The Covid-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the Brazilian footwear industry. Traditionally reliant on the domestic market, where more than 85% of produced pairs are sold, the sector saw steep declines due to restrictions on physical retail. In 2019, 898 million pairs were produced, a number that dropped to 746 million in 2020, then gradually rose to 855 million, 886 million, and 865 million in the following years. For 2024, the Brazilian Association of Footwear Industries (Abicalçados) projects a production increase of up to 3.2%, reaching over 890 million pairs. By 2025, the association estimates a full recovery to pre-2019 levels, with a growth of up to 1.9%, resulting in a production of 904 million pairs.

According to Abicalçados, the domestic market, which had been dragging the industry's performance down since 2019, will play a key role in this recovery, supported by declining unemployment rates and rising income among Brazilians. "Between January and September, the association estimates an over 9% increase in domestic footwear consumption, which includes imports," explains Abicalçados’ Executive President Haroldo Ferreira. To meet this heightened demand, the 3rd edition of BFSHOW, Brazil’s largest footwear trade show with over 290 confirmed brands, will be held in November. “Retailers need to stock up, especially with the year-end holidays approaching, which are historically significant for our industry. Expectations for the show are the most positive yet,” Ferreira adds. Besides showcasing the latest Fall-Winter collections, the event will feature exhibitors with ready-to-ship inventory to supply Brazilian retailers and international buyers.

BFSHOW
João Paulo Picolo, CEO of NürnbergMesse Brasil, organizer of BFSHOW, shared that they anticipate more than 10,000 Brazilian and international buyers from all continents. BFSHOW will take place from November 11 to 13 at Anhembi District in São Paulo/ Brazil, bringing together footwear manufacturers across all segments, regions, and sizes. “It’s the only event in the country where retailers can find everything from major manufacturers to small-scale industries catering to specific boutique niches,” Picolo emphasizes.

Retailers can register for BFSHOW at www.bfshow.com.br.