MIFUR 2010 re-launches the fur sector: visitor numbers are up 8.3% and turnover shows significant signs of recovery

14,279 Buyers visited the International Fur and Leather Exhibition (MIFUR), now in its fifteenth year, with 49% of buyers from Italy and 51% from other countries. There was a 14% increase in numbers over the 4 day event (previously 5) which ran from 3rd-6th March at the Fiera Milano Rho exhibition centre (pavilions 14 and 18). Buyers from 90 different countries world-wide were able to visit 215 exhibitors at this year’s Exhibition.

The Russians have returned (up 41% on 2009), European buyers are on the increase and exhibitors are seeing sales pick up again after last year’s recession. The number of American buyers was also up by 13.64%.

Visitor numbers (recorded as they first entered the Exhibition) rose from 7,627 in 2009 to 8,263 this year, bringing the event to a close with a positive result (up 8.3%).

"This year’s MIFUR was particularly upbeat, and our exhibitors have smiles on their faces," says Norberto Albertalli, MIFUR Chairman. "The entire fur sector, from raw materials to finished garments and fashion-led products to the big names, finds its highest expression at the Exhibition. The return of Russian and American buyers following a difficult year in 2009 means that MIFUR has closed on a truly positive note. The European market, which managed to stay afloat during the recession, is also growing significantly: we saw an increase in the number of buyers from all European countries."

Following a 28% rise in 2009, the number of Chinese buyers was up by a further 12.66% this year.

Korean buyers also visited the Exhibition in larger numbers, with figures up by an impressive 81.69% thanks to a particularly large delegation.

"Considering that we reduced the length of the event from its usual 5 days to 4 to bring ourselves into line with Mipel and Micam, and that actual visitor numbers (including return visits to the Exhibition) were up by 14%, I think we really can be satisfied with our results," concludes the Chairman.

Running alongside the Exhibition, MIFUR's programme of two Special Events also attracted a wide audience from the press and public alike: the PREMIERE runway show, which showcased 13 collections from across the sector and boasted a very special guest, ZAC POSEN, and the REMIX catwalk show and Competition held by the International Fur Trade Federation, honouring 40 young designers from 18 countries world-wide.

Fur Industry Resource Center, March 10/2010