The following research report contains market research, analysis, statistics and business intelligence relating to research on Footwear Market Overview In Switzerland.

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ABSTRACT
This report provides a general overview of the Swiss footwear market and includes dress shoes, casual shoes and athletic footwear for men, women and children. It is based on official surveys, information from reliable trade sources and associations in this sector, as well as on the official statistics of the Swiss Customs Authorities.

The entire Swiss footwear market is estimated to be worth approximately $1.5 billion; around $20 million of this volume is for footwear, including hiking boots. In 1997 more than 38 million pairs of shoes, at an average retail price of $39 were sold in Switzerland. With more than 2,300 footwear retailers, the competition among distributors in Switzerland is significant.

In worldwide terms, the Swiss still occupy a top position with per capita consumption of 5.4 pairs of shoes per year. A few years ago, the statistics were even higher at more than 6 pairs of shoes. This slippage can be attributed to the overall weak economic situation in Switzerland. However, after seven years in the doldrums the Swiss economy is now moving again and the predictions for the future development of the Swiss footwear market are confident. The expected growth is estimated at around 2 percent for the next few years. The 1998 sales of leather articles and footwear were reported to be much better than expected, lending additional credence to these predictions.

Presently, there are 14 shoe factories in Switzerland, producing mainly high-class and niche products. Domestic production of footwear reached 2.47 million pairs in 1997. Over 60 percent of domestically manufactured shoes were exported, only 38 percent were sold within Switzerland. The Swiss import volume of footwear is substantial, with $700 million worth of shoes imported in 1997. Main suppliers are the neighboring countries Italy, Germany, France and Austria. The most important supplier, with a long tradition in the manufacture of footwear, is Italy, with a substantial market share of 36.6 percent in 1997.

The U.S. market share of shoe imports is less than 1 percent, according to official trade statistics. However, the strong position of U.S. suppliers of athletic footwear is not reflected in these statistics, since those shoes are mainly manufactured in low-cost Asian countries and are consequently imported from there. Together with the popularity of athletic footwear, U.S. casual leather footwear is also in high demand in Switzerland and is renowned for quality, comfort and the very popular American casual style. Another footwear sector with future potential for U.S. exports are hiking and trekking boots.

Despite the fact that the Swiss shoe market is small, it is very competitive and a substantial number of U.S. suppliers have already successfully penetrated the Swiss footwear market. An important factor for new-to-market companies is the opportunity to test their products in Switzerland, as the unique presence of different cultural environments (German, French and Italian) in one country, enables U.S. suppliers to gain practical knowledge in Switzerland which can then be applied in the larger neighboring countries. Given the size of the Swiss marketplace, it is absolutely essential that Swiss importers be given the possibility of ordering smaller amounts than are usually required by U.S. suppliers. Product quality and a reliable order and delivery service are prerequisites to establishing successful business relations with Swiss footwear importers. A. MARKET HIGHLIGHTS & BEST PROSPECTS

-- Statistical Data

Market Size Table Format (in Million US Dollars)*

Projected Avg. Annual Growth Rate For follow. 1996 1997 1998 2 Years Import Market 758 731 768 2-3% Local Production 246 130 139 1%

Exports 178 157 145 1-2% Total Market 826 704 762 2%

Imports from U.S. 9 6 5 2-3% Exchange Rates 1.25 1.40 1.40 Estimated Future Inflation Rate: 1%

Last Year's Import Market Share (Percent for U.S. and major competitors):

Italy: 36.6% Germany: 18.1% France: 9.9% South Korea: 7.8% China: 5.9% Portugal: 4.4% Austria: 4.1% Spain: 3.6% USA: 0.9%

SOURCE: Swiss Federal Customs Office (Eidg. Zollverwaltung) Foreign Trade Statistics Division CH - 3003 Bern, Switzerland

NOTE: *Data includes shoes as well as shoe accessories and parts. -- Best Sales Prospects

-Athletic Footwear

U.S. athletic footwear brands are the market leaders in Switzerland. U.S. labels like Nike, Reebok or L.A. Gear hold approximately 25 percent market share in this sector. The fad for fashionable athletic shoes is expected to continue in the future; teenagers, particularly, wear athletic shoes as their daily footwear. It is also this consumer group that most strongly associates athletic footwear with American culture and the new trends that eventually sweep over to Europe. New and innovative technical features are considered a must for athletic shoes worn in active sports. -Hiking/Trekking Boots

