In recent days, the association celebrated this milestone during its Annual Assembly held from May 22 to 24 on the island of San Servolo, Venice
For 80 years, Federlegno has supported, promoted, and connected the strategic role of the wood-furniture supply chain within the global context—balancing sustainability, technological innovation, and economic uncertainty. The recent annual assembly was an opportunity to reflect on the past year for the wood industry.
Federlegno Reports Revenue of €52 Billion
In 2024, the sector recorded total revenues of approximately €52 billion, nearly €20 billion of which came from exports—despite a slight 2.1% decline. This figure reflects the difficulties in key markets, but also the adaptability of a constantly evolving industry that, at least in 2024, managed to outperform others.
The Numbers
After a promising start to the year, exports from the supply chain saw a 4.8% drop in February, bringing the cumulative figure for the first two months to -0.7%, with a value close to €3 billion. The most significant declines were seen in France (-3.3%) and Germany (-3.2%). The U.S. remained stable (-0.1%), while Spain (+6.6%) and Poland (+11.5%) stood out with positive growth (data from FederlegnoArredo Research Center).
Feltrin: “Eighty Years, a Testament to Vision”
Claudio Feltrin, President of FederlegnoArredo, shared these figures with members during his address and analyzed the current economic scenario. He emphasized:
“Eighty years is not just a milestone, but a testament to vision. In a post-war Italy, entrepreneurs had the courage to believe in associations as a tool to build the future together. Today, that legacy is more relevant than ever and still holds its founding value.”
Lollobrigida: “A Symbol of Excellence in Made in Italy”
Francesco Lollobrigida, Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests, stated:
“FederlegnoArredo’s 80th anniversary is not just a commemoration, but a recognition of a sector that has evolved, faced challenges, and become a symbol of Made in Italy excellence around the world. The nation is truly proud of it.”
He added: “Today, I want to reaffirm to all members of the Federation that the government will continue to maintain open dialogue to achieve common goals: creating wealth, generating jobs, and protecting the environment”.
Zaia: “A Strategic Role Recognized Worldwide”
Luca Zaia, Governor of the Veneto Region, highlighted the strategic role of the Federation:
“I want to express my sincere appreciation for the commitment and vision that define FederlegnoArredo. Celebrating eighty years today means that, even amidst the ruins of 1945, there were those already working to build the future—with entrepreneurial spirit and the desire to create an association capable of representing an entire industry.
Today, the role of FederlegnoArredo and its entrepreneurs is clear for all to see: you’ve turned regions into innovation-driven industrial districts, becoming recognized leaders in both national and international markets. This is a great source of pride for us: wherever you go in the world, Italian wood and furniture are synonymous with excellence. Even in complex times, your work remains a benchmark for employment, reputation, and entrepreneurship. Thank you for what you have built—and continue to build.”
Orsini: “Sector Products Are a Made in Italy Flagship”
Emanuele Orsini, President of Confindustria and former head of the Federation (2017–2020), concluded:
“Best wishes on this 80th anniversary to the Federation, the shared home of all its members, which I know well. It’s truly a pleasure to greet you here in Venice—a symbolic place to celebrate the history of FederlegnoArredo and our production system as a whole.
We all know how much the sector’s products represent a flagship of Made in Italy and an important asset for our country’s exports. Today, tensions are high across all industrial sectors. We are therefore called to seek new markets and support businesses in maintaining their competitiveness, safeguarding excellence-driven supply chains like the one FederlegnoArredo represents.”
