PFI at MICAM and LINEAPELLE 2026: The Testing and Research Institute Pirmasens e.V. (PFI) attended the international trade fairs MICAM Milano and LINEAPELLE in Milan from 14 to 16 September 2026. Both events are among the most important gathering places for the international footwear, leather and supply industries and provide a key platform for discussing current market and technology trends.
Whilst there, the PFI took the opportunity to maintain existing contacts, hold new discussions with companies in the sector and learn about the latest developments along the value chain. The focus was particularly on topics relating to materials, sustainability, quality requirements and future challenges for the footwear and leather industry.
A important part of the programme was taking part in the press conference organised by the HDS/L Federal Association of the Footwear and Leather Goods Industry in the German Pavilion at MICAM. Moderated by Dr Claudia Schulz, the event brought together Torben Schütz, Managing Director of the HDS|L, Paolo Borghini, Managing Director of MICAM, and Dirk Augustin, the German Consul-General in Milan since August 2026, to discuss the footwear and leather goods industry. In addition to the current economic situation of the German footwear and leather goods industry, the discussion also covered international trade relations and the impact of increasing regulatory requirements on companies in the sector. Issues of competitiveness and future challenges along global supply chains also played an important role.
From left to right: Torben Schütz (Managing Director HDS/L), Dirk Augustin (Consul-General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Milan), Paolo Borghini (Managing Director of MICAM), Dr Claudia Schulz (moderator)
LINEAPELLE is regarded as one of the most important international trade fairs for leather, materials, components and innovations, whilst MICAM Milano, as the leading international footwear trade fair, brings together manufacturers, buyers and other industry stakeholders. Discussions at both trade fairs highlighted just how much regulatory issues are currently preoccupying the industry. Many companies are faced with a growing number of European regulations and perceive the regulatory developments of recent years as increasingly complex. At the same time, it became clear that material manufacturers, in particular, are already actively addressing the upcoming requirements. Several exhibitors presented bisphenolfree materials and placed particular emphasis on verifiable environmental and sustainability claims. This development underlines the growing importance of transparency and regulatory compliance throughout the entire value chain.
“Direct dialogue with companies and industry representatives provides valuable insights into current market requirements and future developments. These insights are of great importance to our work in the fields of testing, research and analysis,” said Dr Ines Anderie, Head of the Chemical Analysis Department at the PFI.
In addition, the PFI was present at LINEAPELLE as part of the European research project METASKILLS4TCLF. The project focuses on the future skills requirements of the textile, clothing, leather and footwear industries. Current developments in the areas of digitalisation, sustainability, technological transformation and skills development were discussed at various specialist events. The aim is to prepare companies and skilled workers for the future demands of the sector. You can find more information about the METASKILLS4TCLF project here.
From a marketing perspective, too, it became clear just how important face-to-face encounters and direct discussions are for knowledge transfer within the industry. Sarah Schäfer, from the PFI’s marketing department, summarises her impressions: “The PFI’s participation in the two trade fairs demonstrates just how important face-to-face exchanges are within the industry. Many topics can be understood much better through face-to-face discussions than through reports or online meetings. For us, as a research and testing institute, these insights are particularly valuable in helping us to better understand current developments and the needs of businesses.”.
Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date.
Did you enjoy our blog article? Then sign up for our newsletter today! Published quarterly, it provides exciting insights into all things PFI. Stay informed about the latest topics in research, development, and testing—always up to date!
