COLOMBIA. Footwear fair sells at cost to reactivate the sector

Following the suggestions of President Iván Duque, in the sense that people have to "anticipate" Christmas shopping, the shoe union of Valle del Cauca, one of the most important shoemaking areas in the country, will carry out between December 1st and 6th the footwear and manufactures fair "CALZACOSTO".

It will take place at the Parque de las Orquídeas Events Center, of the Cali Mayor's Office, and is organized by the Vallecaucana Association of Footwear, Leather, Manufactures and Supplies -UNIVAC-.

All activity will be carried out under strict biosecurity and social distancing rules and protocols, to avoid health consequences. A system of prior request for appointments will also be implemented, so that visitors reduce their time spent in the pavilion and shop with greater security.

The participation of numerous factories in the region is expected, which will display their products at cost prices to facilitate purchases by consumers. On this occasion, the pre-Christmas period is a favorable framework for exhibitors to increase their sales possibilities.

The fair has the purpose of encouraging sales in the sector, which are declining as a consequence of the pandemic. By accepting this reality, manufacturers try to overcome the crisis, maintain their industries and jobs. Lately, the September figures from DANE -official statistics body- indicated unemployment of 15.8% in this segment.