Hiking is still the most popular sport in Switzerland. More than one-third of Swiss engage in this activity on a regular basis, enjoying the 56,000 km of prepared hiking paths that are available in this country. Lately, hiking during wintertime has also become very trendy and approximately 16 percent of Swiss ski resort visitors are alpinists and hikers. The expenditures for hiking equipment in Switzerland are more than $185 million per year. The market for trekking and hiking shoes/boots has increased to 500,000 pairs per year, resulting in a yearly turnover of approximately $60 million. The modern Swiss hiker is prepared to spend a considerable amount for his/her hobby and usually possesses more than one pair of hiking boots in order to be well prepared for different stretches of hiking paths. Quality and functionality are the main factors influencing the buying decision.

-Casual and Leisure Shoes

Trade sources predict a positive future development within the sector of casual footwear designed for outdoor activities such as biking, backpacking, camping, climbing or general leisure time activities. Casual leather shoes that are already in high demand in Switzerland are likely to experience further growth. The image of U.S. brands in this sector, such as Timberlands, is very good and usually associated with high-quality, comfort and traditional American style. B. COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS

-- Domestic Production

In 1997 the total local production of shoes reached 2.47 million pairs, which was 7.2% less than last year's output. Men's footwear accounted for 67.5%, ladies shoes for 28.18% and children's footwear for 4.32% of the total production in Switzerland. A 38% share of the output remained in Switzerland, while 61.1% were exported.

The Swiss shoe industry has a long tradition for quality products and presently comprises 14 footwear manufacturing companies, employing approximately 1,300 people. It has traditionally concentrated on high-end and niche products in the dress shoe, ski and hiking boots sectors. However, due to highproduction and labor costs within Switzerland, the industry has lately been losing jobs and market share. In addition, the footwear sector is continuously being squeezed by imports (mainly in the lower price categories). However, sales both in Switzerland and abroad are expected to increase in the future, thanks to a satisfactory exchange rate trend and successful concentration on market niches with high value added. Although most of the companies expect a moderate rise in investment spending for the next year, further staff reductions will be unavoidable, as wage levels remain high by international standards.

A well-known and prestigious Swiss dress shoe label that has gained a worldwide reputation is Bally, with presently two manufacturing sites in Switzerland (at Caslano and Schoenenwerd). Bally's third manufacturing plant in Norwich, England, was sold to the present management there at the beginning of this year. Bally products include high class footwear for men, women and children, a full line of leather accessories as well as a high-class clothing line for men and women. Bally presently employs 3,737 people and operates 57 retail shops in Switzerland (including 44 own branches as well as leased departments and franchise-shops) and 450 retail outlets around the globe. In 1997, Bally sold 4.7 million pairs of shoes with a total turnover of $720 million, which indicates a dramatic drop in sales, compared to the 7.5 million pairs of shoes that were sold in 1991. The restructuring process from a company that was primarily active nationally to a company with a global brand (with uniform management practices) was the main reason for these losses. On the other hand, Bally was able to continuously increase its share in apparel, leather goods and accessories. These products currently account for more than 30% of the company's total turnover. Raichle Boots AG was founded in 1909 and originally manufactured workers shoes and slippers. In 1912 the company started to produce footwear for the Swiss military and then extended the line of products to ski and hiking boots in 1924. Today the turnover of Raichle Boots AG is made with hiking boots(29%), snowboard hard and soft boots (41%), skiboots (15%) and other casual footwear (15%). Approximately 22% of their turnover is made within Switzerland, 29% in Germany, France and Austria and more than 10% in the United States. The Raichle manufacturing site in Kreuzlingen, Switzerland, is equipped with the latest production technologies which enables the company to maintain the quality their outdoor footwear is renowned for.

Navyboot has recently become a successful shoe label. It currently offers men's shoes and accessories, women's shoes, leather bags and also a basic clothing collection, all manufactured and distributed under license agreements. Navyboot is a small but very innovative company and was founded by Mr. Bruno Bencivenga in 1991. The company was able to increase its shoe sales in Switzerland from 5,000 pairs in 1991 to 60,000 pairs in 1998. The Swiss shoe manufacturer Benelli in Chiasso operates exclusively for Navyboot and produced 60,000 pairs of shoes for the company in 1998. In addition to their own shoes, the B+S Partners AG, a company that belongs to the Navyboot group, imports Samsonite and Kipling shoes and accessories. Navyboot currently employs around 75 people and sells its shoes in more than 300 shops in Switzerland. The company's turnover in Switzerland in 1998 was approximately $5 million. The idea behind the Navyboot was simple; a classic shoe that looks good, is comfortable, doesn't change and is fashionable without being subject to the ever-changing fashion tastes. The company never intended to create a trend label but a real classic and was rewarded by this philosophy. Today, Navyboot has already established itself as a market leader within the high-class segment of men's shoes and intends to further saturate the Swiss market before concentrating on exports.

