of BFSHOW
The Transamerica Expo Center in São Paulo/SP hosted the second edition of the Brazilian footwear fair -BFSHOW- from May 21st to 23rd, 2024. The event was organized by the Brazilian Footwear Industry Association (ABICALÇADOS),in partnership with NürnbergMesse Brasil.
This edition featured 318 exhibiting brands, including GRENDENE, ALPARGATAS, PETITE JOLIE, CALÇADOS BEIRA RIO, and VULCABRAS, showcasing trends for the Spring/Summer 2025 season.
The event also saw participation from 56 companies from Rio Grande do Sul, an important location for the industry, known as the second-largest footwear producer and top exporter in the country. Representatives from this state were described as resilient in the face of the recent climate disaster (floods) they had to endure, successfully participating in the fair despite overcoming some logistical challenges.
Activity at BFSHOW translated into optimism for footwear sales in the second half of the year and reinforced the positive trend projected for 2024. Haroldo Ferreira, executive president of ABICALÇADOS, stated: “This year, we estimate growth between 0.9% and 2.2%. The fair's success, both in negotiations with the Brazilian and external markets, makes us more optimistic and closer to the higher end of that range.”
In the words of João Paulo Picolo -president of NürnbergMesse Brasil-, the fair strengthened its importance in the country. Beyond national significance, it attracted international buyers, surpassing 9,000 visitors from over 60 countries. According to Picolo, the attendance was qualified and business-focused.
The collaboration between ABICALÇADOS, APEX-BRASIL and NürnbergMesse Brazil brought over 150 international buyers to the event. This number exceeds 300 importers when including those who participated independently.
The choice of São Paulo as the location was another highlight of the fair. Buyers highlighted the accessibility in terms of logistics when taking part in the exhibition.
“The arrival of the fair to São Paulo, with better infrastructure and simpler logistics to accommodate thousands of buyers comfortably and conveniently, strengthens the event as one of the world's leading fairs and duly recognizes the Brazilian footwear industry,” stated the president of the fair organization.
The third edition of BFSHOW will take place from Monday, November 11th to Wednesday, November 13th, 2024. The event will be held at a new venue, Novo Distrito Anhembi (formerly Parque Anhembi, fully renovated), offering logistical facilities, security, and comfort.
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