Technology report

Simac Tanning Tech records positive signs from the fair despite the difficulties in the sector.

The 51st edition confirmed its status as a strategic business platform, with over 7,000 visitors, approximately 49% of whom were international, and 25% of exhibitors from abroad.

The leading event for technology and machinery in the footwear, leather goods and tanning industries closed its 51st edition on 25 September at Fiera Milano Rho, confirming its status as the sector’s strategic platform of reference, capable of generating new connections and business opportunities at an international level: over 7,000 visitors, approximately 49% of whom were international, and 25% of exhibitors from around 20 countries. These results were made possible thanks to the valuable support of the Italian Trade Agency (ICE) and close collaboration with Lineapelle, which led to over 9,000 visitors attending both fairs.

“In a particularly difficult year, with a 12.8% decline in exports in the first five months of 2025, our sector is showing solid resilience. Simac Tanning Tech is the place where Italian excellence is showcased, promoting technology transfer and collaboration on a global level. It is here that we show the world how our innovation can help build a more competitive and resilient production system.” commented Mauro Bergozza, President of Assomac.

The event is also an expression of the Italian footwear, leather goods and tanning machinery supply chain, which confirms its leadership and propensity for innovation and has maintained a substantially stable number of companies and employees in recent years. The sector, which has 225 active companies and exports worth €385 million, is unique in Europe, having been created and developed thanks to close collaboration between machinery manufacturers and manufacturing companies.

This result is all the more significant when considered in the context of a difficult overall situation, with the Italian footwear, leather goods and tanning machinery industry facing a critical phase from 2024 onwards.