Sole Fashion trade show postponed due to continued Covid uncertainty

The Sole Fashion trade show, which had been due to take place in August, has been postponed due to continued uncertainty surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK.

The new show was launched in February 2020 at The Ricoh Arena, Coventry by ex-Moda event Director Penny Robinson and the first edition attracted many big brands from the footwear market, including Rieker, Josef Seibel, Gardiner Bros, HB Shoes and Bugatti.

It had been due to take place once more on 8 and 9 August but Robinson said the pushing back of the full reopening of the economy to 19 July and uncertainty around the new Delta variant of the virus had led to the decision to delay.

“Our aim is to provide a safe environment where exhibitors and visitors feel confident returning to a live event, free from imposed restrictions. This is hugely disappointing particularly after the positive reaction to the recent relaunch of Sole Fashion, however, with the prolonged period of instability, we simply cannot guarantee to our exhibitors and visitors that we will be able to deliver the August 2021 event to the standards required.

"Whilst there is a strong appetite for a dedicated footwear and fashion event on favourable dates, we must be sensible and take this difficult decision in light of the recent events.  We look forward to better times and returning on 27th & 28th February 2022 at The Ricoh Arena," Robinson said.