One of Italy’s leading food industry associations, Unione Italiana Food, reported continued growth in 2024, underscoring the sector’s ability to adapt to an increasingly volatile global environment. Speaking at the group’s annual assembly, industry leaders highlighted both the opportunities and the headwinds facing one of the country’s most strategically important manufacturing sectors.
The 530 companies affiliated with the association generated €58 billion in revenue last year, a 2.6% increase on 2023. The sector employs around 100,000 workers and invests approximately €3 billion annually in innovation, supply chain improvement, and product development — efforts designed to align with shifting consumer expectations and anticipate emerging trends.
EXPORTS: THE ENGINE OF EXPANSION
Exports were a standout component of 2024’s performance, rising 11.4% to reach nearly €23 billion, equivalent to 40% of Italy’s total agri-food exports. Key destination markets include Germany, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Poland. Emerging demand in Asia, Northern Europe, and the Middle East is opening new opportunities, particularly for health-oriented and plant-based products.
Association president Paolo Barilla emphasised the industry’s broader role in sustaining local communities and national identity through quality food production. However, he warned of looming risks — particularly the potential reintroduction of U.S. tariffs — that could dampen growth prospects in 2025.
Carmine Garzia, scientific director of the Food Industry Monitor at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo, called on companies to accelerate international expansion strategies, stressing the need for greater investment and managerial expertise to support foreign market entry.
UNIONE ITALIANA FOOD BETWEEN TRADITION AND INNOVATION
Unione Italiana Food represents 24 product categories and more than 900 brands tied to the Made in Italy identity. Its portfolio ranges from pasta, sweets, and coffee to sauces, frozen meals, preserved vegetables, and ready-made soups.
Traditional products such as pasta, seasonal baked goods, chocolate, coffee, tea, and herbal infusions account for roughly 50% of total revenue. “Modernised traditional” offerings — including coffee pods, frozen ready meals, fourth-range vegetables (pre-washed and packaged fresh produce), and sauces — represent a further 30%. The remaining 20% comes from innovative categories such as low-calorie foods, dietary supplements, and specialised nutrition products.
Pasta production exceeded 4 million tonnes in 2024, with 58% exported. The confectionery segment generated nearly €19 billion, compensating for weak domestic demand with strong export performance. Frozen foods (€5.7 billion), coffee (€4.7 billion), and plant-based products (€4.8 billion) all posted gains — the latter boosted by demand for fresh-cut produce and ready-to-eat soups. Food preparations (€5.3 billion) also saw expansion, supported by consumers seeking convenience without compromising on flavour. The supplements segment reached €4.9 billion, driven by rising interest in probiotics, minerals, and products promoting mental wellness.
Paolo Barilla, President of Unione Italiana Food
2025 OUTLOOK: GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES AND TRADE RISKS
Despite mounting international uncertainty, the industry remains cautiously optimistic heading into 2025. Paolo Barilla reiterated that the sector’s success will depend on its continued ability to fuse heritage with innovation. “The Italian food industry combines tradition and technology, investing in exports, health, and sustainability,” he said. “Its future rests on generating value — both for consumers and for the broader Italian system — through market-recognised quality.”
L’articolo Unione Italiana Food: Expansion Momentum Builds proviene da Italianfood.net.
