Milano Unica Opens with 735 Exhibitors and Global Growth

Milan, July 8, 2025 – Milano Unica’s 41st edition officially opens at Fiera Milano Rho with a robust turnout of 735 exhibitors presenting Fall/Winter 2026/2027 collections in high-end fabrics and accessories. Participation in the core sections—Ideabiella, Moda In, and Shirt Avenue—has increased by 2.6% with 584 companies, of which 459 are Italian. European representation grew by a significant 8.7%, alongside 134 participants in special areas, Korea and Japan Observatories, and 17 trade publishers. Exhibition space also saw a 3.3% increase.

According to Confindustria Moda's Economic Studies Office, Italy’s textile sector showed mixed performance in Q1 2025 after a difficult 2024. Though the year closed with €7 billion in sales (a decline of -8.8%), knits rose by +11% while woven fabrics fell -6.9%. Export trends varied: cotton (+1.1%), linen (+1.2%), and silk (+1.6%) rose, while wool and knits dropped. The U.S. market grew +18.4% despite trade policy concerns, while exports to China fell -16.5%.

Simone Canclini, President of Milano Unica, acknowledged new European participation and said, “These numbers reflect growing confidence in our trade show and give us renewed responsibilities to support and promote the industry.”

Opening remarks were delivered by Claudio Sgaraglia and Elena Buscemi. A panel moderated by Nicola Porro discussed continuity and renewal in Italian manufacturing, with insights from Edoardo Zegna.

Claudia D’Arpizio, Global Head of Fashion & Luxury at Bain & Company, emphasized the shift in luxury: “2025 marks a turning point. Today, luxury must be discreet, genuine, and aligned with personal fulfillment rather than ostentation.”

Matteo Zoppas, President of ICE, delivered a video message, reinforcing Milano Unica’s partnership with the Italian Trade Agency.

The show continues to serve as both a business platform and a hub of industry innovation, hosting key areas like:

• MU Tendenze Sostenibilità: Seasonal concepts brought to life through sustainable samples.
• Innovation Area: TexClubTec explores tech for sportswear and Milan-Cortina 2026.
• Startup Textile Connection: Seven startups present sustainability-focused solutions.
• MU Vintage Area: Integrated into MU Sustainability, promoting circular fashion.
• MU Info&Style Area: Featuring trend forecasts and consulting services.

Major institutions like Lenzing, Woolmark, Supima, Cotton Egypt, and European Flax & Hemp were present alongside industry bodies Confindustria Moda, ACIMIT, and UKFT. Educational institutes showcased student innovations, and “The Excellences of Textile Magazine” paid tribute to historical industry publications.

A new collaboration with MarediModa offered a preview of SS27 beachwear, underwear, and athleisure.

Massimo Mosiello, General Manager of Milano Unica, praised the trade show’s entrepreneurial roots: “Milano Unica was created by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs... We are proud to celebrate our 20th anniversary this year with a special event at Teatro alla Scala.”

The show reinforces Milano Unica’s mission to be a cultural and commercial beacon in global textile trade, upholding the excellence of Made-in-Italy and Made-in-Europe craftsmanship.