Footwear Industry
A total of 24 Spanish exhibitors, coordinated by FICE and with the support of ICEX, will participate in the second edition of the BAREFOOT European Shoe Fair in Offenbach (Germany) from July 24 to 26, seeking to consolidate the sector's position in a booming market niche.
A total of 24 Spanish exhibitors, representing 28 footwear brands, will participate in the second edition of the BAREFOOT EUROPEAN SHOE FAIR held in Offenbach (AlemaniaFrom July 24 to 26. The delegation, which constitutes a quarter of the total participation in the event, is organized by the Spanish Footwear Industries Federation (FICE) and is supported by ICEX España Exportación e Inversionesconsolidating the sector's commitment to a high value-added segment with growing international demand.
Spanish participation comes at a positive time for exports in the sector. During the first four months of 2026, exports reached 1.194,7 millones de euros, up 0,1% in value, and the 61,7 million pairs, which represents a significant increase of 3,1% in volume compared to the same period of the previous year.
The 'barefoot' footwear trend: well-being and design
La BAREFOOT European Shoe Fair It has positioned itself as the leading B2B platform in Europa dedicated exclusively to respectful footwearThis type of footwear, also known as barefootIt is designed to emulate the sensation of walking barefoot, promoting a more natural foot movement. Its technical characteristics are very specific: a thin and flexible sole, wide toe which allows free movement of the fingers and a zero drop, which keeps the heel and metatarsus at the same height.
Organized by Messe Offenbach in collaboration with German Federal Association of the Footwear and Leather Goods Industry (HDS/L)It imposes strict admission criteria on its 100 exhibitors to guarantee the authenticity of the products presented. The growing importance of this niche has led the organizers to announce that, starting in 2027, the fair will be held every two years.
Strong Spanish representation in a strategic segment
The Spanish delegation stands out not only for its size, but also for its geographical concentration and specialization. 64% of the exhibitors (15 companies) come from the Comunidad ValencianaThis fact reaffirms the importance of this region as a cluster for the footwear industry in España.
In this context, Vicente Pastor, President of FICE, has pointed out that "the growing demand for barefoot footwear reflects an evolution in consumer preferences towards products that combine comfort, functionality and design." Pastor"Spanish companies have responded to this trend with innovative, high-quality proposals manufactured with the the know-how that characterizes our sector. Being present in Barefoot European Shoe Fair "This allows us to strengthen the international positioning of Spanish industry in a segment with great growth potential."
| Indicator | Figure (Q1 2026) | Variation vs. Q1 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 1.194,7 millones de euros | + 0,1 % |
| Volume | 61,7 million pairs | + 3,1 % |
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