Terrorism alters many European travel plans. (footwear buyers cancel trips)

Terrorism alters many European travel plans

The smoldering threat of terrorism in Europe apparently has not had as serious an impact on the footwear industry as it has on the apparel industry, although a number of shoe industry officials have canceled or altered their European travel plans.

Several major retail organizations have canceled fashion buying trips to Europe--in some cases going instead to the Far East--but many shoe retailers said they are not scheduled to visit Europe until September. Many U.S. sources said they would travel to Europe this month in preparation for the June shows, but some said they would bypass Rome because of the possibility of terrorism. In almost all cases they are skipping American airlinestand opting for foreign carriers.

Lord & Taylor said it halted all buying trips to France and Italy in reaction to the terrorist strikes. "We have canceled all buying trips to France and Italy, and Lord & Taylor will not be booking any trips to France and Italy until further notice,' said Joseph Brooks, chairman of Lord …