ITALY - The decision by Acimall (Italian Woodworking Technology Association) members to establish a new association emerged as the most significant outcome of their recent general assembly on June 3 in Baggiovara (Modena), hosted at the headquarters shared with sister associations Acimac and Ucima.

This strategic move represents the initial step towards a fresh initiative aimed at offering enhanced services and a renewed vision to its members.

The assembly unanimously endorsed the board of directors' proposal to proceed with the formation of Federazione Confindustria Macchine per ceramica, legno, plastica e gomma, imballaggio e confezionamento (Confindustria federation for ceramic, wood, plastic, rubber, and packaging machinery).

This new federation is set to strengthen representation not only within Confindustria but also in Italy's political and economic spheres. It will unify approximately 1,300 companies, employing 70 thousand individuals, with a combined turnover of EUR 19 billion, predominantly from exports, thus making a substantial contribution to Italy's trade balance.

This consolidation will deliver expanded services, consulting, and training opportunities to member firms of Acimall, Acimac (ceramic technologies), Amaplast (plastic machinery), and Ucima (packaging technology), the four Confindustria associations currently participating in the initiative.