Milan’s prestigious furniture showcase wraps up a monumental year with a significant uptick in global participation and industry engagement. Final figures from the event, gathered at the close on April 21, 2024, revealed a 20.2% increase in visitors compared to last year, totaling 370,824 attendees, of which 53.9% were international guests.
This year’s Salone del Mobile.Milano not only marked a return to form but set new benchmarks for the furniture and design sector. The event drew 1,950 exhibitors from 35 different countries, enriching its offerings with a vibrant cultural program and innovations that highlight the theme of ‘evolution’ from design to experience.
The event saw a particularly robust increase in professional attendees, rising by 28.6%, demonstrating the fair’s critical role in fostering international business relations within the furniture industry. Notably, the EuroCucina/FTK and the International Bathroom Exhibition received special attention this year, showcasing new aesthetics and sustainable production techniques in kitchen and bathroom setups.
Market dynamics at the event reflected a strong comeback from various countries, with notable participation from China, Germany, Spain, Brazil, France, and the United States among others. The fair served as a global platform, unlocking new business avenues, supported by the influx of numerous delegations from countries including the United States, India, the UAE, the UK, France, and Saudi Arabia.
Media interest also surged, with 5,552 accredited journalists, underscoring the event’s capacity to communicate and lead in new design frontiers globally. Public days saw a consolidated turnout of 36,122 enthusiasts, drawn by high-caliber presentations and international discourse, further underlined by an increased engagement from Italian and foreign students, totaling 14,683 attendees, a 28.6% increase.
Digital interaction was another area of success, with the event’s multi-channel platform registering over 1 million interactions, a testament to its growing relevance in a digital-first world.
Maria Porro, President of Salone del Mobile.Milano, shared, “The 62nd edition exceeded all expectations: it was a record edition, with 370,824 presences. It reaffirmed its position as an essential bridge for dialogue with new market geographies and a hub of innovation.”
Claudio Feltrin, President of Federlegno Arredo, echoed this sentiment, “It was a truly exceptional edition, confirming the Salone as the most important international fair in our industry. Our exhibitors’ dedication is evident in the genius, vision, determination, and unmatched industrial craftsmanship displayed, which continues to drive the industry forward.”
The event also received significant attention from government and institutional leaders, including Adolfo Urso, Minister for Business and Made in Italy, highlighting the national significance of the event. The collaboration with Rho Fiera Milano and support from ITA – Italian Trade Agency, inviting 220 buyers and 240 journalists from 64 countries, were crucial in the successful execution of this landmark event.
