The Metalworking Observatory FVG
Knowing Before Building Is Essential
Understanding before building is crucial. That’s why, in 2018, we tasked the Universities of Trieste and Udine with analyzing a sample of 250 regional metalworking companies to assess the sector’s trends since 2003 deeply. (Download the report)
This initiative led to the creation of the Metalworking Observatory FVG, which, through cross-analysis of diverse databases and qualitative research, measures companies’ perceptions by consulting local entrepreneurs. Since 2023, the Observatory has published a dedicated report biannually.
The Metalworking Observatory FVG
The Metalworking Observatory FVG is a project conceived and coordinated by Cluster COMET in collaboration with leading entities in the regional metalworking sector and research fields.
Purpose:
To foster a shared reflection on the sector’s future and to develop projects and services aligned with companies’ needs. This is achieved through cross-analyses of various databases and qualitative research that measure business perceptions by consulting local entrepreneurs.
Key Partners: Area Science Park, Università degli Studi di Udine, Università degli Studi di Trieste e Intesa Sanpaolo.
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Universities from Friuli Venezia Giulia
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Research Institutions
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Biannual Report
360°
Overview of the sector
REPORT Second Semester 2024
Geographic and Sectoral Diversification: Insights from FVG Metalworking Companies
How many FVG metalworking companies have an international profile?
Area Science Park grazie allo strumento Innovation Intelligence, ci illustra nel Report una propensione all’internazionalizzazione delle aziende della meccanica friulana. Più della metà della manifattura regionale con segnali di internazionalizzazione appartiene al settore metalmeccanico.
L’internazionalizzazione si correla, in parte, con la capacità di investire in certificazioni – probabilmente per adeguarsi a standard internazionali più elevati – e in innovazione.
Area Science Park, through the Innovation Intelligence tool, illustrates in the report a propensity for internationalization among Friulian mechanical companies. More than half of the regional manufacturing sector with signs of internationalization belongs to the metalworking sector.
Internationalization is partially correlated with the ability to invest in certifications—likely to adapt to higher international standards—and in innovation.
What was the total revenue of electromechanical companies in FVG in 2023? How is diversification perceived?
The Research Department of Intesa Sanpaolo highlights that in 2023, metalworking companies in Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) recorded significant revenue growth (+22.5% in median value) and improved margins compared to 2019, exceeding the Italian average. Moreover, FVG companies show a strong orientation towards diversification, both in export and supply markets, surpassing national trends.
Companies in the sector that export registered a 25.9% increase in revenue, compared to 17% for those not active in foreign markets.
What are the diversification strategies? Companies respond.
The Universities of Udine and Trieste conducted 10 interviews with 10 metalworking companies of different sizes in FVG (not a representative sample of the sector), presenting a varied picture.
- In some companies, the diversification strategy is still driven by a need for growth.
- In others, it serves to prevent foreseeable crises.
- For others still, it aims to seize new opportunities in emerging sectors.
- Finally, some do not diversify but instead deepen their penetration into their existing market.
REPORT July 2024
The Changing Metalworking Sector in FVG: Geographic and Sectoral Diversification
Which geographic markets are showing growth or decline for FVG’s metalworking companies?
The report highlights the slowing German market, traditionally a key partner for the region’s mechanical industry, and an emerging global diversification, with promising opportunities across continents (America, Europe, Asia). This trend pushes companies to become fully global players.
Revenue Projections for 2024 vs. 2023
Companies are repositioning in global markets to mitigate uncertainties and harness growth potential.
REPORT - Second Semester 2023
Governance in Uncertainty: The Present and Future of FVG Metalworking
How many FVG metalworking companies are investing in innovation and sustainability?
Innovation Intelligence data from Area Science Park shows a surge in patent activity and a strong correlation between innovation and sustainability investments.
2022 Revenue for Electromechanical Companies in FVG
The Intesa Sanpaolo report revealed a total revenue of €11.8 billion in 2022, with an EBITDA nearing €1 billion.
Key Uncertainties Impacting Business Decisions
Universities of Udine and Trieste conducted an Instant Poll identifying economic and political uncertainties as major influences on revenue forecasts, driving companies to invest in innovation.
REPORT - First Semester 2023
Competitiveness and Human Resources in FVG Metalworking
Economic Weight of Metalworking in FVG
Innovation Intelligence data from Area Science Park analyzed all companies in the COMET Cluster.
State of the Metalworking Sector
Intesa Sanpaolo’s study reviewed financial statements and export data, providing an early measure of the sector’s health.
Business Expectations for the Future
An Instant Poll conducted by Udine and Trieste Universities captured insights on the current climate and future expectations of COMET company leaders.
Report IV - Fourth Quarter 2022
Data, Analysis, and Future Perspectives of FVG Metalworking
Economic Weight of Metalworking in FVG
Innovation Intelligence data from Area Science Park analyzed all companies in the COMET Cluster.
State of the Metalworking Sector
Intesa Sanpaolo’s study reviewed financial statements and export data, providing an early measure of the sector’s health.
Business Expectations for the Future
An Instant Poll conducted by Udine and Trieste Universities captured insights on the current climate and future expectations of COMET company leaders.