Increase in sales of ceramic machinery in 2007

The balance sheets of the Italian ceramic machinery and equipment manufacturers are once again in the black. Following a 4.2% downturn in 2006, the sector reported an increase in turnover in 2007 to 1,937.5 million euro, 13.8% up on the previous year, resuming a growth trend in line with previous years' figures (+11.5% in 2005 and +13.6% in 2004).
In spite of the increase in turnover, profitability margins fell due to the sharp increases in energy and production costs.

These were the main figures emerging from the 16th National Statistical Survey conducted by the sector's trade association Acimac.

The Italian market played a leading role in 2007.
Sales of ceramic machinery in Italy increased by 20.3% compared to 2006 to reach a turnover of 551.4 million euro. This highlights the fact that even in periods of stagnation there are numerous Italian client companies that continue to see technological innovation as a strategic investment.
Exports likewise play a key role, accounting for 71.5% of total sales and reaching 1,386.1 million euro last year, 11.4% up on 2006.


The figures for the sector's industrial structure are likewise positive.
In 2007 there were a total of 167 Italian ceramic machinery suppliers. During the year the process of acquisition of a number of small companies by leading sector companies continued. The number of employees increased by 621 from 6,939 in 2006 to 7,560 in 2007.

The new aspect revealed by the 2007 Statistical Survey is the level of internationalisation of the ceramic machinery supplier companies. A total of 56 foreign companies are controlled by Italian firms in the sector (with majority shares of at least 51%) and the volume of activities abroad is estimated at approximately 273 million euro.