Automation: segment of excellence

The final data of industrial automation for 2011, presented by ANIE/AssoAutomazione, show an industrial segment that has reacted to the crisis with dynamism. Technological excellence, commitment to innovation and internationalization are the main drivers that have led the way.

In closing the 2011 Italian automation and measurement industry showed an increase of 18% of total sales at current rates, this also set against the good growth shown in the previous year (+19% on annual average figures for 2010). This result has benefited from the lively growth shown in the first half of the year. Thanks to these trends, the Italian automation and measuring technology supplier industry has been able to fully recover to pre-crisis levels, expressing a total turnover close to 4 billion euros.

According to Giuliano Busetto, President of AssoAutomazione-ANIE, the crisis has not slowed down, but rather has given renewed impetus to the competitive repositioning of Italian automation and measurement equipment suppliers, who can boast a proven technological excellence. «The operators are credited as having reacted quickly to one of the darkest moments in recent decades, accelerating the strategic leverage of innovation. The positive results of the last two years, have rewarded the commitment and ability of Italian companies to look towards the future.

In response to a demand that is evolving continuously, the path taken in recent years has led to the exploring of hitherto untouched niche markets, identifying new areas of technological implementation. Crucial in this context, the role of automation technology in support of an increasing energy efficiency and greater sustainability».
 
Exports and prospects The foreign component of demand has done much to boost segment growth (+13.6% increase in exports, a +15.1% increase set against 2010). The share of exports out of total turnover in the segment stays close to 30%, but this share is close to 60% if indirect exports are considered. Thus the internationalization strategies pursued by major sector "customers", in particular machine builders, has played and important role.

Starting from second half of 2011, however, the international recovery has shown progressive signs of slowing down and, according Busetto,  operators are once again faced with a scenario tinged with uncertainty. «In addition to the difficult macroeconomic environment and a slowdown in major export outlet areas, companies suffer a credit crunch.
This phenomenon is particularly detrimental because it undermines the possibility of investing in new facilities».

ANIE Umbrella organization for 1,200 electrotechnical and electronic associated companies, ANIE represents the most strategic and most advanced Italian industrial sectors, totalling some 400,000 employees and a turnover of 63 billion euros (26 billion in exports). ANIE member companies invest 4% of turnover in Research and Development, accounting for more than 30% of total private sector R&D investments in Italy.

AssoAutomazione (ANIE federated Italian Association for Automation and Measurement), with its Groups represents, supports, and protects the companies that operate in manufacturing-, process and public utility service network automation.