Swiss Shoe Production 1997 (in 1000 pairs)

Leather Rubber Textiles Total

Dress Shoes: Children 106 1 107 Ladies 478 7 485 Mens 1,287 1,287

Ski, Hiking & Workers Shoes: Children Ladies 109 94 203 Mens 162 94 256

Slippers: 8 8

Rubber Shoes: 69 69

Other Shoes: 19 35 54

Total Production: 2,167 292 8 2,469

For Switzerland: 842 113 7 962

For Export: 1,327 179 1 1,507 -- 3rd Country Competition

According to Swiss trade statistics, shoe imports totaled 38 million pairs in 1997 or the equivalent of $700 million - almost 70% of this amount originated from the neighboring countries Italy, Germany, France and Austria. Ease of communication and overnight truck delivery are important reasons for this dominant position. However, shoes imported from European countries are also very often manufactured or at least partially finished in low labor cost countries. Imports from the Far East, mostly shoes in the lower price range, hold a relatively small share with less than 20%. 56.8 percent of all shoes imported in 1997 were made out of leather and the average import value was around $19 per pair.

Italian footwear is in particularly high demand in Switzerland as it is renowned for its quality and trendsetting design. Consumers who follow the latest fashion trends would generally purchase Italian shoes. Prominent Italian dress shoe brands sold in Switzerland include Ferragamo, Bruno Magli, Prada, Todds and all other prestigious Italian designer labels. Other popular European brands are Charles Jourdan, Clarks, Church, Doc Marten, Lloyd, Boss, Salamander, Sioux, Gabor, Hoegl, Servas, Romika, Rohde and Mephisto.

-- U.S. market share

The U.S. market share represents less than 1% according to trade statistics but its profile is much higher. The strong position of U.S. athletic footwear, with market leaders like Nike, Reebok and L.A. Gear, is not fully reflected in Swiss trade statistics, since most of the imports in this sector originate in from low-cost countries like South Korea, China and Taiwan.

The leading U.S. brand in casual leather footwear in Switzerland is Timberland, which caters to the top-end. High quality casual shoes made out of leather, as well as hiking boots are a growth category and a sector the U.S. is renowned for in the Swiss marketplace. The U.S. Flexi Country collection of comfortable casual footwear has recently become very popular in Switzerland. Shoes that combine comfort with attractiveness are very much in vogue and the Flexi Country label perfectly fits. The design of the shoes is fashionable but still suits a popular taste and the high quality leather used also satisfies the most quality-demanding customer. A specialty of the company is the various moccasin-models made out of soft leather. Flexi Country is directed to the target group of price-conscious customers looking for comfortable but also fashionable footwear. In Switzerland, Va Bene, a distributor specialized in comfortable footwear, represents the Flexi Country footwear collection.

All leather, Western boots, made in the U.S., are only a small niche product but they have an excellent reputation, especially among Swiss Country and Western fans. The boots are renowned for their design, durability and quality. Authentic U.S. "Cowboy Boots" are very appealing to Swiss customers, as they are considered to be the only "real thing" and are associated with the American Way of Life. In order to establish successful business relations with Swiss footwear importers, U.S. companies should remember that the Swiss market is small and that adjustments in minimum order requirements are therefore absolutely essential. Trade sources frequently mentioned that they are only interested in importing U.S. footwear if they are given the opportunity to order small quantities of individual items. C. END USER ANALYSIS

Switzerland, with its population of 7.2 million people, has the highest per capita GDP in the world. Despite being known for its Alpine scenery and omnipresent cows, it is a highly industrialized country. Although the Swiss enjoy a very high standard of living, the recent recession led to falling employment levels and stagnant disposable incomes. However, the brighter economic outlook for the coming year should make consumer spending a little more perky. Sales in leather articles and footwear in particular have already been reported to be much better than expected. The average Swiss consumer bought 5.43 pairs of shoes last year. This puts the Swiss at top of the chart (worldwide, the average was 1.72 pairs per year). Despite this position, the average Swiss is not prepared to spend a lot of money on shoes, as those are still very often considered to be a necessity rather than a fashion statement.

