Düsseldorf might not have an established shoes manufacturing industry compared to the rest of Germany, but the city plays a deciding role in the realm of international footwear sales as it hosts SHOES DÜSSELDORF. The flagship trade show, held twice per year, places the city at the forefront of Europe’s footwear industry and in 2025, organizers restructured the event to be the most decisive presence for the order cycle. The first edition for the year was scheduled for early February, making it the first major footwear event of the year. This strategic rescheduling served as a bold move to meet the evolving needs of the international shoe and fashion business. In synchrony with other fashion events like FASHN ROOMS and Neonyt Düsseldorf, which were scheduled for the preceding week, the updated timeline creates a comprehensive and future-focused order platform. Together, these shows offer a sweeping look at footwear, accessories, fashion, and sustainable design, further setting the tone for buyers and retailers well ahead of the traditional season. This gives Düsseldorf’s shoes industry considerable weight going forward in dictating style trends for upcoming seasons. The new STAGE and EVENT AREA provided a full programme of seminars, trend forecasts, and keynote lectures tailored to help retailers navigate the rapid changes affecting the market. Attendees learned all about digital tools and sustainability strategies as ways to prepare them for what’s to come and how to make smart, future-oriented business decisions. A standout addition this season was the “Rising Retail & Event Concepts Area,” where cutting-edge retail strategies took center stage. Buyers and store owners explored ideas ranging from immersive retail experiences to innovative sales training techniques. The emphasis on blending business with experience was also evident in the show's on-site services, which included curated shopping journeys and personal styling touch-ups.