They were concerned about Coronavirus effect, and they actually felt it to some extent. Yet, the accessory fairs, which took place at Fieramilano Rho on February 16-19, did not surrender to fear. On the contrary, they showed off their strength, in a different way. Mipel achieved a +11% increase, while Micam held the line, as expected downturn in the attendance of visitors was limited to -5%.
Mipel says thanks to European buyers
They felt Coronavirus effect, confessed at Mipel, as visitors coming from the Far East declined in number. Yet, a peak number of European buyers, mostly coming from Ukraine and Russia, largely offset Asian drop. Once again, Mipel proved to be an internationally oriented exhibition: in fact, 50% of visitors were foreigners. “Such positive figures also rest upon a synergy carried out with the other events – admitted Franco Gabbrielli, president of Mipel and Assopellettieri –. This cooperation enabled us to tackle a difficult situation that is affecting the whole international business: we need to keep on working this way”.
Micam, fewer buyers and higher quality
At the end of Micam, attendance of visitors resulted in -5%. It turned out to be a complex edition: it could not have been otherwise, considering several international circumstances outside the business itself. During the fair, a remarkable selection drove visits. In other words, some stands were packed and others were empty. Fewer buyers and higher quality overall. “True to our expectations, we faced a downturn in the attendance of visitors – said Siro Badon, president of Assocalzaturifici –. Asian buyers have decreased; likewise, English visitors slowed down, owing to transport problems. Health emergency and weather conditions, respectively, heavily hindered their coming over. Conversely, buyers coming from Russia and CIS area, with the support of ICE, have increased in number. Curious people, most of all, did not show up. Companies are not interested in them though. Buyers’ quality was relevant”.
Micam and Mipel next edition (number 118) is scheduled at Fieramilano Rho on 20-23 September 2020.
