The Italian automatic packaging machinery sector records a historic milestone in 2024, exceeding 10 billion euros in turnover.

Double-digit growth driven by exports

According to data processed by the Mecs Study Center, the industry reached 10.06 billion euros, up 9% compared to 2023 and recording a historic record for the sector.

A result driven largely by exports, which grew by 10% and reached 8 billion euros, strengthening Italy’s position as a world leader in the production of packaging technologies.

The main destinations for Italian exports include:

  • European Union: 35.8%
  • Asia: 20.2%
  • North America: 16.6%

Excellent performances also in Africa, South America and non-EU European countries.

Italy: positive signs also on the domestic market

Domestic demand also shows signs of liveliness: the domestic market marks a +5.2%, with a total value of 2.07 billion euros.

The most active sectors in the demand for packaging machinery are:

  • Food industry: 3.12 billion (31%)
  • Beverage sector: 2.52 billion (25.1%)
  • Pharmaceutical: 1.74 billion (+17.3%)

The primary packaging machinery segment is particularly dynamic, representing over 53% of total turnover. The sector is led by integrated solutions such as form-fill-seal (FFS), with a turnover of 2.24 billion euros, up 10.3%.

Emilia-Romagna confirms its position as the driving force of the packaging industry, generating over 62% of national turnover and hosting 34.1% of companies in the sector. The provinces of Bologna, Parma, Modena and Rimini stand out as centres of excellence, alongside emerging areas such as Treviso and Vicenza.

Future between global challenges and growth potential

The outlook for 2025 remains positive, although affected by factors of uncertainty. 37.5% of companies expect further growth, while 45.8% are counting on stability. However, concerns remain linked to:

  • Energy costs
  • Geopolitical instability
  • Lack of structured industrial policies

Riccardo Cavanna, president of Ucima, underlines the need to maintain basic stability, a regulatory context favorable to investment and the competitiveness of Italian manufacturing.