In general the Swiss are very quality and fashion conscious, but when it comes to footwear, the buying habits are very different from the ones that apply to apparel. Consumers are often very brand-conscious when buying clothing items, as the wardrobe is also considered to be a status symbol. This does not hold true for shoes yet, but trade sources are confident that this will change in a few years and that footwear will get a more important status.

For athletic shoes, there are two different groups of consumers. On the one hand, there is the low-price mass market with very close prices and many special offers. The target group for this segment is the consumer who wears athletic shoes during leisure time and whose primary purchasing criterion is the attractive price of the shoe and not so much the quality and functionality. On the other hand, there are the sportsmen and women who need a specific athletic shoe for their individual sport activity. Main purchasing criterion for this group is the functionality of the shoe as well as proficient advice from sales personnel and a good selection of products. The price of the athletic shoe does not play an important role for this consumer. Buyers aged 25-50 are considered to be the most important consumer group in Switzerland, as they have the most money to spend. Teenagers between 12-18 years have become extremely fashion and brand-conscious in the last few years and are also considered to be an important buying group. Switzerland's population profile can be broken-down as follows:

Women Men (in thousands) 0-19 years: 802 845 20-39 years: 1,082 1,092 40-64 years: 1,103 1,095 65-79 years: 437 327 80+ years: 191 89 D. MARKET ACCESS

- Market regulations, standards and laws

There are no specific Swiss regulations on labeling of footwear. Switzerland has fully adopted the European Union (EU) standards and requirements. It should be remembered, though, that footwear sizes in Europe are different from the ones in the U.S.A. Footwear Size Scale Conversion:

Girls and Women Boys and Men USA Europe USA Europe 1 31 1 32 1/2 1 1/2 32 1 1/2 33 2 32 1/2 2 34 2 1/2 33 2 1/2 34 1/2 3 34 3 35 3 1/2 34 1/2 3 1/2 36 4 35 4 36 1/2 4 1/2 36 4 1/2 37 5 36 1/2 5 38 5 1/2 37 5 1/2 38 1/2 6 37 1/26 39 6 1/2 38 6 1/2 39 1/2 7 39 7 40 7 1/2 39 1/2 7 1/2 41 8 40 8 41 1/2 8 1/2 40 1/2 8 1/2 42 9 41 9 43 9 1/2 42 9 1/2 43 1/2 10 42 1/2 10 44 10 1/2 43 10 1/2 44 1/2 11 44 11 45 11 1/2 44 1/2 11 1/2 46 12 45 12 46 1/2 12 1/2 45 1/2 12 1/2 47 13 46 13 48 14 49 15 50 - Import climate

Swiss importers pay the VAT (Value Added Tax) which at present still amounts to 6.5 percent of the value of imported goods. As of January 1, 1999, the VAT will be increased to 7.5 percent (standard rate for most durable commodities). This tax is levied at the border and the accrued amount is to be paid to the Swiss authorities at three-month intervals through established banking accounts by the importers or is directly invoiced and paid for at the border upon entry of products.

While imports from European EU and EFTA countries are duty free, U.S. and non-EU shipments to Switzerland are levied a customs duty which is assessed based upon the product imported. The duty fee for footwear, which varies significantly according to specific type and material of shoes, is levied per 100-kilogram increments of the gross weight. Following are some tariff samples: HS 6403 Ski/snowboard boots, leather upper SF 122.00 Other sport shoes, leather upper SF 209.80 Sandals, leather upper SF 231.20 Wooden sole boots SF 156.40 Safety boots with metal cap SF 154.80 Leather boots covering ankle, leather sole SF 159.20 Children's shoes up to European size 35 SF 186.40 Other children's shoes weight 1.2 kg and up SF 118.80 Ditto, weight from 0.6 - 1.2 kg SF 160.80 Ditto, weight less than 0.6 kg SF 233.60 HS 6404 Tennis, basketball, athletic shoes with Plastic or rubber sole SF 150.40 HS 6405 Other shoes, upper leather or fabric SF 58.40 Ditto, with leather, rubber or plastic sole SF 147.20

