CHICAGO — The Atlanta Shoe Market runs Feb. 15-17 at the Cobb Galleria Centre — and has been completely sold out since October 2024. As of press time, show organizers reported a 13% increase in retailer pre-registrations and 10% growth in exhibitor attendance. More than 1,800 brands from at least 18 countries are expected.
“With these impressive numbers, we are anticipating record-breaking attendance at next week’s event,” said Laura O’Brien, Executive Director of The Atlanta Shoe Market.
Held twice each year and sponsored by the Southeastern Shoe Travelers Association, the show has been expanding each season — with a significant turning point occurring after the pandemic. “During that time, while many trade shows remained on hold, I made the decision to move forward with our event — missing only one show throughout the pandemic,” said O’Brien. “The response was overwhelming. The energy and excitement at that first show post-pandemic were unparalleled, as attendees were eager to reconnect and conduct business in person.
“With no other trade shows taking place, The Atlanta Shoe Market became the go-to event, and its momentum has only continued since then.”
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The upcoming event includes an opening casino night, a retail workshop presented by the National Shoe Retailers Association, and a “Women in the Footwear Industry” cocktail hour. A couple of new features are designed to engage buyers. The “Walk the Floor Challenge” will give retailers the chance to win $500 by collecting stickers from vendors. The show is also extending its hours in response to numerous requests, opening the showroom floor one hour earlier and keeping it open one hour later for appointments only.
“It’s this combination of resilience and responsiveness that has contributed to the show’s success. As a trade show association, our mission is to serve the industry,” O’Brien said. “We prioritize affordability, ensuring that our pricing remains accessible so manufacturers can achieve a strong return on investment.
“This approach has fueled consistent demand, leading to the show selling out within weeks of registration opening for the past four years. Additionally, we have seen a significant increase in international exhibitors and attendees, further solidifying The Atlanta Shoe Market as a premier global event.”
Reach Laura O’Brien at laura@atlantashoemarket.com or (706) 923-0580
