Upcoming Trade Shows Milan, Italy for Leather

Built on a tradition, but shaped by a changing economic climate, the leather industry in Italy is an interesting case in how to walk the tightrope between remaining true to its historic techniques and innovation as a response to environmentally conscious consumerism. One way tanneries do this is by investing in plant-based leather that offers a renewable option for consumers without compromising on durability or quality. In Italy, the leather industry has adopted a more circular economy model as tanneries are finding creative ways to reuse leather scraps and byproducts. Beyond fashion, leather waste is repurposed in agriculture as fertilisers and in cosmetics as collagen, demonstrating how sustainable practices can extend beyond leather goods production. Milan’s role here is to influence consumer awareness and promote local production. Companies operating in Milan’s leather industry are setting a benchmark for the international leather industry. Greater visibility comes from high-profile events like Lineapelle; a trade fair dedicated to leather, accessories, and components for footwear, garments, and furniture. Launched in 1981, Lineapelle has become the go-to event for showcasing innovations in leather and synthetic materials. A noteworthy highlight of the latest Lineapelle show was the Olivae Collection by Gruppo Dani. This collection is crafted from two types of waste: raw hides, left over from the food industry, and olive mill wastewater. The collection is a prime example of the ingenious way Italian companies address issues concerning sustainability. As one of Italy’s few full-cycle tanneries, Gruppo Dani conducts every step of the production process within the Veneto Leather District. This approach not only ensures that the entire supply chain is monitored but also allows for close tracking of CO2 emissions and energy usage. D-house Laboratorio Urbano, a Milan-based R&D centre, further contributed to the conversation by debuting a patent-pending technology that repurposes leather production waste.