EoW May 2012

Have the political changes in Italy this year impacted on the industry in a more positive or negative way? Traditionally, political changes in Italy have no major effects on industry. Strong control of costs and reduction in state expenditures were and are necessary and we hope that the government continues in this direction, keeping in mind that competitiveness in the industrial sector is vital for our exports. In your opinion, what is the most important thing to bring about commercial success for Italian wire and cable companies at the moment? The competitiveness of our companies relies on their capacity to offer innovative solutions that allow cost reductions and improvement in product quality. Special attention must also be currently paid to energy savings and the impact of these on humans and the environment. Pre and post sales customer support is also a determinant factor for success. Do you think Italian companies should work closer in cooperation with each other to achieve success? Over the last few years, the association has helped encourage potential contacts among our companies and develop new forms of collaboration, beyond simply the commercial. In many situations, cooperation may be a decisive factor in offering winning proposals to customers, and, in any case, is an incentive for each individual company to develop and broaden its perspectives.

bigstockphoto.com – ‘Vatican Steps’ by Erez Shor

What sort of timescale do you foresee for recovery, or do you even see a recovery to the level of pre-recession stability? Forecasts are extremely difficult to make, especially in a phase of great economic turbulence such as the one we are now experiencing. In my view, substantial market recovery will be difficult unless governments implement decisive economic stimulus policies, especially here in Europe.

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EuroWire – May 2012