As to export, 0.3% more than in the July-September 2012 period is a signal of substantial “stability”, another positive step towards the consolidation of our strong export propensity.
The orders book spans 2.4 months, while from the beginning of the year prices have increased by 1.2% (0.9% in the previous quarter). Turnover decreased in the 3Q: minus 3.8% compared to the same period of 2012.
According to the quality survey, 25% of respondents indicated a positive production trend, 50% stable and 25% shrinking production volumes. Employment is stationary according to 75% of the sample, decreasing for 15% and on the rise according to 10%. In the April-June 2013 period, no respondent had mentioned the possibility of new employment.
Available stocks are stable for 55% of the interviewees, while 25% indicate a decrease and 20% an increase.
Short-term trends are suggested by the results of the forecast survey: once again, moderate optimism characterizes remarks about export, combined with a less pessimistic vision of domestic market trends, although still very few expect an improvement in the short term. 30% of respondents expect increasing orders from abroad, 45% stability and 25% reduction (the final balance is plus 5, versus 8 in the previous quarter).
The domestic market will suffer from shrinkage according to 20% of the sample, while 75% expect stability and 5% expansion (the negative balance is minus 15, while in the previous quarter it was minus 27).
Acimall is the association that represents the most important Italian manufacturers of technology, automation, machinery, tools, and accessories for processing wood and wood-based products.