EXICAL in Córdoba: despite mixed results, it was positive
However, amid the difficult period the Argentine footwear industry is going through—due to a pronounced contraction in consumption and the entry of imported products—the latest edition of EXICAL in Córdoba (organized by the footwear chambers of Córdoba and Santa Fe), held from February 7 to 9, 2026, at the Forja venue, delivered positive results, according to the widely shared consensus among exhibitors and buyers.
It should be clarified that sales were uneven: for some they were good, for others average, and for others decidedly null. This disparity had different causes: product ranges, prices, payment and delivery terms, and the manufacturer–client relationship.
There were 145 stands from 120 exhibitors from Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Santa Fe, showcasing women’s, men’s, and children’s footwear across all lines, aimed at the Fall–Winter 2026 season.
In the overall offering, most products were domestic, complemented by Brazilian brands and footwear of Asian origin, which confirmed that there are no major differences in prices and designs compared to local products, which remain competitive. In this regard, Argentine exhibitors showed that prices had been adjusted to current market conditions, in addition to having more direct contact with clients, which allowed more room for negotiations and for evaluating alternative products.
While there are still no official visitor figures, according to sources from the organization, attendance at this edition was good and higher than at previous fairs. As a relevant point, the presence of new buyers and the return of others was noted, especially from different provinces.
The fair layout proved very functional for exhibitors and visitors, thanks to the opening of the corners of the modules, which provided greater stand visibility, as well as the addition of carpeting on the floor, which improved the overall look.
As is often the case, there were local brands and representatives of foreign products who held showrooms simultaneously with the fair in different hotels in Córdoba, although it was shown that EXICAL remains the most well-attended event.
Regarding the next edition, options are being evaluated to set dates in early July 2026.
RELATED ARTICLE:
- EXICAL: the footwear offer from the country’s interior