The wood furniture sector in Friuli Venezia Giulia is a crucial element in the regional economy, generating a total turnover of 4.9 billion euros. This places the region third in Italy in terms of turnover in the sector, preceded only by Lombardy and Veneto. The main production hubs are located in Brugnera, which specializes in furniture production, and Manzano, best known for chair production. With 1,709 active companies and nearly 20,000 employees, the wood furniture sector contributes significantly to employment and the regional economy.
Among the most representative companies in the sector are Calligaris, Ilcam, Tonon, Potocco, Midj, Tomasella Group, and Valcucine. These companies not only embody the tradition and quality of wood furniture from Friuli, but are also leading players in innovation and international competitiveness. However, the sector faces some significant challenges. In 2024, there was a slight decline in turnover compared to the two-year period 2021-2022, with a 3.1 percent contraction from the previous year. In particular, exports were -2.3 percent, while domestic sales decreased by 3.5 percent.
One of the most significant obstacles is potential U.S. tariffs, which could adversely affect international trade. Despite these difficulties, the industry has shown remarkable resilience and resilience. This resilience has also been tested by rising raw material costs and higher energy prices. The United States, moreover, is the most important foreign market for Friuli's wood-furniture industries, making a targeted strategy of consolidation and penetration in this context crucial.
The discussion of critical issues in the industry was addressed in Manzano, within the Innovation Platform headquarters, where a dedicated conference was held with the participation of about one hundred industry entrepreneurs. During the event, not only current difficulties were analyzed, but also potential future development strategies to overcome the adversities of the global market.
To support the sector in international markets, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region has decided to allocate 1.4 million euros. This funding is intended to strengthen the presence of Friulian companies abroad and to incentivize projects that can ensure lasting competitiveness in a complex and constantly changing economic environment.
