FUTURMODA. The supplier fair in Spain, a recognized benchmark in the international market
On March 8th and 9th, 2023, the 49th edition of FUTURMODA, the international supplier fair for the footwear and manufactured goods industry, was held at the Institución Ferial Alicantina -IFA- in Elche, Alicante, one of the largest producing areas in Spain.
There were 230 exhibitors representing more than 300 brands, occupying an area of more than 12,000 m2. Of the total, 69% were Spanish companies and 31% international, from Italy, Portugal, France, Germany, Bangladesh and China, consolidating a mostly European international proposal.
The offer consisted of hides and skins, synthetics and fabrics, components and accessories, supplies and chemical products, and technology.
The number of visitors exceeded 5 thousand people, which represented an increase of 25% compared to the previous edition of 2022. The majority came from Spain, although the foreign visit was important.
FUTURMODA's proposal was focused on the sustainability of materials and components, which includes recycling processes, which aim at the circular economy. On the other hand, machines and systems that incorporate artificial intelligence to automate operations and reduce manufacturing times were exhibited.
For Álvaro Sánchez, director of AEC -Spanish Association of Components- it was very important to hold the fair in person "so that manufacturers and customers can speak in person and see the materials 'in situ'".
The good results obtained at the fair have to do with the latest records of Spanish footwear exports, which in 2022 exceeded 3,000 million euros, 22% more than in 2021. This situation has reactivated the national production of footwear and consequently the entire supplying industry.
The prominence of color was highlighted, especially in hyper-bright and saturated materials, even fluorescent versions, which take reference from the digital world combined with warm neutrals to strike a balance between the digital world and the physical world.
The designs were minimalist, functional and modular, with a return to vintage and bohemian styling, with silhouettes from the 80s, 90s and 2000s.
Recycled and environmentally responsible components were proposed for this season. As well as recycled and bio-based metal trims with technological influences and chromatic pastels with a liquid look.
Embedded surfaces in leather, fabrics and solid materials. Structural designs based on futuristic concepts combined with noble woods. Cheerful and stimulating handmade fabrics, combined with ecological leather in expressive and natural colors. Intense chromaticism and gradual low-impact iridescence in blue, green and yellow.
The key color for 2024 will be APRICOT CRUSH (orange peach).
On October 18th and 19th, 2023, the Spanish supplier fair will celebrate its 50th edition. A very special date to celebrate its consolidation in the international calendar, in a stage of full expansion, where the offer grows steadily and internationalizes, constituting an interesting fashion and business alternative for designers, businessmen and industrialists from all over the world.
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