Some good news, at last, though long awaited, for the Italian production of machinery and
technology to process wood and wood-based materials. According to the Acimall trend survey for
the first quarter 2010, we are seeing a consolidation of recovery that started in the last three
months of 2009. It’s mainly good news from foreign markets that are bringing cautious optimism
also for the near future, still considering that these figures compare to the first quarter 2009 that
was the most difficult period of the crisis.
According to the statistic sample interviewed by the analysts of the Confindustria member
association, the industry indicates a 41 percent increase of orders compared to the same period
of last year. Excellent results in foreign markets, with 43.8 percent expansion, while the Italian
markets grew by 26 percent.
From January to March 2010, prices recorded a slight increase (plus 0.2 percent), while the period
of ensured production at 1.8 months on March 31.
The quality survey for the quarter under scrutiny reveals that 26 percent of interviewed
entrepreneurs indicate a negative production trend, 44 percent expect stability, and 30 some
growth. Employment is considered stationary by 63 percent of the sample and falling by the
remaining 37 percent. Available stocks are stationary according to 48 percent, decreasing
according to 37 percent and growing according to the remaining 15 percent.
The forecast survey suggests possible short-term dynamics in the industry. The greatest
expectations are focused on foreign markets (don’t forget that Italian woodworking technology is
strongly export-oriented, with over 70 percent of production shipped around the world), while
caution is the predominant attitude for the results that may be achieved in the coming months in
Italy.
On the whole, 45 percent of the same predicts growing foreign orders in the next quarter, while the
volume will remain stable according to 48 percent, and decrease further for 7 percent (the balance
is +38).
On the domestic market, 15 percent of the sample fear shrinkage. 59 percent predict substantial
stability and 26 percent are confident that the situation will improve (positive balance 11).
(Acimall)
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