Every organisation must evolve to adapt to its environment, overcome challenges and strengthen its positioning. Guided by this principle, Riva del Garda Fierecongressi will once again host Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags from 10 to 13 January 2026. Traditionally opening the Autumn/Winter 2026–27 season, the upcoming edition builds on the fairs’ established strengths while introducing enhanced services and new features designed to provide certainty and concrete support for manufacturers and buyers worldwide.
In a global context marked by uncertainty and continuous market realignment, Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags confirms its role as a truly international platform and a key reference point for the footwear, bags and leather goods sectors.
Evolution in Numbers
More than 1,000 brands and exhibitors from 40 countries will take part in the January edition. Reflecting the fairs’ global vocation, 40% of exhibitors come from Europe, while 60% represent non-European markets.
China leads country representation with 33% of exhibitors, followed by Italy (16%), India (10%) and Turkey (9%). Colombia joins Expo Riva Schuh for the first time, while Gardabags will also welcome Argentine companies for the first time, further strengthening its international reach.
Brands, Buyers and a Balanced Offer
Gardabags will host over 80 companies across its three strategic areas – Brands, Sourcing4Bridge and Sourcing – offering a balanced and diversified showcase. Among the participating brands are Pelletteria Charlotte, Marina Galanti, Luana Ferracuti, Armata di Mare, Y-dry, Nannini, Caleidos, American Traveller and Lancetti.
Expo Riva Schuh will feature well-established international names such as Fly London, Tamaris, Marco Tozzi, Mjus, Bronx, Inblu, Levi’s Kids Footwear, Lotto, Lee, Wrangler and O’Neill, providing a comprehensive overview of collections for the coming season.
The Hosted Buyer programme once again confirms its effectiveness, welcoming 120 buyers from 26 countries, focused on footwear, bags or both sectors.
Events and Innovation
A total of 16 events will animate the next edition, focusing on innovation, trends and networking. The Innovation Village will host 10 start-ups from seven countries, competing in pitching sessions and the Startup Competition, with the winner announced on Monday, 12 January.
The Highlights Area, organised in collaboration with Arsutoria, will explore four key seasonal trends – Opulent Grace, Heritage Remix, Denim Renaissance and Wild Allure – through dedicated footwear and bag sessions.
Experience-Driven Evolution
Innovation also extends to the visitor experience. The new Showcase Area in Hall A2 will present selected Gardabags products under a unified winter-inspired colour theme, enhancing storytelling across the fair’s core segments.
The newly introduced Garda Trentino Lounge, created with Garda Dolomiti Azienda per il Turismo, will offer media, partners and guests an immersive hospitality experience inspired by the Upper Garda region.
With enhanced digital services via the official app, Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags continues to evolve as a dynamic global platform – not a static condition, but an ongoing journey supporting international networking and business growth.
