The 63rd edition of FILO, held on February 26–27, 2025, at Allianz MiCo Gate 3 in Milan, concluded with remarkable success. Despite global economic challenges, the event underscored its reputation as a premier platform for excellence in yarns and fibers, showcasing innovation, sustainability, and high-quality manufacturing.
Event Highlights
The 63rd edition of FILO was marked by several key highlights that underscored its position as a premier platform for the textile industry.
1. Filo Capsule Collection:
- Innovation and Collaboration: The event debuted the Filo Capsule Collection, a groundbreaking initiative that transformed exhibitors’ yarns into fabric samples using advanced manufacturing techniques. This was achieved through collaborations with Tessitura Zanello and Ricamificio Vittorio Vanoni and the support of ITA-Agency.
- Visitor Appreciation: Visitors praised this collection for its innovative approach to merging creativity with production.
2. International Participation
- Buyer Delegations: A strong collaboration with ITA-Agency facilitated a delegation of thirty-five industry professionals and journalists from countries like France, the UK, the USA, India, and South Korea.
- Tunisian Delegation: A high-level delegation from Tunisia, led by the Ambassador, explored partnership opportunities with Italian textile companies.
3. Sustainability Focus
- FiloFlow and Sustainability Area: The exhibition highlighted eco-conscious products through FiloFlow, with a dedicated “Green” catalog available to visitors.
- C.L.A.S.S. Partnership: Filo partnered with C.L.A.S.S. to emphasize sustainable textiles and innovative natural fibers.
4. Manufacturing and Innovation
- Opening Ceremony: The ceremony focused on “The Art of Manufacturing,” emphasizing the importance of quality, sustainability, and innovation in overcoming market challenges.
- Expert Insights: Speakers included Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, Matteo Zoppas, and Raffaello Napoleone, who discussed sustainable supply chains and the importance of trade fairs.
5. Educational Initiatives
- Guided Tours: Guided tours were conducted for foreign buyers, students, and the press to explore trends and manufacturing processes.
6. Networking Opportunities
- Dialoghi di Confronto: The Networking Area hosted discussions on topical industry issues, including sustainability and traceability.
Key Discussions and Themes
- Opening Ceremony: Themed “The Art of Manufacturing – From Yarn to Fabric,” the ceremony featured prominent speakers:
- Gilberto Pichetto Fratin (Italian Minister for Environment) emphasised sustainability in supply chains.
- Matteo Zoppas (ITA-Agency President) highlighted the importance of promoting “Made in Italy” internationally.
- Raffaello Napoleone (IT-EX President) stressed the role of trade fairs in industry growth.
- Panel Discussions: Topics included textile innovation, traceability, and partnerships between Tunisia and Piedmont. Experts from Kering’s Material Innovation Lab and other organizations shared insights on sustainable development.
Contributions of ITA – Italian Trade Agency
The ITA played a pivotal role in the success of the event by facilitating international participation. As a governmental agency under Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Economic Development, ITA supports Italian companies in global markets through services such as:
- Organising trade delegations and B2B meetings.
- Providing market research and consultancy services.
- Promoting “Made in Italy” products globally.
In India specifically, ITA operates through its New Delhi office to foster bilateral trade. It offers services like partner identification, market analysis, and facilitating business delegations to strengthen Italian companies’ presence in the Indian market
Achievements
- Global Collaboration: The event fostered international partnerships through delegations and guided tours for buyers and journalists.
- Innovation Showcase: Exhibitors presented cutting-edge collections that balanced creativity with technical expertise.
- Educational Initiatives: Students and young professionals participated in guided tours to learn about trends and manufacturing processes.
Key Perspectives Shared During the Opening Ceremony
- Gilberto Pichetto Fratin (Italian Minister for Environment and Energy Security):
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- He emphasized the importance of a balanced approach between sustainability and economic growth. In his video message, he stated that “a unique and united supply chain – thanks to its top-level quality – is intrinsically sustainable and capable of overcoming market challenges by focusing on more than just price.” His remarks reinforced the need for sustainable manufacturing practices as a cornerstone of Italy’s textile industry.
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- Matteo Zoppas (President of ITA – Italian Trade Agency):
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- Zoppas highlighted ITA’s role in supporting Italian companies on international platforms. He stressed that “Made in Italy” remains a global benchmark for quality and innovation. Despite sectoral challenges, he noted that exports from Italy’s textile industry remain robust.
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- Raffaello Napoleone (President of IT-EX):
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- Napoleone underlined the critical role that trade fairs play in fostering growth for manufacturing companies. He praised FILO for being a platform that not only connects supply chains but also drives forward discussions on key industry topics like sustainability.
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- Pier Francesco Corcione (General Director, Unione Industriale Biellese)
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- Corcione emphasized the interconnection between innovation and workforce development. He stated that “combining successful experiences with the ability to innovate and raise competences of workers is crucial for the growth of this industry.” His remarks highlighted how training excellence is integral to sustaining competitive advantages in manufacturing.
- Elena Chiorino (Vice President of Piedmont Region):
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- Chiorino emphasized the importance of combining innovation with workforce training to ensure competitiveness. She declared that “competitiveness goes through quality, innovation, and excellence in skills,” reflecting Piedmont’s commitment to supporting manufacturing excellence.
Industry Impact
Paolo Monfermoso, General Manager of Filo, reflected on the exhibition’s success despite economic uncertainties. He credited Filo’s focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation for its continued relevance as a key industry event. The event also reinforced Italy’s leadership in textile manufacturing while promoting global collaboration.
Future Outlook
The 64th edition of FILO is scheduled for September 10–11, 2025, at Allianz MiCo in Milan. Building on this year’s success, it promises to further advance the dialogue on sustainability and innovation within the textile industry.
This edition of FILO has reaffirmed its position as a vital platform for connecting supply chains while driving forward discussions on manufacturing excellence and sustainable practices.
