FIMAST marks a fresh start, creating a bridge between some of the most innovative and iconic sectors of Made in Italy. The B2B event dedicated to technological innovations in the hosiery and sock industry, 3D-knitted footwear, seamless, and technical and sportswear, concluded today. Organized by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), the event brought together key Italian players and a qualified audience of industry professionals for the first time at the Vicenza fairgrounds from November 6 to 8.
A Connection platform for different industries
With this new location, IEG is pushing the event towards a transformation: the new FIMAST aims to become a shared platform, connecting Italy’s key textile industry districts, like those in Brescia and Mantua, with Veneto’s excellence in sportswear, footwear, and textile machinery. Districts such as the Castel Goffredo hosiery area, with its almost century-long history, embody a historic heritage of expertise and are preparing to tackle new challenges. FIMAST aims to accelerate development and foster shared growth opportunities across these industries, creating new synergies to drive them forward. In Northeastern Italy, sports system companies make up 23% of the national total, growing at a rate of 19% annually over the past three years, by investing and generating value. Additionally, the upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are expected to create 2.4 billion euros in value for the Northeastern regions (source: Banca IFIS).
A noteworthy feature of the 2024 edition was the collaboration with A&T Nordest, which, held simultaneously at the Vicenza fairgrounds, spotlighted the latest manufacturing technologies, from artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing to testing and intralogistics.
Innovation and sustainability for district development
FIMAST showcased product innovations and production processes from leading figures in the manufacturing districts for yarns, machinery, technologies, and finished products: from synthetic and natural yarns for hosiery and stockings to leading machinery manufacturers for the hosiery and footwear industries, as well as complementary technologies for product design, finishing, and accessories.
The event also provided a space for professional dialogue and updates for industry operators through an Arena where conferences, workshops, and seminars attracted a large professional audience. Product managers, designers, and R&D managers were particularly interested in new production technologies, materials, processes, and products oriented towards sustainability. Featured speakers included major Italian sportswear and footwear brands, such as Ferragamo and Dainese, alongside regional stakeholders and industry associations like CSC (Centro Servizi Impresa) and ADICI (Association of the Hosiery and Underwear District), Assosport, Venicepromex, Confindustria Veneto Est (Footwear Group), and WRÅD Living.
FIMAST marks a fresh start, creating a bridge between some of the most innovative and iconic sectors of Made in Italy. The B2B event dedicated to technological innovations in the hosiery and sock industry, 3D-knitted footwear, seamless, and technical and sportswear, concluded today. Organized by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), the event brought together key Italian players and a qualified audience of industry professionals for the first time at the Vicenza fairgrounds from November 6 to 8.
Innovation and sustainability for district development
