Lineapelle 107 concluded last week at Fiera Milano Rho between 11 – 13 FEBRUARY 2026 under conditions that many in the leather and fashion industry described as challenging yet cautiously stabilizing.
The excitement surrounding the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games may have amplified Milan’s global spotlight, but it offered little relief to Italy’s leather supply chain.
That reality became evident at Lineapelle 107, which ran from February 11 to 13 at Rho-Fiera Milano following an unusual rescheduling driven by Olympic-related scheduling conflicts.
Traditionally aligned with Milan’s ready-to-wear calendar, the fair took place earlier than expected, creating logistical complications and noticeably impacting participation.
Exhibitor participation declined to 848 companies from 33 nations, including 436 tanneries, down from roughly 1,100 recorded a year earlier. Visitor turnout fell sharply to around 16,000, compared to nearly 25,000 in the previous February edition.
“Amid a delicate moment, the Olympic Games led to numerous problems, primarily preventing exhibitors and visitors from attending due to issues including high hotel rates and logistical difficulties.”
– Fulvia Bacchi, CEO, Lineapelle
The rescheduling of dates due to preparations linked to the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics pushed hotel costs higher and created travel difficulties for many international visitors.
Yet inside the halls of Lineapelle, the mood was not entirely pessimistic. While overall footfall was lower than previous editions, exhibitors pointed to a noticeable shift in visitor quality rather than quantity.
Buyers arrived with clearer agendas, stronger focus on product development and greater interest in innovation and materials research.
Natural finishes, exotic leathers and surface embellishments emerged as dominant themes.
Demand for reptile skins/hides, embossed skins and other decorated exotic materials remained visible, signalling that premium experimentation continues even in a cautious market.
Industry conversations throughout the fair reflected what several attendees described as a “less bad” market mood rather than a full recovery.
International markets also remained a key talking point as businesses continue to look beyond traditional luxury segments.
Looking ahead, the next Lineapelle edition is scheduled for September 15 to 17 2026 at Fiera Milano Rho, once again aligning with finished product fairs Micam, Mipel and TheOne.