Detailed information on specific Swiss custom tariffs for individual footwear products may be obtained from:

Bundesverwaltung eidg. Finanzdepartement Oberzolldirektion (Customs Service) Monbijoustrasse 40 CH - 3005 Bern, Switzerland Tel: (031) 322 6511 Fax: (031) 322 7872

-Distribution

The traditional shoe retail stores still account for approximately 70 percent of all footwear sold in Switzerland. These shops range from women's high fashion footwear boutiques, to shops that supply the whole family, to specialized sports shoe shops. The remainder is sold through department stores, sporting goods retailers and supermarkets. The competition among distributors of footwear is considerable. Actually, the Swiss footwear market is oversupplied with more than 2,300 points of sale, which has put the individual retailers and small retail chains under enormous pressure. The five major companies Ochsner-Dosenbach, Bata, Bally, Voegele and Walder account for more than 50 percent of the entire turnover of the shoe industry in Switzerland.

Foreign shoe discounters offering cheap footwear are currently expanding in Switzerland. The German retail chain "Reno", for example, has established almost 20 outlets in Switzerland since 1987. The Reno shops all operate under the same system: extensive stores at cheap locations in the city suburbs or industrial zones. The stores are minimally furnished and offer little or no assistance by sales personnel but attract customers with extremely low prices and special offers. A similar concept is operated in the western part of Switzerland by the French shoe conglomerate "Chaussure Andre". The "Ochsner-Dosenbach AG", which is 100 percent owned by the largest German shoe retailer "Deichmann", also intends to increase its presence in Switzerland, and already accounts for more than 200 outlets today. The current turnover of this chain in Switzerland is estimated to be over $150 million.

Given the pressure from these foreign competitors, large retailers and superstores, the fierce battle for market share in this segment is unlikely to let up. This development forces individual retailers and smaller retail chains to concentrate on niche products, well-known shoe labels and quality footwear that is generally not offered by the shoe discounters. However, market insiders are convinced that the smaller shops will be able to stay competitive in the future thanks to their higher flexibility. Market insiders even expect to see additional retail outlets opened and an above-average increase in the already high proportion of imports. The most common method of market entry in Switzerland is through the appointment of a local company as an agent/representative. Most of these companies have been in the footwear business for a long time and have gained the necessary knowledge and experience needed to counsel foreign suppliers on developing a market for their new products.

Finding and selecting the right firm or person for representation is very important and can sometimes be difficult. Market entry programs available through Commercial Service offices in Bern, Zurich and Geneva offer an excellent way for U.S. firms to penetrate the Swiss market. The Gold Key Service, which entails a modest fee ($650 for the first day of appointments, $325 for each additional day) provides scheduled appointments with preselected potential agents or distributors. A Commercial Service trade specialist will accompany the Gold Key client to all meetings. For details on this service and information on other Commercial Service programs please contact post or the nearest U.S. Export Assistance Center.

The participation in appropriate trade fairs in Switzerland or events in neighboring countries that are frequently visited by Swiss importers/distributors is a useful tool in establishing first contacts with potential Swiss distributors.

- Business Practices

The steady presence in TV commercials, print advertisements, posters, sport sponsorships and various outdoor advertising campaigns are essential tools for successful marketing in Switzerland. Distributors should, therefore, have a concise contract as well as a generous advertising budget. Distributors are very protective of their sales territories. Market insiders stated that dumping of the same product in an adjacent market usually leads to the termination of distributorship agreements.

Small shipments to retailers are often made by parcel post. Within a short range, wholesalers often use delivery vans, whereas for larger distances, shipments by train are customary. Buying cooperatives, which make up approximately 10% of the shoe market, usually receive a commission of 2-4 percent. The profit margin of retailers is approximately 50% of the retail price.

