Unnao: Momentum built steadily across both days at the 15th edition of Kanpur Shoetech, culminating in a buyer-packed finale that pushed estimated business transactions beyond ₹550 crore. Organised by the Indian Footwear Components Manufacturers Association (IFCOMA), the exhibition reaffirmed the Kanpur–Unnao belt’s standing as a critical node in India’s leather and footwear value chain.
From early walkthroughs to last-hour negotiations, the show floor remained busy, with buyers drawn by fresh product launches, component innovations, and machinery upgrades. The sustained footfall and deal-making underscored Shoetech’s evolution from a regional showcase into a results-driven trade platform.
Exhibitors See Strong Engagement
Exhibitors reported high-quality inquiries and solid business leads, citing productive interactions with manufacturers, designers and procurement teams. Many noted that the intent-led audience rather than casual browsing—helped accelerate discussions from sampling to pricing and timelines within the two-day window.
A Convergence of the Industry
Shoetech 2025 brought together manufacturers, suppliers, designers and buyers under one roof. Participation reflected a sector in motion—confident, collaborative, and increasingly technology-forward—spotlighting trends that are reshaping sourcing, design, and production.
Scale and Reach
- 80+ footwear brands and component manufacturers participated
- Visitors arrived from Kanpur, Lucknow, Delhi, Agra, Chennai, Gujarat, Bengaluru and other hubs
- 1,000+ entrepreneurs registered, engaging in continuous buyer–seller negotiations
Products, Technology, and What’s Next
The exhibition featured a wide spectrum of:
- Raw materials
- Modern machinery
- New technologies
- Innovative footwear components
The breadth of offerings sparked interest across segments, strengthening commercial linkages and opening avenues for collaboration.
Design Takes Centre Stage
A key moment was the inauguration of the Design Centre at KLC by Ms. Deepali Agrawal, Managing Director, Exim Bank of India, signaling a sharper focus on design-led manufacturing. Industry voices emphasized that footwear remains a powerful growth engine for the leather sector, with design and production capabilities increasingly shifting to India reducing import dependence and building domestic IP.
IFCOMA President Sanjay Gupta said the platform particularly benefits small and medium enterprises by compressing time and costs while fostering long-term relationships. “Shoetech is not just an exhibition; it’s a commercial bridge,” he noted.
Looking Ahead
Buoyed by strong participation and measurable outcomes, organisers indicated that future editions could expand in scale and scope. As curtains closed on the 15th edition, one takeaway was clear: Kanpur Shoetech has cemented its role not merely as a display forum, but as a business-driving marketplace for India’s footwear and leather industry.
