After the greeting by the rector of the university Franco Anelli, hosting the event, the mayor of Milan Giuseppe Sala spoke about values of internationalization and openness, emphasizing the bond between the Salone and the city.
Then Claudio Luti, president of Salone del Mobile.Milano, discussed how companies have been preparing for the event since last April, calling for a Salone to match the success of its predecessors. As for the absence of Chinese participants caused by the epidemic spreading in that country, Luti explained that: “we will have fewer Chinese visitors, though we hope some will be able to come; we wish them every success in their market, which is becoming increasingly important.” A series of video messages also arrived from Chinese entrepreneurs and designers, who in all probability will not be able to attend the week of design in Milan this year.
“It is the year of the Bath and Kitchen biennial, and the whole Salone will be improved, ready to welcome 184 countries from around the world,” said Emanuele Orsini, president of FederlegnoArredo.