-Financing

Swiss importers generally dislike it when U.S. suppliers insist in letters of credit or COD. Once confidence is established, payments within 30 days from receipt or 60 days from date of shipment are most common. Retailers are expected to pay their bills within 30 days at net prices. E. KEY CONTACTS

Associations

Verband Schweizerischer Schuhgrossisten (Association of Swiss Footwear Wholesalers) c/o VSIG P.O. Box 656 CH-4010 Basel, Switzerland Contact: Mr. N.J. Luethi, President Tel: (41-61) 271 3385 Fax: (41-61) 272 3039 E-mail: VSIG@bluewin.ch

Schweizerischer Schuhhaendler-Verband (SSV) (Association of the Swiss Footwear Trade Roessligasse 15 P.O. Box CH-4460 Gelterkinden, Switzerland Contact: Mr. Dieter Spiess, President Tel: (41-61) 985 9600 Fax: (41-61) 985 9603

Verband Schweizerischer Schuhindustrieller (Association of Swiss Shoe Manufacturers) Parkstrasse 36 P.O. Box 87 CH-5012 Schoenenwerd, Switzerland Contact: Mr. Jean Stillhard, Managing Director Tel: (41-62) 849 2043 Fax: (41-62) 849 3889

Schweizerischer Sporthaendlerverband (ASMAS) (Swiss Association of the Sporting Goods Trade) Maulbeerstrasse 10 P.O. Box 5226 CH-3001 Bern, Switzerland Contact: Mr. Claude Benoit, President

Tel: (41-31) 381 9394 Fax: (41-31) 382 0242 E-mail: info@asmas.ch

Trade Publications

Schuhgazette (Trade magazine, official organ of the Swiss Footwear Trade, Swiss Footwear Wholesalers and Swiss Shoe Manufacturers Associations, published monthly) Zentralsekretariat Contact: Ms. Lisa Pfeiffer, editor Roessligasse 15 CH-4460 Gelterkinden, Switzerland Tel: (41-61) 985 9600 Fax: (41-61) 985 9603 Swiss Importers/Distributors/Retailers

Arex Ag (Importer/Distributor of Shoes and Acessories) Seestrasse 49 CH - 6052 Hergiswil Tel: (41-41) 630 3235 Fax: (41-41) 630 3229

Bally-Arola AG (Manufacturer and Retailer) Bahnhofstrasse 66 CH-8001 Zurich, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 224 3939 Fax: (41-1) 224 3999 Internet: http://www.bally.ch

Bata Schuh AG (Importer/Distributor/Retailer) Verwaltung Batastrasse 719 CH-4313 Moehlin, Switzerland Tel: (41-61) 855 2222 Fax: (41-61) 851 4938 E-mail: bataadm@iprolink.ch

Charles Voegele AG (Importer/Distributor/Retailer) Gwattstrasse 15 CH - 8808 Pfaeffikon, Switzerland Tel: (41-55) 416 7111 Fax: (41-55) 416 3743 E-mail: hotline@voegele-mode.com

Corami Schuh AG (Importer/Distributor of sports&leisure footwear) Alpenblickstrasse 7 CH-8853 Lachen, Switzerland Tel: (41-55) 4427909 Fax: (41-55) 442 7910 E-mail: corami@bluewin.ch

Eltracon (Importer/Distributor) Mr. Walter Widmer Dorfstrasse 38 CH-8966 Oberwil-Lieli, Switzerland Tel: (41-56) 631 9291 Fax: (41-56) 631 9993 ESGE Garant AG (Buying Cooperative for Retailers) Pfadackerstrasse 9 CH-8957 Spreitenbach, Switzerland Tel: (41-56) 418 1717 Fax: (41-56) 418 1722

Evus Partner AG (Buying Cooperative for Retailers) Hermetschloostrasse 77 CH-8048 Zurich, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 439 9911 Fax: (41-1) 432 6131 E-mail: evus@bluewin.ch

Friz E. Effo AG (Importer/Distributor) Schuhgrosshandel Gartenstrasse 10 CH-5400 Baden, Switzerland Tel: (41-56) 221 8121 Fax: (41-56) 222 4628

Imgrueth & Co. Schuhaus (Footwear Retailer) Weggisgasse 4-6 CH-6004 Luzern, Switzerland Tel: (41-41) 410 3178 Fax: (41-41) 410 3880

Josef Doerig (Importer/Distributor) Schuhhandel en gros Chellenstrasse 24 CH-9403 Goldach, Switzerland Tel: (41-71) 841 4151

Maikler AG (Importer/Distributor) Zentralverwaltung Neuengass-Passage 2 CH-3011 Bern, Switzerland Tel: (41-31) 326 2111 Fax: (41-31) 311 6021 E-mail: BottyMaiklerAG@compuserve.com

Margine AG Handelsagentur (Importer/Distributor) Wattstrasse 3 CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 311 8640 Fax: (41-1) 311 8660 E-mail: margine@bluewin.ch

