“Looking at the statements by our sample of companies, it is necessary to clarify some aspects”, Corbetta adds. “The excellent trend of Italian technology is more relevant for big groups, for the larger organizations. Therefore, our companies need to find a way to work together, to integrate, because only with bigger dimensions can they effectively approach new markets that offer real opportunities in this economic season". The turnover variation compared to the first quarter 2016 is 9.9%: the orders book covers a period of 3 months, while prices have recorded 1.4 change since January 1st. According to the quality survey, 47% of the interviewed companies indicate a positive production trend, 47% stable and 6% decreasing. Employment is stable according to 59% of the sample, increasing for 35% and decreasing for 6%. Available stocks are stationary according to 70% of interviewees, increasing for 18% and decreasing according to the remaining 12%.The near-term outlook is illustrated by the forecast survey, which reveals moderate optimism for 2016: 47% of the sample expect further expansion of foreign orders, while 53% say they will remain unchanged (positive balance 47%). The sentiment is different for the Italian market, where 6% fear shrinkage, 71% predict stability and 23% expect expansion (positive balance 17%).
