“Lineapelle represents the whole leather industry, acting as the most important fair for our companies; that’s why we do want to be there”. Annarita Pilotti, President of the Footwear Association (Assocalzaturifici), is rather assertive: Lineapelle, the leather fair scheduled today through Thu 23 February, at Fieramilano Rho, is the event that Italian footwear can’t miss. “Same goes for bags – says Riccardo Braccialini, Chairman of Aimpes – Lineapelle is a benchmark for the leather industry, the starting point for all companies”. Likewise, business opportunities and creative innovations: that’s what Lineapelle brings along, according to Carlo Capasa, President of the National Chamber of Italian Fashion. He points out that “the fair is not just a matter of sales, but also helps thinking over our products. That’s the main reason why the exhibition is really important as it gives out a picture of what is going on in the fashion system”. Luca Lotti, designate Minister of Sport, will not be present at the fair, though he endorses it as “the symbol of a worldwide testimonial of our made in Italy manufacturing, strong enough to get over economic crisis and aim for higher ends”. Talking about the economic situation of tanning industries, Lotti says that “current figures enable to be optimistic, as well as research, innovation and sustainability in work are evidence for great accomplishments”. From left: Riccardo Braccialini, Carlo Capasa, Annarita Pilotti, Luca Lotti.