Navyboot AG (Manufacturer/Importer) Seestrasse 45 CH- 8702 Zollikon, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 392 0220 Fax: (41-1) 392 0103 E-mail: benci@navyboot.com

Ochsner Engros AG Schuhwaren (Importer/Distributor/Retailer) Allmendstrasse 25 CH-8953 Dietikon, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 745 4511 Fax: (41-1) 745 4590

Pasito AG (Retail Chain) Schuhe u. Bekleidung Verwaltung Lerchenstrasse 16 Postfach CH-8045 Zurich, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 285 1616 Fax: (41-1) 285 1620

Scarmo AG (Importer/Distributor) Schuh Agentur Buchenweg 2a CH-5702 Niederlenz, Switzerland Tel: (41-62) 892 1179 Fax: (41-62) 892 1588 Schuhaus Walder AG (Retail Chain) Verwaltung u. Zentrallager Zuerichstrasse 40 CH-8306 Bruettisellen, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 805 5000 Fax: (41-1) 805 5010

Schuhmagazine C. Dosenbach & Cie. AG (Retail Chain) Verwaltung Allmendstrasse 25 CH-8953 Dietikon, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 745 4511 Fax: (41-1) 745 4590

Va Bene (Importer/Distributor: Flexi Country, specialized in comfortable footwear) Alte Steinhauserstrasse 3 CH-6330 Cham, Switzerland

Tel: (41-41) 740 1370 Fax: (41-41) 740 1375

Walter Vogel Chaussures AG (Importer/Distributor:Timberland) Zurichstrasse 44 CH-8306 Bruettisellen, Switzerland Tel: (41-1) 805 6464 Fax: (41-1) 805 6488 E-mail: allgemein@vogel-chaussures.ch

TRADE PROMOTION OPPORTUNITIES

INTERNATIONALE SCHUHMUSTERSCHAU BERN (Swiss International Footwear Fair)

The International Footwear Fair is the only local shoe sampling show that focuses on shoes and accessories alone. This trade fair is held twice yearly, foreign exhibitors are admitted.

Topics: Footwear, bags, accessories, shop fittings Next dates: February 21-22, 1999 / August 22-23, 1999 Rotation: semi-annual Fair site: BEA Bern Expo Exhibitors: 103 (last event) Visitors: 1364 (last event) Target public: Professionals of the Footwear Trade Organizer: Internationale Schuhmusterschau GmbH Mr. Jean J. Stillhard, Managing Director Parkstrasse 36, P.O. Box 87 CH-5012 Schoenenwerd, Switzerland Tel: (41-62) 849 2043 Fax: (41-62) 849 3989 BESPO - FACHMESSE FUER SPORT UND MODE (Swiss Sports and Fashion Fair)

Athletic, hiking and trekking shoes are exhibited at the annual BESPO sporting goods and sportswear show held in Bern. Foreign exhibitors admitted.

Topics: Sporting goods and shoes, textiles, water sports Next date: August 29 - September 1, 1999 August 27 - 30, 2000 Rotation: annual Fair site: BEA Bern Expo Exhibitors: 308 (last event) Visitors: 6000 (last event) Target public: Professionals Organizer: BESPO Obere Zollgasse 75 CH-3075 Ostermundigen, Switzerland Tel: (41-31) 930 7111 Fax: (41-31) 930 7121 The following European trade fairs are also frequently visited by Swiss importers/distributors of footwear:

INTERNATIONALE SCHUHMESSE DUESSELDORF GDS (International Footwear Trade Fair Duesseldorf, Germany Exhibition of the newest trends in footwear fashion). Further information on the fair may be obtained from: Anne Meerboth-Maltz, Public Relations Duesseldorf Trade Shows 150 N Michigan Ave, Ste 2920 Chicago, IL 60601 Tel: (312) 781 5180 Fax: (312) 781 5188 Next dates: March 1999/September 1999 Duesseldorf Fairgrounds

MICAM (International Footwear Trade Fair Bologna and Milan, Italy) For detailed information please contact: F.I.C.I. Anci Servizi Milano Tel: (39-02) 809 721 Next dates: March 5-8, 1998 Bologna, September 19-19, 1999 Milan

DISCLAIMER
Information in this report relies on sources including Government Publications, Opinions of industry experts and other public sources. Infomat can accept no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information or for loss or damage caused by any use thereof. All prices subject to change without notice.

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