The 63rd edition of Filo, the International Yarns and Fibres Exhibition, wrapped up in Milan with highly positive results, reaffirming its role as a key industry event. Despite global economic challenges, exhibitors showcased innovative and sustainable collections, attracting significant interest from buyers.
Strong international presence and buyer interest
The exhibition saw a steady flow of buyers over its two-day duration, with a notable increase in international visitors. Thanks to a collaboration between Filo and ITA-Agency, a delegation of 35 professionals and journalists from France, the U.K., the USA, India, Denmark, Germany, Portugal, Spain, South Korea, and Belgium attended the event. Additionally, the Integrated Textile Supply Chain Project (PIF) of the Piedmont Region facilitated the participation of buyers from Denmark, Finland, Ireland, and the U.K. A high-profile delegation from Tunisia, led by the Tunisian Ambassador to Italy, also attended to explore partnership opportunities with Italian manufacturers.
One of the highlights was the Filo Capsule Collection, a curated selection of fabric samples produced with the best manufacturing techniques. The collection, created in collaboration with Tessitura Zanello and Ricamificio Vittorio Vanoni, was well received by visitors and demonstrated the industry’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
Focus on manufacturing and sustainability
Manufacturing took center stage at the event, with the Opening Ceremony titled "The Art of Manufacturing from Yarn to Fabric, from Ideas to Production." Italian Minister for the Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, emphasized the strength of a unified, high-quality, and sustainable supply chain. Matteo Zoppas, President of ITA-Agency, reiterated the importance of supporting Italian companies in global markets, noting that the textile and apparel sector continues to perform well despite economic uncertainties.
Raffaello Napoleone, President of IT-EX, underscored the significance of trade fairs for the industry, while Pier Francesco Corcione, General Director of Unione Industriale Biellese, highlighted the critical role of innovation and skills development in sustaining growth. Vice-President of the Piedmont Region, Elena Chiorino, reaffirmed the region’s commitment to investing in training and international expansion, emphasizing that competitiveness is driven by quality, innovation, and expertise.
Filo’s role in shaping the industry’s future
Paolo Monfermoso, head of Filo, expressed satisfaction with the event’s outcome, stating that despite economic and geopolitical uncertainties, Filo remains a reference point for the industry. He stressed that success lies in quality, sustainability, and product innovation, key factors in overcoming market challenges. Exhibitors reported positive signals from business interactions, reaffirming Filo’s importance as a platform for supply and demand matchmaking.
Filo’s dedication to manufacturing excellence was further highlighted through the introduction of the Filo Capsule Collection, marking a significant innovation in international exhibitions. Monfermoso noted that Filo not only facilitates business connections but also fosters critical discussions on the future of the textile industry.
The next edition, the 64th Filo, is scheduled for September 10-11, 2025, at Allianz MiCo in Milan, promising another impactful event for the global textile sector.
