In the aftermath of Milan Design Week, where visitor numbers surged, the Italian furniture industry faced sobering news: a downturn in exports, particularly across Northern Europe. Despite the buoyant atmosphere at the Salone del Mobile, Italy's key markets such as France, Germany, and England saw significant declines of 4%, 8.1%, and 10% respectively in furniture sales.
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Edi Snaidero, President of the European Furniture Industries Confederation (EFIC), struck a reassuring tone amidst these challenges. He acknowledged the initial downturn but remained optimistic about future prospects, citing a projected rebound in the coming months. He attributed this optimism to the strong presence of international buyers at the expo, reflecting a 28% increase in attendance, which bodes well for future demand.
Addressing concerns about sustainability and internationalisation, Snaidero emphasised that these factors, rather than short-term incentives, would be crucial for the industry's long-term health. He cautioned against broad incentive programs, drawing on past sectoral experiences where market stability waned post-incentive periods. Instead, he advocated for a strategic focus on sustainable practices and expanding global reach.
Despite challenges in navigating competitive markets and regulatory disparities, Snaidero reaffirmed Italy's commitment to leading in eco-sustainable practices. He highlighted Italy's pioneering efforts in circular economy transitions within the furniture sector, noting that these initiatives have become a model at the European level. However, he stressed the need for adequate time and resources for small and medium-sized enterprises to adapt to evolving production standards and market demands.
In the face of intensified global competition, particularly from aggressive East Asian manufacturers in segments like kitchen appliances, Snaidero remained cautiously optimistic. He acknowledged the formidable challenges posed by Korean and Chinese competitors, but expressed confidence in Europe's capacity to defend its high-end market positions through innovation and quality.
Source: www.firstonline.info