The 66th edition of Filo has opened at Fiera Milano Rho, Hall 24.
The opening ceremony focused on the future of the textile and fashion supply chain. Its theme was “Weaving the Future: Balance for a stronger, more competitive textile and fashion supply chain.”
The event brought together textile industry leaders and trade representatives. They discussed key issues facing the sector.
These included sustainability, innovation, skills, costs and competitiveness. Speakers also stressed the need for stronger cooperation across the supply chain.
Filo 66 Highlights Industry Challenges
Paolo Monfermoso, Head of Filo, opened the ceremony. He said the textile sector is facing a difficult period.
He also shared positive signs for the event. The number of exhibitors is in line with the February edition. Buyer registrations also showed strong interest on the opening morning.
Pier Francesco Corcione, General Director of Biella Industrial Union (UIB), spoke about the role of trade fairs.
He said Filo creates opportunities for business and networking. He also highlighted the importance of expertise, sustainability and research.
Emanuele Ramella Pralungo, President of the Province of Biella, welcomed participants. He highlighted the importance of protecting the Made in Italy identity.
Other speakers included Fulvia Bacchi, CEO of Lineapelle, and Matteo Masini, Head of the Consumer Goods Office at ITA.
Textile Supply Chain Takes Centre Stage
The second part of the ceremony featured a round-table discussion.
Laura Ricardi, Head of the UIB press office, moderated the discussion. She presented data on the Italian textile and clothing industry.
The sector accounts for around 30% of European production. It is also a major exporter in Europe and globally.
In 2025, the sector recorded a turnover of €58.39 billion. It included around 37,500 companies and more than 372,000 employees.
The discussion then focused on supply chain balance.
Speakers examined how companies can improve cooperation and competitiveness. They also discussed sustainability and value creation.
Sustainability and Skills Remain Important
Michele Pozzi, Sales Director of Linificio e Canapificio Nazionale, focused on sustainability.
He said a sustainable textile sector needs cooperation across the supply chain. He also stressed the importance of transparency and trust.
Cesare Cigolini, Managing Director of Achille Pinto, discussed small businesses.
He said small and artisan companies are an important part of Made in Italy. He also highlighted the need to help these businesses meet sustainability and traceability requirements.
Stefano Aglietta, Chair of the Spinning Section of UIB, focused on skills and manufacturing.
He said strong supply chains need skilled workers and specialised businesses. He also called for a better balance between price and added value.
Costs and People in Focus
Marco Bortolini, Vice President UIB for the Development of Industrial Supply Chains, highlighted rising costs.
Raw materials, energy and labour costs are putting pressure on textile companies. He said these challenges can affect investment and manufacturing capacity.
Patrizia Salemi, HR Manager at Vimar 1991, focused on people.
She said skilled workers remain important to the textile industry. She also noted that technology and AI will change work, while people will continue to play a key role.
Sergio Tamborini, former President of Confindustria Moda, highlighted collaboration.
He said the strength of the Italian textile sector comes from its supply chain. He also pointed to the role of sustainability, innovation and manufacturing expertise.
Filo 66 is taking place on 15 and 16 September 2026 at Fiera Milano Rho, Hall 24.
