The President of the Government of La Rioja, Gonzalo ChaplainHe emphasized "quality, design, the balance between tradition and innovation, and also competitiveness and export vocation of the Riojan footwear industry, which sells more than 50 percent of its production to other countries.” These statements were made during his visit to the 99th edition of the fair MICAM in Milan, a key event for the sector worldwide.
Accompanied by the Minister of Economy, Innovation, Business and Self-Employment, Belinda LeonCapellán toured the stands of the 15 companies from La Rioja present at the fair, where he was able to appreciate firsthand the excellence of their products. "This fair, the most important in the world in its sector, is a great showcase for promotion, but also for business and transactions. There are more than 900 exhibitors from all over the world, with a large Spanish presence (one hundred) and Rioja (15 companies),” the president stressed.
According to data provided by the Federation of Spanish Footwear Industries (FICE), Spanish footwear exports reached 3.330 billion euros in the first eleven months of 2024, with an increase of 7% compared to the previous year. These figures consolidate Spain as a world leader in the footwear industry, and La Rioja plays a fundamental role in this success.
"We are going to enjoy twenty-five dresses that have been combined with contemporary footwear designs, demonstrating that Spanish footwear is on par with the highest quality fashion, and three brands from La Rioja will be exhibiting the design and high quality of Riojan footwear," Capellán said during the Balenciaga exhibition.
Chaplain highlighted the support of the Government of La Rioja to the sector, with an investment of 800.000 euros destined for the Association of Footwear and Related Industries of La Rioja (AICCOR) to promote innovation and design. In addition, support has been strengthened for Footwear Technology Center of La Rioja (CTCR), a fundamental pillar for the competitiveness of regional companies.
One of the highlights of the visit was the participation of Riojan brands Alhamas, Gaimo and Pitillos in the exhibition 'Balenciaga, Shoes from Spain Tribute', a tribute to the iconic designer Cristóbal Balenciaga. In this exhibition, companies from La Rioja showcase exclusive designs that complement the pieces by the master of haute couture.
The exhibition is made up of 25 original pieces by Cristóbal Balenciaga, from different museums and private collections in Spain, accompanied by another 25 pairs of footwear from Spanish brands.
The best artisans in Spain have collaborated in the creation of the embroidery, lace and sculptural heels of the shoes.
This exhibition, which will remain open at the Palazzo Morando in Milan until March 2, has the support of ICEX and aims to promote Riojan footwear in the Italian market.
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